The Heart Of Local

Celebrating the makers, creators, and businesses that make our region unique.

There’s something truly special about supporting local - the connection to the people, the dedication to craftsmanship, and the deep passion that goes into every carefully made product. 

This issue sees the first of what we hope will be a regular feature here in the pages of Mid-Western Living - a collaboration shoot amongst an array of local talent and offerings. Five local businesses have come together for this cover shoot - Lazy Oak Wines, Althea by Zin, The Country Plate, Good Day Lifestyle Co. and Cedar Cicada - a beautiful collaboration showcasing the talent, dedication, and quality that define our community.

Set against a charming garden table backdrop, this spread features a selection of local wine, artisan bread, flavourful chutneys, delicious olive oil and handmade rocky road - each product crafted with care and a deep love for the region. These are more than just delicious treats; they represent the hard work, traditions, and innovation of the people behind them.

Choosing to shop local isn’t just about keeping money within our community; it’s about fostering relationships, preserving skills, and celebrating the small businesses that add colour and character to our daily lives. Every bottle, every loaf, every jar tells a story - one of passion, resilience, and a commitment to quality.

This cover collaboration is a tribute to those who create with heart, who pour their energy into their businesses, and who make our region the vibrant, welcoming place we all love. Take a moment to savour their stories, and perhaps be inspired to support local in new ways. After all, when you buy local, you’re not just purchasing a product - you’re investing in a dream.

Lazy Oak Wines

As a small, family-run winery, Lazy Oak prides itself on warm hospitality, inviting visitors to enjoy tastings in a relaxed, picturesque setting. Known for its premium, small-batch wines, their 2017 Merlot is soft, ripe and elegant with blackcurrant and plum flavours. An easy drinking Merlot, that’s enjoyable on its own or with food.

 Beyond the wines, Lazy Oak is also home to a beautiful grove of olive trees, producing rich, homegrown olives and handcrafted Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Their Caramelised Balsamic is a standout, adding depth and flavour to any dish. Whether visiting the cellar door or indulging in their artisan produce, Lazy Oak offers a true taste of Mudgee’s finest.

Visitors are invited to experience the charm of Lazy Oak Wines firsthand. Stop by the cellar door at 59 Sills Lane, Eurunderee, to sample their wines, taste handcrafted produce, and soak in the stunning vineyard views.

Althea by Zin

Located in Mudgee centre, Althea by Zin combines traditional baking methods with the best ingredients they can source, from the organic Lowe Family Wine Co farm and local businesses who share their ethos. 

Named in honour of Kim Currie’s mother and the love for baking she has passed down through three generations, Althea by Zin continues her philosophy of quality & locality, with a French influence on technique and style.

Bread. Coffee. Pastry. The simplest things are often the hardest to master, and with them the quality of the ingredients and the care in the craftsmanship becomes more important. That is what the team at Althea strive for, and that is what you will find with their daily selection of fresh artisan sourdough, pastries, coffee and more.  Visit Althea’s By Zin at 131 Church St, Mudgee to start your morning with a flaky pastry or indulge in a perfectly crafted sourdough.

The Country Plate 

The Date & Almond Chutney was the very first product launched by The Country Plate, and for good reason - it’s unique, delicious, and leaves you wanting more. 

Handcrafted in Rylstone, this small-batch chutney brings together plump dates, crunchy almonds, and a warming blend of spices, creating a rich, flavourful addition to any dish.

Perfectly paired with cheese and crackers, as a gourmet sandwich spread, or served alongside roasted meats, this chutney adds depth and a touch of sweetness that enhances every bite. It embodies the essence of homemade, country-style cooking, made with care and a commitment to quality - making it a must-try for lovers of artisanal, small-batch produce. 

Grab a jar and add a spoonful of something special to your next cheese board... visit the store at 28 Louee Street, Rylstone or find it online at thecountryplate.com.au.

Good Day Lifesyle Co.

Step inside Good Day Lifestyle Co., treasure trove of handpicked fashion and homewares nestled in Mudgee’s historic music hall on Perry Street.

With a simple mission for everyone to have a Good Day, the shop is an inclusive collection of pieces chosen to promote individualism and bring a little brightness to your wardrobes and homes.

Owned by husband-and-wife duo Emma and Jim, this colourful store is home to a carefully curated collection of Australian brands, featuring well-loved names like Bonnie & Neil, Arlington Milne, and Kip & Co, alongside unique pieces from small, independent makers as the pair firmly believe in celebrating small business.

Step through their welcoming pink front doors at 19 Perry Street, or shop online at gooddaylifestyleco.com

Cedar Cicada

Established circa 2016, Cedar Cicada is curated home & lifestyle brand, created for the inspired homemaker. Blending clean, modern design with quintessential country living, Cedar Cicada’s curations are with the Modern Australian Homemaker in mind. 

Timeless bush palettes and character rich textures are an ode to the landscapes that inspire our homes and fill us with freedom through creation. With a wide-array of quality crafted goods from local makers as well as artisans and well-loved brands from across the globe, owner Hannah works hard to source pieces that age timelessly with homes, imbuing lasting joy.

With a carefully curated shopfront at 26 Church St, Mudgee and an evolving online website at cedarcicada.au, the Cedar Cicada team are committed to igniting a contagious inspiration that follows you home and transforms your living spaces.