Lunch at the Local Glasshouse Restaurant at Goonoo Goonoo Station

Yesterday my family and I headed up for lunch at the well known local Glasshouse restaurant at Goonoo Goonoo Station. The station is about 120kms from our home, but that's nothing in the bush:)

I imagine you're wondering about the name of the station?

Well, I'll try and summarise a little of the local history.

The land on which the station resides has been occupied by Kamilaroi people, one of Australia's largest indigenous populations, for thousands of years. The Kamilaroi people speak Gamilaraay language and  Goonoo Goonoo means 'running water'.

The Liverpool Plains was first encountered by Europeans when John Oxley discovered the area in 1783 and enthusiastically reported the wonderful pasture lands. The Australian Agricultural Company was born and was incorporated in London in 1824. The AACo ran the property with the primary purpose of the production of fine merino wool for export to England. However over the years, cattle and wheat production became mainstays as well.

Goonoo Goonno is steeped in a long history and has lasted through the gold rush, two world wars and the Great Depression. In 1952, part of the property was sold off as part of the soldier settlement scheme. However, AAco re-acquired a share of it along with the Peel River Land and Mineral Company.

In 1985, Goonoo Goonoo, now a  4420 hectare property, was eventually sold by AACo in 1985 to the Haggarty Family who have committed to a large restoration project to bring Goonoo Goonoo back to life. The included working with a heritage architect to restore the schoolhouse, stone store, inn, chapel, and wool store. Sadly a shearing shed that was destroyed in a storm in 1996. These buildings are now used for events, weddings and luxury accommodation.

The Glasshouse restaurant was also built and that's where we come in.

The restaurant is set amongst a picturesque view of hills surrounding the beautiful property. It's a lovely contemporary space, sitting between two existing agricultural buildings. However, the materials chosen for the renovation seem to match the tone of surrounding structures and landscape.

We really enjoyed our meal which started with a shared feast of Coffin Bay Pacific Oystersand Wagyu Beef Carpaccio.

For main we had saltbush crusted lamb rump and twice cooked corn fed chicken.

Finished with a delicious selection of desserts cinnamon myrtle sponge, bombe Alaska and a chocolate sphere. 

It was sensational weather, with the warm sun shining through the glass onto my back. There was a buzz in the restaurant with the excited atmosphere born from  family and friends reuniting as the restrictions ease in NSW.

Grandparents, grandchildren, old friends and with some young women all eagerly arriving to share in a bottle of champagne for a special girl's lunch.

All in all, a lovely relaxing afternoon and I'd thoroughly recommend you to visit.

I've shared some pics below of the amazing food! Be sure to visit this Hidden Gem of Australia if ever passing by, you will not be disappointed. 

Ange x