Destination's Journey

Category: Hunter Valley

  • Upper Hunter Valley Sculpture Trail

    Upper Hunter Valley Sculpture Trail

    Upper Hunter Valley Sculpture Trail

    The Upper Hunter Valley Sculpture Trail runs from Muswellbrook to Denman and onto Sandy Hollow.

    In Muswellbrook, it starts outside of the Regional Arts Centre, where you will find a map of the trail and the first sculpture, the ANZAC Centenary Stone. From here you drive to Two Rivers Wines outside of Denman, before heading to David Mahoney’s Art Gallery and Sculpture Park at Sandy Hollow

    • Upper Hunter Valley Sculpture Trail Map
      Upper Hunter Valley Sculpture Trail Map

    Muswellbrook

    Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre

    • ANZAC Centenary Stone Outside the Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre
      ANZAC Centenary Stone Outside the Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre

    Two Rivers Wines

    Situated just outside Denman, Two Rivers Wines contains a great selection of sculptures.

    The ‘Custodians of the Landscape’ sandstone sculptures were carved onsite at Two Rivers in the winter of 2015 by international artist Ben Dearnley. More than 20 tonnes of stone sourced from the vineyard were used to create this unique and compelling project by Ben. His work directly references the ancient art form of stone masonry whilst reflecting our own landscape here at Two Rivers.  Ben says that the flowing and dynamic nature of the sculptures reflects the ever changing moods and seasons of the vineyard where growing the vines is a labour of love in tune with nature itself.

    There are 8 pieces of Ben’s work situated around the Cellar Door and entry to the vineyard. These pieces whilst all individual have been designed by Ben to collectively reflect the importance he saw that Two Rivers placed on our unique landscape.

    https://www.tworivers.com.au/sculptures

    While at Two Rivers, don’t forget to sample some of their excellent wines, or have a meal at the restaurant.

    • Entrance to Two Rivers Wines
      Entrance to Two Rivers Wines
    • Sculpture at Two Rivers Wines
      Sculpture at Two Rivers Wines
    • Grape Vine Sculpture at Two Rivers Wines
      Grape Vine Sculpture at Two Rivers Wines
    • Face Sculpture at Two Rivers Wines
      Face Sculpture at Two Rivers Wines
    • Face Sculpture at Two Rivers Wines
      Face Sculpture at Two Rivers Wines
    • Sculpture at Two Rivers Wines
      Sculpture at Two Rivers Wines
    • Scenery at Two Rivers Wines
      Scenery at Two Rivers Wines
    • Two Rivers Wines Vineyards
      Two Rivers Wines Vineyards
    • Scenery at Two Rivers Wines
      Scenery at Two Rivers Wines

    Denman

    While passing through Denman to Visit the sculptures at Two River Wines, don’t forget to stop in town and explore what is available. Whilst there we visited the main shopping street, Ogilvie Street and a number of cafe’s that served great meals and drinks, we did not get a chance to do the hotels nearby. Ogilvie Street also contains several interesting old buildings, such as the Memorial Hall.

    On your way out of town towards Sandy Hollow and the last stop on the Sculpture Trail, keep and eye out for the two old tractors on poles at the entrance to a farm.

    • Royal Hotel Denman
      Royal Hotel Denman
    • Ogilvie St, Denman
      Ogilvie St, Denman
    • Denman Memorial Hall Ogilvie St, Denman
      Denman Memorial Hall Ogilvie St, Denman
    • Farm Entrance With Tractors
      Farm Entrance With Tractors

    St Matthias Denman Anglican Church

    Located at 35 Palace St, Denman NSW, this beautiful old church is not far from the town centre and worth the short walk to drive to visit. Designed by John Horbury Hunt and consecrated in 1875 by Bishop Tyrrell, St Matthias has been operating for over 130 years .

    • St Matthias Denman Anglican church
      St Matthias Denman Anglican church
    • St Matthias Denman Anglican church
      St Matthias Denman Anglican church

    Sandy Hollow

    David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park

    Located on the Golden Highway at the intersection with Honey Lane, David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park is a wonderful place to wander through and explore. The magical sculptures and mosaics allow you to relax while you have a break from driving. We loved looking around because of the unique artworks on display.

    The setting is also magnificent, giving great views over the surrounding farmland.

    This is the last stop on the Upper Hunter Valley Sculpture Trail and contains the largest number of displays. Parking is easy, as the Park fronts onto the highway, with plenty of spaces outside.

    There is also an art gallery and cafe on site, but these were closed during our visit.

    • David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
      David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
    • Giant Violin at David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
      Giant Violin at David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
    • Mozaic Display at David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
      Mozaic Display at David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
    • Lizard Mozaic at David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
      Lizard Mozaic at David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
    • Eagle Sculpture at David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
      Eagle Sculpture at David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
    • Owl Painting David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
      Owl Painting David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
    • David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
      Eagle Sculpture at David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
    • David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow
      David Mahoney Art Gallery and Sculpture Park Sandy Hollow

    What Did We Think?

    We had a great time following the Sculpture Trail, and enjoyed all three stops. We also liked Denman where we had a coffee and morning tea before heading on to Sandy Hollow.

    To see what else there is to do in New South Wales, please see some of our other stories.

    Our photos are available for purchase on

  • Civic Park Newcastle NSW Australia

    Civic Park Newcastle NSW Australia

    Civic Park Newcastle

    Civic Park

    Civic Park is bordered by council buildings on one side and the art gallery and St Andrews Presbyterian Church on the other, while situated in the centre of the Newcastle CBD. A great place to relax, or take a casual walk around, because it’s quiet with plenty of places to sit.

    Newcastle Town Hall From Civic Park
    Newcastle Town Hall From Civic Park

    Captain Cook Memorial Fountain

    Located as the centrepiece of Civic Park is the James Cook Memorial Fountain, built for the bicentenary of Cook’s voyage and mapping of the east coast of Australia. In 1770, Lieutenant (later captain) James Cook claimed the east coast for the British Crown, naming it New South Wales. This large water feature is a great place in summer, with seats located around it, and impressive at night when illuminated.

    Captain Cook Memorial Fountain Civic Park Newcastle
    Captain Cook Memorial Fountain

    War Memorial Grove

    Developed from a community desire to honour servicemen and women killed during the world wars, the War Memorial Garden is in a corner of Civic Park, opposite the Art Gallery. Constructed from public and private funds, some of the money with some coming from families with relatives commemorated on each of the 68 plaques featured throughout the garden.

    Volunteer members of the New Lambton Heights Garden Club undertook much of the work, a relationship which is continued today.

    A quiet area for reflection, it’s worth wandering through to pay your respects.

    • Royal Australian Air Force Memorial
      Royal Australian Air Force Memorial
    • Vietnam Memorial
      Vietnam Memorial
    • Navy Memorial
      Navy Memorial
    • Memorial Plaques
      Memorial Plaques

    War Memorial

    The war memorial was originally dedicated to World War Two service personnel, but has since been re-dedicated to all wars Australia has been involved in. Ceremonies are held here throughout the year on relevant anniversaries, so there may be one happening when you visit.

    Civic Park War Memorial
    Civic Park War Memorial

    Vietnam and National Service Memorial

    The Vietnam and National Service Memorial commemorates the soldiers killed during the Vietnam War. A brass plaque on the memorial provides a brief description of Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War. The rear section of the memorial has a separate memorial to Australia’s National Service and Combined Forces personnel.

    Vietnam War Memorial Civic Park Newcastle
    Vietnam War Memorial

    Newcastle Art Gallery

    Located above Civic Park on Layman Street, the Art Gallery often hosts exhibitions throughout the year. In addition, the Gallery owns an impressive collection of Australian paintings. To read more about our visit to the Newcastle Art Gallery, click here.

    Newcastle Art Gallery Entrance
    Newcastle Art Gallery Entrance

    Baptist Tabernacle

    Located above Civic Park the Baptist Tabernacle is an interesting building but is only open to the public during services.

    Baptist Tabernacle
    Baptist Tabernacle

    St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church

    Situated across the road from the Baptist Tabernacle, St Andrews is not always open, so you may have to appreciate this building from the outside. Even if it’s closed, the building is worth admiring for its architectural value.

    St Andrews Presbyterian Church
    St Andrews Presbyterian Church

    Old Newcastle City Administration Centre The Roundhouse

    Currently undergoing a redevelopment to a five star hotel, the old Newcastle Administration Centre originally opened in 1977. The design was a collaborative effort between Architects Romberg & Boyd and Wilson & Suters. The architectural style is Brutalist, for it’s striking design.

    Newcastle Council Chambers
    Newcastle Council Chambers

    Newcastle City Hall

    Built in 1929 to house the newly created Newcastle City Council, this beautiful building is now a multi-purpose Function/Conference venue. Located opposite Civic Park on King Street, the building is an example of Inter-War Academic Classical architecture.

    Shortland Centenary Fountain

    Erected in 1897 by the Mayor David Miller and originally located at Newcastle Beach, this fountain commemorates the centenary (1797-1897) of the European discovery of the area by Lieutenant Shortland. Removed from its original location, it is now located at Christie Park.

    Shortland Centenary Fountain
    Shortland Centenary Fountain

    What Did We think?

    Newcastle Civic Park is a great place to visit, because of its many memorials and beautiful buildings. It’s a relaxing place to wander around, while enjoying the manicured gardens and visit the Art Gallery. When you have finished, Derby Street with its cafes and restaurants is right next door.

    Our photos are available for purchase on

    To see what else there is to do in New South Wales, please see some of our other stories.

  • Newcastle Art Gallery New South Wales Australia

    Newcastle Art Gallery New South Wales Australia

    Newcastle Art Gallery

    Located in Laman Street Cooks Hill above Civic Park, the Newcastle Art Gallery contains an impressive art collection, primarily Australian artists. Limited display area restricts the number of art works on display, but a rotation ensures new works every few months.

    The large sculpture of a nest and giant egg mark the entrance to the gallery, making it easy to find.

    The gallery often displays special exhibits, which adds another reason to visit. During our last visit, the exhibit was Between Two Worlds, which featured works of art produced by Australian artists of Chinese heritage.

    Newcastle Art Gallery Entrance
    Newcastle Art Gallery Entrance

    Permanent Collection

    The gallery’s collection consists of over 6,500 items, covering areas of ceramics, painting, photography, prints & drawings, sculpture and video & new media. Works from colonial to the present are represented, from local, Australian and several international artists.

    • Foyer Ceiling Newcastle Art Gallery Exhibit
      Foyer Ceiling
    • Painting From the Permanent Collection
      Painting From the Permanent Collection
    • Painting From the Permanent Collection
      Painting From the Permanent Collection

    Between Two Worlds

    This was a great exhibit to walk around, because of the variety and quality of the works. Unfortunately, it has now finished, but a new one by George Gittoes is on display until mid-April 2020.

    • Foyer Ceiling Newcastle Art Gallery Exhibit
      Foyer Ceiling Newcastle Art Gallery Exhibit
    • Untitled by Guo Jian
      Untitled by Guo Jian
    • Bronze Power Dragon by Guan Wei
      Bronze Power Dragon by Guan Wei
    • The Open and Spacious Second Floor
      The Open and Spacious Second Floor
    • Samurai Painting Part of the Between Two Worlds Exhibit
      Samurai Painting Part of the Between Two Worlds Exhibit
    • Part of the Between Two Worlds Exhibit
      Part of the Between Two Worlds Exhibit
    • Newcastle Art Gallery Exhibit
      Newcastle Art Gallery Exhibit
    • Newcastle Art Gallery Exhibit
      Between Two Worlds Exhibit

    Newcastle Art Gallery Sculpture Garden

    Don’t forget to look at the sculpture garden while at the art gallery. Access is via a door near the toilets, to the left of the main entrance. With under a dozen sculptures, it is small, but still interesting and worth walking around to enjoy the displays.

    • Newcastle Art Gallery Sculpture Garden
      Newcastle Art Gallery Sculpture Garden
    • Sculpture by Margel Hinder
      Sculpture by Margel Hinder
    • Submarine 1993 by Edward Milan
      Submarine 1993 by Edward Milan
    • Two Forms 1958 by Kathleen Shillam
      Two Forms 1958 by Kathleen Shillam
    • Skyscraper by Vlase Nikoleski
      Skyscraper by Vlase Nikoleski
    • Beacon 1992 by Akio Makigawa
      Beacon 1992 by Akio Makigawa
    • Mary Magdalene 1978 by George Bladessin
      Mary Magdalene 1978 by George Bladessin

    New Displays in September 2020

    When we re-visited in September 2020, there were new exhibits on display from the Gallery’s collection, along with this year’s Kilgour Prize entrants. We had an enjoyable time looking at the artwork.

    • Newcastle Art Gallery
      Newcastle Art Gallery
    • Marion Borgelt - Liquid Light Horizontal Triptych No. 1
      Marion Borgelt – Liquid Light Horizontal Triptych No. 1

    Kilgour Prize 2020 – On Display Until November 2020

    In 1987, artist Jack Kilgour bequeathed funds for the creation of a major figurative and portrait art competition to be run in perpetuity at Newcastle Art Gallery. Today, the Kilgour Prize is one of Australia’s major art prizes, and awards $50,000 for the most outstanding work of art as determined by a panel of three judges, and $5,000 for the People’s Choice Award, as determined by votes from the public.

    For figurative and Portrait Painting

    • The Kilgour Prize 2020
      The Kilgour Prize 2020
    • Kenneth Lambert - I See Myself Reflected in You
      Kenneth Lambert – I See Myself Reflected in You
    • Jordan Richardson - The Dunce
      Jordan Richardson – The Dunce
    • Oliver Shepherd - The Proposal (Portrait of the Hon. Michael Kirby AC CGM)
      Oliver Shepherd – The Proposal (Portrait of the Hon. Michael Kirby AC CGM)
    • Daniel Butterworth - Self Waiting For Life To Happen Number Two
      Daniel Butterworth – Self Waiting For Life To Happen Number Two

    What Did We Think?

    A great place to visit and because the exhibits change regularly, a great place to go back to. Well laid out, it offers ample opportunities for photographs.

    Our photos are available for purchase on

    As we do not have copyright permission for any of the artworks shown here, none of these photos are for sale. However, photos from many of our other stories can be found on Shutterstock.

    To see what else there is to do in New South Wales, please see some of our other stories.