Jordans Crossing Gazette

After much research, our grand plan was to explore as many antique shops as we could in a day. But not just any shops - our list was of those not so well known. Focused and keen, we pulled into Mt Ashby Estate, only to find that it was closed for the day. But happily for us the amiable and generous manager, Sally Beresford, very kindly invited us in for a look. The large barn is home to a fabulous collection of largely French Provincial items, with stunning aged oak tables, arguably the highlight of the display. Christine immediately headed off to the unexpected clothes rack and spent some time there trying to talk herself out of purchasing a most gorgeous black blouse, but temptation was eventually resisted; there were many more places to visit. Off to Grandpa’s Shed at Fitzroy Falls, where you could easily spend an entire day. Exploring this extraordinary place fills you with nostalgia for times passed, as we recognized so many household goods we’d grown up with. Almost anything you could possibly dream up can be found in this place, and Jan found a beautifully carved chair that she just couldn’t resist. After some hard bargaining it came home with us. Grandpa’s Shed is truly an Aladdin’s Cave and well worth more visits. As we headed towards Robertson we came to a fork in the road and decided to turn towards Belmore Falls. After all, the best times are often had off the beaten Christine's new treasure – an art deco coffee percolator! The antiques and collectibles road trip track and in places you had initially no intention of visiting. We spent a delightful time, making our way over the flooded crossing and trying to figure out how to get up to the lookout which was not indicated by any signs. We eventually found our way to the lookout, the view from which is spectacular and well worth the effort. After much gazing and cooeeing across the gorge, we waded back across to the car and on to Robertson where both the shops on our researched list were closed! The Emporium at the Cheese Factory is always worth exploring however, and by then we had worked up an appetite. Of course it was then lunchtime and so we stopped into Moonacres Café, where they serve local organic meals. Absolutely delicious!! Next stop – Kangaroo Valley. Two of the listed shops were closed (beginning to see a pattern?), but we found our way into a delightful little gem of a place, hidden from view in a small space above Rural Supplies in Jenanter Drive. Not a huge collection, but plenty of quirky and interesting items to seek out and enjoy. Don’t get frightened by the talking monkey! Then to The Nostalgia Factory, where we happily pottered around, investigating their many treasures. The shop was a delight, with much to look at, including clothes which were again resisted. Two other places worth a visit are The Wood Gallery, where they make exquisite rocking horses, and Pioneer Museum, which is not open on Mondays (although it was a Tuesday!). It was time to head home, but not before making a stop for coffee and cake at the General Store in Burrawang, where we relaxed on the verandah. We had a wonderfully interesting and fun day, with a fresh outlook of places to take visitors for a great day out in the Highlands. — Christine Janssen and Jan Kenny day breaks December 2017 24 jcg