An outstanding soap. The finest natural soap I have used. The soaps last well. I still giggle about the upside down nailbrush holder tip. I have allergies so I do research the ingredients of products I use. This soapmaker doesn’t hide harmful chemicals because she doesn’t use any.
— Lindy, Warriewood NSW.
 
I haven’t been able to use soap for years. I’ve tried handmade soap before and still had reactions.

I used Sugarloaf Soap’s Beer Soap with caution and waited for the itching and rash under my arms, it wasn’t til later that day that I realised I wasn’t scratching. I was comfortable with no reaction. I’ve been using Karen’s soaps for a couple of weeks now and am very happy. Great news you’ve got the online shop up and running. Thank you.
— Andrew R, Rutherglen Victoria.
 
Hi Karen, I met you at the Orange Grove Market a few weeks ago. It was lovely to meet you and I am loving the lavender and oat soap I bought, it’s rich and lovely on my skin. I hope you got some time to shop up a storm in the City later that day. I’ll see you soon, I need to get some of that beer soap!
— Sam K, Sydney NSW.

The Olive Tree Market at Civic Park, Newcastle

 

The Olive Tree Market is a locals and visitors market mecca. Local, creative, exciting and part of the renaissance currently taking place in Newcastle’s artisan community. The Olive Tree market started back in 2008 under The Olive Tree in The Junction, but is now based in Civic Park where the bigger grassy space allows for many more creative minds to offer their wares.

Where Civic Park, Cnr of King and Darby Streets, Newcastle

When  First Saturday of the Month, except January, 9am to 3pm. November and December fortnightly

www.facebook.com/theolivetreemarket
www.instagram.com/olivetreemarket/

www.theolivetreemarket.com.au

 

The Olive Tree Market at Maitland Regional Art Gallery

 

The Olive Tree Art & Design Market and Maitland Regional Art Gallery (MRAG) is a seasonally curated market to showcase the region’s most talented artisans, designers and gourmet food producers.

Wander amongst vibrant eclectic stalls, meet the artists and discover work straight from the hands of the makers. Relax to the sounds of talented local musicians, enjoy great food, participate in artist run workshops and spend the day exploring the Art Gallery.

Where Maitland Regional Art Gallery, 230 High Street, Maitland

When  Check out the facebook page for dates - www.facebook.com/theolivetreemarket

www.facebook.com/theolivetreemarket
www.instagram.com/olivetreemarket/

www.theolivetreemarket.com.au

 

Sacred Tree Markets at Nelson Bay

 

Established on invitation from the Nelson Bay community, Sacred Tree Markets launched on the Nelson Bay Foreshore & D’Albora Marina in December 2015.

The event is created around the premise of artists, designers, growers and makers consciously gathering to create a beautiful, inspirational and uplifting event.

Please check out the Facebook page for updates in adverse weather conditions.

Where D’Albora Marina, Teramby Rd, Nelson Bay

When 2nd Saturday of the month from 10am - 3pm

For the Summer Series Markets in December and January, please check the facebook page. They are planned for each week and kick off at 4pm til 8pm

 

Events and Festivals

Hunter Polo Challenge

 

The Hunter Polo Challenge is a great family day out at the Wirragulla Polo Club's grounds on the outskirts of Dungog in the Hunter. It is fast, exciting polo, with top players competing and over 200 horses will be played. The event is an informal relaxed way to watch and enjoy Picnic Polo in a picturesque setting. Gourmet Canteen, bar and fabulous markets are on the grounds.

Make it a weekend or a day at the polo. Wirragulla Polo Club is one hour from Newcastle, one hour from the vineyards, and two and a half hours from Sydney. Parking is free.

Check the facebook page for dates
Tabbill Creek Polo Ground
Cemetery Road, Dungog, NSW, 2420

LAT 32° 25' 08'' SLONG 151° 43' 53'' E

 

Gresford Billy Cart Derby

 

Each Easter the village of Gresford holds the Easter Saturday Billy Cart Derby. Before eating those Easter eggs there’s always lots to do to make this a great day out for the whole family. The main (and only!) street will be closed off and given over to billy cart enthusiasts both young and old.

The competition is often fierce and sometimes farce as the inventiveness of the cart designers is put to the test. Drivers can be as young as eight or as old as Grandad. Some race for the fun and some for the trophies. The carts can range from the classy to the kooky.

Visitors can also enjoy the vast array of market stalls, place a bet on the cowpat lotto, visit the local gallery, eat up at the barbecue and of course watch all the action.

Racing starts at 9am and runs till we're done.

Check the facebook page for dates
Park Street, East Gresford, NSW

 

The Dungog Festival

 

Join us in October for a feast of local and national music and performance, beautiful food from the region, a cutting edge film program, workshops, markets and much much more.

You can treat yourself to a weekend of pure indulgence, taking in films, wonderful food events and some great music events, while dancing the night away. You can enjoy our night markets, market stage, street tractor parade, street theatre, buskers and soak up the wonderful atmosphere, without spending a fortune. You can entertain your kids for a weekend, with loads of free street activities. And, as a special treat for kids and adults alike, world renowned conductor, George Ellis is bringing his hilarious Conductor and the Clown show to town.

Check the facebook page for details
Dowling Street, Dungog, NSW

www.dungogfestival.com.au

 

Vacy Country Carnival

 

Escape to the country, if only just for the day, to immerse yourself in the magical charm of the Vacy Country Carnival, only 30 minutes from Maitland.

The famous Jack Russell and Dachshund dashes are on. Explore the market stalls, by local artisans and the enjoy the Australian Army Pipes, Drums, helicopter joy flights and more. Last year’s favourites such as camel and pony rides are on again with a mechanical bucking bull and the British Car Club displays added to the attractions.

Enjoy food from local producers: wine, olives, home baked treats by our local Red Cross ladies.

Free entry, open from 9am.

17 September 2016

Vacy Village
Gresford Road, Vacy

www.facebook.com/vacycountrycarnival/


Stockists

 

Sugarloaf Soap is proud to be part of the local artisan group, Dungog by Design. Our group has grown from a small number of makers who plied their wares at local markets to a large group of artisans running a successful business in the main street of Dungog.

The gallery can be found in the old hardware store at 224 Dowling Street, Dungog.

Opening Hours

  • Monday, Thursday and Friday - 10am to 4pm
  • Saturday and Sunday - 9am to 3pm

Click here to follow Dungog by Design on Facebook.

The range of artisans and their work is vast and include: painters, textile artists, a blacksmith, print makers, a soapmaker, woodworkers, sculptures. The constantly changing stock ranges from clothing, beauty products, hanging art and sculpture, timber furniture, cushions, hats and head wear, glass and timber jewellery and a plethora of functional and artistic pieces.


Accommodation stocking Sugarloaf Soap

Yeranda at Barrington Tops

 

Yeranda is set in the foothills of the beautiful Barrington Tops and is the ideal escape destination for those seeking total privacy or a nature based holiday. Three hand crafted, rock walled cottages are positioned separately on the 140 acre Wildlife Refuge property so your privacy can be guaranteed. The owners, Ros and Kevin Runciman live on the property so are there to offer assistance if needed, but also leave you do 'your own thing'.

Bookings http://www.yeranda.com.au/

Address 117 Skimmings Gap Road, Main Creek NSW 2420
Tel 02 4992 1208

 

Curlew Cottage B&B

 

Curlew Cottage is situated in the beautiful town of Dungog, the southern gateway to the Barrington Tops. The best of rural life is here! In all seasons, the views of rolling hills surrounding the town, the mountains and forests in the distance are breathtaking.

Step inside the charming, old style, country home situated on a quarter acre of gardens. Take the time to smell the roses, listen to the birds, relax and recharge your batteries.

As Guests, you have access to all of Curlew. Leave your car keys in the room as you can walk to pubs, clubs, cafes and shops.

You will experience a mix of privacy and hospitality at Curlew Cottage, making it your best bed and breakfast stay ever!

Bookings http://curlewcottage.com.au/
Tel 0411 231 061 (Carol)