CED Conference

About Cessnock

Cessnock – Pick of the bunch

Cessnock is the commercial centre and gateway to the Hunter Valley. Cessnock was developed as a private village on the road that is now known as The Convict Trail. The town became a major mining centre at the turn of the century; however, wine and tourism have since become the major local industries.

Visit www.cessnock.nsw.gov.au

Wine industry

There's more than 200 years of winemaking in the Hunter Valley which is Australia's oldest wine region. Around 4,500 acres are under vine, producing more than 24 million litres of wine a year. There are around 60 wineries and 80 independent grape growers. Varieties include the world-famous Semillon and Shiraz, Chardonnay, Verdelho, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Hunter wines are world-renowned and exports continue to grow.

Visit www.hvwia.com.au

Tourism

Wine-related tourism, including wine trails and tours, wine schools, wine tutorials, private tastings, and food and wine matching, has created opportunities for other attractions to thrive. As well as vineyards and wineries, there are fine restaurants, motels, cabins, guest houses and galleries. Activities include international-class golf courses, cycling tours, horse riding, hot air ballooning, scenic flights and day spas.

Visit www.winecountry.com.au

Acknowledgement

The Community Economic Development Conference 2012 is proudly sponsored by State Training Services, NSW Department of Education and Communities and supported by the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage.