Jam-packed weekend of celebrations as Mintaro turn 175
Get ready to party like it’s 1849 – because Mintaro is turning 175! This quaint South Aussie gem, perfectly preserved and officially listed as a State Heritage Area, is throwing the ultimate birthday bash, and everyone’s on the guest list!
The weekend-long party will kick off on Friday October 25 at the Mintaro Institute – with Clare and Gilbert Valleys Council Mayor Allan Aughey OAM cutting the ribbon on the 175th Anniversary Celebrations. Former heritage officer John Hawke will give an entertaining speech about the town’s significance, and six shiny new heritage banners, featuring stories on the development and growth of Mintaro, will make their debut while guests nibble on old-school finger foods and sip on a Mintaro 175th Commemorative Fortified Shiraz, created by Reillys Wines, and available for tasting and purchase.
Friday evening’s, Memories of Mintaro Dinner has already sold out, so if you haven’t already purchased your tickets, sadly you’ll be missing out on a mouthwatering three-course dinner prepared by Mintaro’s own culinary talents, Ross Mallett, and Richard Lathlean, with local wines and beers from Pikes, Reillys, Hill River, and Paulette Wines.
But don’t despair, Saturday is jam-packed with activities that will keep you entertained from dawn till dusk. Start your day at the Country Market, where you can browse through over 50 unique stalls and admire a display of “Old Farm Bits.” It’s the perfect spot to discover quirky treasures and local creations.
Next is the Sports Gala at Torr Park, where you can let your inner child run free with classic games like the three-legged race, egg and spoon race, and an old party favourite, apple bobbing. Prizes will be awarded to the top contenders, and you can refuel with some classic treats, including a sausage sizzle and damper on a stick.
For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, Heritage Tours will offer a deep dive into Mintaro’s rich history. Enjoy guided tours of the town, stepping through history from early settlement to the current day. Discover the secrets of Martindale Hall, the slate quarries, plus take a farm tour of Jaeschke’s Ystalyfera Historical Farmstead, and see the family’s collection of restored vintage tractors and memorabilia.
Adding to the weekend’s events, the stunning lawns of Martindale Hall, just a five minute drive from Mintaro, will host the inaugural Martindale Hall Antique Fair & Roadshow. Wander through an impressive selection of regional antiques from local dealers, vintage finds, and retro treasures, while experts from Small and Whitfield appraise your hidden gems.
As the sun sets, Magpie and Stump Hotel is the place to be for an evening of tales from past and present publicans. Stick around for dinner and reminisce about the day’s festivities.
To wrap up the weekend on a high note, join the Reillys 175th Heritage Lunch, served both days over the weekend, and enjoy a specially designed ‘Mintaro Heritage’ menu accompanied with estate-grown wines.
With a weekend full of history, heritage, and entertainment, celebrating 175 Years of Mintaro couldn’t get much better.
For all the details and to plan your visit, head over to Mintaro’s 175th Anniversary Program.
