When we bought this site, we had a few ideas, but no clear image of what was to come. As farmers, some of these ideas were based on food production.
We put an advertising sign up on the fence, and it’s grown from there.
Our tenants are Castlemaine people, either starting new businesses, or expanding their existing business.
We knew Edmund and Elna of Coffee Basics wanted the aroma of their coffee beans to waft out the c1923 chimney, and we’re really glad they joined us early.
Working on-site to transform the buildings and grounds to their new purposes, we use as many locals as possible. One of our carpenter’s is our neighbour, and our bobcat man’s kids play footy with ours.
Part of our philosophy for the site is to have a wide variety of businesses, supporting cross promotion and networking. Hugh Makin, artisan woodcraftsman, has made an oak fermenter for Boomtown wines that they used in this year’s vintage. Jamie from blacksheep workshop has done metalwork for the Castlemaine Brewing Company taproom.
As we develop the site, our aim is to be self sufficient in both power and water.
There are still many changes to come. We are tailoring the spaces to the tenant’s needs, which takes more time. Please forgive us if you come on a day when there is lots of activity, and landscaping works will be an ongoing job over the next year.
We hope you enjoy your visit, thankyou for supporting the small businesses of Castlemaine.
Phil McConachy and Ronnie Moule
