CARRRAJUNG ESTATE PREPARES TO OPEN THE NEST AND ON-SITE RESTAURANT AS PART OF STAGE 1

Gippsland's brand new Carrajung Estate is set to launch on Friday March 31 when the restaurant doors will open, together with bookings for 'The Nest' from 7 April onwards.

The restaurant will be led by head chef Patrick Haney and will showcase the unique flavours of the region's bounty, from heirloom vegetables to pasture-raised meats and artisanal cheeses.

Carrajung Estate co-founder Ivy Huang explains, 'With an emphasis on seasonality and sustainability, our dishes feature fresh ingredients sourced directly from nearby farms that celebrate the natural beauty and culinary richness of Gippsland. Through our food, we want to share these grower's stories.'

CARRAJUNG ESTATE

Haney is a master of his craft with more than 20 years culinary experience, honing his skills across a collection of USA and Australia's much-loved kitchens including Sydney's Opera Bar and Cruise Bar's Dinner in the Sky, and most recently, The Growers in Shoalhaven.

Haney's passion for cooking began at an early age, inspired by his grandmother's home-cooked meals and preserves, and the abundance of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients available around his hometown of San Diego. Chef Haney's philosophy is rooted in a deep respect for the ingredients he uses, and he is a firm believer in sustainable and ethical sourcing practices.

Throughout his career, Chef Haney has developed a signature style that blends traditional techniques with contemporary twists and global influences. His dishes are a feast for the senses, with a focus on bold flavours, vibrant colours, and elegant presentation. Outside of the kitchen, Chef Haney enjoys exploring local farmers markets, camping and foraging for new ingredients and seeking out inspiration for his next culinary masterpiece.

The first-ever release of Carrajung Estate wines will be served as part of the restaurant opening, which is a culmination of two years of vine management between Carrajung Estate co-founder Adrian Critchlow, Toms Cap founder Graham Morris and Marcus Satchell, an iconic award-winning Gippsland winemaker of Inverloch's Dirty Three Wines fame, which will include Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc.

Carrajung Estate is the custodian of the old Tom's Cap winery, a 40ha property surrounded by the forests of the Strzelecki Ranges, the Ninety Mile Beach at Woodside, and the Tarra Bulga National Park, one of the four major cool temperature rainforests regions in Victoria. The property, which currently features five individual cabins, had been run by Ann and Graham Morris under the Toms Cap brand the past 30 years.

Phase one opening includes the restaurant and renovation of one of the cabins, The Nest, which can be booked through the Carrajung website. This cozy and intimate space has long been a favourite for guests, offering a perfect romantic getaway with views of the serene rolling hills, and now, with a full makeover, The Nest is more inviting and luxurious than ever.

Step inside to discover a beautifully appointed interior complete with a traditional wood fireplace, comprehensive kitchen and breathtaking sunset views which can be enjoyed from a new outdoor bathtub on the deck, allowing guests to soak in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

The first phase opening of Carrajung Estate is just the beginning of an ambitious vision by Ivy Huang and business partner Rebeka Morgan of BuildHer Collective fame, together with Rebeka's husband John Morgan of Beirin Projects, to create a one-of-a-kind travel destination in the heart of Gippsland.

The team plans to renovate the remaining four cottages at breakneck speed in order to have all five renovated and ready for wedding bookings for the summer of 2023/24.

Carrajung Estate aims to offer the perfect haven for relaxation and rejuvenation offering guests an immersive experience that encompasses the best of what the region has to offer.

From March 31 guests can enjoy an on-site wine tasting at the cellar door and lunch at the restaurant before spending the afternoon admiring the vines and interacting with a variety of local Carrajung Estate residents - from friendly alpacas, pigs and chickens to curious goats.

Further information can be found at www.carrajung.com.au or by calling 03 5194 2215