PRESS RELEASE: Every rural village needs a heart – 175 Years of the Wollombi General Store
The Wollombi General Store will mark a significant milestone in 2026, celebrating 175 years as a general store in the historic village of Wollombi.
Recognised locally as operating as a general store since 1851, the building has played a continuous role in the life of the valley. Originally established as the Harp of Erin Hotel in the early 1840s, it evolved with the needs of the community – from inn, to supply hub, to the modern-day store it is today.
Through changing industries, floods, economic cycles and generations of ownership, the building has remained a constant. Its continued operation is not by chance, but the result of ongoing care and commitment by successive owners who have maintained both its function and character at the centre of the village.
“In small rural communities, buildings like this are more than just businesses – they’re part of the social fabric,” Matt Low said. “The General Store has always been a place where people meet, exchange news, and stay connected.”
While the world beyond the valley has changed dramatically since the 1850s, the role of the store has remained surprisingly consistent. Once a vital supply point for isolated farms – delivering goods by wagon and trading in produce – it continues today as a place to gather, shop, and connect.
The 175-year milestone will be celebrated throughout the year, culminating in the Heart of Wollombi Street Party, a community event that will bring together locals, visitors, and businesses in a shared celebration of the village.
The street party will showcase the character of Wollombi through local food, wine, music and community participation, with the General Store sitting firmly at the centre of the festivities – as it has for generations.
“This is really a celebration of the whole village,” Matt Low said. “The store just happens to be a very good reason to bring everyone together.”
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The Heart of Wollombi: Street Party takes place Saturday 2 May & Sunday May 3rd, with village-wide activity from morning through the afternoon and into the evening (Sat.). The official streetscape opening will take place during the day, alongside market stalls, local performers, tastings and business activations across Wollombi Road. Evening events include special dining experiences such as the Wollombi General Store’s 175th Birthday Dinner and other ticketed events.
Visitors are invited to wander the village throughout the day, exploring galleries, cafés, wine experiences and retail spaces, and experiencing Wollombi’s heritage, creativity and community at its best.
More info: https://www.visitwollombi.com.au/events/the-heart-of-wollombi-street-party-2nd-and-3rd-may-2026/
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About the Wollombi General Store
The Wollombi General Store has been part of village life for 175 years, evolving from a traditional country store into a central meeting place for locals and visitors.
Owners Matt and Michael are also behind Redleaf Wollombi – a private country estate widely regarded as one of New South Wales’ standout wedding destinations. Set across expansive grounds with a distinct European feel, the property offers an immersive, whole-of-weekend experience that has helped redefine what a regional wedding can be.
https://www.wollombigeneralstore.com.au/
MEDIA CONTACT
Matthew Low 0414 653 085 (owner) – [email protected]
Euan Wilcox 0409 988 457 – [email protected]
Daniela Riccio 0407 224 150 – [email protected]
Full range of Hi-res images available.
