Eco Tourism in the Hunter Valley

The way we live in today’s society impacts upon the environment. Everyone can make a difference by minimising the amount of resources consumed, and the amount of waste produced, and learning more about eco tourism. The condition of our land, the purity of our waterways and the quality of the air we breathe are all important factors in our lives. The health of the environment is a gift we leave for future generations.

At Somewhere Unique in the Hunter Valley, we recognise that caring for the environment is directly linked to caring for the overall needs of our guests and the community. We accept the challenge to integrate environmental considerations into all relevant aspects of our eco tourism business. We recognise that it is just as important to care for the environment today, as it is to ensure we continually improve our environmental performance for the future.

Somewhere Unique consists of two one-bedroom self-contained retreats. They are set on a private 20-acre bushland property in the NSW Hunter Valley, taking full advantage of the tranquil setting, natural ventilation, and proximity to native flora and fauna. Our business was the first accommodation property in Hunter Valley Wine Country to achieve EcoTourism certification through Ecotourism Australia. We regularly monitor our carbon footprint, and work to reduce the amount of energy consumed on the property. At the end of each financial year we measure and offset via Greenfleet the greenhouse gas emissions generated by our business activities including; LPG, electricity, business vehicle use, and off-site waste disposal.

We strive to educate our guests and help them to understand and appreciate the natural environment in which we live. Download our Environmental and Sustainability Policy.

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How Can You Help?

  • Breathe fresh air. Open your windows and give the air-conditioning a rest. Make use of the blinds and ceiling fans to maximise the efficiency of the building design.
  • Choose the right bin. Please place recyclable items into the bins provided. This includes glass, PET, paper, cardboard, and compostable materials.
  • Don’t forget to turn off lights, air-conditioning, heaters and other appliances when you leave the retreat.

Whether you are planning to travel to the Hunter Valley by car, or a combination of car and plane, you can offset your travel emissions. Did you know that if you drive from Sydney to Wollombi, you can offset your emissions for around $2*? That’s less than the price of a cappuccino!! (* Based on a 3L vehicle, travelling a 260km round trip from Sydney to Wollombi.)

“Greenfleet’s mission as a not-for-profit organisation is to create a low carbon future for Australia. Since 1997, we have planted over 8,378,000 native trees in 390 Australia biodiverse forests.”

Climate change can be defined as, “changes in the Earth’s climate, especially those produced by global warming.” The Department of Climate Change states, “Climate change is one of the greatest economic, social, and environmental challenges of our time. Expert scientific evidence confirms that human activity is altering the climate. This is changing rainfall patterns, reducing water availability in Australia and increasing the frequency of severe weather events such as bushfires and storms.”

  • In June 2008, Somewhere Unique was EcoCertified by Ecotourism Australia, being granted Nature Tourism Accreditation. The definition of Nature Tourism is: “Ecologically sustainable tourism with a primary focus on experiencing natural areas”. The retreats at Somewhere Unique aim to provide opportunities for guests to experience nature in ways that lead to a greater understanding, appreciation and enjoyment of the surrounding environment. One way this is achieved is by having many large windows, and easily accessible outdoor areas that allow our guests to directly experience the surrounding environment. Information on the local flora and fauna is also provided in each retreat.
  • In September 2014, Somewhere Unique officially became a Greenfleet Promotion Supporter. For all guests who book online we include a $2 donation to Greenfleet, which for most guests offsets their car travel to and from Wollombi. Last year 80% of our guests participated in this promotion.
  • In April 2015, Somewhere Unique was accepted into the TripAdvisor GreenLeaders program, which helps travelers around the world plan greener trips by highlighting accommodation properties engaging in environmentally-friendly practices.
  • ‘Somewhere Unique’ is proud to be a ‘Wildlife Land Trust’ sanctuary. This is essential because in Australia currently only 11.5% of the Australian landmass has some form of security as a protected area, and as a result we have one of the worst records for mammal extinctions and near extinctions of any developed country. Protecting and preserving our habitats and ecosystems is essential to the survival of all wildlife. Every acre with safeguards for wildlife is important and therefore the role of private lands has now become an integral part of the solution. Consequently, private landholders with a concern for wildlife and habitat protection, such as ‘Somewhere Unique’, are in the important and necessary position to make a very real contribution to conservation efforts across the country. The Wildlife Land Trust network of national and international sanctuaries on private lands is dedicated to wildlife and habitat protection.

  • In March 2011, we installed a 3 kilowatt solar electricity system on the roof of our house (at the top of the hill behind the retreats). Solar Power is the cleanest, most viable form of renewable energy available. These panels convert sunlight into solar electricity, which is fed back into the grid and reduces the need for coal generated electricity. The panels produce around 50% of the energy needs of Lowanna and Allawah Retreats.
  • The air-conditioning units chosen to keep our guests comfortable utilise inverter technology, making them more energy efficient than conventional air-conditioners. In conjunction, they are 6 star rated. The filters are cleaned regularly to maintain efficiency.
  • Cross-flow air ventilation and ceiling fans reduces the need for constant air-conditioning.
  • The remaining 50% of our electricity usage is offset via the purchase of PureEnergy from Energy Australia – they offer consumers a choice between conventional coal-generated energy and electricity generated from clean, renewable and non-polluting sources, including the sun, wind and hydro. By choosing PureEnergy, Energy Australia ensures that an amount equivalent to 50% of our electricity consumption has been or will be generated by accredited GreenPower Generators using renewable energy sources and delivered to the national electricity grid.
  • Energy efficient light globes have been used where appropriate.
  • We have chosen instant gas systems to supply our guests with hot water – these units have a 5 star energy rating. They heat as much water as you need, and only when you need it. So there are no heat losses, and you’ll never run out of hot water. We chose gas over electricity, as gas produces much less of the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide than electricity to heat the same amount of water.
  • In March 2011 we reworked the water pipes into each retreat, and the water is now gravity fed from tanks higher up the hill. So, less noise pollution, less electricity usage, and on odd occasion when we have a power outage there will still be running water available.
  • Toilets implement Smart Flush technology, utilising a 4.5/3L dual flush cistern.
  • High water saving rating on all taps and shower heads.
  • As in most country areas, limiting water usage is always a priority. We use rain water for all our water needs at Somewhere Unique, and have designed the buildings to provide maximum water catchment (that is, a large roof area!) We can currently store over 170,000 litres of water on the property.
  • We use front-loading washing machines for our laundry needs.
  • As we are on a rural property, we are expected to treat our own waste water on-site – this includes water from such things as showers, toilets and the washing machine. To efficiently treat the waste water created on the property, we chose to use the Garden Master Bio-Logic System. In order for the bacteria in the Garden Master system to do their job, it is essential that foreign objects aren’t put down the sink or toilet. This includes any types of bleaches or anti-bacterial products. Our treated waste water is colourless and odourless, and has been recycled to provide irrigation to gardens and lawns. The Garden Master System is pollution free, safe, reliable and economical to operate.
  • Utilising drought tolerant native plants in our landscape design enables us to minimise water requirements on the property.
  • We recycle newspapers, cardboard, glass bottles, PET plastic, steel cans, aluminium cans, and printer cartridges, and ask our guests to separate these items from their general waste. It’s not difficult to separate these items from our general rubbish – every little bit counts!
  • Food scraps at Somewhere Unique are composted, using an Aerobin system, which allows us to contribute positively to the environment with aerated composting of house and garden waste, rather than these items being added to landfill.
  • All lawn clippings, prunings from trees, and other green waste are disposed of on the property. On average, 35% of household waste going to landfill in Australia is green waste, so by retaining all this type of waste on the property, we are keeping landfill to a minimum.
  • The use of fertilisers, residual herbicides and pesticides on the property is minimised.
  • The retreats at Somewhere Unique have been designed using passive solar architecture principles. This involves designing buildings to make the best use of the sun’s energy.
  • Large north facing windows that allow in the low winter sun, and roof overhangs that stop the high summer sun from penetrating.
  • Using thermal mass to maximise the benefits of passive solar design, by building on a concrete slab, which can store heat during the day in winter, and re-radiate it at night time.
  • The retreats are well insulated, keeping warmth inside in cold weather, and preventing heat from entering when it is hot.
  • The water tanks, roof, internal ceilings, and the majority of the external walls in the retreats are constructed from Colorbond steel. This product is thermally efficient and environmentally friendly – steel is one of the world’s most recycled products, and all steel made by Bluescope Steel includes recycled steel in its manufacture.
  • Low-E glass has been used in the retreats – the special coating on this glass reflects long wave heat radiation back into the rooms during winter, and reflects the heat back outside during summer.
  • Bamboo timber flooring was chosen. This timber is sustainably sourced, fast growing, rapidly renewable, has very low manufacturing waste, and uses non-toxic water based glues and finishes.
  • Timber furniture created for the retreat is built using ecoSelect hardwood. This timber is Australian grown, and is sourced from a natural and renewable resource.
  • Many of the fabrics used in our soft furnishings are from Cloth Fabric, who work with natural fabrics such as hemp, linen and organic cotton, use water based, nontoxic inks and dyes and have a controllable, low impact approach to manufacturing and materials. The scatter cushions have been filled with corn fibre inserts from Innergreen – these inserts are 100% biodegradable and compostable, and their manufacturing uses 60% less fossil fuels when compared to traditional synthetic polyester fibres.
  • Where appropriate, preference is given to local suppliers and those suppliers and business partners who have proven a commitment to environmental management and climate change initiatives, such as Margan Wines.
  • The stationery needs of Somewhere Unique are met by a printer utilising recycled paper and card, and environmentally sound printing methods. Where possible we use email rather than mail out marketing material.
  • We use recycled Reflex paper in our office, and only print out documents when necessary.
  • Even our pens are encased in recycled paper!
  • Within each retreat the toilet paper, tissues and paper towel are all made from recycled paper.
  • Rubbish bin liners and compost bags used in the retreats are biodegradable.
  • Public transport is not readily available in many rural areas, so cars have become an essential part of life. There is however a simple way to reduce our car’s impact on the environment. At Somewhere Unique we have chosen to take part in the Greenfleet program, where trees are planted every year to help create a forest, and as they grow they will absorb the greenhouse gases that our motor vehicles produce.
  • We provide our guests with bicycles, so that they can reduce carbon emissions during their time in Wollombi, ride into the village and a number of local wineries, get some exercise, take in the natural beauty of the area, and hopefully spot native fauna.

Find out more about the Environment, Climate Change and Ecotourism

Ecotourism Australia
Ecotourism Australia was formed in 1991 as an incorporated NPO, and is the peak national body for the ecotourism industry.
Web: www.ecotourism.org.au

The International Ecotourism Society
As the world’s oldest and largest ecotourism organization, TIES is committed to promoting the principles of ecotourism and responsible travel. With the goal of uniting conservation, communities and sustainable travel, TIES serves its members in over 90 countries, as the global source of knowledge and advocacy in ecotourism.
Web: www.ecotourism.org

Green Globe
Green Globe shows your organisation is serious about the environmental, social and economic performance of your organisation.
Web: www.greenglobe.com

Department of Climate Change
How households and communities can reduce emissions at work and home
Web: www.climatechange.gov.au

Somewhere Unique is one of a number of properties throughout Australia working to minimise their environmental footprint. To find more accommodation working towards this same goal, please visit Green Getaways Australia.

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To find out more about EcoCertified tourism businesses in Australia, why not look through the EcoTourism Australia ‘Green Travel Guide’ Online?

“Julia & Nick thank you so much for a magical weekend.  This place truly is one of a kind!  We’ve had the most serene and relaxing weekend before the baby makes his much awaited arrival!  The weekend was made extra magical as we went for a walk and Blake found a beautiful spot to propose.  This place will always be so special to us.  Thank you for an amazing getaway, we can’t wait to come back.”

M & B, Kanwal

“A gift from our three children for Christmas last year and third time lucky with booking due to Covid, it was fantastic to finally get here!  The luxurious accommodation and very well catered meals with local produce didn’t go unnoticed.  Our massages were the icing on the cake, very relaxing and rejuvenating.  This stay will definitely remain in the memory banks as one of the best!  Thanks again Julia and Nick for your wonderful hospitality and for sharing your paradise”

P & P, South Penrith

“Firstly I would like to say thank you for such a wonderful greeting.  We have found Somewhere Unique to be such a stunning place to stay and relax, it is just so peaceful here.  The attention to details were also amazing and the freshness of the food was fantastic.  We will highly recommend Somewhere Unique to everyone we know.”

K & R, Goulburn

“Thank you for such a well thought out retreat.  What an amazing way to spend my birthday.  From the gorgeous massages, delicious produce, comfy bed to the best country road bike ride ever”

G & M, Northbridge