Our recent staff conference provided the platform for several budding young artists to blossom into fully-fledged Picassos. There were those of us who leaped at our canvas with vigor, unleashing an acrylic inferno, while others tempered their strokes with self-control and scrupulousness. The results proved to be as diverse as the methods employed by each artistic group.

As you can see in the photo to the right, myself, John and Rabin attempted to subdue our canvas with unwavering rationality. Our thorough planning and judicious choice of colours would have left us feeling content had we not made the critical mistake of laying eyes upon the finished artwork. We actually spent more time convincing ourselves of success than applying paint to canvas!

It was clear to all that the profoundly photogenic Brett (below right) rivalled the charm of his group's painting. Unfortunately, we just don't have strong enough picture hangers to suspend him from our office wall, so the painting wins in the end.

All jokes aside, we enjoyed the activity immensely. We're now in the process of hanging the paintings on our office walls. Where best to place them!?

You might like to head on over to the updated gallery from our recent staff conference and discover the the rest of our paintings and more. (Better yet, pop into our office and view the artworks in person).

A peaceful weekend in the Mudgee region is always a blessing. The beautiful country scenery along the way makes any trek to Mudgee effortless, the rolling green hills seem to go on forever as aircraft soar overhead seemingly unaware of what they're missing out on down below.

If you have the time to spend on the way to Mudgee, spend it wisely by taking a journey off the beaten track through areas such as Sofala and historic Hill End. You'll be amazed you don't do this more often and looking forward to your next trip before you know it.
 

Unwind all the way to Mudgee

I'm still surprised, and a not just a little bit envious, of how many people have managed to make the move to this laid-back region of New South Wales, escaping the "big smoke" of Sydney in favour of a slower paced lifestyle. Certainy Mudgee is a place to sit back, relax and soak up some country air.

But for me uncovering new gems is always the best part of any travel experience. Not only sussing out places to bring absent friends for future visits, but meeting welcoming people who are up for a chat and a laugh. A recent gem of mine? Logan Wines.
 

Soak it up at Logan Wines

When you're struggling to resist a "yes sir, I'll take one of each of your fine wares!" situation it's always a good sign. My tip for any wine trip; don't skimp on the first winery just because it's "only the first winery". I was definitely vindicated with my purchasing decision at Logan's - which featured not only the best Shiraz of the weekend, but some other great unique tastes from the region.

Logan Wines not only has some fantastic wine but also a beautiful outlook, some great and varied food options along with some stunning architecture, all of which adds up to an experience you would prefer not to end very quickly. Part of the beauty of the Mudgee region is that it doesn't have to.
 

Spoil yourself at Sajo's

Sajo's Lounge Bar and Restaurant is the new hot ticket in Mudgee, in fact it has been very recently featured in the 2011 edition of the Sydney Morning Herald's Good Food Guide. Well done, and well deserved! The atmosphere inside has a 1920's jazz bar flavour, only with better cocktails. A whopping 9/10 on Luke Peterson's chip scale is a pretty amazing achievement as well.

On my recent visit I was treated to some amazing live jazz, including some great covers of some classic songs. The Doors - Light My Fire has never sounded so sweet! Sajo's is definitely worth checking out if you feel like treating yourself to some great food with good company.
 

Escape to Ilkley Cottages

Situated just far enough outside of downtown Mudgee, the peaceful Ilkley Cottages have kept me coming back for more, year after year. You can pack a fair sized group of friends inside Maggies Cottage, which always makes for a great atmosphere by the fireplace with a bottle of the local stuff. On a warm evening, it's pretty tough to beat out the back around the BBQ looking out to the kangaroos feeding amongst the grasses just as the sun sets behind the mountains, waching the stars slowly emerge.

Check out the websites below for further information

• Logan Wines
• Sajo's Lounge Bar and Restaurant
• Ilkley Cottages
• Visit Mudgee Region