I first came across this property in 2021. The owner had been trying to sell it for a while, and I was looking for a new direction — a place where I could build something meaningful. The land had a magic to it. Towering gums, wide open paddocks, wildlife everywhere — I couldn’t stop thinking about the possibilities.

I tried to find a way to buy it myself, but the banks weren’t on board. That’s when Joel stepped in. He purchased the property, renovated all the old cabins, and leased it back to me so I could bring the business to life. Without him, The Paddock wouldn’t exist.

The early days weren’t easy. We were just emerging from COVID lockdowns, and not long after that the floods hit in 2022. Bookings were scarce, and to keep it all going, I picked up a full-time role in marketing at Moira Shire. For 18 months I juggled that job with building the business on the side — mowing lawns on weekends, replying to wedding enquiries on lunch breaks, and dreaming about the day I could do this full time.

Now, that day’s here. The Paddock is my full-time gig — and I absolutely love it. I get to meet incredible couples, welcome guests from all walks of life, and watch as people gather here to celebrate the big stuff: love, milestones, family, friendship.

Whether you’re planning a wedding, a retreat, a reunion, or just a relaxed weekend away, I’d love to welcome you to this little pocket of bushland near the Murray. It’s a place to slow down, breathe deep, and celebrate in your own way — surrounded by nature and good people.