The Property
Tucked away on 20 acres, in Lovedale, in the Hunter Valley NSW - just 2½ hours from Sydney and 50 minutes from Newcastle - this property has lived many lives. Today, it offers layered experiences: The Villa and four overwater Boathouses, each with its own rhythm, alongside spaces that invite elopements, micro and small, to larger weddings, events, and retreats.
The property is more than a destination - it’s an invitation to slow down, reconnect, and experience a rhythm of living that feels both grounded and elevated.
We believe in the quiet luxury of simplicity.
UNPOLISHED AND PROUD
Imperfection is part of the beauty - organic, real, human.
NOSTALGIC YET NEW
A timeless setting gently refreshed with thoughtful, modern touches.
UNHURRIED
Time expands here - you’re invited to slow down and stay a while.
QUIETLY EVOLVING
Always growing, never rushed.
Meet the team
Aaron & Kristy McGuigan – Owners & Hosts
Aaron and Kristy McGuigan are the proud custodians of Leaves and Fishes, taking over the reins of this much-loved Lovedale retreat in early 2023. With deep family ties to the Hunter Valley, they bring a strong sense of connection to place, community, and legacy and a passion to bring energy and people together, to enjoy this beloved and stunning piece of NSW.
Their decision to take on Leaves and Fishes was grounded in a desire to build something meaningful - both for their young family and for the wider community. With a deep respect for the property’s history, they’ve gently stepped into the rainforest surrounds, nurturing new energy while honouring what’s come before.
‘We’ve come to understand this special place, and we’re inspired to gently evolve the property from the strong roots that have long been planted here. We believe in the quiet luxury of simplicity.’ - Kristy
As passionate hosts, Aaron and Kristy are committed to creating a space where people can truly connect - whether that’s a mid-week or weekend stay, a wedding or special family celebration, a corporate retreat, or a simple poke around and coffee in the sun. They see Leaves and Fishes as a place for stories to unfold, memories to be made, and moments to be shared.
Since stepping in, Aaron and Kristy have added The Villa to the property’s offerings - a beautifully appointed space that has hosted everything from pre-wedding gatherings for brides and bridal parties to post-celebration stays for newlyweds. It’s also become a versatile setting for catered and self-catered family celebrations, elopements, micro weddings, retreats, and corporate strategy days.
They’ve also taken over and repositioned The Commons as a part of their expansive suite of event spaces and moved the homewares space upfront on the property and named it the Trove. It is perched, now, as you first enter the property, and by the newest addition to the property – a secret garden, run by the Nature and Nurture team. With occasional coffee and food options onsite, this is fast becoming a favourite space for locals, guests, and visitors to spend a weekend morning poking around.
Leaves and Fishes has long been a backdrop for cherished moments - weddings, holidays, family milestones, and quiet escapes. Since taking the reins, Aaron and Kristy have remained dedicated to honouring that legacy, while thoughtfully evolving the experience for a new generation of guests.
Still proudly family-run, Leaves and Fishes is run by Aaron and Kristy who are supported by a close-knit team that embodies the same warmth and personality that has always defined the property. Each team member brings their own unique touch, helping to make every visit truly memorable.
The History of Leaves and Fishes
Leaves and Fishes began as a family home when Sharon and Damian Burke purchased the Lovedale Road property in 1976. Over time, their private sanctuary evolved.
This spirit of creativity and innovation led to the launch of The Assembly - a beautiful, private space designed for intimate weddings and special events.
In 2008, the Burkes extended their vision further, opening The Boathouses: luxurious, adults-only retreats offering guests the perfect blend of seclusion and proximity to the Hunter’s top wineries and restaurants. Whether you're after a peaceful weekend escape or a quintessential Hunter Valley experience, the Boathouses deliver both.
Then in 2018, The Commons was introduced - a thoughtfully curated space showcasing homewares inspired by Sharon and Damian’s travels through India and Indonesia. Built by Damian himself using materials collected along the way.
In early 2023, Aaron and Kristy McGuigan became the proud new custodians of Leaves and Fishes. With a deep respect for the property’s legacy, they’ve taken a gentle approach to stepping into their new rainforest retreat - allowing time to settle in, understand the rhythm of the place, and thoughtfully integrate their young family into this much-loved local landmark.
