It was a full house on the afternoon of 16 March for the grand opening of a brand new state-of-the-art conference facility at Black Gold in Wallerawang.
The Cluff family purchased the old Wallerawang public school 27 years ago to create a retreat for school groups to attend, but could never have imagined what the business and facility has now become.
“We named the entire facility after the Barton family – The Barton Centre. This amazing family were the catalyst and donators of the Wallerawang School site in which The Barton Centre now resides!” said Brad Cluff, who was the MC of the afternoon.
“Mrs. Edwin Barton (Mrs. James Walker’s daughter) presented two and a half acres of land next to the railway to construct a new school. Negotiations were completed in 1881 and the successful building tender was that of Mr G. Donald, who was the first Mayor of Lithgow. The school and residence were occupied on 20th May, 1882,” continued Brad.
The business now comprises a significant accomodation offering, a top rated restaurant and now world class conference facilities that are a major attraction to the region.
Each of the rooms in the facility were named after local families who had made an impact on the Wallerawang community and the Black Gold business over the nearly three decades it has been running.
“Our team has been working tirelessly to create a space that inspires creativity, collaboration, and innovation, and we can’t wait to see all the incredible work that will come out of this centre,” said Brad Cluff.
“Now that The Barton Centre is fully equipped with the latest technology and tools, we’re ready to accept bookings for our stylish, state-of-the-art facility,” concluded Brad.
For more information about the facility or Black Gold, visit their website at www.blackgoldmotel.com.au
Pictured: Derryn Cluff, Christine Wren, Katrina Cluff and Brad Cluff with a statue of the children with teacher Beverly Wren, who was related o the Cluff’s and taught the children at the former school. Photo by Ronan Devries Photography
