STA caught up with Wendy & Stephen at the Barnesstore Emporium & Café where history and creativity come together in the heart of Murrumburrah, NSW.

Once the bustling general store built by John Barnes in 1860, the building has stood through gold rushes, bushranger tales, and more than a century of trade. Today, it has been reimagined as a cultural destination that celebrates both heritage and the arts.

The vast interiors of Barnesstore create the perfect backdrop for live music, visual art, and creative expression. Local musicians often frequent Barnstore on a Sunday afternoon, while its walls often showcase works from many local and national artists across a variety of mediums, Wendy and Stephen welcome all artists to display their work at the Barnesstore. It’s a place where travellers and locals alike can discover the rich talent of the Hilltops region while enjoying great food and coffee.

Owners Wendy and Stephen, both lifelong lovers of music, performing in several bands both together and separately, they also worked in the video production industry. Stephen has also dabbled in photography and graphic design, both Wendy and Stephen being passionate about the creative arts, have transformed the building into more than just a café. Over the past 13 years, they have nurtured it into a welcoming space where performance, art, and culture thrive.

Their passion for community and creativity ensures that Barnesstore is not only a stop for history enthusiasts but also a lively hub for artists, musicians, and cultural explorers.

Whether you come for the heritage, the atmosphere, or the arts, Barnesstore Emporium & Café offers a unique experience. It is a place to connect, to be inspired, and to immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural fabric of the Hilltops region, well worth a visit.