On one of those perfect New Norfolk days where the sun seems to settle gently over the valley, Sharmaine from Willow Court Asylum Tours found herself sitting at a little table inside The Quilted Teapot, the kind of café that feels like a warm hug the moment you step inside. With its eclectic charm, friendly faces, and the comforting clink of teacups, it was the ideal setting for something special: an interview I’ll forever remember.
I had the pleasure of meeting Christine Aldred, a wonderfully talented freelance travel writer with a genuine curiosity for the stories that shape a place. Christine has a way of asking questions that makes you feel instantly at ease, and an even rarer gift, she listens with intention. Our conversation flowed effortlessly as we talked about Willow Court’s layered past, the work we do, the visitors we meet, and the responsibility that comes with interpreting a site as historically and emotionally significant as Willow Court.
Following our chat, we invited Christine to experience a complimentary tour of Willow Court. It was important to us that she had the chance to truly walk the grounds, feel the atmosphere, and connect with the stories. Seeing her absorb the history firsthand, pausing, reflecting, asking thoughtful questions was incredibly rewarding. It allowed her to engage not only with the facts, but with the emotion, humanity, and resilience that underpin the Willow Court narrative.
And then came the moment that truly humbled Sharmaine.
Our story, our Willow Court story, has found its way into Australian Traveller, one of Australia’s most respected and widely read travel publications. To be featured in their piece, “Your Guide to a Cosy Weekend Away in Charming New Norfolk,” is nothing short of extraordinary. For a small, locally grown tour business rooted in heritage and community, this recognition is deeply meaningful. It highlights not only our tours, but the cultural and historical importance Willow Court holds in Tasmania’s story.
A huge, heartfelt thank you to Christine Aldred for championing our work with such care and sincerity. Her commitment to thoughtful storytelling shines through every page she writes, and New Norfolk is all the richer for her voice.
As Willow Court continues to evolve, grow, and welcome visitors from near and far, moments like this remind us why we do what we do: to honour the past, connect people to place, and ensure that stories, real stories – are never lost.
Read the full article here – Your Guide To A Cosy Weekend Away In Charming New Norfolk | Australian Traveller