Resolutions, they're so last year (see what we did there). In this episode we discuss what the Highlands needs in 2026 from more coffee shops (not) to a drive-through car wash and better drivers.

It's fun, irreverent and filled with good-natured banter - pothole anyone?

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Have you ever noticed The Maltings in Mittagong? Chances are you’ve cruised past it a thousand times en route to Bunnings, unaware of what’s hiding in plain sight.

The historic Maltings has now been approved for a major transformation into a hotel, hospitality precinct and significant art gallery, with the site designed by international architecture powerhouse Snøhetta for the Medich family's Halcyon Hotels group.

On the latest episode of the So Highlands Podcast, we sit down with project architect Karre Krokene to unpack the vision and answer your questions.

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Nicole and Rachael have taken it upon themselves to dive deep into the region’s more niche community groups - the ones everyone knows about AND the ones whispered about behind hydrangea hedges. 

They examine everything from nudist gatherings to swinger meet-ups, book clubs where reading is optional, pistol clubs, dungeons & dragons and more.

If there’s a nook, cranny or club where like-minded locals gather, they’re poking their noses in, so you don't have to.

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Episode resources:

Wingecarribee club list.

The Fold what's on in the Highlands

We like to call this episode, "the dodgies." Those charlatans dressed in Emperor's New Clothes who see the Southern Highlands as a mark.

Nicole and Rachael pull back the Hamptons linen curtains to reveal just some of those who talked a big Highlands game but then ran away with the ball.

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Berrima Gaol will be welcoming new inmates as a boutique hotel but not all villagers are raising a glass of Artemis pinot to celebrate. There’s a fight to stop the development in its current form, and it begins with the infamous gaol wall - which side are you on?

Nicole and Rachael chat to Berrima Gaol project architect from Turner Studios, Dan Szwaj, on one side and Berrima Heritage Matters spokesperson, Jenny Hunter, on the other.

Berrima Gaol project details and architectural design

Berrima Heritage Matters website

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Southern Highlands local, Nicole Smith, and Sydney transplant, Rachael Oakes-Ash banter about the who, what and why of the new So Highlands podcast in the hope everyone keeps listening. 

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