About Us
The Heart
Behind Bunnyconnellen
Beginning its life a as a family farm in the early 1900s, Bunnyconnellen now celebrates genuine moments in a setting that feels both timeless and deeply personal. With a familiarity that resonates with so many, Bunnyconnellen has a way of making guests feel instantly connected the moment they drive through the front gate.
Originally a dairy farm known as Hillview, the vision to transform the property from a working farm into a “little Tuscany” was first brought to life by previous owners Peter and Janie Simmonds, who renamed the property Bunnyconnellen after “Bunnyconnellan” in Myrtleville, Ireland. Peter also planted olive groves and a small parcel of wine grapes, adding another layer to the landscape and the paddock-to-plate experience Bunnyconnellen is known for today.
Originally a dairy farm known as Hillview, Bunnyconnellen still carries pieces of its past, with some of the original dairy structures remaining on the property today. The old machinery shed, now affectionately known as “The Shed”, has been transformed into the main reception space and has recently undergone renovations to embrace the stunning views across the rolling hills of the valley.
Today Bunnyconnellen is owned and operated by Kate and Oliver Hinds, with the continued support of Kate’s parent’s & previous owners Ann and Ninian Stewart-Moore.
As lifelong graziers, the Stewart-Moore family have always held a deep connection to the land and a passion for sharing it with others. Bunnyconnellen has become the perfect place to celebrate that connection, offering guests an authentic paddock-to-plate experience shaped by the property’s rich agricultural heritage.
With Oliver’s family legacy in hospitality and Kate’s eye for detail and passion for beautiful events, Bunnyconnellen has been transformed into one of the region’s premier function and event venues.
Venue management is further supported by The White Stag, bringing an experienced and considered approach to the delivery of weddings, functions and events.
What We are
Welcome to Bunnyconnellen, where the fresh country air, olive grove and Moreton Bay Fig trees create the perfect ambiance for that Sunday afternoon live music and chill, that long lunch function or even for your rustic country wedding.
Specialising in boutique country accommodation, weddings, functions and events, Bunnyconnellen offers all the modern conveniences of a city venue, with all the charm of a rustic country setting. Talk to us about how we can help create the ultimate event for you, whether it’s a formal occasion, or a relaxed rustic location you’re after, we cater for it all.
Forming part of the High Country Hamlets, Bunnyconnellen is proud to be a part of this collection of communities offering a rich mix of local artisanal producers, captivating stores and exceptional chefs, showcasing the best of the region. Head over to the High Country Hamlets website to experience other events in our region during your stay.
Where We are
Nestled in the rolling hills of the Darling Downs High Country, a short drive from Toowoomba, Bunnyconnellen sits in a micro region of Queensland that boasts fine food, stunning scenery and ample opportunity to be immersed in nature.
Handy enough for a day trip, yet far enough for a quick weekend getaway, Crows Nest is located only 45 minutes from Toowoomba and an easy two hour drive from Brisbane.
With an abundance of activities on our doorstep, you might find one day is just not enough time to spend in The High Country Hamlets, with amazing natural wonders to see at the Crows Nest Falls, or Ravensbourne National Park. You can also hop over to the Bunya Mountains to spend a refreshing walk under the large Bunya Pines, or even discover some of the lakes nearby.
Dine
Dine in at Myrtille Bistro or stock up on delicious pastries at My Little Blueberry.
Visit the local pubs or a book in for a long lunch at Rosalie House Cellar Door
Explore
Beutel’s Lookout, Ravensbourne National Park
Gin tasting at local distillery Pechey Distilling Co.
Browse the specialty stores at the newly renovated Nolans Block
Experience
Water activities at Lake Perseverance or Lake Cressbrook
Spot local wildlife at any number of the picnic spots dotted along the way
Pick blueberries at Hampton Blue (seasonal)
Who we are
Bunnyconnellen is owned and run by Kate Stewart-Moore & partner Oliver Hinds, supported by previous owners Ann & Ninian Stewart-Moore. As lifetime graziers, the Stewart-Moore’s have been dedicated to sharing their connection to the land with their visitors, and Bunnyconnellen has proved to be the perfect place to showcase this paddock to plate experience. With Oliver’s family background in hospitality and Kate’s passion for beautiful events, the two have transformed Bunnyconnellen to one of the region’s premier function & events venue.
Bunnyconnellen was originally a dairy farm called ‘Hillview’ and there are even some of the original dairy structures standing today. The old machinery shed is now the main reception area, affectionately called “The Shed”. recently undergone renovations to encompass the stunning view overlooking the rolling hills of the valley. The vision to convert the property from working farm into a “little Tuscany” was by previous owners, P. and J. Simmonds, who changed the name to Bunnyconnellen after “Bunnyconnellan” in Myrtleville, Ireland.
Gather here
make it yours
From intimate celebrations to bespoke events, we’ll help you craft a day that’s truly yours.
