In a surprising career shift, Sunrise television presenter Edwina Bartholomew and her husband Neil Varcoe have announced they are becoming hospitality entrepreneurs in the Central West of New South Wales. The 42-year-old star took to Instagram this week to reveal the couple are now the proud owners of a cafe named The Village Grocer, located in the historic town of Carcoar.
A Dual Hospitality Venture
This cafe acquisition is part of a broader ambitious project. Simultaneously, Edwina and Neil are converting a country pub in Carcoar into a luxury guesthouse called Saltash Farm. Edwina shared an enthusiastic video clip from inside their new cafe, which is scheduled to open in just over a week. "It's super, super exciting – it's going to be all local produce," she declared in the clip.
Neil added a note of cautious optimism with his comment, "Hopefully," regarding the opening date. The video also showcased the considerable work still required to prepare the cafe, but the couple appeared undaunted by the challenge ahead.
Synergy Between Farm and Cafe
Edwina explained the integrated vision for their projects. The cafe will operate in synergy with Saltash Farm, which will feature an orchard, an organic kitchen garden, and rare-breed chickens and sheep. "As you can see, a bit of work to do but this is kind of the beginning of Saltash Farm, because everything we make over there ends up in here as well," she said.
To prove her point, she pointed to the apron she was wearing, revealing she had been busy in the kitchen making jam. In her column for Country Life, Edwina admitted she and Neil were "a bit mad" for taking on such ambitious projects but emphasized their community-focused approach.
Community-Centric Philosophy
"We know it’s not possible to build a project like our hotel in isolation. It only works if it’s built with and for the community that it sits within," Edwina wrote. "The town’s shops need to thrive, and the main street needs buzz. People need a reason to turn off the highway, and sometimes a good coffee and a sandwich is a good start."
The couple purchased Saltash Farm for just over $1 million in 2023 and finally received approval in September 2024 to proceed with converting the building into a luxury getaway. This determination persists despite Edwina's personal health challenges.
Overcoming Health Challenges
Edwina was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia, but she and Neil remain committed to their projects. "We are forging ahead with this incredible project despite this health setback," Edwina stated. "I adore being in the country. It will be lovely to have a bit more time with family to enjoy life at a slower pace."
She added that working on the renovation has served as a positive distraction. "This is a condition I will manage and live with. Our renovation has been a beautiful distraction and will continue to be in the months to come," she continued.
Expanding Rural Portfolio
Beyond Saltash Farm and The Village Grocer, Edwina and Neil already own another impressive rural property. Dubbed Warramba, this stunning Blue Mountains farm retreat spans 42 hectares and was purchased in January 2016. The couple spent years meticulously restoring the circa-1890s farmhouse and its surroundings into a tranquil rural getaway.
Located three hours west of Sydney in the Capertee Valley – the widest enclosed valley in the world – Warramba is surrounded by the Wollemi, Capertee and Gardens of Stone national parks, as well as the Mugii Murum-ban State Conservation Area. Those wishing to experience Edwina and Neil's enviable rural lifestyle can book a stay for $698 per couple per night.
This new venture represents a significant lifestyle and career change for the television personality and her husband, as they embrace country living and community-focused hospitality in regional New South Wales.
