I’ve always loved the gentle, grounding beauty here in Cobargo (on the Far South Coast of NSW) — the farmland and rolling stretching into the horizon, the birds settling into the evening light, and the way the community always comes together with warmth and generosity. It’s the kind of place where Christmas feels real, heartfelt, and quietly magical.

I love that my daughter gets to grow up here, surrounded by nature, animals, and the kind of simple joys that shape cherished memories.

This year’s theme, Rustic Country Christmas, is inspired by all the things I adore about living here: natural elements, softer colours, meaningful handmade touches, and traditions that invite us to slow down and connect.

Here’s how to bring the theme to life throughout your home.

1. Build a Storybook Country Table

Start your Christmas table with miniature houses, woven nests, pinecones and berries, creating a tiny rustic village through the centre. Weave warm fairy lights and scented candles to add twinkle and depth.
Add sprigs of flowering gum or eucalyptus, dried botanicals and rusty bell or berry picks to give your table a quintessential Australian country charm.

2. Nostalgic Country Accents

For extra atmosphere, hang a cluster of rusty bells above the table or near your entrance to create a welcoming, nostalgic moment as guests arrive.

3. A Menu Made for Comfort

Rustic Christmas food is about generosity, ease, and flavour. Choose dishes that feel shared and homemade—rosemary roast chicken or lamb, cheese platters with figs and strawberries, fresh salads with herbs from the garden, crusty warm bread, and desserts like apple crumble, berry pavlova, or coconut rough treats. These are meals that bring everyone together.

4. A Tree Filled With Nature & Farmhouse Charm

Decorating your tree in a rustic style invites a beautiful mix of natural and handmade elements. Choose felt ornaments, wooden pieces, sprigs of rusty bells, berries, and charming farm animal decorations—little sheep, geese, chickens, or cows—to reflect the warmth of country life.
Keep the palette soft and calming with eucalyptus green, creamy white, warm wood, blush, and touches of rustic metal.

5. Embrace the Beauty Around You

Simple natural touches—pinecones tucked into shelves, flowering gum in vases, nests peeking from garlands—bring the outdoors in and remind us of the peaceful beauty that surrounds us here every day.

Rustic Country Christmas isn’t about perfection—it’s about warmth, meaning and a relaxed sense of home. It’s a celebration of where we live, the people we share it with, and the simple festive traditions that make this season so special.

Wishing you a relaxed heart-felt Christmas with your family and friends that feels like home.

Cheers,