The Setting

The Cidery proudly recognises the contribution of the early pioneer families to establishing a world renowned apple industry in WA, centred at Bridgetown. Many of these pioneers and their daily work are featured in the extensive historical photographic display at The Cidery along with the tools they used in producing "the best apples in the world".

This strong apple tradition of the area is being continued with the development locally of the world famous Pink Lady apple, at Manjimup, by the WA Department of Agriculture. The high quality Pink Ladys are used in the production of The Cidery's ciders and apple juice, to once again create "the unique taste of Bridgetown". The Cidery's commitment to quality and local products is also evident once you walk through the jarrah entrance doors. A handcrafted jarrah tasting bar and display dresser, made by partner Peter Vowles, complements the extensive use of local Jarrah, Marri, Blackbutt and pine timbers, used to line the various areas within the building, which comprise tasting area, dining area, "snug" bar, stage and entertainment room. The internal areas offer an expansive view, through full-height glass windows and doors, of the shady verandah edged with ornamental vines, in turn leading onto the extensive landscaped gardens with the water beyond. Visitors can relax and enjoy

The Cidery's drinks and food under the shade of the towering river gums in summer or snuggle up in front of the warm fire in Bridgetown's delightful winters.

The Owners

The Cidery was created by Pat & Elizabeth Corrigan, John & Liz Lucey and Peter & Linda Vowles, who had been friends for a number of years. They decided to develop their various interests in cider, juices and the apple history of Bridgetown, into an opportunity to work together. Their aim was to ensure that The Cidery produced something unique to offer to locals and tourists, yet was firmly centred on Bridgetown's past.
Both their enjoyment from working together, and the success gained from their team approach, led them to invite other long-standing friends Neil & Rosie Wells from Bridgetown and Martin & Sylvia Baker, Frans & Sue Van Eijndhoven and Neil & Wendy Williams from Perth, to become part of the venture. This unique 'partnership' combines the skills from their various backgrounds, of agriculture, construction, engineering, marketing, printing, and education. Of course one of the partners is also a GP - a pre-requisite for any tourist development in the South-west!!

In the current environment of business philosophy and ethics, The Cidery families take pride in demonstrating that friends can work together and build a successful business based on the abilities and interests of each person involved. The seven families have been able to enrich their friendships, while at the same time producing a unique and memorable experience for visitors and customers of The Cidery.

All involved in The Cidery have a deep commitment to the development of the local Bridgetown community and of rural Australia in general. Some of the best primary produce is grown in the Southwest region and allows for the production of high quality natural drinks and food. The Cidery provides a demonstration of value-adding to high quality local produce, while at the same time promoting the local area as a premier tourist destination that provides the perfect country get away, where visitors can enjoy the peace and quiet of an unspoilt diverse environment and 'get back to nature'.