By ALENA HIGGINS
AFTER an 18-month hiatus, one of Tenterfield’s most iconic landmarks is open for business again.
The Tenterfield Saddler, made famous by the Peter Allan song of the same name, was forced to temporarily close more than a year ago when owner Brian Meldon fell ill.
But the historic saddlery on High Street has made a highly-anticipated comeback, much to the delight of locals.
Tenterfield and District Business Association chair Rebecca Carpenter said it was great to see the “national treasurer” and Mr Meldon back on their feet.
“This building really holds its own,” Ms Carpenter said.
“It has put Tenterfield on the map and I have not met one person who does not know of its existence.
“It is wonderful to see the doors open again, and even more wonderful that Brian’s health is allowing the doors to be open again.”
Tenterfield icon Aub Gillespie regularly frequents the centre and re-lives the tales of the five saddlers who toiled in the workshop since its establishment in 1870.
“It means an awful lot to a lot of people,” he said.
“It has so many memories.”
And visitors to the region are already showing their appreciation.
“Visitors have been so delighted to see the door open, having visited so many times to only peer in the dusty windows,” volunteer Sue Smith said.
“The Saddler will be open from 10am to 3pm from Thursday to Sunday, with scope to increase opening hours in the future.
“This is a good example of one of many positive things happening in our beautiful town,” Ms Carpenter said.
Peter Allen was born Peter Richard Woolnough in Tenterfield, where his grandfather George Woolnough worked as a saddler.
