For Paul and Leanne, the owners of High Country Hooch, the philosophy of a good life is simple: it begins and ends with a campfire, a full belly, good company, and a cup full of quality hooch.
After travelling the length and breadth of Australia – from the rugged coastlines to the vast interior deserts – the pair eventually followed their hearts back to the place that felt most like home.
In 2021, they settled in Glenaladale, purchasing “Squatters Run,” a stunning 123-acre property nestled at the foothills of East Gippsland’s High Country.
It is here, inspired daily by the sweeping views of the Alpine National Park, that their craft distillery was born.
Drawing on memories of flavours from their many camping trips across the country, Paul and Leanne have spent years mastering recipes that capture the essence of the High Country in every bottle.
However, distilling is
only part of the story at
Squatters Run.
When they aren’t at the still, Paul and Leanne are busy farming Black Angus cattle and Aussie White sheep, working tirelessly to
restore the historic farm to its former glory.
Conservation is also a core pillar of their operation.
Deeply committed to the local environment, the couple has fenced out 25 acres of their land to create a livestock exclusion zone.
This initiative preserves the vital creek running through the property and protects the surrounding old-growth forest, ensuring the natural beauty that inspires
their spirits remains for
generations to come.
For those looking to experience the High Country flavour firsthand, the couple has converted an old shearing shed into a rustic, inviting
tasting room.
With over an acre of the property fully licensed,
the space is perfectly suited for functions and events
of all sizes.
Locals and tourists can find High Country Hooch at various regional markets, or visit the distillery directly to sample their range – the perfect gift for Valentine’s Day.
The tasting room is open to the public on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 5pm.
From Tuesday to Friday, visits are available by appointment.
For more information or to book a function, visit Paul and Leanne at Squatters Run in Glenaladale and experience a true Gippsland welcome.
