Mr REPACHOLI (Hunter) (13:53) 

Another day, another Hunter success story in hospo! I'm proud to stand here and talk about a local gem from back home that is punching well above its weight. EXP.Restaurant, right in the heart of the Hunter Valley, has been named a finalist for the Regional Restaurant of the Year award in the Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide. It's not just about fine dining; it's about passion, community and telling the Hunter story one plate at a time. For a full decade, Frank and Emma Fawkner and their talented team have been serving dishes that showcase the very best of our region: produce grown in the Hunter soil, wines poured from Hunter vineyards and native ingredients that remind us we are lucky to live in the best part of Australia.

EXP have become more than a restaurant; it's a true destination. People come to the Hunter to experience their creativity, their hospitality and to see why the valley is known worldwide for food and wine. It's also brought out their commitment to sustainability, their support for local growers and giving visitors a genuine and authentic taste of home. To Frank, Emma and the whole EXP team, congratulations. You are proof that, when it comes to great food and great wine, the Hunter always leads the way. There's nowhere you'd rather be than right there in the Hunter. Cheers!