Hotel owner and Schwartz Family Company director, Dr Jerry Schwartz, welcomed the arrival of Rydges to the resort, saying that EVT would utilise their events and entertainment expertise to build further the resort's attraction for leisure and conference guests.

"The Hunter Valley should be one of Australia's most preferred tourism destinations and we believe that EVT and Rydges can build on its current popularity and elevate it even further," said Dr Schwartz.

"The resort is pivotal to the Hunter Valley's recalibration away from its former mining background to a new era based on tourism. There are so many attractions and activities available at the hotel and throughout the surrounding region, which makes it ideal for couples, families, groups, conferences and incentives.

"Our goal is to make Rydges Resort Hunter Valley NSW's premier destination resort. It will embody everything that is special about the region and its attractions,” said Dr Schwartz.

Norman Arundel, EVT Director of Hotels and Resorts, said: “As the fifth SFC property under EVT's management, the synergy between Dr Schwartz's passion for the Hunter Valley region and our operational expertise, will deliver a truly unique guest experience. The property is a sprawling playground in the heart of wine country and a destination in its own right, with something for everyone,” said Mr Arundel.

Perfectly positioned in the heart of the Hunter Valley a wide range of initiatives are planned over the next twelve months, including:

New fully electric passenger train: in line with the resort's commitment to sustainability, a fully enclosed air-conditioned electric train will be introduced next week to transport guests around the expansive resort;

Substantial expansion of family fun facilities: the resort's extensive existing children's facilities such as the Water Dragon Kids Club, train rides, pony rides and year-round heated water park will be expanded further with the addition of a new Ferris wheel, new 8-metre high, 22-metre long, 3-lane water slide, new roller coaster, new pirate ship and jumping castles in 2023;

Three new self-guided walking trails have just been introduced with the Creek, Vineyard and Estate Walks giving guests the opportunity to appreciate the stunning countryside and peaceful vistas;

New equestrian facilities: have been created to cater for adults and children wanting to participate in the sport. A first event, Equestrian in the Vines, was held recently and proved highly popular, and permanent facilities including a grandstand will be developed over the next year to cater for future events.

Glamping: Plans are underway for the addition of glamping facilities and cabin accommodation for school groups.