Family legacy continues as Clog Barn celebrates 40 years

BELOVED Coffs Harbour landmark, The Clog Barn, has hit a major milestone, with the successful family business celebrating 40 years of Dutch heritage and homegrown ingenuity. What began in a caravan park back in 1983 has grown into one of the region’s most distinctive tourist attractions, spanning three generations.

The story began when Amsterdam-born carpenter Tom Hartsuyker, now 93, migrated to Australia after World War II.

He eventually settled in Coffs Harbour to retire and bought a small caravan park with the intention of winding down.

But retirement didn’t sit well with him.

“It wasn’t busy enough for him,” laughs his son John Hartsuyker, who joined his father in establishing the business at age 21.

Inspired by a visit to Cockington Green in Canberra and a trip back to the Netherlands, Tom set to designing a miniature Dutch village.

Using his carpentry skills he built the first models by hand, creating what would become one of Coffs Harbour’s quirkiest attractions.

By October 1985 the village was complete, featuring Tom’s meticulously crafted replicas of real Dutch buildings which have been refurbished over the years as they weathered the Coffs climate.

Visitors can wander through the village for free, a decision that was crucial to building its popularity.

The Clog Barn’s famous clog-making demonstrations are another enduring drawcard, offering a unique glimpse into traditional Dutch craftsmanship.

Families, school groups, tourist coaches, overseas visitors, and even Greg from The Wiggles, have all stopped by over the years.

While John has largely managed the business for the years since Tom finally retired, brother Luke also had a turn at managing operations before serving five terms as the Member for Cowper.

John is now in the process of handing over to daughter Alison Brooks, who has been involved in the business since a child and now manages operations and marketing.

“She’s the boss – if she’s happy to keep it going,” he said.

Alison said she is excited for the future and is keen to keep working on ways to expand the business.

“I love how unique we are and that we have an incredible history behind us,” she said.

“People love to hear our story when we chat to them.

“Being able to connect with people and hear they visited us as a kid and are returning as an adult with their own kids is incredible.”

Tom is happy the generations after him have kept the business going.

“I’m glad people are still enjoying visiting us after 40 years.

“I didn’t think we would still be so popular this far in, but to know my family is able to keep on the tradition is wonderful.”

With Alison’s four-year-old daughter Lyla already considering herself part of the team, there’s now a fourth generation in the wings.

“She thinks she runs the place,” Alison jokes.

By Leigh WATSON