WANDARY HOMESTEAD - A HISTORIC COUNTRY ESTATE OF DISTINCTION
An exceptional blend of history, elegance and lifestyle on the banks of the Lachlan River.
Steeped in history and rich in character, Wandary Homestead presents a rare opportunity to secure a magnificent country estate, combining the grandeur of a bygone era with the comfort and convenience of modern living.
Ideally positioned just 9 kilometres east of Forbes, on approximately 40.1 hectares (99 acres) with frontage to the Lachlan River, this remarkable property offers privacy, tranquillity and an enviable rural lifestyle.
Wandary originally formed part of a substantial 25,000-acre holding purchased in 1890 by Walter Hugh Rankin Stitt in partnership with Walter Hunter. Following his marriage to Florence Dowling, daughter of pioneering pastoralist Reginald Dowling, Stitt bought out his partner in 1897. The present homestead was constructed in 1913, following the subdivision of the original holding, and has since been lovingly restored and renovated to retain its original grandeur.
A HOMESTEAD OF TIMELESS ELEGANCE
The impressive five-bedroom, double-brick Federation residence is a beautiful example of early 20th-century architecture, showcasing an abundance of period features and craftsmanship.
From the moment you enter, the home reveals its character through ornate 14-foot pressed-metal ceilings, leadlight and stained-glass windows, elegant arches, decorative architraves and beautiful French doors. Wide surrounding verandas provide the perfect setting to relax and enjoy the established gardens and peaceful river outlook.
The generous floorplan includes:
A welcoming entrance hallway flowing through to the formal dining room and elegant lounge and drawing room, complete with a substantial fireplace.
A library/family room opening onto a screened veranda, providing an ideal space for relaxed family living.
A spacious master bedroom featuring two bay windows overlooking the established gardens and river, with adjoining ensuite and separate walk in robe.
Four additional bedrooms, two featuring fireplaces, serviced by the main bathroom.
A charming country-style kitchen with timber benchtops and adjoining breakfast room, enjoying a lovely north-easterly aspect over the gardens.
Ducted reverse-cycle air conditioning for year-round comfort.
The separate laundry is conveniently positioned with excellent storage and easy access.
ESTABLISHED GARDENS & OUTDOOR LIVING
The grounds are a true highlight of Wandary, with extensive manicured lawns, established shrubs, mature shade trees and magnificent towering palms creating a picturesque country setting.
An inground swimming pool and tennis court provide wonderful recreational facilities, while the expansive gardens offer an idyllic backdrop for entertaining and family gatherings.
The property's established grounds have also previously provided a beautiful setting for wedding photography, presenting exciting potential for a boutique wedding or function venue, subject to the necessary council approvals.
ADDITIONAL ACCOMMODATION & WORKSPACE
Beyond the main residence, Wandary offers exceptional versatility with additional improvements, including:
Separate two-bedroom cottage: Complete with a kitchen, living area, bathroom and laundry, ideal for guest accommodation, extended family or potential supplementary income.
Self-contained office complex: Privately positioned adjacent to the homestead, providing an excellent professional workspace for business owners or those working from home.
Additional shedding: Several sheds provide useful storage and general rural infrastructure.
WATER SECURITY & RURAL POTENTIAL
Complementing the lifestyle appeal is the property's valuable water security and potential for further agricultural development.
Water entitlements include:
64-megalitre irrigation licence, offering scope for future irrigation development.
8-megalitre stock and domestic river licence.
Bore water supply providing additional backup.
With its frontage to the Lachlan River and valuable water entitlements, Wandary offers an appealing combination of lifestyle and rural investment opportunity.
A RARE OPPORTUNITY
Wandary Homestead is much more than a beautiful historic residence. It is a property that tells a story, for the fist time on the market in 22 years it offers a unique opportunity for someone to become the owner of a significant piece of the district's pastoral heritage.
Whether you are seeking an outstanding family estate, a peaceful country retreat, a property with additional accommodation and business facilities, or exploring the potential for a boutique wedding or events destination (STCA), Wandary offers an exceptional foundation.
Combining timeless Federation elegance, picturesque river frontage, established gardens, versatile improvements and valuable water entitlements, Wandary Homestead represents a truly special country lifestyle opportunity just minutes from Forbes.
Sold by Expressions of Interest closing in March 2027 if not sold prior.
