Friends of Carrawobitty in Forbes, New South Wales | Landmark & historical place

Friends of Carrawobitty

Locality: Forbes, New South Wales

Phone: +61 2 6851 2050

Address: 1301 Bedgerabong Rd 2871 Forbes, NSW, Australia

Website: http://Carrawobitty.com

Likes: 1867

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• Landmark & historical place
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25.01.2022 Dont you just love when things come full circle. This photo of Charles McLean surfaced last year (with much gratitude to Cathy Matheson for the photo and Wendy Edison for asking a question) On two fronts, it has sat in my mind ever since - but Ill try and make this as short as I can...(Im hopeless at short stories )... First, Ive had a side project; looking into the lives of the past staff and workers at Carrawobitty. Martha Duff was a house maid at Carrawobitty circa 1900. She married Charles B McLean in 1908. Second - I knew Id read the name Charles McLean at some stage over the past several years, and today his name resurfaced - when I was looking back through my records trying to determine the first recording of a postal service at Carrawobitty. Mr McLean had the mail run; which incorporated Carrawobitty. No doubt, Charles and Martha met at Carrawobitty. Hopefully love endured (the other person in the sulky is their son, Stuart - so Id like to think so). For anyone interested, the first official mention of a Post Office at Carrawobitty is 1882.

25.01.2022 Last week I wasnt sure if I was going to continue with this page - but this week Im feeling a little more comfortable. So, in context of the events below, a friend said to me some years ago (and this is an edited version) You just cant make this stuff up. While wed been thinking about selling for some time, and juggling the decision of when our time was up - it wasnt until we actually made it publicly known that a couple of incredible things happened to us.... First - Ive always said, my holy grail was to find a photo of my beloved Carrawobitty being built. I always thought it was an elusive dream and one that I had to let go of; which I did. Then, on the very same week we shocked everyone with our intentions, I received a phone call from a man in Bathurst; which led to an email from a man in America - and a photo of Carrawobitty in her build stage - half finished. My heart literally skipped a few beats with disbelief. Even now, a few weeks since I received the photo, it is still so precious to me that I need to guard it for a little longer. Second; and completely separate from above, another man contacted me with some information that hed been keeping safe. After another long and interesting phone call, this man had saved a set of plans due for the shredder - plans for RW Coward; with the architects name Alfred Sambrook. The plans arrived in the mail today - can you spot an obvious difference? While Ken may continue to roll his eyes at me - I am firmly of the belief that these items felt the time to come home was quickly closing in on them. And finally - the key. While I was going about my daily business of trying to take me out of the house in preparation for a sale that might be some time in the future - I find this hidden key. Its a little cute and quirky - and I am not joking - I knew exactly which lock belonged to this key - Im really not sure what the key is trying to tell me though? Ive had a few more conversations with my Reggie and Beryl this week than normal. I feel their excitement for the future of their house and confirmation that were doing the right thing. Their house is fine. They are grateful - and the intense urgency for their homes history to return is definitely gaining pace!

24.01.2022 Drought. Another day, another dust storm. Its relentless. Today was fierce. Anyone living in the Central West will have witnessed this incredible day of continuous dust.... On days like this I think of our ancestors and what our pioneer families went through. To drown out the day, I had Pavrotti playing throughout the house on the sound system. After the storm passes, I have a vacuum cleaner to clear the dust. When people ask how do you stand it, the answer is easy. When I think of our ancestors in droughts of past - they ate little more than wild rabbit . every . single . night - in the most primitive of conditions. We owe it to them to be thankful. Whats the alternative? Do we all shut up shop and move to the coast? No. We dig a little deeper and be thankful for what we do have. This will pass. It will rain, and when were old, well tell our grandkids of these relentless days.

24.01.2022 Anyone wanting to look at the 3D Virtual Tour..... Click on our listing, and there are 4 tabs on the right hand side; then click "Virtual Tour" and youll be able to take an arm-chair viewing.

24.01.2022 If ever we needed proof that we live in crazy times, the Carrawobitty Creek is an absolute banker today (two days ago, the creek was bone dry) Upside, the ducks and water birds have moved in on mass. Its wonderful to see the diversity return.

23.01.2022 There is a bit of an unfortunate joke in our house - when I go to the supermarket, I always forget the main thing I went in for; usually because Id have found some fascinating person to talk to - and memories of mundane groceries just float out of my mind. But - if you ask me a fact about Carrawobitty, I will have an immediate recall for the information; with bonus points for photos and written evidence Example is; someone recently showed me a photo of their magnificent mo...ck-tudor style house. Instantly, I remembered a similar house belonging to Reggie Cowards parents; in Mosman (Sydney) - also named Carrawobitty. Furthermore, the story goes that Reggies parents purchased the Forbes Carrawobitty in 1889; and some years later, leased it out and moved to Sydney, to build the house in this image - but they loved Forbes Carrawobitty soooo much, that the house in this image was named in its honour (yes, its confusing)- but homestead-wise, Reggies parents belonged to the third homestead here ie two houses before this one - so their connection would have been more along the lines of the gentle healing properties this land offers and the many local legendary friendships theyd made here. But such is the sadness, and why weve been determined to save this big old concrete house, the house in this image was demolished in 1986; to build the most hideous set of flats you will ever see. At one point in our history, Australians had such a wonderful grasp of architecture; imaginative flights of fancy and a truly magical ability to dream; didnt we.

22.01.2022 I had an incredible conversation with someone recently; which revolved around architecture and Carrawobittys straight lines. It was a perfectly timed conversation because over the past several weeks Ive been admiring the perfectly straight corners of the render work on Carrawobitty. Such exceptional craftsmanship and artistry that has stood the test of time. In contrast (and no contest) - my only measurable talent is that I can paint a really straight line; freehand.

21.01.2022 * Please Share * And, were off!! Our sales listing went live with Michael Robinson & Co today, and weve had our first viewing - so to say were pretty excited is an understatement. There is also a fabulous 3D virual tour for viewing on Michael Robinson & Co website. If I cant work out how to share it on this page, please jump onto their website and have a look - because it really is something special.

21.01.2022 Over the past year, Ive tried to convince myself that I am no longer scared of snakes. Tonight that was put to the test. Being too hot to do anything during the day, I delayed a few odd jobs till the sun went down. Silly move. Going down to the chooks with thongs - after dark! (Wait till I tell my mother!) Im not sure if it was a large tiger snake or a small python - either way, I made a bee-line home and trying to distract my thoughts! What better way than tidying my electronic files; and rereading this article, I though others might also find it interesting. For those that dont know, these families are my heritage; and my link to Carrawobitty long before I knew it existed. But beyond that - so many interesting stories are in this article and well worth the read. https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/219822190

20.01.2022 When Reggie and Beryl Coward did anything, their whereabouts were constantly reported in the newspapers. Good for me, as it makes it easy to track their lives and form a picture of who they were. Maybe not so good for them; as I doubt they had any privacy. Back in July 1936; these two only had to sail past Fremantle on the ship "Orama" and they made the Perth newspapers; such was their social standing; and interest into their lives at the time. Little would they know that 84 ...years later, Id be sitting in their home and able to track their homeward journey, via the "Mongolia" in Dec 1936. So many wonderful discoveries were made tonight - curiouser and curiouser! The rest of the tale will be told later

20.01.2022 Our sales listing is with Michael Robinson & Co . There is also a fabulous 3D virual tour for viewing on Michael Robinson & Co website. please share!!

19.01.2022 With current events, Ive been thinking a lot about the 1919 Spanish Flu pandemic, and how the people of the fledgling Australian federation coped; in comparison to our own covid19 pandemic. What makes this more thought-provoking is the common folklore, that the Cowards build this massive concrete house, with health, wellbeing and healing in mind - to cure their various illnesses; and a refuge from the world. It really is a very fascinating tale. ... Well never truly know for sure, but there is a very real possibility that the current Carrawobitty is a result of the 1919 pandemic. I wonder therefore, if the current pandemic can provide history with a house such as this; to equal the myth and legend of this house?

18.01.2022 The crew just coming to say "hello". They make the end of any day perfect.

18.01.2022 Horses, and Carrawobitty Ive found countless horse shoes in the dirt, around the fence lines and in the sheds. Today, I found this leather-made thing - which Im presuming is an old set of blinkers?? Im hoping someone will clarify and give a little more information (re age. Hand stitched leather) Horses and Carrawobitty have always gone hand in hand, and for this reason weve often felt a little fraudulent living here, because we dont have horses. ... At Carrawobitty, the Rawsthornes (pre 1889) were famous for their horse breading; both racehorses and draught horses. This was followed by the Cowards; and most recently, the Asimus family. During the Rawsthorne era, we even had Carrawobitty colours. Because this is part of my family history - Ill share photos from the "early days" - but please, if anyone wishes to post more recent photos in comments, wed welcome your contribution.

17.01.2022 Tonight we are having the worst dust storm but Im determined to think only of the flood were told is on its way to break this formidable drought. Here is a great little youtube video of the 1952 flood, and a little glimpse of our beloved Carrawobitty

17.01.2022 PART ONE WE CAME WITH AN INTENTION TO LEAVE I know this is going to come as a gigantic shock for some; and others a great relief - but our time to sell has come. Because there is no one way we can articulate all the reasons behind this decision, weve decided to do this in stages; over the next three days.... At the risk of offending or excluding any one particular person from this information, we decided to exclude everyone until we were absolutely and 100% sure of our pathway ahead. There were three reasons that brought us back to Forbes; and if I focus just on Carrawobitty; Ken always said we were not growing old here and once we got to a point, wed leave before I got rusted on - yes, hes a true romantic. So, its always played on our mind, that when we left, we wanted it to be our decision. I was fearful of staying on past our use-by-date. Whenever that time may be, we wanted to be in control. Over the last few years, weve regularly been contacted as a potential wedding venue; but weddings were never really on our dance card - so Ive said no and disappointed a great many brides-to-be; who had their heart set on getting married here; which is why our sale will come as a great relief to some. But since the overseas borders have been closed, the contact for weddings has just accelerated. Open Days were also always pushed on us; but dont even get me started as to why our answer was always no. However, because we didnt want to do these ourselves, were not against someone else doing them in the future. So we started asking questions, what was our purpose here? What was our goal? What are we doing? Ultimately, weve decided our time is up. Carrawobitty was here long before us, and shell be here long after us. Our purpose was met - saving and celebrating both the built and the social heritage. It really was as simple as conserving Carrawobitty so she can be appreciated and enjoyed by future generations. And now, we need a new challenge. There have been a couple of projects itching around us, and weve decided now is the time to free ourselves up to give them a scratch Were eternally optimistic people and were excited and impatient for our future. (Im sure Ken thinks monotony will kill him) Weve been talking to our family about this for a while. For the pure fact this hasnt become idle gossip well be eternally grateful. Were also ever so thankful to Michael, Narelle, Michelle, Ben, and the whole team at Michael Robinson Real Estate, and our neighbours, both old and new for keeping this information private - until now.

17.01.2022 Before the year closes in on us, I very strongly feel I have to acknowledge this wonderful lady, Mrs Asimus. Now, Im going against my firmly held rule here. Anyone that has been to the house, and listened to my history talk knows that I always acknowledge; but dont discuss in detail the Asimus family time here. I pay my great respect, appreciation and gratitude for their contribution to Carrawobitty - however my firmly held rule here is that their family story is not my s...tory to tell. Im very protective, and respect this familys right to privacy. However - the events down in the chook shed the other night make me see differently for one brief moment. If I take it back a step further, some time ago, a guest saw me coming back, after dark, from a long walk down past the chooks, and asked wasnt I scared?. Of what?? was my instant reply. I feel so completely safe walking around here in the dark, but what I didnt tell them was that Mrs Asimus is here, and shes looking after me. The realisation of that tiger snake last week, not having a swipe at the big fat juicy toe I presented to its face may well be a testament to that! I look at this photo of Mrs Asimus, and all I see is a strong, full of courage and fiercely independent woman who I am immensely proud of and aspire to be like; although I never knew her in person. Thank you Mrs A; thank you for looking after me. I promise to always wear my gumboots when I go down to the chooks!!

16.01.2022 Funny story, with just the slightest bit of inappropriate language.... One of my most hated jobs, is removing the Welcome Swallows nest from around the house; hated because destroying the nests means destroying eggs; and ending life. But this year, the swallows outsmarted me. Because weve been doing so much concreting over Winter, the swallows used the soft concrete to build their nests, meaning, concrete nests - I joke you not. I could not knock the nests down this year. ... This week, one remaining nest revealed its treasure and the fledglings took flight. "The little shitters" (literally) have been having a wonderful time learning to fly, and despite the mess they leave behind - I am glad they outsmarted me - this year.

16.01.2022 Nature or Nurture? Its a philosophical conversation we often have in our house. Are we the way we are because of inherited traits or learned behaviors? The local folklore about Carrawobitty is that Reggie Coward built this house of concrete to cure his gout. ... Just recently, I discovered Reggies grandfather; a well known and well respected English surgeon began his Melbourne medical practice in homoeopathy in 1859. I dont know a lot about medical practice in 1859; but these days, homoeopathy is described as a pseudoscience of alternative medicine. So, just maybe, Reggie might have followed his grandfathers views of alternative medicine, and accepted the advice living in a house of concrete would cure his gout? And whether its fact or fiction, we do know that this house of healing that Reggie built for himself sustained him; because he gave it up in 1947; and died in 1948.

16.01.2022 Time for a belated page update. Aileen 'Beryl' Coward and Reginald William Coward - these are the two we can thank for having such a solid, robust and inventive house like Carrawobitty built for generations to admire. I love, adore, and almost worship these two fabulous people for the Carrawobitty legacy they left in their wake. These are not the best photos I have of them, but they are my favourites because you can see a reflection of their house in these images. It became v...ery evident to me a couple of years ago that I refer to Reggie and Beryl in the present tense; when someone asked where they were! Long dead was my reply, but they still have a presence in the house - and I do talk to them every day. They were indeed grand characters; and I'm pretty sure I've heard every wild story (which is essentially gossip) about them both. There is truly no end to the amazing stories of those that came before us at Carrawobitty; but just recently, we've come to the conclusion that when I do write Carrawobitty's history, I'll keep much of Beryl's story to myself; and take her secrets to my grave.

14.01.2022 Ive had a debate with myself; about this post, for a few days. While I understand not everyone is enjoying the current restrictions; and I dont want to upset anyone - but Ken and I are loving this time together in isolation. In so many ways, weve waited our whole lives to live like this. Weve wholeheartedly and unashamedly embraced living in the moment. When we got past the initial shock and trauma of a meat axe being taken to our income stream - we quickly realised ...the benefits of living a much slower and grounded way of life. Living in Forbes, and the safety of Carrawobitty is the perfect place for us to be. We are blissfully happy with each others company, and it feels like were holding this space for when the world outside sorts itself out. Baking, picnics, strolls, gardening, painting, board games and endless cups of tea. Pretty sure weve solved all the worlds problems...if only in our own minds. Im grateful that 12 months ago I learnt to make my own cheese; and now finally, I have time to put these skills into practice. Fresh yoghurt, marinated feta and Camembert are staples in our fridge. Im grateful for old friends giving me plants from their garden. Every plant holds a memory and a story of the giver - Im never lonely when looking at them. Im grateful for the recent rain and greener than green grass. Im grateful to see the Bogong Moths return and Im grateful Ken can turn his hands from baking bread to fixing the bellows on our pianola so I have music every day. Were enjoying magnificent Autumn weather, time to observe the abundance of butterflies and dragonflies, priceless sunsets, fresh produce and time to set Mums incubator - the great circle of life. In the photo, there is a peafowl and a guinea fowl. A fresh set of chicks (layers) are due out on Monday. Another benefit of the slower pace in life is the art of the long lazy phone calls. A few weeks ago I rang my mum early for our daily phone chat. How are things over there? Her reply - Just waiting for the pot to boil In our relationship, that means there was one less rooster running around the chook yard and mum was having chicken for tea. My mother has lived her whole life close to the Earth; and I am so happy that she has passed her knowledge onto me; and happier still that Carrawobitty brought me home and brought me closer to my mother.

13.01.2022 Carrawobitty has been home to many people over the years; but none moreso than during the 1950s and 60s when it was a nursing home. Over this period, the house played host to many people coming to visit their loved ones at Carrawobitty. I think walking up the staircase will bring back a few memories for those visitors....good memories I hope xx

13.01.2022 You might wonder what the connection is with Machattie Park in Bathurst, and Carrawobitty? Well - the beautiful Machattie Park is home to a most magnificent and magical Begonia House - and beside sharing my love, this Begonia House and Carrawobitty also share the same architect - Mr Alfred Sambrook. Mr Sambrook rarely gets a mention; but he does in this clip; so for me, its worth sharing. Enjoy the history and the walk through Mr Sambrooks wonderful Begonia House.

12.01.2022 Be careful what you wish for..... Ive often said, when the world goes to poop, I want to live here, at Carrawobitty - our piece of paradise. Little did I know that would ever actually eventuate!! In all the madness - if we do have to self isolate; the cellar is well stocked and the chooks are laying an insane amount of eggs; so, well be right. And yes - with 13 toilets we always have plenty of toilet paper stocked away.... But please please please, be kind to one another and dont forget to check on our most vulnerable friends, neighbours and family. Were all in this together.....

12.01.2022 PART 2 - Hendrikus (Henk) Vos An update on Henk, but first, please indulge me while I explain why Forbes is the best place in the world to live; not only during a pandemic, but every day of the year! First, when our plumber (JP) comes to unblock a drain, he brings me fresh garlic and cucumbers. ... Second, when I go to the post office, the fabulous staff not only know me by name, but they know who my mother is, and what her post box number is - never ever do I need to explain who I am and why Im there to collect someone elses mail without her PO box key. But third - when I posted the story the other day about Henk, a friend contacted me to ask if I knew where Henks grave was. I said no, so she proceeded to give me a lead as to who made personal recordings some decades ago, of who was buried where; and where I might get a copy of that information now. That was enough to connect me with another friend who had those records - and in the space of a phone call, I had Henks plot and lot number -.and confirmation there was no headstone, and no identification on site. A quick phone call to Forbes Shire Council seeking a site map for the Forbes Cemetery and hey presto - today I could go visit Henk and pay my respects to this hero. Ironically, Henk is surrounded by headstones bearing the name Monica - and is almost half way between my fathers grave to the left and my great grandparents to the right. A very humbling day - RIP Hendrikus Vos. I shall visit you often xx

11.01.2022 What a doozy of a dust storm! Dont you just love Mother Nature in all her fury; but to be honest - were a bit over it all now. Weve been photographing that dead tree; sometimes daily, ever since we arrived here; so we have the most incredible images of these wide open plains - but this is the most spectacular by far. Theyll make a great art installation one day Im sure; although we much prefer the pretty sunsets.

10.01.2022 This week is Reconciliation Week. More specifically - today is Sorry Day. A solemn day we recognise and remember the loss suffered by the Stolen Generations. Reconciliation Week is a week of hope, and I was going to do a very different post about this significant week - but then I came across this Gardening Australia post about Bunya Trees - it is so informative - please watch it. We have a massive Bunya Tree at Carrawobitty. We LOVE the annual nut harvest - but this tree is ...so out of place in regards to its natural environment. Over the years, Ive contemplated why this tree was planted here, and who planted it. Obviously, my assumption is the Coward family; I could be wrong? - but the why is so open to the imagination. Was it their way of reconciliation? Or was it just to show off their worldliness and wealth? Is there any more; or less, to the significance of a Bunya Tree in Central West NSW? Were deeply and acutely aware of Carrawobittys connection to Wiradjuri people; and happy to stand shoulder to shoulder with our Indigenous friends to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia. https://www.facebook.com/gardeningaustralia/videos/281274739574119/

09.01.2022 No surprise, but our favourite TV show is Grand Designs. Anyone watching the latest episode will recall Kevins quote "Architecture has a responsibility to protect, shelter, cuddle and exalt all human beings" After living here - we really have an emotional connection to these words - and yes, I had to google exalt!

09.01.2022 One of the things; on the very long list of things that make us happy, is water in our creek. So, with that little bit of trivia, youll know how ecstatic we were this week to have water flowing in the Carrawobitty creek once again. Its been a long dry while; but finally Mother Earth is rejoicing with us. There is a marvelous daily chorus of frogs, a myriad of water birds and the occasional turtle. Water in the creek also heavily reminds us of the death of Henk Vos. The full...Continue reading

09.01.2022 Weve been keeping ourselves occupied the past week by cleaning out some sheds - like most of Australia. But this will give anyone that knows us a bit of a laugh.... First - we came across this neat little brass sign SMART COMMENT Obviously, if you know Ken - this sign perfectly describes him. After we pondered who would have this little sign made, and what its purpose was - we laughed and decided it will be destined for Kens headstone.... But then, I came across an old note book. Whenever Ive spoken to someone about Carrawobitty, Ive recorded dates, interesting comments etc. However, this comment takes the cake! Good on you Ida - definitely my type of woman. (note - the comment was made by someone that knew Ida; as a recollection of something shed often say. circa 1955)

09.01.2022 Last week I wasn’t sure if I was going to continue with this page - but this week I’m feeling a little more comfortable. So, in context of the events below, a friend said to me some years ago (and this is an edited version) You just can’t make this stuff up. While we’d been thinking about selling for some time, and juggling the decision of when our time was up - it wasn’t until we actually made it publicly known that a couple of incredible things happened to us.... First - I’ve always said, my holy grail was to find a photo of my beloved Carrawobitty being built. I always thought it was an elusive dream and one that I had to let go of; which I did. Then, on the very same week we shocked everyone with our intentions, I received a phone call from a man in Bathurst; which led to an email from a man in America - and a photo of Carrawobitty in her build stage - half finished. My heart literally skipped a few beats with disbelief. Even now, a few weeks since I received the photo, it is still so precious to me that I need to guard it for a little longer. Second; and completely separate from above, another man contacted me with some information that he’d been keeping safe. After another long and interesting phone call, this man had saved a set of plans due for the shredder - plans for RW Coward; with the architect's name Alfred Sambrook. The plans arrived in the mail today - can you spot an obvious difference? While Ken may continue to roll his eyes at me - I am firmly of the belief that these items felt the time to come home was quickly closing in on them. And finally - the key. While I was going about my daily business of trying to take me out of the house in preparation for a sale that might be some time in the future - I find this hidden key. Its a little cute and quirky - and I am not joking - I knew exactly which lock belonged to this key - I’m really not sure what the key is trying to tell me though? I’ve had a few more conversations with my Reggie and Beryl this week than normal. I feel their excitement for the future of their house and confirmation that we’re doing the right thing. Their house is fine. They are grateful - and the intense urgency for their home's history to return is definitely gaining pace!

08.01.2022 As we approach ANZAC Day 2020, Id like to acknowledge the considerable contribution Reggie Coward made to returned soldiers via the Reginald Coward Bequest to the RSL NSW State Branch. The 100,000 bequest ran from 1949 to 2011. It benefited WWI and WW2 incapacitated and blind soldiers and their families. There is somewhat of a backstory to Reggies philanthropy but without family to give the go ahead, I feel that should remain a private story. ... When I started poking around in the past it was just out of a genuine curiosity; and I never really thought Id find too much. How wrong I was. Over a casual breakfast conversation last year though; someone asked me what I thought of Reggies mental health - it was right about then my fight and protect instinct kicked in. I never anticipated the level of restraint Id need in unearthing information about a family I have no kinship to, but there it is. Its a very fine line to walk, highlighting the massive social importance of a building, celebrating its tangible history, but then also making a decision on what remains private on the non tangable aspects. While facts are facts and easy to trace nowadays; Im content to withhold a level of privacy, for Reggie and Beryl. Reggies bequest was a significant amount that benefited countless Australian returned soldiers. He has my deep respect; and Ill be thinking of Reggie even more so on Saturday. He may not have gone to war, but posthumously, he undoubtedly assisted countless returned soldiers; and their families, in their time of most need. Lest we Forget.

08.01.2022 PART THREE THE ART OF LETTING GO I love and adore my children - always have, always will. I have always been fiercely protective of them. But as they grew, I knew I needed to take a step back; otherwise Id run the risk of smothering them and hinder their potential. By taking a step back; I allowed my children to flourish and shine. We have wonderfully strong, independent and resilient children that continue to excel as young adults. My love and protection of them will never... diminish; but in the process of letting go, I gained a beautiful daughter-in-law (cue the tears) So, had I hindered their growth, I would never have seen their potential - and our family wouldnt have grown. And God-willing, our family continues to grow. This is my best attempt at explaining the decision weve come to to sell Carrawobitty. While this is our home, it will always be a step too far for me to really let Carrawobitty shine. But Im happy to take a step aside; to let go, and watch this grand old lady grow; thrive and meet her full potential. Letting go is scary; but weve fully committed to the process. Weve talked about all the what ifs......what if the new people paint her purple?. What if they put a ferris-wheel on the front lawn? All crazy I know - but weve really come to terms with the fact that once we leave, we also lose all control. The flip side is that what if the new people love Carrawobitty as much as us? What if they care and tend to her as much as we did? Weve had to dig deep; and really commit to the idea - of letting go. I am grateful for Kens persistent love, and Im grateful for the past few months; for the time weve been given for my head and my heart to come into alignment. When we leave, it will be with sunshine and light. Joy for what was, and joy for what will become. The sale might take a short time, or it might take a long time - and it might be crazy to list in the middle of a pandemic - but weve never really listened to what you should do. Weve always believed the best time to buy or sell real estate was yesterday. Were ready, and we cant see any point in waiting till next year - so come what may!

06.01.2022 From our house to yours, we hope youve had a nice day This is Wilfred; just chillin - and demonstrating physical distancing; not social distancing which; for me, are two very different things. Dont let your social network suffer. If you cant get away to see your family and friends at the moment, dont forget you can still telephone or message to ask how they are feeling.

06.01.2022 Not a day goes by that I dont feel completely blessed to live in this incredible home, and being able to share it with the BEST people we could ever have imagine existed. We classify everyone that comes through our doors as friends. Lifes too short to withhold love and friendship. What we give, comes back. So much so that every now and then we receive a little surprise parcel in the mail from one of our newly acquainted friends. This week was a 1975 copy of the Forbes Advoc...ate; from a beautiful couple that mirror Ken and I. With a week to go before Michaels wedding, it was perfect timing to make us settle for a few hours and reminisce. Weve enjoyed reading the paper so much I thought Id share some of the ads so anyone with a Forbes connection can pause and remember some good old days shopping in town. Some of these buildings are no longer with us - which is vitally important to remember as youre scrolling. The social value of our buildings just may be the glue that holds us together. ""FABULOUS FORBES"" I really do think we need to revitalise this slogan - it says it all really; doesnt it. **edit Ive added more photos in comments

05.01.2022 And boom - just like that - the tanks are full and overflowing!! Its been a long four years - but all of a sudden, weve forgotten about the heat, the dust and the stress, cost and worry of carting water. Like everyone else, were just relishing in the dampness and the satisfaction of full tanks. We didnt forget to do a frog patrol this morning though. Rescued these two little guys who somehow got caught in a bucket. Can anyone identify? (I think the one on the left is a yo...ung pobblebonk?) Its been so long since we had good long soaking rain; and we are just so very thankful today. Suddenly, all the worlds harshness seems to have disappeared. Everything seems so fresh and alive again.

04.01.2022 Michael Robinson & Co have been engaged to handle our sales process. Thank you at this stage just doesnt seem sufficient for their patience and understanding to date. But because I cant kiss or hug them in the midst of a pandemic - a public thank you will have to suffice.

04.01.2022 Just quickly before the clock ticks over to the New Year, Id like to acknowledge Mr Jack Asimus. Like all great relationships, Im sure Mr and Mrs Asimus were a magnificent team. There are many, many layers of reasoning as to why Carrawobitty is such an important historical property. Architecture, Culture, Social - and Pastoral. The Asimus contribution to the equine industry is just one, but The Carrawobitty Braford Stud is another.... I absolutely am in love with this wonderful photo of Mr and Mrs Asimus - their eyes tell it all.

03.01.2022 Its almost been a month since our son, Michael, and his beautiful bride Dana were married at Carrawobitty; and lots of people have been asking for photos. Now the newlyweds are safely home from their honeymoon, Im happy to share just a couple of photos. Every cell in my body exploded with happiness on the day these two were married; especially when they were on the balcony. The future is theirs, and we are so happy to be part of their journey. I am so full of admiration for them both. With bright, loving and respectful young people like this, with hearts of pure kindness, I know the world is in safe hands.

03.01.2022 With the current Royal Commission into Aged Care; its timely to remember aged care wasnt always conducted in its current format. There was a time it was seen as a privilege, and conducted with love and respect. The following extracts are lengthy, but it was hard to find an appropriate place to stop. In total, these extracts give you a sense of the sentiment behind the aged care concept; and how the Sisters of Mercy approached aged care at Carrawobitty. My favourite quote is ...the one that notes the house is even more noble; because the old people were here. What I also love is the mention of the connection to land for these seniors; and that common thread that being connected to your country is a real and powerful need for all people. 1953. "Today, the pleasant Home of Peace (Carrawobitty) is filled with contented and happy people who spend the twilight of their four score years; and more, in serene and beautiful country surroundings." "Every bed but one is occupied, and that one is already booked. They come from back of Bourke and Warren, from Forbes, Gilgandra, even from Mildura. These old people are looked after with such loving care. They are so comfortable in the evening of their days that what was once a noble station homestead has become a still more noble and very real home to each one of the residents." "They are happy and cheerful, with interest in life restored." "There is great kindness with understanding and easy excuses for laughter all about them. They have companionship of folk of the same age group and of similar tastes. They are folk who all their lives have lived close to Gods good earth - and they have the same feeling at Carrawobitty." "The women have their rest after the midday meal, the good homegrown meat foods theyve known always "more than we can eat" is reported. Later one of the Sisters reads to those who wish to listen. There is an upstairs meal room, so that there is no need for those in the late eighties or nineties to climb up or down the golden stairs of rich Queensland maple. There are deep verandas and easy chairs.This is to be a beautiful home for those of declining years. It aims also to provide these elderly people with the most congenial and happy surroundings. This lovely home is notable in that it does not take the old people to alien surroundings but keeps them with the land and the country they have loved all their lives." "This is a home for the aged, with no future left for them on this earth. Yet this home is an act of pure love and faith for them. The furnishings generally provide every possible comfort for the folk, some of whom have had too little of it in the earlier part of their lives"

01.01.2022 PART TWO ALWAYS ON THE GO Were a couple that is constantly moving forward. Weve owned five houses in 24 years. On average, weve stayed less than 5 years in any house; but weve been here much longer than that. The urge to keep going forward is pushing us.... Our nearest and dearest are accustomed to the fact that just when we get a place looking nice, we leave. As someone recently said to us while most people are still deciding what to wear, you pair just get dressed, grab your tools and do the job - all before the others have even gotten out of bed!. I like that analogy; but Ken has always been the driver in our relationship. Whenever I say "But Im not ready", his response is always "youll never be ready - JUST DO IT!" We started with no instruction book; and weve pretty much made it up as we went. Anyone that wants to test their marriage - just restore a massive heritage house and start a small business - if you survive that, youll survive ANYTHING! (Whats that quote getting divorced is the easy bit, but staying married takes work) But seriously, weve learnt more about each other during this than most people do their whole life-time. Weve come out the other side with a much deeper love and respect for each other. Were proud of what weve achieved, and enjoyed learning and highlighting what a massively important house Carrawobitty is. When time permits, Ill collate everything Ive discovered into a book - logical, ordered and chronological - just as I like it. Facebook has been a struggle for me; to disordered. I still have so much to share - Im pretty sure I could do a post a day for the next ten years and still not share everything. But a couple of things weve learnt during our time here. Trust yourself; and trust your vision. Dont be afraid to fail; or youll never try anything new. Learn to ignore the doubters And always remember, time will pass regardless - there is nothing wrong with hard work - blisters only last a day.