Gulf Station is an ideal place to visit with the family over summer.
By Kath Gannaway
YARRA Glen’s pioneering working farm, Gulf Station, is opening throughout January.
The National Trust property began life in the 1840s as part of a 25,000-acre run known as the Gulf, stretching from Yarra Glen to Toolangi.
The Bell family lived and worked there and the homestead and outbuildings are a part of the legacy the family left behind for today’s generations to explore and enjoy.
“Each of the outbuildings tells an exciting story about the daily life on a pioneer farm, with an array of traditional farming implements waiting to be discovered,” National Trust spokeswoman Cassandra O’Brien said.
“The homestead is a journey in itself, with new interpretation that takes visitors into the domestic life of a rural colonial family where a mother’s word was law,” she said.
Once hosting an array of rare breed farm animals, Gulf Station is still home to many friendly animals including horses, pigs, chickens and geese.
Restoration of one of the Yarra Valley’s little-known treasures is still underway, but in January, National Trust is opening the gates and inviting people to be a part of the rich history of Gulf Station over summer.
For those who have visited Gulf Station before, it is a chance to see the progress so far made with the restoration. For others, it is a wonderful time to discover a place which is sure to become a favourite destination.
Gulf Station, at 1029 Melba Highway, Yarra Glen, will open from 4 to 29 January, 2012 from Wednesday to Sunday.
For more information visit gulfstation@nattrust.com.au or phone 9730 1286.
