Residents of the Gunnedah and Narrabri regions are invited to spend the Mother’s Day weekend exploring the iconic grounds of the Kurrumbede homestead, with Whitehaven’s annual open day set to be held on Saturday, 10 May.
Presented in partnership with the Dorothea Mackellar Memorial Society, the Kurrumbede Open Day will include free family activities, heritage and historical displays, food and market stalls, plus live entertainment.
Located about 25kms north of Gunnedah, the property, which was once owned by the family of the celebrated poet Dorothea Mackellar, has only been opened to the public three times in the last 100 years, each event serving as a fantastic opportunity for the community to come together on the long weekend.
Whitehaven’s General Manager Community Engagement, Darren Swain, says this event presents a unique chance to celebrate the region’s rich heritage.
“Dorothea Mackellar and her family have a deep connection to our region, and this Open Day is all about celebrating her life and her contribution to Australian culture, history and spirit,” said Mr Swain.
“In addition to the chance to explore the surrounds of the original homestead, we have a great day of activities planned for those that come along featuring sulky rides, petting zoo, art activities, face painting, sheep shearing demonstrations, great food and coffee, live performances from local artists, and a variety of other historical exhibits and demonstrations.”
Bought in 1905, the Mackellar family operated a sheep, cattle, and mixed cropping enterprise across the expansive 6,600-acre Kurrumbede property for nearly four decades.
The day will also include some special activities to pamper Mum for her special day.
“We will have a special pamper tent for all the Mums with free hand massages provided by local beauticians,” said Mr Swain.
“The day will also include a special Mother’s Day Hat parade, with residents, families and children encouraged to take part and prizes for best hat.”
Rebecca Ryan, President of the Dorothea Mackellar Memorial Society, is encouraging everyone in the community to come along to celebrate the region and enjoy a fun day out for the whole family.
“This is a day for our community to come together and appreciate this remarkable piece of Australian history, and we welcome everyone to join us at this incredible place,” says Ms Ryan.
“Excitingly, we have Horizon Theatre’s Punch & Judy Puppet Show joining us, which will no doubt bring many laughs and entertainment for all ages.”
“We will also be hosting Steve McAuley’s new local band Victoria Bitters and the Rock’n Horses, who will play a mix of rockabilly, jazz ballads and rock and roll– there’s something for everyone to enjoy!”
The Dorothea Mackellar Memorial Society will be exhibiting landscapes linked to poems written by the famed Dorothea Mackellar, by local artists, such as Maree Kelly, Shirley Urquhart and Fonda Rowlands in the front room of the Kurrumbede homestead.
Gunnedah local and Australian Champion whip cracker Daniel Wicks will be showcasing his skills, with local charities and services including the Westpac Rescue Helicopter also in attendance at the open day.
“As the current owners of the Kurrumbede property, Whitehaven is dedicated to ensuring that this iconic property is preserved for years to come. It’s important to us that we share the rich local history and beautiful gardens with the local community,” added Mr Swain.
The Kurrumbede Open Day will run from 10am-3pm on Saturday, 10 May.
For more information on the day visit: https://www.kurrumbedeopenday.com.au/.
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