Sovereign Hill’s farm open to all

WHILE pretty much everyone in town is aware of the city’s iconic living museum, Sovereign Hill, did you know the historic attraction also owns a farm and conservation property south of Buninyong?

Later this month the 2000-hectare Narmbool property will open its gates to the public as part of Sovereign Hill’s Autumn Series of events.

On Sunday, 20 March and Sunday, 24 April, patrons will be able to take in the open flora and fauna of the Elaine-based farm while being treated to high tea.

Sovereign Hill’s head of rare trades and programming Erin Santamaria said the events will serve as their first public invitation to the property since early 2020.

“Narmbool isn’t open for visitors normally, so this is a special time where we’re opening up access and inviting the public to come and enjoy the beautiful surrounds and gardens,” she said.

“There’s been private events like weddings and school excursions and things like that.

“But it’s probably well over two years since people have been able to come and see it as just regular members of the public.”

The openings will showcase many firsts for the property, with visitors able to enjoy the newly-restored gardens that were damaged during the 2015 Scotsburn bushfires.

As part of a new partnership with Sovereign Hill, food will be provided by Peter Rowland Catering, with complimentary glasses of sparkling wine or fruit punch offered on arrival.

Ms Santamaria said the team is excited to celebrate the developments with the public, and that they will take the grandeur of the property to a new level.

“This is not the kind of place you can just rock up to and enjoy the gardens, it’s a fully sustainable farm property,” she said.

“So, when we do open up, it’s quite a special opportunity for people to come and experience it.

“It’s got these amazing views of Buninyong and the rolling hills, and its history very much aligns with that of Sovereign Hill.”

Both the 20 March and Sunday, 24 April Narmbool openings will run from 2pm, and a special Mother’s Day event is planned on Friday, 8 May with two sittings from 12pm to 2pm, and 3pm to 5pm.

Tickets are $68 for adults and $30 for children, and can be booked by visiting bit.ly/3ILLNAR.

Narmbool is located at 440 Horsehill Road, Elaine