STEPPING through the grand doors of Lowan homestead, you are instantly immersed in a chapter of yesteryear.
Grandeur design, expert craftsman and timeless elegance are just a few words that describe this impressive residence.
Nestled in Kalangadoo, this exquisite property is steeped in history and nostalgia.
While the grand two storey home is made from historic handmade bricks and mortar, the connection with this property runs deep through the veins of a prominent pastoral family.
Owned by Gary and Wendy Kilsby, several generations of the Kilsby family have been the caretakers of the magnificent property since the 1940s.
The family has restored the prominent homestead to its former glory in a painstaking renovation as its 150th year is celebrated.
No corner was left unturned in restoring the homestead with Wendy scouring the world for fixtures and fittings, including wallpaper that was a known favourite of the late Princess Diana.
The couple will open the house to the public in November to raise money for the Royal Flying Doctor Service, which will provide a stunning backdrop for the fundraising events planned.
The “Flying Doctor” holds a special meaning for Gary given it has saved his life after a number of serious farming-related incidents.
Sitting around the casual dining table with coffee and cake, conversation flows freely as Gary and Wendy explain how the restoration took nearly three years.
The French provincial kitchen fits perfectly in the sprawling home that boasts seven bedrooms on the top floor as well as a library, dining room, a cellar and breathtaking conservatory on the ground level.
While the front of the house was sound, the back section – originally the kitchen and service area – “badly” needed repairing.
“The washhouse and the kitchen was all under the same roof, so we decided to demolish and rebuild,” Gary said.
Considered an historical gem in the district, his grandfather purchased the significant property in 1940.
“The Kilsby family has been the longest owner of the property,” Gary proudly explained.
The property was built by South East pioneer William Allen Crouch in the late 1860s.
“What is unusual is that all the bricks were made on the place,” the well-known farmer said.
“This was the first brick building built in the South East.”
Mr Crouch – who held many grand parties and balls at the property – came to Australia in 1845.
Studying architecture in England, he designed many of Mount Gambier’s early buildings.
“Mr Crouch was very well liked, apparently he had a beautiful singing voice. He had a great vision – he helped construct the roads in the area. The small township of Allendale was named after him with its street also named after his children,” Gary added.
Crouch Street in Mount Gambier is also aptly named in honour of the pioneering figure.
Interestingly, Gary revealed the house no longer had all of its original balustrade at the time of the renovation.
“We have found parts of the balustrade under a tree and in the paddocks,” he said.
It is understood the original balustrade was taken off so it could be melted to be made into guns during war times.
But the couple have since had replica balustrade made, which is an impressive feature of the veranda.
Showing The Border Watch around the homestead, Wendy said she adored old homes and it was important to keep the integrity and history of the homestead.
“I just like the feel of them, they so classy and well made – I got a lot of ideas for decorating the house from England and Scotland,” she explained.
Wendy was particularly taken by a conservatory she had seen overseas, which she incorporated into the lounge area of the new extension.
This area provides picturesque views of the garden and countryside.
“We are excited to be able to host a fundraising event for the Royal Flying Doctor Service, which has saved so many lives,” Wendy said.
Royal Flying Doctor Service Mount Gambier Support Group president Bill Russon said the organisation was “thrilled” the couple was hosting the fundraising events on November 3 and 4.
The two day event will include an English-themed open day, which will include music, as well as food and wine vendors.
There will also be a high tea held on the veranda overlooking the sprawling garden.
The fundraising event will also include railway memorabilia, tours of the downstairs of the house, face painting and pony rides for children.
A nursery with English plants and historic cars will also be part of the line-up of attractions, as well as an antique roadshow.
