Quamby Estate, c. 1828
Sleeps 25 | Bedrooms 10 | Bathrooms 10
History
Described as one of the most important Tasmanian country homes, Quamby Estate’s impressive architecture, mature gardens and picturesque setting have attracted visitors near & far since its completion in the 1830s, including notable photographers throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. It became known as the ‘Government House of the North’, where colonial representatives gathered to campaign for an end to convict transportation, to debate and draft the Tasmanian constitution, and plan the expansion of the State’s rail transport system.
Quamby Estate’s story is one of insurgency, determination, passion and success. Richard Dry, an Irish rebel, was convicted in Dublin in 1797 of political charges, and was sentenced to life in New South Wales. He arrived at Port Jackson in 1800, and following five hard years on Norfolk Island, started work as a storekeeper in Hobart. A son of a farmer, he also worked as a wool draper, and his farming knowledge served useful in the years to follow. Over time, he earned the respect of several governing men, including Lachlan Macquarie, and was rewarded with land, rations, and convict servants for a year.
However, legend has it that his wife, Mrs Anne Dry’s charm, beauty, and horse riding skill caught the eye of the Governor, who announced he’d grant her husband as much land as she could ride in a day. Wasting no time in capitalising on this opportunity, she stationed horses at various intervals of land, galloping between horse to horse! The property, first called Belle Vue, was passed onto their son, Sir Richard Dry Jnr, who renamed the property Quamby Estate in 1843. He went on to be elected in 1866 as Tasmania's first Australian-born Premier, and was invited by Queen Victoria to stay at Buckingham Palace, where he became Tasmania's first Knight.
Quamby Estate is set on just over 150 acres, in Tasmania’s beautiful Meander Valley. Listed on the heritage register, the homestead is a rare example of Regency Anglo-Indian architecture, with many original features including decorative ceilings, stairs, several marble fireplaces, windows & doors, floorboards, panelling, and flagstone-paved verandah with Chinese-influenced trellis, matching the fanlight over the main entry door. Even the servant bell system still hangs in the main hallway. Every detail here will transport you back in time.
Accommodation
The homestead has ten luxurious guest rooms, each uniquely decorated with an eclectic collection of original art and antique furniture. Five room types have king, queen or twin bedding, with flat screen TVs and DVD players, desk, and complimentary WiFi, tea, coffee & Tasmanian snack basket. Each marble or stone bathroom has heated floors, handcrafted Quamby Bath Salts, and spa baths in the Deluxe rooms. The entire property can be exclusively booked for up to 25 guests for weddings, special events or corporate retreats.
Book for breakfast or dinner in the restaurant and enjoy a seasonal menu showcasing fresh Tasmanian produce. Alternative catering can be arranged upon request for lunch, afternoon tea and group dinners. There are also a range of locations for dining throughout the Estate – for example, the Homestead Library offers a private & romantic space for a special honeymoon or anniversary celebration.
The Estate’s stately gardens are gorgeous to wander through in all seasons, and there’s also a tennis court, hiking and bike trails. Explore the various convict-built outbuildings on the Estate, including the stables, drying shed, and original Manager’s house, now the golf clubhouse. Play a round at Quamby Estate’s very own 9 hole golf course, while taking in views of Ben Lomond and the Great Western Tiers. Over 3,000 meters and commanding a par 74, the fairways are lined by large mature trees, planted in rows with garden avenues, hedgerows, lakes, and ponds.
Special Features
Romantic
Heritage Listed
Fireplaces
Antique Decor
Things to Do
Just a 20 minute drive from Launceston, Quamby Estate is situated just outside the historic township of Hagley, which has many notable historic buildings that date to the early 19th century, including Georgian manor houses and beautiful churches. The townships of Longford and Evandale are also close by, well known for antiques, boutique shopping and excellent food and drink options. The location, in the heart of Northern Tasmania is an ideal base to take in the many attractions in the region such as Liffey Falls, Mole Creek Caves, and Cradle Mountain.
Black & white photos above - the camera club at Quamby, c. 1859; Quamby Estate c. 1920, both available at https://trove.nla.gov.au/
