Following major restoration and refurbishments, Bundoora Homestead officially opened its doors to the public in August of this year. The Homestead is a joint initiative of the Darebin City Council and La Trobe University, in Victoria. Funding was also produced through the Commonwealth Government’s Federation Fund.
When the Homestead and surrounding property was sold for residential development, Darebin City Council worked to ensure the heritage building would be retained for community use.
John Matthew Vincent Smith built the Homestead in 1899 as the centrepiece of his 606 acre Bundoora Park horse and cattle stud. In 1920 the Homestead was acquired by the Commonwealth. It became the first repatriation hospital and convalescent farm, for returned servicemen with psychiatric disorders. It continued in this role until 1993.
Now registered by Heritage Victoria, and certified by the National Trust, the building itself is a rare and well preserved Queen Ann style Federation mansion.Upon entry of the Homestead one is amazed by the well preserved original stain glass windows, intricate ceilings and fireplaces.
The Homestead now has established exhibition spaces and facilities that constitute The Federation Centre for the Arts. The Centre will host a number of temporary exhibitions of both contemporary and earlier fine and decorative arts.
Manager of Bundoora Homestead Jakki Mann said that the local community’s response has been overwhelming. With the gallery as the prime attraction, the Homestead also includes a community room that can be hired out by the public, and a café/restaurant that provides casual and fine dining.
For further information contact Jakki Mann, on (03) 9466 9628.
