One of the most sought-after, historic homesteads has hit the market, and the sale of Nulabor Homestead is sure to ignite the interest of buyers.

Originally part of the larger Illilawa holding, Nulabor was owned by pastoralist Roy McCaughey, nephew of Sir Samuel McCaughey, known across Australia as ‘The Sheep King’.

Subsequent owners include pastoralists FW Hughes, wool brokers and processors GH Mitchell & Sons and businessman John Elliot, who carved off the homestead block, as it stands today.

The station acted as the ram depot for the renowned merino stud, Coonong at Urana.

The legacy of the wool industry has continued since 2005, when it became the home of Beth and Chris and Beth Bowman.

For 18 years Mr Bowman was the stud master and general manager at one of the nation’s premier Merino studs, Uardry, and since the sale of the stud, has passed on his expertise as a mentor with the Hay Inc Rural Education Program.

He has also travelled extensively throughout Australia and New Zealand classing stud and commercial flock Merinos.

“Our family has loved living at Nulabor Homestead for the past 20 years,” Mrs Bowman told The Riverine Grazier.

“It has been a work in progress to renovate, modernise and restore the building while making a garden pretty much from scratch - Chris has dug a lot of holes!

“It has been the ideal venue for hosting many events such as milestone birthday parties and family Christmases.

“Many times, when Alice and Emma were growing up and the bedrooms were overflowing there were plenty of spots to roll out a swag.

“It is with mixed feelings that we are selling but are looking forward to the next chapter which includes building a house in Hay as a base for us as Chris continues classing, and other projects we have on the go.”

The 65 square weatherboard homestead was built in the late 1920s for the manager and his family, incorporating accommodation for ram buyers and jackaroos. The homestead majestic building enjoys absolute frontage to the Murrumbidgee River.

Selling agent James Sides described the sale as a “sublime and historic homestead offering”.

“Nulabor Homestead is more than a home – it is a way of life, offering an unrivalled blend of historic elegance, natural beauty and modern comfort.

“With absolute river frontage, it is easy to imagine waking each day to the gentle sounds of the Murrumbidgee, casting a line from your own private bank and immersing yourself in the serenity of the outdoors.

“For those who treasure space, native flora and fauna, and the romance of riverside living, this is truly a rare offering.

At the heart of Nulabor Homestead sits a distinguished renovated six-bedroom homestead surrounded by established gardens, offering both privacy and presence.

“The residence balances old-world character with contemporary convenience, providing a warm and inviting retreat,” Mr Sides said.

The homestead features four large and elegant formal and informal living zones, two bathrooms and extensive outdoor living spaces that open up to the expansive lawns, creating the perfect setting for quiet relaxation or entertaining family and friends in style.

Although it feels a world away, Nulabor Homestead remains highly accessible, located just 25 kilometres north east from Hay, along a sealed stretch of Murrumbidgee River Road.

This convenience ensures that while privacy and seclusion are preserved, town amenities are never far from reach.

“With scope to further enhance and personalise, the property represents not only a unique lifestyle opportunity but also an exciting investment in one of Australia’s most iconic riverfront settings,” Mr Sides said.

“Nulabor Homestead presents a once-in-a-generation chance to secure a piece of Australian history on the banks of the magnificent mighty Murrumbidgee River.

“Whether as a family retreat, a permanent residence, or a lifestyle investment, it is a property of enduring appeal that promises a future filled with peace, beauty and adventure.”