Oak Dene, 1908
History
Classified by the National Trust, ‘Oak Dene’ was built in 1908 for Dr and Mrs John Cam Wight as a family home and surgery. Both from early pioneering families, they significantly contributed to the development of Kyabram, as well as the town’s cultural and social life, with Oak Dene being at the centre of this activity.
The house was designed by Dr Wight’s eminent Melbourne architect brother, Gerard Wight, with deep verandahs that provide ample shade during summertime, and a sense of privacy. Originally surrounded by a three acre park designed by Charles Luffman, two heritage London plane trees, listed on the National Trust’s register, remain within the half-acre of peaceful gardens.
Today, Oak Dene is hosted by Gillian Banks, who resides in one wing of the house, and is on hand to make guests feel welcome. Gillian’s brother, London-based architect Alan Higgs, undertook a sensitive restoration of the property in 2017. Both hold fond memories of their time at the house since childhood, and take pride in continuing Oak Dene’s tradition of warm hospitality.
Accommodation
Built entirely of ripple iron, inside and out, Oak Dene is Australia’s only known example of its type. Richly polished jarrah floors are offset by soaring ceilings and full-height windows, with views overlooking the expansive gardens. With an almost informal colonial feel, its minimal architectural details, absence of decoration and metal construction presages the modernism that followed two decades later.
A deep sense of history is felt throughout the home, with each room featuring original fireplace surrounds, and 120-year old wallpaper over the ripple iron in the twin bedroom. Another unique feature are the verandah posts, constructed from terracotta drainage pipes.
Accommodation at Oak Dene is fully self-contained and private. Sleeping up to five guests, there is a double bedroom with comfortable king size bed, and a twin bedroom with two king singles. A folding bed for a fifth guest can be set up in the sitting room if required. The main bathroom features a spacious shower, beautiful claw foot bath, heating, and complimentary amenities.
Unwind in the elegant sitting room, with plenty of quiet spots to relax with a good book and a glass of wine - or catch up on your favourite Netflix shows on the Smart TV. Cook up a storm in the fully-equipped kitchen and enjoy gathering for meals in the beautiful dining area, or dine alfresco on the verandah, with outdoor setting and BBQ. Pantry staples are provided, along with coffee and sweet treats.
Of an evening, with the trees highlighted by outdoor lights and sweeping garden views, sunset drinks and dining outdoors is a truly special experience. During their stay, guests are free to enjoy the entire garden, but also have their own private, dedicated verandah and lawn area on the mature west side.
“Historic, charming and a truly unique home. A very special place, with exquisite attention to detail. We loved the grape vines along the verandahs and the beautiful treed outlook. Gillian was a great host and made us feel right at home.”
Special Features
Heritage Listed
Established Gardens
Fully-Equipped Kitchen
Outdoor Dining
Things To Do
Kyabram has two popular golf courses, walking track, and its flat terrain is perfect for cycling - so bringing your bikes is recommended. Kyabram Town Hall Gallery has exhibitions to enjoy, and Shepparton, with its renowned Art Museum are an easy drive away. Follow the Silo Art Trail for an interesting tour of the region.
Under 30 minutes from Oak Dene, the historic town of Echuca, set along the Murray River has many well-preserved heritage buildings, a magnificent wharf, and paddle steamers to ride. Historic Rushworth is also well worth visiting.
Take a day trip to discover wineries near Nagambie, including Tahbilk Winery, Australia’s oldest family-owned winery, and Mitchelton Winery, with The Muse restaurant, and its unique buildings drawn by Robin Boyd CBE, one of the Australia’s most renowned architects.
