| Name: | Moorara Homestead |
| Location: | Moorara Station, Menindee Road, Pooncarie (Darling) |
| Use: | Homestead and adjacent buildings |
| Constructed: | 1890 |
| Demolished: | 0 |
| Theme: | Agriculture |
| Condition: | Very good |
| Endorsements: |
Statement of Heritage Significance:
Architecture/Environment:
The charming weatherboard homestead located on the east bank of the Darling River has a large inverted wrap around verandah which is elevated to the front and features an attractive wooden balustrade. The chamfered verandah posts have curved cement baluster, lead to a double wooden panelled doorway with top and side lights. The hipped gable corrugated iron roof exhibits two squat rendered chimneys and the gutters are decorated with cast iron corner rain heads. Only minor structural changes are evident including replacement of the rear verandah floor and supports, and enclosed side verandahs.
History:
In the early 1860’s Joseph Barritt bought Moorara from McLeod and worked it successfully for many years as a sheep and cattle station adding considerably to its area. He disposed of the property in 1875 to his eldest son Charles in partnership with Charles Wreford, (who owned the adjacent Mallara Station). In the 1881 Wentworth electoral roll, some 33 men were recorded at Moorara. In 1904 Moorara subsequently became the property of Mr Ben Chaffeys second son, George Chaffey, of irrigation fame. In 1911 the property was sold to Arthur Crozier. Moorara is notably one of the largest stations along the Darling in the Pooncarie district. The homestead and surrounding buildings and workers cottages are in excellent condition and continue to reflect the eminence of the Pastoral period in the shire.
Recommendation:
Conservation by inclusion in the Local Environmental Plan
References:
AD Aldersey, ‘Pastoral Pioneers of South Australia’; R Lans, T Smith & B Smith, ‘The History of Pooncarie and District’; McPhails Squatters Directory’; A McLymont , Unpublished Diaries.
Recording Date: 16/12/1988
PHOTOGRAPHS:
Film Frame Nos:
9099/31,32,34