Bec and Angus Macdougall bought Dunmore Farm in 2018 as their personal holiday house, but the circa 1870 homestead (previously known as Rossmore) in north-east Victoria quickly became their permanent residence.
‘After a few months of splitting our time between Molyullah and Prahran, we decided to make the tree change and have never looked back,’ says Bec.
The couple went on to completely restore the homestead over a 12-month period, turning the former dairy farm into a boutique farm stay.
Bec personally designed the interiors within the original footprint, to preserve the home’s old world charm. Original features such as the fireplace, wood oven and roll top bath have been retained, while the kitchen, flooring and bathroom were updated to offer a more luxurious feel.
‘Curating a relaxed and understated space (often experienced on my travels) was my inspiration: a plump and incredibly comfortable sofa, battered leather chairs (which I brought back from my time London), heirloom portraits, natural sisal bedroom floors, French linen textiles, shutters, and beautifully aged wooden tables and surfaces are what make the cottage inviting and homely,’ says Bec. ‘We also prioritised insulating the exterior walls to ensure guest comfort no matter the season.’
Guests can appreciate the 150-acre property encompassing lush green vistas and an established orchid with apple, pear, quince, grapefruit, lime, lemon and pear trees. Vases, jugs and bowls indoors are regularly filled with an array of beautiful fresh floral and produce sourced from the garden, from banksias, to hydrangeas, roses, pumpkins and fresh eggs.
Beyond Dunmore Farm, guests can take a drive to nearby Glenrowan, Milawa, King Valley and other High Country towns renowned for their wine, cheese, olives, and charm.
It’s been a massive four years for Bec and Angus. Between moving to the country and restoring Dunmore Farm, the couple also got married on the property, welcomed a daughter, and relaunched their coffee business The Branded Coffee Co. In the near future, they plan to open an online store stocking travel and lifestyle products featured in their cottage. Also keep an eye out for Dunmore Suppers: seasonal long table collaborative dining experiences championing local growers and producers.
‘We love the idea that we are helping to raise awareness of our local community and collaborating with so many amazing producers to create a wonderful sense of connection,’ says Bec.
‘Our to-do list is very long but we couldn’t be happier and we are so very excited for what the future holds for us at Dunmore!’
The former dairy farm has retained some of its original features, including the fireplace. Photo – Marnie Hawson
Heirloom portraits and battered leather chairs fill the home with old world charm. Photo – Marnie Hawson
Catering for six guests, the cottage has a mix of natural-textured fabrics and furnishings, designed for couples, families, or groups of friends, looking for a country weekend get-away. Photo – Marnie Hawson
Inside the light-filled homestead. Photo – Marnie Hawson
Owners Bec and Angus Macdougal have completely transformed the property. Photo – Marnie Hawson
The period wood oven offers a glimpse into the past. Photo – Marnie Hawson
The kitchen is one of the main spaces they updated during the year-long restoration. Photo – Marnie Hawson
Dreamy rustic charm in every corner. Photo – Marnie Hawson
A beautifully aged wooden table helps make the cottage feel perfectly homely. Photo – Marnie Hawson
The abode’s old roll top bath was also preserved in the renovation. Photo – Marnie Hawson
Originally built in the late 1800’s, Dunmore Farm is equipped with everything you need for a comfortable farm escape. Photo – Marnie Hawson
Prior to 2016, the property was a fully operating dairy with previous owners milking a herd of Jersey cows. Photo – Marnie Hawson
Visiting the expansive block is like stepping back in time. Photo – Marnie Hawson
It’s all set on a glorious 150-acre property, featuring lush green surrounds. Photo – Marnie Hawson
A true country stay, complete with lemons from the gardens. Photo – Marnie Hawson
Guests are often treated to fresh produce and flowers from the garden. Photo – Marnie Hawson
There’s an established orchid with apple, pear, quince, grapefruit, lime, lemon and pear trees. Photo – Marnie Hawson
The couple have also collaborated with other vendors to host tranquil ‘supper’ events at the property. Photo – Marnie Hawson
Towering trees amid rolling greens. Photo – Marnie Hawson
Dunmore Farm is located nearby the stunning King Valley and Milawa gourmet region, where you can enjoy delicious local food and wines from the region. Photo – Marnie Hawson
You might even spot the farm’s Angus Cattle on your stay. Photo – Marnie Hawson
‘Curating a relaxed and understated space (often experienced on my travels) was my inspiration’, says Bec. Photo – Marnie Hawson
