ROOM to breathe.
That was the reason behind Lynda and Lauchlan McIntosh’s move to Bungedore from Canberra 14 years ago.
The McIntosh’s purchased “Mingarry” – a 16 hectare farm featuring a beautiful, historic homestead.
They fell in love with the view – Lake George to the north and Bungendore village to the south.
They saw room to run a small cattle stud and scope to lovingly restore the farm’s homestead which was built in 1880.
Both projects were executed with glee.
In 2003 the couple added a whole new wing to the home, building upon the extension work done by the previous owners in the 1990s.
“It’s a classic Australian colonial-style home. We not only extended the house but renovated it in its entirety all the while keeping in line with the original style,” Mrs McIntosh said.
The home now features four bedrooms and two bathrooms. Wide verandahs wrap around the house and two living rooms offer ample space for a family.
The home was built by the Chinnery family who owned “Mingarry” until the 1950ss when a 16ha (40 acre) block was sliced off the then 80ha (2000 acre) property.
Now, the McIntosh’s are selling to be closer to grandchildren in Canberra and the property has been listed for sale with the team at Ray White Bungendore.
“We’ll miss our home very much but it’s best for us to downsize and allow someone else to enjoy it as much as we have.”
The McIntoshs agreed the best part about Bungendore was its “village-feel” and proximity to services.
“My sister and her husband had previously moved to Bungendore and we were taken with the lifestyle and thought we would seek out the same for ourselves.
“It was a wonderful move.”
The sale will see the dispersal of their stud herd – Mingarry Black Simmentals.
The Land’s readers may be familiar with the stud, which featured in past Southern Beef Week events.
Water on the property is ample thanks to two dams and a bore with a submersible pump.
Working improvements include cattle yards, extensive shedding and water storage.