Discovering Belgenny Farm, Australia's Agricultural Icon
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- 2 min read
Tucked into the agricultural countryside near the township of Camden lies Belgenny Farm, home to Australia’s oldest collection of colonial farm buildings. Located on the traditional lands of the Dharawal people, this State Heritage Listed site is recognised as the birthplace of the Australian wool, dairy, wine, and horticulture industries, providing a remarkable window into Australia’s Colonial agricultural past.
Starting your day in Camden South with a smooth White Horse Coffee from Southie Coffee House, you’ll find an inviting space, genuinely personable staff, and lots of laughter heard between staff and customers. This is a place that gives the phrase “a local’s place” true meaning.
Load up on coffee and a fresh pastry, then make your way to nearby Belgenny Farm. Driving in, you’ll most likely spot a herd of sheep, grazing cattle and some resident kangaroos resting under big bushy trees.
Originally known as Home Farm, Belgenny Farm formed part of Camden Park Estate. A 2000-hectare property granted in 1805 to pioneering settlers John and Elizabeth Macarthur, with the aim of developing wool production and export. Starting with Spanish Merino sheep from the Royal flock in England, The Macarthur’s played a significant role in shaping early Australian agriculture through the wool industry, dairying, horticulture, and viticulture.
After purchasing your entry ticket, you’re free to roam and explore each of the 15 original colonial buildings, some of the oldest surviving in Australia. From the 1820s, these buildings once supported agricultural operations on the farm, including a granary, stables, blacksmith workshop, smokehouse and creamery. As you move through each building, there is signage for you to learn more and explore, helping you to imagine farm life here some 200 plus years ago. At Belgenny Cottage, you can even see Australia’s first $2 banknote up close, with two faces you may just recognise.
After an insightful step back in time, it’s time for lunch and there’s no better place than Camden. Camden is a village treasure, packed full of excellent places to eat such as Jally’s and Barenz, local pubs and a variety of international cuisines. For the tastiest Vietnamese banh mi’s, order from Baylee’s Pork Roll & Pies. Their rolls are crispy, light, and filled to the brim with all the best ingredients. Be sure to leave room for dessert from Arta Atelier, where airy, creamy and decadent pastries are sublime.
A visit to Belgenny Farm is both insightful and nostalgic. An immersive experience that invites you to wander, learn, and connect with the stories that helped shape Australia’s agricultural heritage, and continues to do so today. A hidden gem, right on your doorstep, take the family. They will love it. Explore with West.
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