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MOKANGER HOMESTEAD COMPLEX

Location Mokanger Road, CAVENDISH VIC 3314 - Property No 0080 File Number 197 Level Stage 2 study complete

[1/1] 23543 Copy of 4310 South

Statement of Significance

What is significant?
The Mokanger Homestead complex, comprising the remaining second homestead (with many later additions) and the stables, is located on the north side of Mokanger Road about 8.0kms east of the township of Cavendish and opposite the continuing South Mokanger property where the woolshed complex is located. Edward Barnett had taken up the Mokanger run between 1839 and 1841. Thomas and Andrew Chirnside obtained the squatting licence in 1846 and held it until 1876. The core of the present homestead may date from the mid-1860s based on its scale, form and detailing. The substantial bluestone stables, which were once located behind the original cottage and detached kitchen date from the 1840s. The Chirnside family was largely based at Werribee Park, but Wyndam visited Mokanger and used it to raise thoroughbreds as well as to grow wool. Their famous stallion, 'Sir Peter' was at stud at Mokanger in the 1840s. Mokanger, Mount William and Mount William Plains were known as their Wannon runs. In 1885, Alexander McEdward, an absentee landlord, purchased Mokanger. When his widow Alexandrina died in 1900, the AML&F Company took over the freehold land. In 1910, John William and Alice Gardiner purchased Mokanger. The original house was extended at that time with a new weatherboard wing built across the front, and again in 1929. The homestead block was sold in 1976. The two buildings retain a high degree of integrity and are in excellent condition.

How is it significant?
The Mokanger Homestead complex is of historical and architectural significance to the Southern Grampians Shire.

Why is it significant?
The Mokanger Homestead complex is of historical significance for its direct associations with Thomas and Andrew Chirnside, two of the most important pastoralists in Victoria. In particular, the bluestone stables dating from the 1840s demonstrate their commitment and interest in thoroughbred racing. The homestead complex is of architectural significance because it retains early building fabric within the present house as well as several later layers, each reflecting the values, interests and capacities of the Chirnsides and of the later owners, the Gardiner family, owners for seventy-five years.