A beautiful old homestead built in the region's boom period for a recognised Australian explorer, with minimal alterations. (Tansley, 1978)

The Briars, a late example of the Italianate style is of State significance for its historical associations with William Carr Boyd, notable explorer; the McCracken family, well-known brewers, and Paul De Castella, prominent landowner and vigneron. The garden is of regional significance and contains some indivudually fine mature tree specimens and is of contributory significance to the homestead. The prominent hilltop setting makes the mature garden a significant landmark of the area. (NT, 4935)

A large single-storey solid-brick homestead of the Victorian-Italianate style. It has a two-storey tower with a balustraded cornice, a corrugated iron roof and a wide verandah on two sides. (Tansley, 1978)

Physical Conditions: Excellent