July 25, 2o23
More than 800 visitors from across south-east Queensland took advantage of the great weather at the weekend to visit the old Stonehouse at Moore.
The annual open weekend, hosted by Stonehouse owners Loretta and John Eastwood, provides visitors and local residents an opportunity to see how the restoration of the historic buildings on the private property is progressing.
Visitors left their vehicles in Moore and caught a bus to travel the four kilometres to the site.
The Stonehouse complex consists of three buildings, believed to have served as an inn, a storehouse and a kitchen.
“Stonehouse always photographs well, but there is nothing like visiting these grand buildings in person,” Friends of Stonehouse member Kate Dohle said.
“There is a spirited ambience to Stonehouse and today was no exception.”
Kate said the magnificent draught horses nearly stole the show, pulling a pie cart and sleigh around the area.
Visitors also enjoyed a range of entertainment, including music by the Sempf Family and singer / songwriter Tony Foran, and a display of spinning by Susan Goddard.
There was also bush poetry and author Elizabeth DeLacy spoke about her latest research, on Frank Williams, a nephew of Stonehouse builder Robert Williams.
Former South Burnett councillor Barry Green, from the Nanango History Room, interviewed Blackbutt District Tourism and Heritage Association president Noeleen Bird, who is a great-niece of Robert.
“We had woodworkers from all over south-east Queensland, including the Yarraman Men’s Shed,” Kate said.
“There were photography, quilts and clothing markets.”
Brisbane Valley Heritage Inc and Friends of Stonehouse, History, Restoration and Conservation Inc also had stalls.
“Next year Stonehouse celebrates its sesquicentenary so be sure to mark July 27-28 in your 2024 calendar!” Kate said.
* * *
Robert Williams emigrated to Australia with his extended family from Gloucestershire in 1873.
Soon after arriving, he bought 2000 acres when Colinton Station was broken up and began building the collection of structures which came to be known as the Moore Stonehouse.
The hand-hewn stone buildings, built on the old coach road to Nanango at the foot of the Blackbutt Range, were erected between 1874 and 1888.
They served as the district’s hotel, inn, post office and stagecoach stop and quickly became famous, earning a mention in the 1880s folk song, “Brisbane Ladies”.
After a colourful career, Williams died in 1907 and was buried in the local cemetery.
Related articles:
