Moana Kuewa

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		2010.01.04 - 2010.01.06 AUSTRALIA Kangaroo Island Stranraer Homestead Location: AUSTRALIA Kangaroo Island Robert and Mary Wheaton purchased the land at MacGillivray in 1911 from the Burgess family. the 1295 hectares purchased includes two lagoons filled with abundant bird and wildlife. The homestead is situated on a rising slope in the centre of the property commanding a view over the land. Centrally located 30 kilometres from Kingscote and towards the South Coast of the island, the farm has some unusual geographic features such as the small hills or "hummocks" surrounding White Lagoon which have created interest for geologists and other scientists over the years. To the north of the property is Rush Lagoon, a fresh water area that has been the main source of stock water for the property since 1911. These lagoons support 45 species of water birds, including Cape Barren geese, Musk duck and Banded stilts from Jan to March. Stranraer was named by Robert and Mary Wheaton because Mary's ancestors resided in Stranraer Scotland and the town is regarded as a very safe port so they thought it applicable to the MacGillivray property. In 1920 the homestead was commenced, and it took 5 years to complete construction of the 80 square building. The house was constructed from limestone, which was taken from the property. A shearing shed, which is near the homestead, and still in use, was constructed in 1936, again using limestone from the property. Over the years the farm became very productive and today produces prime lamb, wool and grain. The homestead has been restored to its former glory. Work on the restoration commenced in 1994 and was completed in 1998. The homestead is as it was, with molded ceilings, high walls and an inviting fireplace in each room. three rooms are offered to guests, all large personalized bathrooms. Graham & Lyn Wheaton purchased the homestead from Graham’s older brother and have created a premier bed-and –breakfast. Graham is the third-generation to manage Stranraer Homestead; his son, Jason, is the fourth generation; and his grandson, Jack, is the fifth generation. Yes, there are three generations of Wheatons on the property. Graham & Lyn Wheaton personally welcome you with a warmth of hospitality that embraces you. They make you feel like royalty from the first moment you step though the door and are genuinely interested in each guest’s stories and background. Likewise, guests are very interested in their family stories. Jeff and Chris really feel that Graham & Lyn have lived an “American Wild, Wild, West life” only Australian style. Over the last eight-years, Lyn did the redecorating and prepares all the gourmet meals – REAL GOURMET MEALS! Chris has stayed and eaten in 5-Star hotels and restaurants around the world an no one compared with the environment or dining experience that Lyn provided. What a wonderful surprise to find such a place in such a remote corner of the world. Traveling Individuals Names: Jeffrey Cheske & Christine Bauman * Some of the history is taken from http://www.stranraer.com.au/C]