179 Donnellans Road

Millbrook VIC 3352

Oakvale is regarded as one of the region's architecturally and historically important country houses. Built in c.1875 by the McDowell family, the house was designed in the Victorian Georgian vernacular. The grand 325 m2 three storey solid brick homestead presents an exciting and rewarding renovation and restoration project for those looking for an escape to the country, a historic house rescue, heritage accommodation venture or to simply realise your dream of owning the perfect family country estate.Oakvale is structurally solid and retains all the fine architectural features associated with a house of this importance magnificent brickwork, high ceilings, deep cornices, wide architraves, original paintwork, solid shirting boards, rosettes, sash windows, fireplaces, and pine flooring. Internally, the house is a blank canvas ready for a sympathetic restoration, with over 3 levels comprising of 10 main rooms, including the raised basement, which housed the original kitchen and servants' quarters. All rooms are large and have the understated symmetry found in Georgian houses. There is power to the property, a 34,000 litre inground concrete water tank and good shedding. The corrugated roof is new, ground floor bearers and joists replaced, and Californian Redwood window frames, doors and architraves stored in the house ready for installation.A sense of drama is created the moment you arrive at Oakvale. A glimpse of the imposing house is viewed from the tree lined winding drive with an aesthetic reminiscent of the English countryside. Framed by a volcanic hill known as Black Hill, the house is situated on 2.454 ha (6.06 acres). The garden is ready for the horticultural enthusiast to design and create a garden of botanical interest with a scattering of magnificent mature oaks, walnut and chestnut trees, and Manna gums. The soils at Oakvale are exceptional, with volcanic, rich red/brown fertile soils perfect for any plant growth.The residence is located in a region that is historically rich and culturally and environmentally diverse. Within 20 minutes, you are in the historic rural city of Ballarat. Melbourne and Tullamarine Airport is approximately 1hr 10 minsand the rail station is only 15 mins away. Oakvale offers a once in a lifetime opportunity to secure and restore an important country house suitable as a gracious country family house, weekend country escape or a tourism venture. The possibilities are only limited by your imagination.Even Mr. Darcy would approve !!Viewing by appointment only. For further details contact Dominic Romeo.0438500277dominicromeo@historicproperty.com.auwww.historicproperty.com.auDISCLAIMER: All dimensions are approximate only. Particulars given are for general information only and do not constitute any representation on the part of the Vendor or Agent. All prospective buyers must undertake their own due diligence.