Pirra Homestead
stands as one of Lara’s most significant heritage landmarks, reflecting more
than 165 years of local history.
From its origins
as pastoral land in the mid-19th century to its restoration as a community and
events destination, the property’s story mirrors the development of the region
itself.
Today, thanks to
the stewardship of Bisinella Developments, Pirra Homestead continues to be
preserved and reimagined for future generations.
The story begins
in 1856, when Robert De Little, an architect and builder from Launceston,
purchased the original Pirra landholdings at a Crown auction in Geelong.
At the time, the
surrounding district was expanding as pastoral enterprises grew across
Victoria.
In 1863, the
property was purchased by George Fairbairn Senior, one of Australia’s most
prosperous pastoralists, who established a thriving sheep station on the land.
Around this time, Pirra Cottage was constructed, forming the earliest
residential structure on the property.
Between 1880 and
1882, the site underwent its most significant architectural transformation with
the construction of the grand two-storey mansion that still defines Pirra
Homestead today.
By 1895, the
estate - then known as Windermere - was inherited by George Fairbairn Junior
and his wife Jessie. While living primarily in Toorak, the couple used the
property as a rural retreat.
The property
entered a new chapter in 1907 when the Pirra landholdings were sold to the
Victorian Government. Soon after, the Lara Inebriates Institution was
established on the site, operating until 1930.
In 1938, James
Dougal McDonald of Euroa purchased the property and returned the land to
agricultural use, running sheep and growing crops. The site later evolved again
in 1946-1948 when the State’s Tobacco Company leased the property for tobacco
processing.
A major change
came in 1948 when Oscar and Edna Mendelsohn purchased the estate and renamed it
“Serendip,” meaning “happy place.” The tobacco facility was replaced with a
Pelaco clothing factory, while the large reservoir on the property was declared
a sanctuary to protect birdlife.
In 1959,
approximately 600 acres surrounding the reservoir were transferred to the State
Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, forming what is now Serendip Sanctuary.
The homestead
itself took on another social role in 1961 when the Pirra Girls’ Home opened,
operating until 1983. The property was later leased to local artists, creating
a creative hub within the historic estate.
In 1996, the Victorian Government sold Pirra to a private owner. A decade later, in 2006, the property entered a defining new phase when it was acquired by Bisinella Developments, a Lara business with deep ties to the region.
Recognising
Pirra’s historic significance, Bisinella undertook an extensive restoration
project aimed at preserving the homestead’s heritage character while returning
it to community use.
By 2009, Pirra
Homestead had re-emerged as a vibrant community venue, hosting the inaugural
Lara Food and Wine Festival and welcoming thousands of visitors back to the
property.
The restoration
was formally completed in 2012, with ongoing conservation continuing today.
Pirra Homestead
now stands as a beautifully preserved heritage site and a unique venue for
community events, cultural gatherings and weddings.
Through careful
stewardship and investment, Bisinella Developments has ensured Pirra Homestead
remains both a treasured historical landmark and a living part of Lara’s
community life.