11 May 2026

Hundreds Celebrate Mother’s Day Weekend at the Historic Kurrumbede Homestead!

Hundreds of people have celebrated Mother’s Day weekend at the historic Kurrumbede Homestead near Gunnedah for Whitehaven’s annual open day event.

Delivered in partnership with the Dorothea Mackellar Memorial Society, the 2026 Kurrumbede Open Day was held on Saturday, 9 May with visitors spending the day enjoying local entertainment, hands-on activities and a rare opportunity to experience the historic homestead grounds.

Whitehaven General Manager Community Engagement, Liam Stower, said the day reflected what Kurrumbede does best, connecting people to place and to one another.

“It was a privilege to welcome local residents, neighbours and visitors to Kurrumbede on Saturday,” Mr Stower said. “Days like this are an opportunity to bring the community together, celebrate local talent and create special moments for families, while sharing pride in our region’s story.”

Once owned by the family of renowned Australian poet Dorothea Mackellar, the 6,600-acre Kurrumbede property was purchased by the family in 1905, and was operated as a sheep, cattle and mixed cropping enterprise for almost 40 years.

As a significant landmark in the region’s history, the homestead has only been opened to the public a handful of times in the past century. Saturday saw families and visitors enjoy sulky and stagecoach rides, sheep shearing and working dog demonstrations, whip cracking, a petting zoo, historical displays, face painting and art activities alongside market stalls, and local food vendors.

Saturday also included a special rendition of Dorothea Mackellar’s My Country in Gomeroi language, and a presentation from local historian Peter Crook.

Dorothea Mackellar Memorial Society President, Rebecca Ryan, said the Open Day was an important opportunity for the community to connect with the history and legacy of Kurrumbede.

“Kurrumbede is deeply connected to Dorothea Mackellar’s story and to the cultural history of this region,” said Ms Ryan. “Events like this give families and visitors a rare chance to experience the homestead grounds, reflect on that legacy and enjoy the property as a shared community space.”

Mr Stower said Whitehaven was proud to work alongside the Dorothea Mackellar Memorial Society and the many performers, local businesses and community groups who contributed to the day.

Back to News