Title

Raby, a farm belonging to Alexander Riley Esq., New South Wales. [by Joseph Lycett]

Author

Author not identified

Source

[Not applicable]

Publication date

1825

Type

About the work

Language

English

Country of context

Australia

Full text

Raby, a farm belonging to Alexander Riley Esq., New South Wales.

THE Farm of RABY is situated upon the Cow-Pasture Road leading to the NEPEAN, at the distance of thirty-two miles from SYDNEY. It consists of three thousand acres, and forms one of those striking contrasts which agreeably surprise the traveller in the forests of this country, on suddenly coming in view of the vast openings cleared by the industry of man. This Estate is remarkable for having, on its southern boundary, the commanding Piece of water that, in a connecting chain of small ponds, forms the head of the SOUTH CREEK, one of the principal and most important branches of the HAWKESBURY RIVER. The Pasture here is of the most fertile character, and is principally devoted to the grazing of fine-woolled Sheep; from fifteen hundred to two thousand of which valuable animals are every night hurdled on a fresh site, on the hill where the Superintendant's House is seen, in flocks containing about three hundred and fifty each, formed round the bark-hut and fire of a Watchman, who is necessarily on the alert to prevent the unwelcome visits of the native Dog. Such is the mildness of the climate, that no shelter is ever required for these Sheep, even in the depth of Winter, which is the Lambing Season; nor, except on very few occasions, is any other food prepared for them, except the natural grass of the surrounding Pastures.

The land is a dark loamy soil, calculated for every purpose of agriculture. The Timber is, as usual of the Eucalyptus species, and, from its size, adapted for every purpose of buildings, &c.

The grounds in front of the building are planted with numerous Orange-trees, and laid out in a very pleasing and tasteful manner.

Fish of every kind, natural to this country, are to be caught in great abundance. Wild Fowl, particularly Wild Ducks, Teal, and Pidgeon are found in ROSE BAY; and Quails are bred in the Bush close behind the Villa.

To complete the comforts and convenience of this Australian Palace, a carriage-road has been made, at a very considerable expense, through the Bush, direct to SYDNEY, rendering the journey by land as pleasant and agreeable as the voyage by water.

Accompanying text, 1825.

Last Updated

28 Sep 2020