Downer Family Barossa Estate Hits Market

According to realestate.com.au on 4 November 2026, A 31.26-hectare Barossa Valley estate at 55 Wirra Wirra Rd, Pewsey Vale, linked to the Downer political family, has been placed on the market through Harris Real Estate, with offers closing 18 November unless sold prior.

The Property and Its History

Built in 1901 by sheep farmer Murray Dawson, the Georgian-style manor has had only four owners. Sir Alick Downer—Immigration Minister under Menzies and High Commissioner to the UK from 1964 to 1972—and his wife Lady Mary lived in the home from 1974 until their respective deaths in 1981 and 2014. Their son Alexander Downer served as Australia's longest-serving Foreign Affairs Minister. Current vendors Peter and Marijan Bulley acquired the property from the Downer family in 2015.

The five-bedroom home underwent extensive renovation by the Downers shortly after taking up residence. The Bulleys have carried out further restoration, including upgraded wiring, replumbing and full insulation. According to the vendors, Sir Alick's original correspondence with architectural firm Woods Bagot and hand-drawn building plans from the 1975 renovation will pass to the next owner.

The working estate retains fruit trees, a vegetable patch, almost 5 hectares of vineyards, approximately 200 heritage roses and 120-year-old English oaks brought from England. A self-contained three-bedroom historic barn has been used as Airbnb accommodation.

Source: realestate.com.au, 4 November 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Who were the notable residents of the Pewsey Vale estate?

Sir Alick Downer—Immigration Minister under Menzies and High Commissioner to the UK from 1964 to 1972—and his wife Lady Mary lived in the home from 1974 until their respective deaths in 1981 and 2014.

What improvements have been made to the property?

What features does the working estate include?

The working estate retains fruit trees, a vegetable patch, almost 5 hectares of vineyards, approximately 200 heritage roses and 120-year-old English oaks brought from England.

When was the property built and by whom?

Built in 1901 by sheep farmer Murray Dawson, the Georgian-style manor has had only four owners.

This article was produced with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy. Content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or property investment advice.