“Akhira”

Local rumour has it that this significant homestead was built from the proceeds of gold gleaned from the river behind the home by the notable early South Australian builder Patrick Hynes. It was his personal home.
Strategically located on the very edge of the then Blumberg Village (now Birdwood) this much admired 1870 home is beautifully enhanced by the surrounding rich river flats, and its’ substantial frontage to the River Torrens.

This picturesque section of the River meanders through the centre of the property, from one boundary to the next, ebbing and flowing with the seasons.Even in the drier months the river gently flows, past ancient river gums and through private water-holes which provide places of peace and beauty. During winter when the rains come, the true river character is regained as the water rushes by on its way, via the Torrens Gorge, to the City of Adelaide below.

Aside from its superb rural setting, the large and imposing homestead itself will excite lovers of our early colonial architecture. As this was his family home, Patrick Hynes built it true and strong with sweeping concave verandahs to all six sides, protecting the thick bluestone walls from the elements. This home has certainly withstood the often taxing test of time.

To ensure longevity, the home underwent a programme of profession restoration around 20 years ago. During this time it was also upgraded, realigning it to modern needs and lifestyle requirements.

The layout of the home is such that some of the northern rooms with their separate entrance could easily be used for farm-stay accommodation. This would align nicely with home business use (s.t.c.) such as its previous life as the “Akhira Alpaca Stud and Shop”.

This established well-known property, with its excellent grazing abilities and infra-structure, would also suit a wide range of exciting Stud possibilities.

Other Features of interest include:

“The Homestead”
* Superb main entrance with arched hallway.
* 7 principal rooms. All under main roof.
* 3.5m (11ft 6in) ceilings some with ornate Victorian Cove cornicing.
* Elegant marble and timber fireplaces. (fireplaces to 5 rooms)
* Leadlight by E.F. Troy.
* 2 large heritage style bathrooms.
* Huge country kitchen with cosy combustion heating and some original flag-stone flooring.
* Original servant’s kitchen and bake-house. (now laundry and store).
* Surrounded by 1.8m (6ft) concave verandahs.
* Lacework and many original fittings.

Other Improvements include:
* Near-new 12mx7.5m colourbond garage (4 vehicles)
* Iron clad barn converted to gallery/studio. Also make a fabulous games and entertaining room.
* Attached covered parking for 3 more vehicles.
* Workshop for machinery and farm equipment repairs.
* Good fencing. Central race. Some larger paddocks with numerous smaller holding areas.

Water
* Mains supply.
* Large underground tank plus galv tank at house.
* Large cement tank at gallery/entertaining room.
* Bore plus riparian rights over river.
* Troughs to paddocks.
* Concrete ford over river

“Akhira” is truly a unique property, offering a wonderful semi-rural lifestyle with the possibility of use for eco-tourism or home business, in an historic setting only 2 minutes or so from the Birdwood township and all local facilities.