Strathnairn Homestead, Australian Capital Territory

The land was originally part of a grant awarded to explorer Captain Charles Sturt in 1838.

[1] The Baird family ran Strathnairn as a sheep and cattle property from 1934 until 1974 when it was resumed by the Commonwealth Government.

Strathnairn Arts Centre continues to provide working spaces and facilities for artists, crafts people and community groups.

When Jack gave up the lease in 1931 it was transferred to David Bruce Elphinstone who made further additions.

He and his brother Samuel owned several pastoral runs in the Western District of Victoria which included Glengowe, Warrong and Woodlands which were acquired between 1866 and 1886.

[14] Matthew also owned Mount Bute near Skipton and a large residence in St Kilda, Melbourne.

[18] Ian lived with his family at Bombala, NSW until 1917 when they all moved to a property called Birroon near Gunning.

[19] Shortly before his marriage Ian acquired Strathnairn and progressively added rooms to the house.

The final extension to the north of the homestead was designed by Ken Oliphant, a notable Canberra architect[20] and was completed in 1938.

The couple was very active within the community and often hosted groups which were involved in land management issues including soil conservation.

Nell Baird participated in local charities and community groups and was president of Canberra YWCA.

The Government wanted to establish Strathnairn as a community centre to enable people to express themselves creatively.

In addition the Strathnairn Homestead Galleries feature regular mixed media exhibitions.