UPDATE: The prestigious Minimbah House in the Hunter Valley has officially sold for just under its $10 million asking price, marking a significant milestone after nearly two years on the market. This exquisite 45-room estate, considered one of Australia’s finest country properties, was sold off-market by Cain Beckett of Jurds Real Estate, generating substantial interest from buyers across the globe.
The property, located on the outskirts of Singleton, was initially listed for sale in February 2024. While the exact sale price remains undisclosed, Beckett confirmed the deal concluded close to the original guide, highlighting the immense demand for such unique properties.
“We removed it from the market, but we were still intending to sell,” Beckett stated. “The property generated an extreme amount of interest, including international buyers, but mostly from Sydney, and also locally.” Notably, the two most engaged buyers were local residents, underscoring the region’s appeal.
The new owner, Jack Henderson, founder of Henderson Advocacy, expressed his excitement on social media, stating, “Very excited to announce that we have finally purchased this incredible 150-year-old property in the Hunter Valley.” Henderson plans to transform Minimbah House into a luxury wedding venue, with bookings set to commence in 2026.
Beckett described the sale as a remarkable win for the Hunter Valley region, stating, “It establishes the Hunter Valley alongside other regional areas like Byron Bay and the Southern Highlands. It shows that the Hunter Valley has the property, we have the interest, and we have the value.”
Constructed between 1874 and 1877 by Benjamin Backhouse, the mansion was originally designed for pastoralist Duncan Forbes Mackay. The estate has a storied history, having been sold as a dilapidated property in 2013 for just $1.1 million. The previous owners, Prue and Hamish Ord, invested significantly in restoring the property, transforming it into a luxurious family residence.
Minimbah House boasts nine bedrooms and nine bathrooms, set on a sprawling seven-acre estate. Its architectural grandeur includes original features such as 4.3-metre high ceilings, marble fireplaces, and a grand staircase crafted from Australian cedar and rosewood. The residence also features extensive outdoor amenities, including a tennis court, an in-ground swimming pool, and mature fig trees estimated to be over 100 years old.
As the Hunter Valley continues to attract attention from high-end buyers and investors, the sale of Minimbah House signifies a growing appreciation for the region’s luxurious lifestyle offerings.
Looking ahead, industry experts will be monitoring how this sale influences property values and interest in the Hunter Valley, with Henderson’s plans for a luxury wedding venue likely to further elevate the area’s status. The transformation of Minimbah House into a premier events location could also draw more visitors, enhancing the local economy and spotlighting the region’s rich heritage and natural beauty.
Stay tuned for more updates as the story develops.
