The pair purchased the 80-acre Woolsthorpe property in January 2016 and have big plans for the stately home.

“Quamby” is the Koori name for “resting place” and the Doery family are hoping to continue this legacy, inviting guests to their property all year round for weddings, events, bed and breakfast accommodation and bush-walks.

Rebecca Riddle met with Samantha Doery for this week’s Q&A.

What do you most love about living at Quamby Homestead? The garden, it was the first thing that drew me in. We’d looked at about 40 places between NSW and South Australia and when I saw this place I said to my husband “We have to have it.”

Describe Quamby in three words? Ambiance, History, Tranquil.

If you could live anywhere else in the world where would you choose? The Outback. It’s the opposite to here but now it’s too isolated, we’re too old and the kids are too settled.

Tea or coffee? Both.

What is your favourite holiday destination? Camping in the outback, or Italy.

What are you reading at the moment? It changes all the time, depends on what book we’re reading in book club at the time.

If you had a million dollars what would you do with it? Buy a farm. Actually you’d need lots more than that for a farm these days so maybe a holiday house.

What career did you want to pursue when you were a teenager? An air-hostess but I was too short. I also wanted to be a Mothercare midwife.

What would your ideal Sunday involve? Having all the family together for a barbecue in the paddock. 

If you could choose to go back 100 years or forward 100 years what would you do and why? I’d definitely go back. I love old-fashioned things. When ladies were ladies and gentlemen were gentlemen. I love those old fashions too.

What recipe are you renowned for cooking  for family or friends? Dips. I love cooking. My pork belly usually turns out okay.

What is the best advice you’ve been given or a motto to choose to live by? Just be happy.

Where do you see yourself in 20 years? ​In Port Fairy.