The Camperdown-district landmark, set on the shores of Lake Purrumbete, dates back to the 1850s but has undergone several changes since then to become one of Australia’s finest examples of art nouveau architecture.

Agents are remaining tight-lipped on the selling price for the homestead, which sold for $4.5 million about five years ago.

All Commercial Real Estate’s Jim Richardson said the “extraordinary property” would be well-suited to a boutique hotel, wedding venue or luxury family home. He said the property’s commercial kitchen could also lend itself to a gourmet culinary school or other commercial venture.

Settled by the pioneering Manifold brothers in 1842, the property features a massive 130-square bluestone homestead with 10 bedrooms and 10 bathrooms.

Its great hall features an intricate art nouveau interior including a carved wooden screen by Robert Prenzel and six murals by artist Walter Withers depicting the district’s settlement.

The property also includes two renovated cottages, coach house, blacksmith shop and stables, as well as a private jetty, tea rooms, manicured lawns and sprawling gardens.

“It’s a snapshot of history,” Mr Richardson said.

About 400 of the 450-acre (170-hectare) property is leased as farming land. 

Mr Richardson said the current owners had spent a “small fortune” restoring the homestead, including replacing much of the roof, upgrading the electrics, installing hydronic heating and renovating the shearers’, or single men’s, quarters.

He said the current owners were retiring and now looking to downsize.

“They are retiring from business and now want to do a bit more travel. They had a lot of fun there and now they’re ready to retire,” he said.