
An old converted butter factory in South Australia’s Riverland region, which never produced a single pound of butter but once served as the proud home of a country music legend, has been listed for sale, adding a new chapter to its storied history
Built in the early 20th century and known locally as the Old Butter Factory, 7 Macdonald Rd, Monash has served many purposes, including as the home of Kadina-born music legend Dean “Rocky” Page and wife Viv.
The late country music star was known for hits such as A Hundreds Thousand Aces and Good Old Aussie Beer and for appearing on weekly radio and TV programs throughout the fifties and sixties.
He counted Slim Dusty, Lonnie Lee, Chad Morgan among his many friends and was instrumental in establishing the South Australian Country Music Awards and Rocky’s Hall of Fame and Pioneers Museum in Barmera.
He also treasured his Monash home which sold to Ian and Jenny Schober only a year after his passing in 1997.
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Mr Schober said the couple spend significant time and resources to transform the property into an executive home and boutique BnB.
“Before renovations could commence, all the old outbuildings attached to the stone section had to be removed – so that’s where the renovating began,” Mr Schober said.
“It was practically stripped bare, leaving only the stone walls, the roof rafters, and all its charm. We wanted to restore the character of the beautiful old stone building to its former glory.
“We finished so it’s time to move on. While we’ve really enjoyed the experience of renovating, we’d like to see someone else live the dream. We’re looking for something smaller and are excited about retirement.”
According to the Berri Barmera Council, the butter factory, located about 2km from Barmera on the Sturt Highway to Monash, was established by the Irrigation Commission over 100 years ago.
The building has served various purposes over the years, including being use by local farmers, soldiers, sporting clubs, limestone production, and as a shearing shed.
In 1920, lime kilns were installed, and at its peak, about 600 men were employed there, many living on-site.
During the early 1920s, the Soldier Settler’s Co-operative Scheme operated its office and sporting teams’ headquarters from the factory.
By 1939, the building had become a shearing shed, and the butter factory project was abandoned, with the building never having processed any milk or producing butter.
It was later converted into a residence by Rocky Page and his wife.
Lead agent Greg Cram said he’s expecting a wide range of different buyers to take interest in the historic home.
“This property will appeal to a wide range of buyers,” he Cram said.
“It’s perfect for investors seeking a unique asset, those interested in running a country-style Airbnb, or families looking for a lifestyle property to call home.
“We’re running a campaign particularly targeting buyers from outside the area. Our goal is to secure an outstanding result that reflects the labour of love poured into this property.”
Expressions of Interest close February 28, unless sold prior.
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- Source: https://www.realestate.com.au/news/buyers-tune-into-sale-of-county-music-icons-factory-home/