Bethany Cottages, QUEENSLAND
Airing Date: Sep 1st, 2003
Located in Queensland's peanut country, Kingaroy, Bethany Farm is a three hour drive from Brisbane.
The working farm has been the home of Sir Joh Bjelke-Petersen and his family for more than 80 years. Sir Joh was Queensland's premier for 19 years. He was loved, he was loathed and he was definitely controversial - and now you can stay at his place.
Every year thousands of people visit this legendary farm to hear stories about Sir Joh. Twice a week John - Sir Joh's son - conducts a 90 minute tour around the 900 acre property. During each tour, guests are driven to various points of interest along the way, including the family office where lots of memorabilia and photos are kept.
Afterwards, guests are invited to enjoy tea and pumpkin scones with Sir Joh's family. The scone recipe is part of a family tradition passed down the generations, and they are an absolute treat to anyone lucky enough to try them.
Also on the property are two modern western red cedar cottages that can comfortably sleep up to four people. Perched on a hill the cottages offer spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Each cottage is fully self-contained and features a combined lounge and dining room with a fold-out sofa bed, entertainment system, reverse-cycle air conditioning and a fireplace for chilly evenings. The modern kitchen has a fridge, microwave and stove top, and a barbecue is also available.
The facts
Accommodation at Bethany Cottages starts from just $90 a night for a three night stay with a light breakfast throw in.
The farm tour costs just $7, including pumpkin scones. Tours run Wednesday and Saturday.
Bethany Cottages
Tel: 07 4162 7046
Tourism Queensland
Tel: 13 88 33
