Anambah House

Item details

Name of item: Anambah House
Type of item: Built
Group/Collection: Residential buildings (private)
Category: House
Location: Lat: -32.6893930536 Long: 151.5065654340
Primary address: 200 Anambah Road, Anambah, NSW 2320
Parish: Gosforth
County: Northumberland
Local govt. area: Maitland
Local Aboriginal Land Council: Mindaribba
Hectares (approx): 23.6
Property description
Lot/Volume CodeLot/Volume NumberSection NumberPlan/Folio CodePlan/Folio Number
LOT721 DP1191240

Boundary:

Increase boundary from Part Lot 70 DP 714785 to all Lot 721 DP 1191240 (except most of the driveway)
All addresses
Street AddressSuburb/townLGAParishCountyType
200 Anambah RoadAnambahMaitlandGosforthNorthumberlandPrimary Address

Owner/s

Organisation NameOwner CategoryDate Ownership Updated
 Private 

Statement of significance:

Anambah House is of State significance historically and aesthetically as a fine and substantially intact example of a prosperous late nineteenth century NSW grazier's homestead. The house is also significant as a major example of the work of J.W. Pender, a prominent Hunter Valley architect. Designed and built for pastoralist J.K. Mackay and erected in 1889, Anambah House lies within well-established gardens that retain some of their original late nineteenth century layout. The house and its mature plantings, together with the slight rise on which it stands, creates a landmark within the surrounding area. The homestead complex includes brick stables (1890), two small brick WCs (1889), a billiard room (1908), a timber barn (c.1890s) and formal entrance gates (c.1917). Despite encroaching suburban development, the homestead retains a connection with the Hunter River and a rural outlook from the north-west through to the south-east.
Date significance updated: 09 Feb 23
Note: The State Heritage Inventory provides information about heritage items listed by local and State government agencies. The State Heritage Inventory is continually being updated by local and State agencies as new information becomes available. Read the Department of Premier and Cabinet copyright and disclaimer.

Description

Designer/Maker: John Wiltshire Pender architect
Builder/Maker: J Frogley
Construction years: 1889-1906
Physical description: Anambah House is a large two storey Victorian mansion of sandstone brick and hipped slate roof with verandahs on three sides, punctuated by two elaborately stuccoed bays. At the rear of the house is a courtyard enclosed on three sides by the main house, kitchen wing and servants room. The Courtyard is further enclosed in 1907 with a latter addition of a separate structure, the billiard room. The homestead complex also includes various other outbuildings, sheds, a garage, dairy and stables.
The homestead is set at the top of a rise. Beyond the garden, the land falls way to the Hunter River in the east, the small tributary creek to the north (and the hills beyond this) and a lagoon to the south. This is a picturesque small lake which is a habitat for the many water birds which frequent the area. There is a significant view corridor in this direction. The surrounding paddocks, particularly to the north and west, provide a rural context, reflecting Anambah's previously large land holdings. Modern subdivisions are encroaching into the wider setting (NTA, 1986; Extent Heritage 2017; updated by WP Heritage and Planning in 2023).
Homestead:
Built 1889: A large two storey Victorian grazier's mansion of sandstock brick with a hipped slate roof. There are two storey cast-iron verandahs on three sides, punctuated by two elaborately stuccoed bays. At the rear is a courtyard enclosed on three sides by the main homestead, kitchen wing and servants' rooms and on the fourth side by the later (1908) billiard room, also to Pender's design. The homestead is in a good state of preservation internally and features polished cedar joinery throughout including the staircase and large folding doors are filled with small stained-glass panels depicting birds and butterflies. There are also two large stained glass windows and on the stair landing. The plasterwork to arches & ceiling cornices is also in good condition and quite elaborate. There are two pressed metal ceilings in upstairs bedrooms replacing earlier plaster ceilings & a pressed metal ceiling & dado in the billiard room. There are ten fireplaces of pink, black, grey or white marble. All feature different tiles to hearths and grates. The brass, porcelain-tipped picture rails and several of the large brass curtain rods are still in position. The main entrance hallway and verandahs feature floors of encaustic tiles in geometric patterns. Electric servant bell-pushes are still in position in most main rooms, although the original bell-board has disappeared and some of the gas brackets are still intact from the time when the house had its own gas generating plant.
Building Material: Sandstock brick, hipped slate roof, cast-iron verandahs, cedar joinery, pressed metal ceilings.
Stables:
Two storey, sandstock brick stable block includes grooms quarters and hay loft over buggy room, harness room and horse boxes with original wood-blocked floors.
Barn:
When the current owners purchased the land on which the barn stands, the nineteenth century slab barn was in a state of disrepair. The frame and hardwood beams were in place but the original hardwood cladding was termite infested and part had been replaced with sheets or klip lok. The original structural timbers were conserved in situ where possible and the structure stablised. A local timber mill, Sweetmans, cut replacement timbers to match where required. What could be salvaged of the original internal and external hardwood cladding was installed over two interior walls.
Garage & Dairy:
Weatherboard structures important only as part of the homestead group.
Outhouses:
Two small WCs constructed of sandstock brick. One for servants and one for the family. Built over deep brick-arched pits.
The Gardens:
Anambah House is set on a slight hill above a "lagoon" 5km north west of central Maitland. Its mature araucaria pines and silky oaks (Grevillea robusta) make it a prominent element in the surrounding countryside, which is generally cleared of tree vegetation. It is approached via a later service drive from Anambah Road, south west of the homestead, which has been planted with pines, native trees and African olives.
The southern side of the garden surrounding the homestead is fenced by a picket fence and Cape plumbago (P.capensis) and Cape honeysuckle/ tecoma (Tecomaria capensis) hedges. These are punctuated by wrought iron gates hung off elaborate gate posts which lead to the gravelled carriage loop which has brick edging and drains. The perimeter plantings of African olive, tecoma and silky oak enclose the garden to the east. A lawn, marked on old sketch plans as 'lawn tennis court,' with recently built pavilion lies to the north of the homestead. The garden has a collection of Brachychiton trees which include kurrajong (B. populneus), Queensland lacebark (B. discolor), bottle tree (B. rupestris) and an unusual hybrid Brachychiton.
Design Elements:
The front garden on the eastern side of the homestead has a simplified late 19th century layout. It is defined by its enclosing hedges and is dominated by a carriage loop, mature silky oaks, jacarandas, araucarias and brachychitons. More recent additions are tallow trees (Sapium sebiferum) and a fountain. The pattern of use has changed in recent years. The circular driveway is no longer in use and entry is now from the west side of the homestead, south of the stables.
To the rear (south) of the homestead are mature figs, stone pines (Pinus pinea) and African olives. There is an intimate courtyard featuring palms and a fountain linking the kitchen area and billiard room, which acts as the informal entrance to the main homestead.
Perceptual Elements:
Prominent views out of the garden are to the hills to the north and north east. The overall feeling in the garden, however, is one of enclosure with a focus on the strong design of the homestead and carriage loop. The vertical lines of the araucaria pines complement the height of the homestead. Small intimate spaces are provided by the billiard room lawn garden, the courtyard and the former tennis court area. The sense of a country grazier's property is evoked by the combination of plant material and there is a feeling of quiet retreat into a former era.
The formal homestead garden is approached through wrought iron gates hung on elaborately stuccoed brick gate posts set in a timber picket fence. The driveway and paths within this area are brick edged and guttered and were originally gravelled although they are now overgrown. Mature trees include bunya pines (Araucaria bidwillii), silky oaks (Grevillea robusta), jacarandas (J.mimosifolia), orchid trees (Bauhinia x variegata cv.s),frangipanis (Plumeria rubra cv.s) & a Queensland bottle tree. The garden was sheltered from the prevailing winds by windbreaks of native olives and hedges of `Orange Honeysuckle' (Cape honeysuckle/tecoma (Tecomaria capensis)). Outlines of formal beds can still be seen in what are now lawns.
Physical condition and/or
Archaeological potential: 		Physical condition is good.

The house is in a good state of preservation internally. The plasterwork to arches & ceiling cornices is also in good condition. The brass, porcelain-tipped picture rails & several of the large brass curtain rods are still in position. Electric servants bell-pushes are still in position in most main rooms, although the original bell-board has disappeared & some of the gas brackets are still intact from the time when the house had its own gas generating plant. The drawing room & dining rooms still have their original carpets although in somewhat worn condition. Externally the house is in good, if run-down, condition with original cast-iron lace all intact. (NTA, 1983).

The garden is in good condition and elements such as the hedges have been progressively restored by the present owners. Its basic layout is intact although there has been a reduction in the number of perennial and annual beds (AHC)]
Date condition updated:06 Feb 23
Modifications and dates: 1890: Stables designed by Pender.
1908: Billiards room designed by Pender.
c1917: Entrance gates designed by Pender.
1993: Tennis pavilion and tree house constructed to provide film set.
Current use: Country residence
Former use: Aboriginal land, farm and residence

History

Historical notes: History
Anambah House lies on the traditional lands of the Wonnarua people.
The Wonnarua people's traditional lands are located in the Hunter Valley area of New South Wales. A dreamtime story from the Wonnarua explains how the hills and rivers in the Hunter Valley were created by a spirit called Baiame. Groups living near the Wonnarua include Geawegal, Worimi, Awabakal, Gamilaroi, Wiradjuri, Darkinjung and Birpai people. They would travel through the area and were often invited to participate in local ceremonies.

No one knows exactly how many Aboriginal people lived in the Hunter Valley before Europeans arrived, but the population is thought to have declined rapidly after European settlement. Throughout the 1820s and 30s settler numbers in the Hunter Valley increased. The influx of settlers caused disruption to the movement of Aboriginal groups. As well as losing their traditional lands to agriculture, the introduction of tobacco and alcohol badly affected the health of Aboriginal people.

The Wonnarua people have maintained a strong sense of their own cultural identity and links with the land despite the impact of European contact on their traditional lands and culture. (The Australian Museum)

The British Colony of NSW was formally declared on 26 January 1788. All land was declared to be Crown Land. The first official survey of the Hunter region occurred in 1801. European development did not, however, begin in earnest until the penal settlement at Newcastle (est.1804) was transferred to Lake Macquarie in 1818. Land grants were made from 1820 onwards, mostly to people who had the resources to develop the land. The grants were laid out in a grid pattern in a manner that attempted to provide equity to river frontage. The accumulated wealth and success of the subsequent development in and around the Hunter region found expression in the gazettal of East and West Maitland in 1835 and, fifteen years later, in the construction of the Great Northern Railway Line.

Anambah House lies on part of a 2,100 acre grant made to George Cobb on 30 June 1823, being Portion 69 in the Parish of Gosforth. The first Anambah House, built by Cobb, was located north of the current homestead site, on a slight hill above a lagoon five kilometres north west of Central Maitland. George left the management of the estate in the hands of his brother, John Cobb. A newspaper article described the improvements made at Anambah under the 'late John Cobb' as 'extensive and useful.' In addition to the main homestead, there were all the outbuildings, orchards etc. required to run a largely self- sufficient estate. Over 100 acres were enclosed for tillage and 40 acres were sowed with wheat. The remainder of the land was 'well -watered' grazing land.

The original grantee, George Cobb's daughter Mary, married Francis White of Edinglassie in 1853 and 4 of their children were born at Anambah (in the earlier house.) These children later established Belltrees at Scone.

Anambah remained in the hands of the Cobb family until it was transferred to John Kenneth Mackay, the brother in law of John Cobb's eldest son, in 1871. Mackay was a wealthy grazier based in Dungog. The Mackay family bought both Anambah & Minimbah (at Singleton) from the Cobbs in the 1870s & built both the present Anambah and Minimbah houses. They also owned Redleaf House in Woollahra (now Woollahra Council Chambers). The Mackay family are descendants of Duncan Forbes Mackay, Superintendent of Prisons and Public Works in Newcastle in 1827, who settled at Dungog.

In 1889, John Kenneth Mackay commissioned architect J.W. Pender, a prominent local architect, to design a new homestead complex. The new homestead, being the existing Anambah House, and its associated outbuildings and gardens were constructed on a rise to the south of the original homestead.

John Wiltshire Pender (1833-1917) had migrated to NSW from Scotland as a young man in 1855. Pender set up an architectural practice in Maitland in c.1863, following in the footsteps of an uncle, John Pender, who had emigrated in 1838 and established a successful building firm in the area. Pender designed numerous prominent buildings in the Hunter region and elsewhere in NSW, including two homesteads for the White family, Saumarez (1888) and Belltrees (1905-6). The main contractor for Anambah House was J. Frogley. The cast iron work was executed by Frederick Revett of West Maitland and the stonework by Thomas Browne & Sons, whose quarry was located at nearby Rutherford. Pender's practice continued following his retirement by one of his sons, W.H. Pender, and then his grandson, I.W. Pender, who died in 1988. An archive of over 2,000 plans prepared by the practice was given to the University of Newcastle in 2000, including several of buildings at Anambah (see list below).

Mackay expanded the boundaries of Anambah, mostly to the west of the original grant, so that, by 1926, he had doubled the original land holding. By c.1890, he had also acquired the smaller parcel of land to the south east of Anambah House where a lagoon is located. This land was formerly part of the Rutherford Estate, first granted to John Owen in 1822 and later coming into the ownership of Dr. George Shaw Rutherford (1828). The Rutherford Estate was first subdivided in 1844. Mackay primarily used the land for grazing and cultivation.

Mackay did not spend all his time at Anambah. His obituary in the 'Gloucester Advocate' on 23 February 1937 described him as a 'prominent pastoralist' of 'Cangon, Dungog' who spent many years in the Dungog and Walgatt areas and overseas. His obituary described the 'Mackay' name as one 'known throughout Australia' and 'closely linked with the pioneer development carried out by various members of the family.' J.K. Mackay, however, was a man of 'retiring disposition' who did not take a leading role in public affairs. His main business was in beef and wool, but he also took a keen interest in horse breeding and racing, flora and fauna and local sport. The Mackay family also owned properties in Queensland which may have been the source of the bottle tree, often associated with droving, and the lacebark trees. Oral history sources suggest that cattle drives from Queensland properties terminated at the Anambah property before going to the Sydney markets. J. K. Mackay and his wife, Emily Isabel (nee Hooke), had no children of their own, but adopted two boys William Hooke Mackay and John Kenneth Mackay (jnr). Emily was active in local charitable affairs.

J.K. Mackay left Anambah to William who married Adelaide Ann Hooke and had seven children. William further extended the Mackay (and Hooke) family pastoral wealthy and renown. He was also an outstanding figure in racing circles being chiefly remembered as the owner of the famous horse Beauford. Around 1925 W H Mackay retired to his Sydney residence, Redleaf in Double Bay, and left Anambah in charge of his son Ken Mackay. The property had swollen to 3900 acres. Unfortunately Ken died only a short time later in 1928 and a manager, Mr Griffith, was then engaged to run the property on behalf of Ken's widow, Mollie Jean Mackay (nee Crothers). A large part of the lands consolidated by J.K Mackay remained in the hands of the Mackay family until the 1930s.

The 1940s saw the army take over Anambah as a military camp. Prior to the army's occupation a complete inventory of the contents and survey of the buildings was carried out. The main rooms were used by the officers, the stables housed the quartermaster's stores and the troops were housed under canvas in the paddocks. After the war the 24th Light Horse briefly agisted its horses in the paddocks at Anambah before all the light horse brigades were disbanded. Also after the war Mollie, the widow of Ken, moved back into Anambah with her new husband Harold 'Hal' Francis Lashwood (1915-1992), a prominent radio personality. Mollie Lashwood retained part of the estate, including Anambah House, until at least 1956.

Various famous people stayed in the house hosted by William and Adelaide Mackay, including Dame Nellie Melba (in 1909 when giving a concert at Maitland Town Hall) and the Governors the Earl of Dudley and Lord Gowrie. During the time of the Lashwoods, radio entertainers such as Roy Rene (Mo) and Jack Davey stayed in the house. (NTA, 1983).

On 15 August 1956, 436 acres of the Anambah Estate, including the homestead, were transferred to Mollie's brothers John Blackwood Crothers and Geoffrey Thomas Crothers, of Anambah. This land also included land part of Portion 70 of the Parish, being land originally granted to Dr. George Shaw Rutherford on 19 July 1841. These 436 acres would remain intact until at least 1967 when John Blackwood, now the sole owner of the land, transferred them to Percy Clifford Bird, a Company Director of New Lamberton, on 16 August 1967.

The adjoining parcel to the north (92 acres) of the above, part of the same land holding at an earlier date but later alienated through subdivision, follows the same general pattern of ownership, providing a combined parcel of land of at least 528 acres in size. Without full title searches of the surrounding land, it is difficult to ascertain the changing boundaries of the estate surrounding Anambah House over time.

The land around Anambah House was further subdivided in 1977, leaving Anambah House standing on an 83.55ha lot.
In 1980, Anambah was purchased by Stephen and Heather Berry, who carried out restoration works. The surrounding lots appear to have remained in common ownership with Anambah House.

A Permanent Conservation Order (PCO) was placed on Anambah House in 1983, comprising the boundaries of the lot on which it then stood. In 1985, a re-subdivision occurred, enlarging the lot on which Anambah House stood to the north and south. In 1999 the PCO was converted to a State Heritage Register (SHR) listing and the earlier, smaller 1983 boundary became the SHR curtilage. The homestead now stands on Lot 721 in D.P. 1191240.

In 1993 the movie 'Country Life' was filmed at Anambah. An adaptation of Chekov's Uncle Vanya, the film starred Sam Neill, Greta Scacchi, Googie Withers and John Hargraves. The house was host to a cast and crew of some 60 people and the tennis court pavilion, reproduction Victorian wallpapers and window drapery are a legacy of this event.

In July 2011, Anambah House was purchased by the current owners, Maurizo and Jann Zappacosta, who have since purchased the adjoining lot to the east, Lot 712 in D.P. 1233410. It is noted that the existing line of the driveway from Anambah Road dates from c.2012, replacing an earlier line, itself not the original driveway, which now services the neighbouring property to the north west. Photographic evidence suggests that the original driveway ran through this lot.
A number of historic photographs of the homestead and its grounds from the early twentieth century survive.

The Pender Archive at University of Newcastle hold the following plans/records for Anambah House:
- Tender notice. Manufacture of bricks, Anambah Estate, 20.7.89. No archive number. given.
-Plan of Villa Residence at Anambah, 1889; Plan of W.C.s and Underground Tanks to Villa Residence at Anambah, 1889; Plan of Tank at Anambah, undated; Plan of Verandah Enclosure at Anambah, undated. Archive No. M5350.
-Plan of Stables at Anambah, 1890. Archive No.: M5589.
- (Plan of) Picture Rods (for) Villa Residence at Anambah, 1890. Archive No.: M5574.
-Tender notice. Painting etc to house, Anambah House, 24.9.1901. No archive number given.
- Billiard Room addition, Anambah House, 1908. Archive No.: M5047.
- Tender notice. Painting to residence, Anambah House, 25.5.16.
- Entrance Gates, Anambah House, 1917(?). Archive No.: M5047.
- Tender notice. Painting to house, Anambah House, 30.1.1923.
- Tender notice. Painting residence, Anambah House, 11.9.1926.
- Floor plans of residence, Anambah House, undated. Archive No.: M6273.
- Folder titled 'Anambah' Specifications, including Billiard Room, installation of acetylene gas, various painting contracts. Pender Archives Specifications. A7786

Historic themes

Australian theme (abbrev)New South Wales themeLocal theme
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures. Gardens-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures. Other open space-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures. Introduce cultural planting-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures. Changing the environment-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture Private farming-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture Ancillary structures - sheds, crop storage-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture Cropping-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture Clearing land for farming-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings Developing local, regional and national economies-National Theme 3
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings Landscapes and parklands of distinctive styles-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings Landscapes of food production-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings Landscapes and gardens of domestic accommodation-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings Gardens demonstrating the travels and sojurns of a gardener-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Events-Activities and processes that mark the consequences of natural and cultural occurences Developing local landmarks-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Pastoralism-Activities associated with the breeding, raising, processing and distribution of livestock for human use Agisting and fattening stock for slaughter-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Pastoralism-Activities associated with the breeding, raising, processing and distribution of livestock for human use Livestock structures-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Pastoralism-Activities associated with the breeding, raising, processing and distribution of livestock for human use Modifying landscapes to increase productivity-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Building settlements, towns and cities-National Theme 4
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Country Homes-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Country mansion-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Gentlemens Villas-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Accommodating workers in workers' housing-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Victorian era residence-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Federation era residence-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Farm homestead-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Architectural design-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Adapted heritage building or structure-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Housing working animals-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Housing the prosperous - mansions in town and country-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Housing for farm and station hands-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Housing farming families-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Gentlemens Mansions-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Country Villa-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Country Villa-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Housing famous families-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Pastoral Homestead-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Living on the land-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Housing (regional towns)-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal 1820s-1850s land grants-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Early farming (Cattle grazing)-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Expressing lines of early grant allotments-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Illustrates early ownership and occupancy of land within the Hunter Region-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Granting Crown lands for private farming-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Sub-division of large estates-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Changing land uses - from rural to suburban-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Administering and alienating Crown lands-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Early farming (sheep grazing)-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Subdivision of rural estates-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Beautifying rural estates-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Developing the social life of a rural community-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Developing the social life of a rural community-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Country Estate-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Role of transport in settlement-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Planning manorial villages and systems-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Creating landmark structures and places in regional settings-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Cultural Social and religious life-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Rural Estates-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages living in the country-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Impact of railways on suburban development-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages A quiet Rural District-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Suburban Expansion-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Country Villa-
5. Working-Working Labour-Activities associated with work practises and organised and unorganised labour Working independently on the land-
7. Governing-Governing Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities. State government-
7. Governing-Governing Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities. Developing roles for government - conserving cultural and natural heritage-
7. Governing-Governing Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities. Developing roles for government - administration of land-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities. Architectural styles and periods - Victorian Boom-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities. Interior design styles and periods - Edwardian-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities. Landscaping - Federation period-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities. Landscaping - Victorian period-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities. Landscaping - 20th century interwar-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities. Landscaping - 20th century post WW2-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities. Interior design styles and periods - Victorian-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities. Architectural styles and periods - Victorian (late)-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions. Country estates - visiting, enjoying-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions. Ways of life 1900-1950-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions. Ways of life 1950-2000-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions. Ways of life 1850-1900-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions. Kitchens and servants-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions. Living in a new house-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions. Living in, adapting and renovating homes for changing conditions-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions. Living in a rural homestead-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions. Valuing women's contributions-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions. Living on the urban fringe-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation Outdoor relief-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation Activities associated with relaxation and recreation-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation Visiting gardens-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation Visiting heritage places-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation Gardening-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation Gathering at landmark places to socialise-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation Leisure-Includes tourism, resorts.
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities Community volunteering-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities Belonging to an historical society or heritage organisation-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities Places of informal community gatherings-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities Developing local clubs and meeting places-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities Providing charity-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups Associations with William Mackay, grazier-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups Associations with J.K. Mackay, wealthy grazier-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups Associations with George Cobb, farmer-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups Associations with J.W. (John) Pender, Maitland architect-

Assessment of significance

SHR Criteria a)
[Historical significance] 		Anambah House is State significant as a fine and substantially intact example of a prosperous late nineteenth century NSW grazier's homestead. The property sits on the original 2100 acre 'Anambah' land grant made to George Cobb in 1822, one of the earliest land grants in the Wallis Plains (Maitland) district. The house (1889) and outbuildings (1890-1908) were designed by John Witshire Pender for owner John Kenneth Mackay and family (including William Hooke Mackay), wealthy graziers and prominent pastoralists. They lie within well-established gardens that retain some of their original late nineteenth century layout as well as mature plantings which, together with the slight rise on which it stands, mark the house's location within the surrounding area.
SHR Criteria b)
[Associative significance] 		Anambah House is of State significance for its association with the architect John Wiltshire Pender, a Maitland architect prominent in the development of the Hunter region in the nineteenth century. Pender is the architect of several State significant properties. Although there are listed examples of his work elsewhere in New South Wales, he is best known for his work within the Hunter region.
SHR Criteria c)
[Aesthetic significance] 		Anambah House is of State significance because, with its elaborate detail in design, materials, finishes and features, it is a fine and substantially intact example of a late nineteenth century grazier's mansion. Some evidence of the late nineteenth century gas lighting, powered by a private plant, remains within the homestead. The homestead is a local land-mark set atop a natural rise and is surrounded by well-established garden and trees with some surviving understanding of its late nineteenth century layout and several outbuildings of the same period. Although its wider setting is increasingly being impacted upon by suburban subdivision, it retains a good understanding of its originally successive rural setting, with views to the Hunter River and a lagoon. The homestead complex includes brick stables (architect, Pender, 1890), two small brick WC (architect Pender, 1889), a billiard room (architect Pender, 1908), a timber barn (c.1890s) and formal entrance gates (c.1917).
SHR Criteria g)
[Representativeness] 		Anambah House is State significant as it demonstrates the principal characteristics of a fine late nineteenth century pastoralist's homestead, garden and land holding. The house and outbuildings are a major example of the work of J. W. Pender.
Integrity/Intactness: High
Assessment criteria: Items are assessed against the PDF State Heritage Register (SHR) Criteria to determine the level of significance. Refer to the Listings below for the level of statutory protection.

Recommended management:

Recommendations

Management CategoryDescriptionDate Updated
Recommended ManagementProduce a Conservation Management Plan (CMP) 
Recommended ManagementPrepare a maintenance schedule or guidelines 
Recommended ManagementCarry out interpretation, promotion and/or education 

Procedures /Exemptions

Section of actDescriptionTitleCommentsAction date
57(2)Exemption to allow workStandard Exemptions HERITAGE ACT 1977

ORDER UNDER SECTION 57(2) TO GRANT STANDARD EXEMPTIONS FROM APPROVAL

I, Penny Sharpe, the Minister for Heritage, on the recommendation of the Heritage Council of New South Wales and under section 57(2) of the Heritage Act 1977:

revoke the order made on 2 June 2022 and published in the Government Gazette Number 262 of 17 June 2022; and

grant an exemption from section 57(1) of the Act in respect of the engaging in or carrying out the class of activities described in clause 2 Schedule A in such circumstances specified by the relevant standards in clause 2 Schedule A and General Conditions in clause 3 Schedule A.

This Order takes effect on the date it is published in the NSW Government Gazette.

Dated this 29th day of October 2025
The Hon Penny Sharpe MLC
Minister for Heritage

For more information on standard exemptions click on the link below. 		Nov 7 2025

PDF Standard exemptions for engaging in or carrying out activities / works otherwise prohibited by section 57(1) of the Heritage Act 1977

Listings

Heritage ListingListing TitleListing NumberGazette DateGazette NumberGazette Page
Heritage Act - State Heritage Register 0027502 Apr 99 271546
Heritage Act - Permanent Conservation Order - former 0027523 Sep 83 1284358
Local Environmental Plan 199303 Sep 93 985524
National Trust of Australia register Anambah (including wings, outbuildings & gardens)3776, 368723 May 83   
Register of the National Estate - InterimAnambah Gardens101391   

References, internet links & images

TypeAuthorYearTitleInternet Links
Written 1937Obituary: John Kenneth Mackay 23 February 1937, pg 4
WrittenBerry, Heather2016Anambah - A Brief History 1823-2011 (article) View detail
WrittenBranch Managers Report 102/851983Heritage Council Agenda Paper
WrittenEJE Heritage2019Statement of Heritage Impact – The Barn, Anambah House, 200 Anambah Road, Anambah NSW 2320 Jan 2019 View detail
WrittenExtent2017106 Anambah Road, Anambah, Statement of Heritage Impact Feb 2017 View detail
WrittenMaitland, Barry1999Index of Projects by the Pender Practice: Part 1
WrittenNational Trust of Australia (NSW)1998Reflections - Issue 1
WrittenTurner, Lindsay James1984Maitland Homesteads
WrittenWeir Phillips Heritage and Planning2022Revised Curtilage Assessment, Anambah House August 2022
WrittenWeir Phillips Heritage and Planning2021Visual Assessment Report: Planning Proposal, Anambah House July 2021

Note: internet links may be to web pages, documents or images.
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Data source

The information for this entry comes from the following source:
Name: Heritage NSW
Database number: 5045641
File number: S90/05016 & HC 32956

Every effort has been made to ensure that information contained in the State Heritage Inventory is correct. If you find any errors or omissions please send your comments to the Database Manager.

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