Built in 1854, this National Trust-listed collection of early colonial farm buildings was designed by Frederick Thomas, an ex-convict architect who left his mark on several significant Tasmanian structures. The thing about photographing places like this is the layers, not just the buildings themselves, but how they sit in the landscape, the interiors, and the furniture. Shaded by pines and perched on a sandstone ridge overlooking the dam, with Table Mountain rising in the background, it’s one of those spots where the composition practically arranges itself.
Originally part of the renowned Anstey Barton estate, the property passed to the Agnew family in 1878 under Sir James Agnew, who later became one of Tasmania’s early Premiers. But here’s what really captures the imagination: Bowhill Grange was home to The Assyrian for nearly two decades, the 1882 Melbourne Cup winner. You don’t often photograph places where championship racehorses once lived.
The light here changes quickly, like it does everywhere in Tasmania, but there’s something about the way it hits those buildings and the rolling hills in late afternoon that’s worth waiting for.
These days, Bowhill Grange operates as heritage accommodation with two beautifully refurbished cottages, Elizabeth’s Cottage and Shepherd’s Rest. It’s an ideal base for exploring the Southern Midlands, you’re about an hour from Hobart, Launceston, or the east coast. But honestly, some mornings you might just want to stay put and photograph the sheep grazing with Table Mountain behind them. That’s enough.
Bowhill Grange: https://bowhillgrange.com/
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