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The Unique Charm of Corynnia Station in “Days After Bourke – a Bushwoman’s True Story” Part Two

The central character in Joy Robertson’s Days After Bourke.

The unique charm of Corynnia Station, a working sheep station in the Australian outback, stands as a central character in Joy Robertson’s Days After Bourke – a Bushwoman’s True Story. When the protagonists arrive, they find the farm in a state of disrepair—run down and struggling to cope with the harsh elements of the outback.

In dedicating a significant portion of her book to Corynnia Station, Robertson highlights its unique charm and the profound impact of the outback on those who inhabit it. Corynnia Station is a compelling reminder of the challenges and beauty of rural life, making it an unforgettable element of Days After Bourke.

Here are excerpts from the book:

CORYNNIA STATION

We drove upstream along the river from Hay for about 40 miles and then crossed the Murrumbidgee. It was then just about lunchtime, so we stopped for a picnic lunch on the riverbank beside a very striking-looking bridge. I had packed a cooked leg of lamb and roasted veggies, the leftovers from last night’s dinner and when we had stopped in Hay I had bought tomatoes and fresh bread. Jim set a fire and the boys helped him boil the Billy. We all liked our cup of tea with a picnic. The dogs were left off for a short run but were tied up after a while so that they wouldn’t go wandering off. After our welcome lunch break, we packed everything up again and set off to drive the mile or so to Carrathool which would be our nearest Township. What a tiny village! It had a police station, general store, railway station, small hall and a few houses. We pulled up in front of the store and Jim hopped out and went inside. He was in there quite some time and when he came out he said I have just opened a grocery account for the station so we can order stuff. It also lets people know who we are. The railway line and station went down one side of Main Street, and everything else was on the other period this was one of the little places we must have passed through on the tram some two years earlier when we traveled from young to hate. What a quaint little place!

There wasn’t a soul in the streets so Jim turned the ute around and drove over the railway crossing and headed north. Another 10 miles over open plains the gateway to Corynnia came into view. The boys jumped down and opened the wire gate, and as we drove through I looked at the fence line and thought to myself “There is no fence there just the tops of the posts poking out of the sand”. A couple of miles later we passed the woolshed on the left then shortly afterwards on driving up a sandy rise the Homestead came into view. What desolation! We drove up to the front gate of the house and Jim alighted from the ute with great enthusiasm saying Here we are! The boys and I got out and I just stood there and wept while the boys tried to console me. But I knew my husband! He had a drive in him that made him want to take on any challenge, and who was I to stop him?

Blowing sand had covered nearly everything and we were able to step right over the top bar on the front gate and surrounding saltbush hedge. There was over 8 feet of sand in the front garden and a very plain building with gauzed verandahs, in the middle of it all. I don’t think I had ever seen anything as desolate as this Homestead. I felt like turning around and leaving straight away from the shock of seeing the state the place was in. What a disappointment after our lovely Toogimbie. No wonder Jim had kept quiet about the place! I turned to him and asked What are we supposed to do with this? Goodness only knows! I then took a deep breath walked down the sloping sand to the front door and went inside.

What a mess! It was evident that there had not been anyone living in the main homestead for quite some time. An old man was camping in the quarters beside the kitchen and had been keeping an eye on things until someone turned up. Dalgetys had been paying him to caretake the place and as soon as we showed up he wanted Jim to take him straight into town! He couldn’t get away soon enough! Tomorrow – he was told – as Jim had to go back to Carrathool anyway to pick up materials.

The homestead was big and sprawling and must have been very comfortable in its heyday. The kitchen was just behind the main house and was joined to it by a covered walkway. A big wood stove the biggest I had ever seen was down one wall in the kitchen; The sink and cupboards were under the window and there were ample storage cupboards and a big pantry. It had three doorways leading from it and a big wooden table stood in the middle of the floor. There were a number of cats about and talk about a mess! What had we got ourselves into this time?

I don’t know where to start.

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Experience Authentic Outback Luxury at Corynnia Station

Discover the ultimate blend of authentic outback luxury and nature with this Exclusive Discount Offer at Corynnia Station, where relaxation and tranquility await. Nestled on the edge of outback NSW, our stunning property offers guests a unique opportunity to unwind in a tranquil setting while enjoying all the comforts of modern amenities.

Unwind in the Beautiful Gardens & Enjoy Fantastic Facilities

Furthermore, our expansive Homestead garden provides the perfect retreat for guests seeking peace and relaxation. Dive into our heated pool for a refreshing swim or challenge a friend to a game of tennis on our well-maintained court. With friendly animals roaming the grounds, there’s no shortage of charm and warmth here at Corynnia Station.

Explore Australia’s Unique Flora and Fauna

Nature lovers will find plenty to explore, with unique Australian native plants and wildlife surrounding our property. Take a peaceful bushwalk or ride a bike at your leisure while immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the outback. Whether you’re an avid hiker or prefer a leisurely stroll, Corynnia Station offers the perfect environment to reconnect with nature.

Breathtaking 360-Degree Vistas

Prepare to be amazed by the panoramic 360-degree vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see. The vast, unspoiled outback skies are truly awe-inspiring, offering a serene and peaceful backdrop to your stay.

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To make your stay even more memorable, we’re excited to offer a special 10% discount on your second night at Corynnia Station. Simply book any of our luxurious accommodations, and when you reserve a second night, you’ll receive 10% off the regular price. It’s the perfect opportunity to extend your escape and enjoy even more of what our beautiful property has to offer.

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Don’t miss out on this great offer. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing retreat or an adventure filled escape, Corynnia Station is the ideal destination. Book your stay today and enjoy authentic outback luxury, nature, and savings all in one place.

Wheat harvest season at Corynnia Station!

At Corynnia Station, nestled within the sweeping expanse of the Hay Plains, the wheat harvest season is a spectacle of nature and technology in harmony. The land stretches out in vast, undulating fields of golden wheat, swaying gently in the outback wind. Standing amidst this sea of golden grain, you can’t help but feel insignificant in the grand scheme of the universe. It is in this vastness that the true scale of human effort behind each wheat crop becomes apparent.

The temperature on this sun-drenched day is a blistering 35°C. The harsh rays of the Australian outback sun beat down relentlessly. But in the cabin of the John Deere X9 1000 combine, you might as well be cruising in a luxury vehicle. This modern marvel, a testament to how far wheat harvesting has come, allows the operator to comfortably oversee a complex, high-tech process from a seat of power.

The Evolution of Wheat Harvest Machines

The story of wheat harvesting is one of constant innovation, beginning with humble roots. The first combine harvester, invented by Hiram Moore in 1835, revolutionized farming by combining the reaping, threshing, and winnowing of cereal grains in one machine. Originally pulled by horse teams, it laid the foundation for future advancements in agricultural machinery.

Several key machines paved the way for today’s harvesting giants:

The Bell Machine (1826): Designed by Reverend Patrick Bell, this horse-drawn reaper used a scissors principle to cut plants.
The Sunshine Harvester (1885): Hugh Victor McKay’s creation, one of the first commercially viable combine harvesters, changed the game for wheat farmers.
The Ridley Stripper (Late 1800s): Invented by John Ridley, this horse-pulled machine was used to strip wheat from plants.
The Header Harvester (1892): Another McKay invention, it was the first to cut, thresh, and collect the grain all in one go, a breakthrough that would shape modern harvesting.

Fast forward to today, and John Deere has taken the reins with their premier X9 1000 combine harvester, valued at over 1 million dollars. This powerhouse is the epitome of modern farming technology; it combines precision and power in one giant yet sleek machine.

A Dance of Machines and Technology

Harvesting wheat today is a well-orchestrated operation, where human skill and machinery work in perfect harmony. Watching the process unfold is nothing short of mesmerizing. The combine harvester, with its spinning blades, cuts through the wheat fields with the precision of a surgeon. The ripe grain flows into the machine like waves in a sea of gold.

Behind the impressive exterior of this cutting-edge machinery is a complex, digital brain that manages every aspect of the operation. The choreography between the header, the tractor pulling the wagon and collecting the grain, and the awaiting truck is seamless. All is coordinated by a sophisticated system that ensures efficiency and precision.

Inside the cabin, the operator is focused and alert. Sitting comfortably in the air con he operates the machine with the flick of a joystick, while constantly monitoring data displayed on multiple digital screens. Though he may look like any gamer anywhere in the world, his job is far from a game. He is overseeing the mechanical activity of this hi-tech giant, ensuring the smooth operation of the harvest, and being ready to intervene if necessary.

The Future of Wheat Harvesting

The wheat fields of Corynnia Station may seem endless, but they are no match for the power of modern technology. As harvesting techniques evolve, the marriage of precision machinery and digital innovation is transforming agriculture in Australia and beyond. The future of farming is here, and it’s more efficient, sustainable, and awe-inspiring than ever before.

By optimizing the harvest process with modern machines, farms like Corynnia Station continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in agriculture.

As modern machines like the John Deere X9 1000 transform the way we harvest, the future of farming looks more efficient and sustainable than ever. These technological advancements are revolutionizing agriculture, bringing precision, speed, and environmental awareness to the forefront. Moreover, from the fields to the table, the journey of wheat is now powered by innovation ensuring that what once seemed impossible is now part of our everyday reality. The future of wheat farming is here, and it’s an exciting time to witness the evolution of this essential industry. What will be next?!?

The Unique Charm of Corynnia Station in “Days After Bourke – a Bushwoman’s True Story” Part One

The central character in Joy Robertson’s Days After Bourke.

Corynnia Station, a working sheep station in the Australian outback, stands as a central character in Joy Robertson’s Days After Bourke – a Bushwoman’s True Story. When the protagonists arrive, they find the farm in a state of disrepair—run down and struggling to cope with the harsh elements of the outback.

Robertson vividly describes the dilapidated buildings and neglected garden, painting a stark picture of the challenges faced by those living in such isolation. This setting serves as a backdrop for the characters’ journey of revitalization, both of the land and their own lives.

Despite its rundown state, Corynnia Station is rich in potential and beauty. The vast landscapes, rugged terrain, and breathtaking sunsets illustrate the resilience required to thrive in this environment. Through her evocative writing, Robertson invites readers to witness the transformation of not just the farm, but also the deep connection the characters forge with the land.

In dedicating a significant portion of her book to Corynnia Station, Robertson highlights its unique charm and the profound impact of the outback on those who inhabit it. Corynnia Station is a compelling reminder of the challenges and beauty of rural life, making it an unforgettable element of Days After Bourke.

Here are excerpts from the book:

A MESSAGE TO MOVE ON

At “Toogimbie” we had the mailman calling once a week and naturally, we looked forward to his coming. He came about morning smoko time so Jim was always about to look at the letters straight away. One morning he thumbed through the mail and said There’s a letter here from Mr. Crawford and he wants me to go just a minute: I’m making the tea. I’ll bring smoko out onto the front steps I said, now what were you saying Jim? Mr. Crawford wants me to go and have a look at a property called Corynnia upriver. I think it’s somewhere between Griffith and Carrathool by what this letter is saying and according to this it’s pretty run down. They’re looking at buying it and they want me to go up there and take a look and then right back and tell them what I think.

Jim started to make arrangements to go up there two days later and asked Betty Taylor if she would mind staying with me while he was away. He thought he might be away for about four days so I made up a tucker box for him. I put in cooked corned mutton, a bag of potatoes, heaps of tinned stuff, a freshly baked cake, and some biscuits. He reckoned he was only going for a few days, not a month when I gave him his supplies! But I didn’t want my man to go hungry while he was away.

He was to call at the stock agent in Hay on his way through to find out exactly where the place was and he said that he would call and see Bluey as well.

Jim returned four days later, pleased to have seen Bluey at school but said he wasn’t very impressed with the property. He said that he had sent Mr. Crawford a report on his findings and then left it at that. Some 5 weeks later another letter arrived from Mr. Crawford saying that Berriwina Pastoral company had bought Corynnia and wanted Jim to move up there and do the same job as he had done with Toogimbie and that his wages would be doubled. He instructed Jim to take what he needed and to let him know when he could move. A young couple were to come here in about a week’s time to take over the management of Toogimbie. The mother was a local and her husband was the overseer on a ship station South of Hay and I knew they would fit in well. After their arrival, we stayed on for another 4 days with Jim showing young Bill things about the place. They spent a fair time out on the run as Bill was very keen to see and learn as much as he could before Jim left.

Bill’s wife Anne was a lovely girl and we found we had a lot in common. She loved gardening and cooking. It was nice to know that the garden I had rebuilt would continue to thrive. And couldn’t get over the beauty of the river and the homestead, and said that the property they had come from was way out in the middle of nowhere, had been dry and dusty most of the time and they never had enough water for gardening. Bill commented that Lin and his veggie garden was something else! Over dinner one night they laughed and thought it was a great joke when I told them about our arrival and when I first found out about Lin.

Bill and Ann had a baby girl only a few months old and it was such a novelty having a new baby in the house. This was a new experience for Alan and he wasn’t sure how to handle things when baby Elizabeth cried. I asked Anne how she felt she would cope with settling into a new place with her baby, but she said that her parents lived in hay and would come out for a while to help them.

We decided to have a dinner party for the new arrivals on our last night at Toogimbie and I set about inviting a number of the locals. It also gave us the chance to say goodbye to the very good friends we had made. The dinner was most enjoyable. We had drinks and little bits when our guests arrived then sat down to roast leg of pork with apple sauce, roast veggies, and greens. This was followed by sweets of apple crumble. Egg custard and whipped cream. Coffee was served in the lounge and billiard room later. A very pleasant evening was had by all and a new family was made most welcome.

Next morning we said goodbye to everyone at Toogimbie with my special thanks to Lin for his help. Bill took us and all our belongings into Hay where we were to pick up a new Ford utility to take us to Corynnia. We picked Bluey up on the way through Hay and told the matron that we would have him back to the hotel early the next week. The boys were very excited to think that we were moving to a new place, and I had become more and more curious as the time grew closer. Jim’s preparation for handing Toogimbie over to Bill had taken most of his time and I still had no real information. The utility was collected from the dealer and our things were transferred from the Toogimbie vehicle. There was a lot more room in this new Ute and the men gave it a good once over. There was room enough for the boys to fit inside with us and things weren’t at all cramped.

We had better get going – said Jim – because we have to travel about 50 miles and we better pick up some rations before we leave town. I was glad that Hay was still to be our main town and decided to do only enough shopping for the week. Bill wished us good luck as Jim headed down Main Street and across the bridge with all our worldly goods on board.

Where we were heading off yet again to… I knew not what. Little did I know what lay ahead!”

Guided Group Garden Tours with Morning Tea served on the Homestead Terrace with your Hostess

Over the years, numerous groups have visited to enjoy Garden Tours in this extraordinary garden, and each guest has been inspired by its splendor. Julie’s garden is more than a visual delight; it’s a place of respite, offering a serene escape from the dry outback landscape.

We invite your group to be part of this ongoing journey. Come and explore Julie’s labor of love, where the beauty of nature certainly meets the spirit of determination. Your experience awaits!

In 1982, Bruce and Julie arrived as young newlyweds. The undeveloped dry area block had been purchased by Julie’s parents, John and Pat Jones, in 1977.

By the time they arrived, there was little or no garden and the 12 square 1930s homestead was riddled with mice and their droppings as well as dust.

Over the years, this once barren and dry landscape has transformed dramatically; both on the busy working station and the homestead garden oasis. Now a well-managed and enchanting country homestead welcomes guests from all over the world to their authentic luxury outback accommodation.

As a young newlywed, Julie had never aspired to be a gardener but her creative spirit dictated she couldn’t live happily and make a home in such awful conditions.

At the heart of this transformation is Julie. Her creative flair and relentless spirit shine throughout the expansive garden she designed and nurtured herself. Armed with just a wheelbarrow, a shovel, some cuttings, and lawn runners—along with a hefty dose of determination—Julie embarked on a journey that would redefine this outback landscape with limited resources and problematic access to water. Rather than having a grand vision she tackled one project at a time. She drew inspiration from each completed endeavor.

This resulted in the vibrant oasis we see today – a refuge and welcoming environment for her family, friends, and visitors to enjoy. During the many drought years, Bruce would come in after a long, difficult day saying that the garden was what kept him sane.

This garden is not just a collection of plants; it’s a lifelong passion project that reflects Julie’s incredible creativity, dedication, and hard work. Each plant you see during the garden tours tells a story of perseverance against the odds, illustrating how beauty can emerge from even the harshest environments. Over the years, Julie has learned what plants thrive in the harsh climate and believes design is more important than the variety of plants. It is of key importance to choose plants that will thrive in one’s specific conditions.

Julie looks forward to welcoming you for one of those garden tours to share the Corynnia Station garden, a little of their lives, and knowledge of plants and garden design.