Yarralumla Woolshed

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Frederick Campbell of Yarralumla constructed the Yarralumla Woolshed in 1904. The Federal Government resumed this historic property in 1913 and Yarralumla homestead has served as the residence of the Governor-General. 

In 1902, good rainfalls broke a severe drought of several years’ duration. This led to greater prosperity for local property owners allowing them to construct new farm buildings. The Yarralumla Woolshed was one of these.

During WWI the woolshed was used to store building materials for the construction of Canberra’s main sewer and other public works, and later partitioned with galvanised iron to form sleeping areas for labourers on various building sites in the new city.

In 1917 local farmers asked that the shed be used again for shearing. Initially leased to shearing contractors the McInnes brothers, several local families formed Yarralumla Pty Ltd and leased the woolshed. Shearing ceased in November 1964.

Since the 1970s, the building has become an important Canberra community social venue, particularly as a focus for bush dances and folk music activities. The Monaro Folk Society holds its bi-monthly dances at the Woolshed in the summer months.

Places to see in Australian Capital Territory

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