WELCOME TO mona farm — where art, nature & luxury collide
Dear Guest,
We are delighted to welcome you to Mona Farm and invite you to enjoy our compelling curation of contemporary art, country life and Australian history.
Your comfort and enjoyment are our top priorities. To make your stay as seamless as possible, we’ve provided all the information you might need below, from details about our appliances to our handpicked ‘Best of Braidwood’ recommendations and the fascinating history of our property.
Should you need any assistance during your stay, our dedicated Guest Service team is available on (02) 7908 3217 from 8:00am to 7:00pm daily.
Thank you for choosing Mona Farm, and we hope you enjoy your stay in The Homestead.
Warm regards,
The Mona Farm Team
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If you haven’t pre-ordered catering, Mona Farm provides self-catering options. The Homestead features a fully equipped kitchen and a barbeque for your convenience. Please feel free to enjoy these facilities throughout your stay. Alternatively, please see our 'Best of Braidwood' recommendations below for a list of local cafes, restaurants, pubs and grocery stores nearby.
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You can access Mona Farm’s complimentary Wi-Fi for the duration of your stay using the login details below:
Network Name: monafarm140
Wi-Fi Password: Guest2622 -
For convenient access to Braidwood town, we suggest using our 140 Little River Road gate entrance, located near the pink Coach House building.
You’ll find an electronic gate button on the keys provided at check-in. Press button #2 to open the Little River Road gate, or you can enter 5005# at the gate entrance to gain access.
When you’re leaving, the gate will open automatically.
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Parking is available for two cars on the paved area near the Homestead kitchen windows.
If further parking is required, a dedicated parking area can be found after the Elgas tank and before the Palladian stone bridge.
If you would like any assistance parking, please don’t hesitate to call Guest Services on (02) 7908 3217.
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Whilst our housekeeping team do not provide daily cleaning and turn down services, we do offer a daily refresh of amenities.
After 10:00am each morning, you’ll get a knock on the door from our friendly housekeeping team, asking you whether you would like anything (such as coffee, tea, fire wood) replenished. In the case you would prefer not to be disturbed during your stay, you are more than welcome to hang the ‘do not disturb’ sign on your front door (provided at check in).
If you would like to empty your rubbish bin prior to the daily refresh, please use our communal rubbish bins, located beside the machinery shed. We kindly ask that you compile any bottles and waste ahead of check out, ready for Housekeeping to remove after you check out. Bin bags and cleaning supplies are located under the kitchen sink.
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Our accommodation check out time is 10:00am. Please ensure you check out of your accommodation on time to allow our Housekeeping team to prepare the guest house for our next guests.
If you require a late check out, please contact Guest Services on (02) 7908 3217 between 8:00am - 7:00pm. Whilst we will do our best to accommodate your request, late check outs are subject to availability.
Upon check out, simply leave the key on the kitchen bench and close the door behind you.
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Central Heating
The Homestead has a central heating system to heat and cool the guest house. Prior to check in, Guest Services set the central heating to a desirable temperature. There are two tablets that control the central heating - one in the hallway, and one in the smaller living room. To adjust the temperature, choose your zone and then use the up and down arrows to select your desired temperature. To turn off the central heating, select 'close'.
Fireplace
The Homestead has two indoor fireplaces. To open the glass door, push the handle down. To open and close the flue, push the lever in or out. Please ensure the fireplace glass door is closed during use to avoid smoke filling the guest house. Please note, we have provided additional fire starters and wood next to the indoor fireplace. Additional firewood and fire starters will be provided if required during our daily Housekeeping refresh.
Please note, the fireplaces located in the bedrooms are not operational.
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Smart TV
To operate the smart TV, use the small black remote. Adjust the volume by sliding the volume button (on the left side) up or down. Please note that pressing the volume button down will mute the TV. You can access Foxtel, Netflix, Stan, and other streaming services with your personal login.
Breville Coffee Machine
To operate the coffee machine, turn the power on and select your preferred coffee on the touch screen. Push the portafilter (handle) into place, and press 'grind'. The coffee machine will automatically grind the correct amount of coffee, and then tamp the coffee down. Unscrew the portafilter and move it into the middle position with a cup underneath it, then select 'brew'. Pour your milk into the jug, position the jug with the heat wand inside and then place the jug on the temperature reader. Select 'milk' and the milk will commence frothing/heating. The machine will stop when the milk has reached the right temperature.
Bluetooth Speaker
A Bluetooth speaker is located next to the front door for your convenience. To play music, turn on the speaker and your Bluetooth setting on your device. Select the Bluetooth speaker from the list of available devices on your mobile. Once connected, you can play music from your device through the Bluetooth speaker. If you require a charger for the Bluetooth speaker, please contact Guest Services on (02) 7908 3217 between 8:00am - 7:00pm.
Skylight
To control the skylights located in each of the bathrooms, please use the control panel located on the adjacent wall. To open the skylights, slide the control to the right. To close the skylights, slide the control panel to the left.
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Linen & Bedding
Mona Farm provides luxurious sheets by Sheridan and blankets by Bemboka. The mattresses are from King Koil by A.H.Beard. In the case you would like to take a piece of our estate home with you, Bemboka products can be purchased via our Mona Farm e-Boutique.
Toiletries
Mona Farm provides Hunter Lab toiletries to enjoy during your stay. In the case you would like to take a piece of our estate home with you, Hunter Lab products can be purchased via our Mona Farm e-Boutique.
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Hair Dryer
A hair dryer is located in each bathroom.
Ironing Board & Iron
An ironing board and iron are located in the walk-in wardrobe off the master bedroom.
Coat Hangers
Two coat hangers have been provided for your convenience in each bedroom. We kindly ask you to leave these behind after use. If you require more coat hangers, please contact Guest Services on (02) 7908 3217 from 8:00am to 7:00pm daily.
Umbrellas
An umbrella is located near the entrance for your convenience. We kindly ask you to leave this behind after use. Alternatively, our umbrellas are available for purchase from the Mona Farm e-Boutique.
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Located within the heritage listed town of Braidwood in rural NSW, Mona Farm is a luxury estate with award winning gardens, grand buildings, bespoke experiences and a rich history to discover.
Beautifully restored buildings and English-inspired gardens pay homage to the history, while Mona Farm’s present custodians embrace the contemporary. A diverse collection of modern Australian and International art and sculpture have been introduced throughout the estate, creating an unparalleled collision of art, nature and luxury.
To learn more about Mona Farm's rich history, award-winning gardens, sustainable farming philosophy and unique collection of contemporary art, click here.
History
Mona Farm’s present custodians aim to pay homage to its history, whilst embracing the contemporary. From great depressions to tales of gold sovereigns buried somewhere on the estate, Mona Farm has a rich history to be discovered. To learn more about Mona Farm's colourful history, click here.
Gardens
An interplay of formality and wildness is present in Mona Farm’s award winning gardens. Majestic century old trees connect the past to the present and provide a sense of calm and tranquillity. Early morning fog often shrouds the property before revealing silver toned grounds and reflections of light from the lake.
The garden, designed in the style of Lancelot (Capability) Brown, welcomes guests via the original carriageway lined with Poplars to discover vast sweeping lawns framed by an enchanting Elm woodland. Grand Oak and Linden create a magnificent and commanding backdrop for more intimate garden spaces.
We encourage you to discover the contemporary sculpture collection located amongst the gardens, enjoy a glass of wine by the lake at sunset and enjoy the floral fragrance of The Rose Garden.
Farm
As a working farm, the property is home to Highland cattle and an award winning Scottish Highland bull, Wiltshire ewes, Wessex saddleback pigs, Shire horses, alpacas, geese and chickens.
In 2021, Mona Farm introduced three Flow Hives housing Italian honey bees, best known for their calm temperament and exceptional honey production. These extraordinary pollinators were introduced as a tribute to Thomas Braidwood Wilson’s introduction of honey bees to Australia. In the springtime, guests can hear the tranquil hum of the bees as they work high up in the Linden treetops.
You are most welcome to explore the farm, however, please do not enter the paddocks or feed the animals. Residents big and small call Mona Farm home. Please wear closed shoes when exploring the grounds and avoid the reeds.
Our farming philosophy revolves around a connection between the land, the animals and the community. Wherever possible, we employ sustainable and conscious farming techniques as a method to grow food for our guests and the local community. In line with our ‘estate-to-plate’ food philosophy, our Executive Chef maintains a lush vegetable garden. This can be found outside The Woolshed building.
Art
Mona Farm showcases a unique collection of contemporary art and sculpture. In its historic setting, over 40 Australian and International artworks reside, showcasing an exciting juxtaposition of new amongst old.
Mona Farm’s overarching theme of discovery has guided the permanent contemporary curation, featuring celebrated artists such as Isaac Julian, Ben Quilty, Dale Frank, Janet Laurence, Marion Borghelt and Guy Maestri.
We encourage you to discover the contemporary sculpture collection located amongst the gardens and throughout our guest houses. To assist you, we have provided you with a sculpture map, and you can read about our collection of art at www.monafarmart.com.au.
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Whether you're looking for a serene escape or an action-packed day, Mona Farm offers something for everyone to enjoy. Below is a list of the facilities and curated activities available during your stay. For further information or assistance with booking activities, please contact Guest Services on (02) 7908 3217 from 8:00am to 7:00pm daily.
Facilities & Equipment:
Tennis Court - complimentary tennis racquets and balls are available for hire from reception.
Soccer - complimentary soccer nets and soccer balls are available for hire from reception.
Cricket - complimentary cricket bats, stumps and balls are available from reception.
Lawn games - complimentary lawn games, including jenga and bocce, are available for hire from reception.
Tours:
We offers a range of complimentary tours for guests looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of Mona Farm. Tours are available Monday to Friday and must be booked in advance (subject to availability).
Garden Tour
Join Head Gardener Gavin Hardy on an educational journey through Mona Farm’s award-winning gardens. Starting at the Croquet Lawn, you’ll learn about the rich history of the gardens, Brownian landscape-style and the seasonal maintenance needed for its upkeep. This one-hour tour will conclude at The Woolshed where guests will have the opportunity to ask Gavin his gardening tips, maintenance advice and more.
Farm Tour
Tour the property by foot or in our electric golf cart with Estate Manager, Marcus Lyons. During the tour you’ll learn about our farming philosophy, sustainable techniques and of course, will get the chance to meet the Mona Farm residents. This is a great activity for kids and adults!
Art Tour
Mona Farm houses one of the most diverse collections of contemporary art and sculpture in the region. Here, grand sculptures live amongst the Elm trees and artworks reside happily with their guests, creating an artistic experience like no other. Explore our collection at your leisure, or book a guided art tour of some of our most captivating works.
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Mona Farm is located in the heritage listed town of Braidwood. Due to its rich history, it was the first entire town in New South Wales to be added to the Heritage Register. Here, impressive colonial buildings stand amongst an eclectic and busy township.
Located within a 3 minute drive from Mona Farm, the town is home to a number of cafes and restaurants, antique shops, two country pubs and a 9 hole golf course. Braidwood is an artistic hub with many designers, artists, potters and ironworkers residing here. It has also been a popular film location (The Year My Voice Broke, Ned Kelly, On Our Selection filmed at Mona Farm), and is famously the location where Mick Jagger wrote ‘Brown Sugar’.
Braidwood is uniquely located halfway between Canberra and Batemans Bay, offering visitors easy access to both rural and coastal settings.
Visit the Braidwood’s Farmers’ Markets, explore the local artisan wares and experience Australian country life at its best.
To keep up to date with new happenings and events in Braidwood, follow @VisitBraidwood.
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Cafés:
Provisions Deli & Creperie | 56C Wallace St | (02) 7228 5141
We highly recommend a visit to our sister business, Provisions. Provisions is a gourmet deli, pantry and creperie that stocks a fabulous range of artisan produce, locally-sourced ingredients and a delicious selection of French crepes.
Open 7 days for breakfast and lunch. Please contact Guest Services on (02) 7908 3217 between 8:00am to 7:00pm if you would like us to make a V.I.P reservation for you.
The Albion | 119 Wallace St | (02) 4842 1422
Located in the heart of Braidwood, our second sister cafe, The Albion, takes inspiration from local, seasonal, 'free-range' and whole produce to serve a range of delicious, wholesome meals and coffee. The Albion also offers a selection of pre-prepared gourmet meals using the season's best ingredients.
Open 7 days for breakfast and lunch. Please contact Guest Services on (02) 7908 3217 between 8:00am to 7:00pm if you would like us to make a V.I.P reservation for you.
Bakeries:
Dojo Bread Bakery | 90 Wallace St | 0407 222 334
Delicious artisan bread can be found at Dojo Bread, located on Wallace Street. Using the freshest ingredients and traditional bread making techniques, all varieties of bread are made on the premises, and often sell out! Aside from their bread, Dojo is famous for their pork and fennel sausage rolls. They are a must have for anyone visiting Braidwood for the first time!
Open Monday to Saturday 8am - 1pm. And if you miss out, don’t fret, a selection of Dojo Bread can be found at the local IGA.
Casanova’s | 68 - 70 Wallace St | (02) 4842 1294
Jacquie & Jo will warmly welcome you to Casanova’s, Braidwood’s much-loved sourdough bakery and cafe. Casanova’s offers a delicious selection of freshly baked items and pastries in a beautiful setting, complete with a veggie patch out the back. On Friday evenings, Casanova’s offers a special artisan pizza night featuring a range of homemade sourdough pizzas and a selection of craft wines. We recommend making a reservation.
Open Wednesday to Saturday 8am – 2pm or join them on a Friday night from 5pm.
Restaurants:
Braidwood Hotel | 180 Wallace St | (02) 4842 2529
Built in 1852, ‘The Pink Pub’ as its affectionately known to locals is a cosy spot to enjoy a glass of wine by the fire. With a range of wood fired pizzas and pub classics plus a selection of beers, wines & spirits, you’ll have everything you need to relax after a big day’s work.
Open 7 days for lunch until late.
The Smokey Horse | 183 Wallace St | (02) 4842 1865
Not what you would expect from a country town - The Smokey Horse offers guests Himalayan food, a range of cocktails, an occasional food-pop up and live music.
Open Thursday - Sunday lunch until late.
IGA Braidwood | 50 Wallace St | (02) 4842 2451
The IGA in Braidwood sells all the basics you could need, and often has interesting and unusual items in its aisles. It also has a bottle shop next door.
Open Monday to Friday from 8am - 7pm, Saturday and Sunday from 8am - 5pm.
To See:
Car Models of Braidwood | 198 Wallace St | (02) 4842 1122
Located on Wallace Street, Car Models of Braidwood proudly maintains and displays one of the largest collections of die-cast model cars in Australia. Visit the shop and browse their newest arrivals in store.
Open 6 days 9am - 5pm. Closed on Wednesdays.
Braidwood Museum | 186 Wallace St | (02) 4842 2310
Braidwood District Historical Society Museum is a heritage-listed former hotel and Oddfellows Hall that now lives as a museum on Wallace Street. Housing a range of valuable artifacts and historical photos, you’ll learn about Braidwood’s rich and diverse history & former residents - including the infamous Clarke Brothers.
Entry is free - open Friday’s only from 11am - 2pm
To Do:
Braidwood Farmers’ Markets | 100 Wallace St, Braidwood
The Braidwood Farmers’ Markets are held at The National Theatre on the first and third Saturday of every month. Located in the main street of Braidwood, this bi-monthly farmers’ market sells a variety of locally-sourced produce to support ethical and sustainable regional prosperity.
The Braidwood Farmers’ Market is held on the first and third Saturday of every month from 8am to 12:30pm.
Braidwood Golf Club | Cnr Coronation Ave & Victory St, Braidwood | (02) 4842 2135
One of the most picturesque golf courses in the region, The Braidwood Golf Club offers a 9 course golf course. Featuring a range of tight tee shots and small targets, the course provides a challenging layout and should not be missed by the keen golfer. Not a seasoned golfer? That’s no problem at all! The Braidwood Golf Club offers golf clubs and carts for hire and also shares the facilities with the Braidwood Servicemen’s Club so you can opt to play pool, bowls or darts instead.
Open daily from 8am - 6pm however opening hours may vary between the seasons so please contact (02) 4842 2135 to check.
Local trails & hikes:
Please call the Braidwood Visitor Information Centre on (02) 4842 1144 to find out where the best local trails & hikes are. A few we could recommend are ‘The Big Hole’ and ‘Monga National Park’.
Open 7 days from 10am - 4pm.
To Shop:
Saloon Design House| 139 Wallace St, Braidwood
This local fashion label creates stunning handmade dresses, skirts, shirts and waistcoats in the finest fabrics. Stop to admire their beautiful, historic storefront on Braidwood’s main street before getting lost in the whimsy of their most recent collections.
Open Thursday to Sunday 10am - 3pm (from 11am on Sunday)
Braidwood Arts & General Store| 68a Wallace St, Braidwood
A new addition to town, Braidwood Arts & General is driven by a love of locally-made products, eclectic things and fresh produce. Here you’ll find handmade scarves, arts & crafts tools, paints, locally-grown kale & more.
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Featuring a curated range of products used here at Mona Farm, our e-Boutique is the perfect place to pick up a luxurious gift for yourself or someone special. From handmade ceramics to Australian-made homewares, there is something for everyone.
If you would like to purchase something special during your stay, Guest Services is more than happy to gift wrap and deliver your item straight to your guest house. Alternatively, we can deliver anywhere across Australia.
To browse the range of products available, click here.
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As Mona Farm is located in a rural area, sound travels. To respect other guests and our nearby neighbours, we ask that you keep music volume to a reasonable level during your stay, and ensure all music from guest houses ceases by 10:00pm. Events that include guests who are not staying at Mona Farm must seek prior consent from management.
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We understand accidents happen. If there is an accidental spill that may stain the carpet or furnishings, please contact Guest Services on (02) 7908 3217 between 8:00am - 7:00pm so that we can assist with the most appropriate cleaning products.
In the case of excessive and/or unreasonable damage to the guest house and/or general property, please note that additional charges may apply.
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In an emergency, please call 000 and then call Guest Services on (02) 7908 3217.
Black Out
In the unlikely event of a power outage, a torch and lantern can be found in the kitchen pantry.
First Aid Kit / Snake Bite Kit
A first aid and snake bite kit can be found in the kitchen pantry. The closest hospital is Braidwood Hospital located at 73 Monkittee Street. Braidwood Hospital is open 24 hours. To contact the hospital, please call (02) 4842 9000.
Fire
The Homestead building is equipped with smoke detectors. If the smoke alarm is activated, please call 000, evacuate the property immediately and assemble on the Croquet Lawn (opposite Mona Lake). The fire brigade will arrive soon after. There is a fire extinguisher and fire blanket located in the kitchen pantry, and the evacuation plan is located next to the main entrance.
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Following your stay, Guest Services will be in touch with a short 3 minute survey. We appreciate you taking the time to provide us with your valuable feedback. Alternatively, please feel free to email your feedback to