Kurkulla, Heritage-listed homestead in Bowral, Australia
Kurkulla is a single-story brick residence built in the early 1880s with polished timber floors, pressed-metal ceilings, and a distinctive gable with a segmented semicircular bay window facing Evans Lane. The three-hectare property contains a heated swimming pool, tennis court, guest studio, and informal woodland gardens with dual entrances.
The property was built in the early 1880s for Lucy Berthon, who initially planned to establish a girls' school before it became a boys' boarding school. Under J. Lee Pulling's direction between 1891 and 1897, it developed into a notable educational institution.
Ada Evans shaped this place after becoming the first female law graduate from the University of Sydney, embedding her vision for women's rights into the property. She operated it as a working farm, which reflected her commitment to independence and self-sufficiency.
The grounds are most accessible in good weather when the woodland gardens and outdoor spaces are most welcoming. Visit at a pace that suits you, as the different areas including the pool, tennis court, and gardens can be explored at your own rhythm.
Olympic swimmer Cecil Healy attended school here when it operated as a boarding school, adding an unexpected athletic dimension to the property's story. This connection to an internationally accomplished athlete sets it apart from typical country estates.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
