IN 1851, when Arkaba Station was first settled, Australia’s pastoral side was only just beginning.
Large tracts of land were being laid claim to with dreams of running sheep pushing the development.
For English Doctors, the Browne family, the thirst was no different, yet while many pushed south, the brothers travelled north in the Flinders Ranges holding steadfast to a belief that arable land lay ahead.
Eventually they claimed Arkaba, Wilpena and Aroona, and engaged Frederick Sinnett, a surveyor from Adelaide to survey claims.
While the great drought of the 1860’s broke most pastoralists, the Brownes forged on.
But it was not until Otto Bartholomaues had the foresight to erect a dingo fence that Arkaba became a successful enterprise.
In 1984 the Rasheed family bought Arkaba, and over 14 years invested on a substantial vermin eradication program – giving results that won them a Three Ibis award for Pastoral Management.
Bushes and trees that had not been seen for many years returned, and the carrying capacity of sheep increased from 3000 to 10,000 head of Merino.
Approximately 10,000 feral goats have been removed from Arkaba during the past 21 years.
Today the original corrugated iron roof from the historic Arkaba woolshed built in 1856 still stands, and Arkaba Station has earned the respect of a profitable sheep operation but also maintains strong ties to the indigenous people it was names after,
The circa 1856 stone wool shed is often used for exhibitions and events as well as its customary shearing role.
Steel cattle yards and three sets of sheep yards are strategically located working improvement to handle livestock management.
Because of the spectacular terrain of Flinders Ranges, water is also a feature with plentiful springs and underground water and gum lined creeks snaking through Arkaba Station capturing run-off from the ranges.
The circa 1856 renovated five bedroom homestead rears up grandly from its stone foundation, its spacious and elegant rooms echoing its environment.
Modern kitchen, formal dining room, three ensuites, outdoor entertaining area and reverse cycle air conditioning amongst the key features.
Final area subject to plan of division. Current income $95,000 p.a. plus tourism accommodation
Arkaba Station is situated 22 kilometres north of Hawker fronting sealed road and 421 kilometres from Adelaide.
Auction, November 14.
