Rock Valley
Heritage-listed Rock Valley Homestead, situated within what is now Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, was built n 1895 by George Green for his family.
Self-sufficiency was essential to the colonial settlers. The orchard boasted 74 trees in 1897. Paddocks were fenced and crops included the more unusual offerings of walnuts, maize, chestnuts and even sugar cane. There were sheep, chickens, dairy and the Greens kept bees, providing a regular supply of honey.
Grandson Eddie Green took over the property when his father Tom died in 1957 and it was acquired by the ACT Government in 1969.
Rock Valley Homestead and Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve were devastated by the 2003 bushfires. Through the hard work of rangers and the Tidbinbilla Pioneers Association (TPA) who installed rabbit proof fencing, the homestead and garden are now available for public viewing daily.
The Heritage Festival is a good opportunity to learn more from the TPA and witness a demonstration of eucalyptus distillation.