Parlour Games

Between the discovery of gold and of coal, when the town was on the passenger train line, a house was built in the Victorian style with bay windows, a wrap-around verandah and views across wild fields.

There was a shady fernery and a stone convict hut.

It was the main street’s crowning jewel, a fine example of a residence for a gentleman.

They say the town has been, and will be ever, a mining town but the boom has passed and the storefronts carry long-departed proprietor’s names and advertising hoardings for products no longer known, and windows are covered in curling newspapers.

The publican banned the football team for “unruly” behaviour and that was the end of the pub.

But this house, like others of the same vintage that sporadically dot the mottled landscape, lives on, faded but enchanting; it has become the quintessential country home. It is neither opulent nor extravagant but is comforting and serene. Inside books are everywhere. Almost every room constitutes a part of the library.

Wandering through the house, discoveries are made, an ancient walnut-inlaid table, a Limoges plate encrusted with glass, the piano, board games and toys. There is always a diversion at hand, something to do, read, play or compose.