Braidwood woolshed could be hub of accommodation business

A successful hospitality business that arose from a couple’s vision to transform an old woolshed into a function centre is for sale.

The last sheep was shorn in Braidwood’s Garanvale woolshed in 1988 when farmers John and Moira Maddrell made the decision to convert the building on their property into a rustic reception centre for weddings, conferences and parties.

The woolshed was built by John’s family in 1936, and with its historic significance the Maddrells wanted to run it as a reception centre rather than let it fall into disrepair.

The popular venue has been operating for almost 30 years by the same family and is licensed to seat 150 people. It is on a 6.9-hectare block, 2.5 kilometres from the heritage-listed town of Braidwood.

Selling agent Reg O’Connell from Landmark Daniel Walker, Braidwood, said the property priced at $620,000 gave buyers an opportunity to secure an established business on picturesque acreage for the value of little more than the land alone.

“Braidwood has become an extremely popular tourist spot, and accommodation in the town is booked out nearly every weekend,” Mr O’Connell said.

“Adding accommodation to the Garanvale offering would make it a strong commercial investment because there just aren’t enough places for visitors to stay in town much of the time.

“For potential buyers there is that attractive option to build a home on the block, enjoy a business that is income-producing, and have a caravan park and cabins, which would work in well with the woolshed’s function centre.”

A development application for a caravan park and cabins has been approved by council for the property, Mr O’Connell said.

Garanvale woodshed has heavy vehicle access, central heating, a dishwasher and bathroom, cold room and loading dock. The bar is fully equipped, and furniture and crockery are included in the sale. External caterers work with the venue for functions.

The property has some council amenities, including rubbish collection, Mr O’Connell said.

Braidwood was the first complete town to be listed on the NSW State Heritage Register and is 88 kilometres from Canberra.