A historic milk factory engine room that once powered Jamberoo’s dairy revolution now seeks its new owners as a luxury estate.
Established in 1928 as the literal “beating heart” of the Jamberoo Milk Factory, the property at 32 Factory Lane once housed the steam boilers that powered the region’s dairy revolution.
Offered to market as one of the South Coast’s most significant architectural treasures, ‘The Powerhouse’ is heading to auction on April 14 via Ray White Kiama director Michele Laywith with a price guide of $2.5m to $2.7m.
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The home at 32 Factory Lane, Jamberoo
The residence is situated on nearly an acre of manicured “Le Jardin” French-inspired gardens
Prior to the construction of the Jamberoo Dairy Factory, the site formally held the old Waughope Butter Factory that was established in 1892 operated by Jamberoo Dairy Co.
In 1908, the company was re‑formed under the title The Jamberoo Co‑operative Dairy Co., Ltd., it was decided not to renovate the old Waughope Factory buildings, but instead to demolish them and construct a new, purpose‑built factory on the same site.
Waughope Butter Factory in 1958. Picture: Kiama Library
Jamberoo is renown as a dairy region, the Waughope Butter Factory in 1903. Picture: Kiama Library.
The home’s four-metre soaring ceilings and expansive internal voids were designed to manage the heat and energy of the 1920s steam era.
The interior of the current home was rebuilt 15 years ago and further enhanced by the vendors, who added a bespoke butler’s pantry and a dual-sided fireplace in the eclectic library and office.
Sustainability improvements were added by the current owners including 26kw solar power.
and a Tesla EV charger,
Ms Lay said the estate has been reimagined as a luxury private residence and high-end entertaining mecca, complete with a soaring gallery-style interior and a garden designed by the renowned Annie Wilkes.
“With its French-inspired Le jardin (gardens) and iconic brickwork, it stands as a permanent high-value asset in one of Australia’s most coveted rural pockets,” she said.
The 4-metre soaring ceilings and expansive internal voids were designed to manage the heat and energy of the 1920s steam era
Inside the house
For owners Robin Ferguson, a retired doctor and her husband Tony, a retired investment banker, the property has served as a sophisticated weekend sanctuary just 90 minutes from Sydney.
“Jamberoo really is the prettiest valley in New South Wales,” Ms Ferguson said.
“The Powerhouse is such a striking building with those incredibly high ceilings, but it’s the gardens that take your breath away.
“You look across the lush paddocks and it’s just total peace.
“We’ve spent four wonderful years here, but our lives are drawing us further north to Brisbane, and it’s time for someone else to enjoy the magic we’ve found here.”
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The historic steam boiler at the residence
The steam boiler is among some of the historic features at the home
Having powered the Jamberoo valley’s economy for decades, The Powerhouse is now ready to power a new vision, Ms Ferguson said.
“Whether as a world-class boutique retreat or destination Airbnb, a signature event destination, or singular private estate, you aren’t just buying a home – you are becoming the custodian of Jamberoo’s most powerful history,” she said.
“The property sits in a quiet lane where horses still trot past, evoking a sense of old world charm while remaining highly accessible via a short train trip or drive from Sydney.”
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The 1928 Legacy was the era of the “Golden Age” of dairy
An aerial view of the property
Mrs Ferguson said a grand piano was purchased specifically for the acoustics and aesthetic of the home and will be included in the sale.
“Protected by a formal Heritage Conservation Management Plan, The Powerhouse is more than a home; it is a preserved moment in time,” she said.
“We’ve had so many people pull up and ask if they can book their wedding here,” Mrs Ferguson said.
“It has been the ultimate entertaining property for us – from garden parties to cosy dinners by the fire. It’s the kind of place that people just gravitate towards.”
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