In actual fact, the Southern Highlands region is one of the state’s most popular destinations for hobby farms of all types and sizes: it is relatively close to Sydney, Wollongong and Canberra – the Hume expressway linking Sydney and Canberra runs right down the middle, yet it still features vast tracts of farmland, quaint villages and the convenience of some larger towns.
Hobby farms aren’t just for retiring tree-changers, although they are the vast majority of hobby farm investors, there are also many `Gen-Y’, young families and first home buyers that have chosen the `alternate’ lifestyle small farms afford.
What is a hobby farm?
In most instances a hobby farm is a non-income-earning rural property, although selling some of your excess vegetables at the local farmer’s market often happens.
Most hobby farms are between 5 and 100 acres, although they can measure far bigger depending on location and use.
What types of hobby farms are there?
The short answer is; how many hobbies can you name? Perhaps you love wines and want to buy a small vineyard, or maybe you’re mechanically minded and want space for workshops and garages for your fleet of collectible cars, you want space for the family to grow and enjoy outdoor activities (rather than spend hours in front of a screen), you want to have chooks, grow veges, fruit trees and maybe some livestock such as alpacas, horses or goats.
Owning and keeping a hobby farm is also a responsibility. You are, in essence, managing the land and improving it for the next owner.
Like any property there will be ongoing upkeep and responsibilities and its not always easy – no town water or sewer, garbage service, limited services, little or no public transportation and sometime the wildlife can be a challenge, especially for gardeners.
You may need to periodically treat noxious weeds or refill water tanks or ensure you have a current bush fire emergency plan. Many hobby farmers also join their local RFS (great way to learn about fire and also meet members of your community.)
Of course, the Highlands play host to many `weekend farmers’ – people that prefer to work full time in the cities and escape to their farms each weekend and during holiday periods. They too have the same responsibilities as full-time hobby farmers as well.
Hobby Farms In The Highlands
Hobby farm opportunities in the Highlands have become increasingly `tight’, with few small-acre farms available. For most people, acreage close to centres such as Bowral, Moss Vale and Mittagong can be quite expensive, but there are opportunities near some the of village areas and more remote areas. One such area is Canyonleigh on the highland’s western fringe.
While only a few minutes off the Hume Expressway, around an hour to Sydney’s south-west, 20 minutes to Moss Vale, there can be properties ranging from 5 to 100 acre lots, with or without houses and infrastructure at a still reasonable price. Canyonleigh, like many rural areas of the Highlands, has a strong sense of community with a Community Association, popular RFS brigade, SES, historic community hall (the venue for dances, trivia and social events) and an extremely popular café/restaurant called Audrey’s.
For younger families, there are two school buses each morning and afternoon for primary and secondary students.
Hobby farms aren’t for everyone – they can be a challenging lifestyle, especially for people unaccustomed to farm-life. But for those that choose this alternate lifestyle, the rewards are endless.
As an investment? Owning a hobby farm can be a worthwhile asset, as the property’s value can increase over time, especially if it’s located near capital cities. Another growing investment opportunity are B&Bs with a rural style and activities.
So, if you’re seeking a change in lifestyle, consider a hobby farm (in the Southern Highlands of course!)
Properties On The Market
Visit The Fold Property to view properties on the market throughout the Southern Highlands.
33 Phillip Street, Burradoo 
- $2,375,000
21 Robinson Street Mittagong
- For Sale - Price Upon Request
59A Sunninghill Avenue Burradoo
- $3,900,000 - $4,100,000
4 Blackwood Place Robertson
- Sale Guide $1,300,000
5 Harley Street, Bowral
- $2,900,000
34-36 Old Jamberoo Road Robertson
- Price Guide $1,500,000
29 Boronia Street Bowral
- Contact Agent
20/3 Victoria Street, Bowral
- For Sale - $875,000
15 Links Road Burradoo
- Contact Agent