Author: Dr Sue Rosen

Client: James Fairfax, OAM

Retford Park from the period when it was part of the Broomfield estate has been associated with grazing, but it was not until the establishment of Retford Park by Samuel Hordern in the 1880s and its development as a premier stud property by him, his son and grandson, (both also named Samuel) that the NSW historic theme of pastoralism emerged with such strength and importance. It remained a predominant element until the subdivisions of the 1960s. The house and outbuildings are culturally significant due to their capacity to demonstrate that theme and also the theme of creative endeavour as it relates to the house, outbuildings and landscaped grounds.

Also associated with Retford Park is the NSW historic theme of accommodation, with particular reference to the house and garden, a theme that developed in the Hordern proprietorship, and more strongly under that of James Fairfax. From the purchase of the house, cut off from much of its grounds and associated outbuildings by James Fairfax, the property has been used as a gentleman’s country residence and the area has been gradually extended to provide an extensive landscaped setting. The house and grounds now reflect the taste, design sensibilities and lifestyle of James Fairfax and take much of their significance from their association with him. Significant people associated with Retford Park include the Hordern family and latterly James Fairfax and his friends and associates from the business and art world, with references to Retford Park appearing in important memoirs and journals. These include well know practitioners who have contributed to Retford Park as it is today, namely Donald Friend, Leslie Walford, John Codrington, David Wilkinson and Guilford Bell who for the most part formed part of the larger friendship circle of James Fairfax.