The Tasmanian Members of The Australiana Fund are holding a Discovery Day at ‘Clairville’, the home of Fund Member and well-known artist Michael McWilliams and his partner Robert Henley.
Built in the 1820’s ‘Clairville’ was owned by one family for generations. In 2019, Michael and Robert purchased the house including some of the original furniture.
We will be able to wander in the expansive garden, tour the house, and visit Michael’s art studio, which is rarely open to the public. Michael McWilliams is a highly regarded Australian artist whose work is in demand.
Inside the house, the wallpaper in the side hall is original. It was hung about 1832 and is the only example of scenic wallpaper in situ, in the Southern hemisphere. Titled 'Passage des Detroits' or 'Cérémonie Turque‘, it tells the story of King Otto of Greece, the first Monarch of modern Greece, travelling through the Bosphorus to claim the throne.
The day will start with Robert and Michael discussing the house and some Tasmanian treasures owned and brought along by Members of the Tasmanian Committee.
Lunch will be served with a glass of wine or soft drink in the lovely garden.
There will also be a Gin tasting from Turner Stillhouse. Tasmanian Fund Member, Brett Coulson is the Distiller. Their brand 3 Cuts Gin is delicious!
Parking is available at Clairville but please consider car pooling. For those travelling interstate, the property is opposite Launceston Airport.
Tickets are $100 which includes a $50 donation to The Australiana Fund Endowment Appeal
(A tax deductible donation receipt will be issued)
We look forward to welcoming you to Tasmania for this excellent opportunity to enjoy a beautiful Tasmanian heritage house and garden, with the bonus of viewing Michael’s Studio and the chance to sample a craft Tasmanian spirit with a rich tradition of quality.
