Set among the rolling green pastures of the Southern Highlands, Fernbrook represents one of the region’s most exceptional country estates - a timeless residence that balances New England-inspired architecture with the romance of a true rural sanctuary. Offered for the first time in 23 years, this 125-acre property presents an unrepeatable opportunity to secure a landmark home in one of the Highlands’ most tightly held enclaves.
Located at 561 Myra Vale Road, Wildes Meadow, Fernbrook is a masterwork of considered design and enduring craftsmanship. Architect Rod Ellis’ vision brought to life a home that feels both expansive and intimate, with sweeping interiors, natural textures, and every modern comfort.
Beyond its graceful façade lies a lifestyle of understated luxury: manicured gardens, seven spring-fed dams, a heated swimming pool, championship-grade tennis court, and a private driveway meandering through a canopy of mature trees.
For the past two decades, Fernbrook has been home to Ray and Robyn Harris, whose remarkable journey has spanned continents, careers, and creations. Married for 60 years, the Harrises built a life defined by enterprise and elegance.
Robyn, previously a sought-after model, later pioneered home staging in Australia after running a successful import business specialising in Oriental collectibles. Ray, a former Vice President of American Express Asia Pacific, went on to establish Hotel Dynamics, a global loyalty marketing company that transformed the hospitality industry through partnerships with major hotel groups in more than 55 countries.
After the sale of Hotel Dynamics in 2000, and decades of high-paced international travel, the couple turned their focus to creating a country retreat that offered space, serenity, and style. “We had spent years living by the sea, sailing our yacht named Honeysuckle and travelling constantly for work,” recalls Ray. “When we found Fernbrook, we knew within an hour it was home.”
Over the ensuing years, the property evolved into a refined yet relaxed sanctuary. Inside, the home unfolds through a sequence of beautifully proportioned rooms, from dual summer and winter lounges with an open fireplace to a grand billiards room with a century-old table and adjoining bar. A newer kitchen and dining area provide the perfect heart to the home, complemented by expansive windows framing the rolling countryside.
The upper-level master retreat offers a spacious walk-in robe and a recently renewed ensuite, while the residence’s thoughtful layout ensures privacy and warmth in every season, with both central heating and air conditioning throughout.
Beyond the main residence, Fernbrook includes garaging for six cars, a separate manager’s cottage accessed via a private driveway, and productive acreage that currently supports up to 70 head of cattle. A small heritage cemetery tucked into the corner of the property tells stories of the Irish settlers who first made Wildes Meadow home in the 1800s - a poetic reminder of the region’s enduring charm.
For Ray and Robyn, the decision to sell comes with mixed emotions. “Fernbrook has given us over two decades of peace, joy, and connection,” says Robyn. “But it’s time for another family to experience all that we have loved here - the changing seasons, the sense of privacy, and the simple pleasure of country life done beautifully.”
Offered for sale through Savills and Ray White Bowral, Fernbrook stands as one of the Southern Highlands’ true legacy estates, a property where elegance meets authenticity, and where every view feels like a painting.