A home buyers guide to living in Collector

Just a 40-minute drive up the Federal Highway from Canberra takes you to Collector.

This quaint town is home to a few hundred people and has become a popular place to live for commuters to Canberra and Goulburn.

For 17 years, it was famous for the annual Collector Village Pumpkin Festival, which was sadly cancelled this year.

It’s also known for the historic Bushranger Hotel, which was the site of the shooting of Constable Samuel Nelson in 1865 by a member of the Ben Hall bushranger gang.

Collector at a glance

Population: 313

Distance from Canberra: 62.3km

Median price houses: $722,000*

*Based on six recorded house sales within the last 12 months (FY 2021)

Top sales

84 Baxters Lane $1.29 million

10 Murray Street $1.095 million

4 Short Street $770,000

6 Murray Street $710,000

6 George Street $650,000

Eat & drink

During the day, stop by Some Cafe. The light-filled and cosy spot serves breakfast, lunch, coffee and homemade cakes, with a firm focus on showcasing local produce.

At night, pop in for a hearty meal at one of Australia’s oldest pubs, The Bushranger Hotel.

And if you love wine, you’re in for a treat. There are three vineyards to explore in the region, all boasting award-winning drops: Lake George Winery, Lerida Estate, and Collector Wines.

See & Do

While you’re in town, take a look at the controversial Dreamer’s Gate sculpture by artist Tony Phantastes. Some call it spooky, but it was inspired by the artist’s late father and son.

If you do like things spooky, try to get a rare spot on one of Tim The Yowie Man’s ghost tours of The Bushranger Hotel, which is said to be haunted.

Or soak up the beauty of the region (and a bit more wine) with a stay at Little George, a sustainable tiny house based at Lake George Winery. 

Move in

View property

This classic weatherboard homestead sits on 25 hectares with sweeping countryside views and features modern touches throughout, a light-filled kitchen and wide verandahs.

Price guide: $1.15 million-$1.25 million

Private sale

Agent: The Agency Southern Tablelands, Greg Croker 0428 243 241