'It's close to everything': Why families love Farrer in Woden Valley

Farrer sits just inside the border between the Woden Valley and Tuggeranong, separated by a green belt that extends in both directions.

This close connection with nature gives the suburb much of its character and makes it a family favourite.

Chris Hetherington of Belle Property Canberra, who lists this week’s Farrer feature property, says the home’s location has been a big drawcard for potential buyers.

“It’s perfectly set in a quiet cul-de-sac surrounded by long-standing neighbours,” he says. “And it backs onto the Farrer Ridge Nature Reserve for easy access to walking trails and wildlife spotting.”

Hetherington was brought up in Farrer and knows the suburb well.

“It’s always been a drawcard for families as it’s close to everything – it’s feels quite private, but it’s only a short drive to the Southlands Shopping Centre in Mawson,” he says.

“Beyond that, it’s a further short drive to the Woden Town Centre, Canberra Hospital and a wide range of schools.”

Sharon Peart of Luton Properties Manuka says Farrer is a popular choice for buyers for the perceived greater value it offers.

“It’s fair to say that a budget can stretch further than perhaps in other suburbs closer to the Inner South,” she says.

“And Farrer’s Woden Valley location also has strong appeal because of its central location.”

Peart echoes Hetherington on Farrer’s winning hand.

“It really comes down to the suburb’s connection with nature and its close proximity to schools, shops and everything [you need],” she says.

Southern comfort

It might be a stretch to call Farrer a best-kept secret, but it does mark the Woden Valley borderland before Tuggeranong, effectively separated by the Farrer Ridge Nature Reserve.

Home truths

Original Farrer homes were built in the 1960s-70s, with many since undergoing renovation. Further renewal has been sparked by the Mr Fluffy demolitions that has also created more dual occupancies.

Nature hugger

Farrer is blessed in its close communion with nature, merging with the Farrer Ridge Nature Reserve that creates a wide green belt with its Mount Taylor and Wanniassa Hill neighbours.

Feature property

There’s an old saying about not getting a second chance to make a first impression. If that’s the case, this Farrer home grabs its opportunity through a compelling claim: it’s completely at home with nature.

That’s obvious from its leafy setting on a big 1078-square-metre block, which backs onto the local nature reserve and offers big views of neighbouring Mount Taylor.

Inside, it reinforces the connection through plenty of glazing that pulls in the light and draws nature ever closer.

That distinction is further blurred by extensive timber treatments throughout – floors, window frames, decks, balustrades and more. A big, old fireplace with an exposed brick background adds to its rustic feel.

The floor plan offers minor bedrooms and a rumpus on one side, the main suite on the other and a hub with a huge living room and the kitchen-dining-family space.

The kitchen features ample bench space and an abundance of storage, along with a European laundry.

But there’s more. Step down to a self-contained space with a private entry, bedroom and en suite, kitchen, living room, and plenty of storage.

The outdoor highlight is a pool surrounded by timber decking and a shaded outdoor entertaining area.

The gardens can’t be described as anything other than “lush” and are serviced by a fully automated watering system. There’s also a single garage that’s been converted into a workshop.