Oatlands: This storybook township has heritage fans hooked

With each step along the storied streets of Oatlands, history mingles with modern-day life, as if past and present meet over tea in one of its quaint heritage cafes. Golden-hued sandstone buildings stand tall, now transformed into cafes, antique stores, and art galleries that breathe new life into this storybook Tasmanian town nestled in the heart of the Midlands.

Oatlands’ charm is anything but accidental. The town pulses with a spirit as magnetic as its scenic beauty, revitalising once-quiet streets with inspired visitors and thriving new ventures.

Legacy etched in stone

Established in 1821, Oatlands is celebrated as one of Australia’s most important historic townships, boasting the country’s largest collection of early Colonial and Georgian sandstone buildings.

“With over 150 sandstone residential and commercial buildings, Oatlands has a village-like presence that attracts heritage enthusiasts from across Australia,” says Dominic Romeo of Circa Heritage and Lifestyle Property Specialists. “These structures carry historical, social and cultural significance – a vital part of the town’s identity.”

If the sandstone walls along High Street could talk, they’d tell tales of resilience and reinvention. One such story is that of 72-74 High Street, locally known as Robinson’s Cottage, built by former convict turned entrepreneur John Robinson. By 1836, the cottage had become a bustling town hub.

“His legacy is one of ambition and foresight,” says Romeo. “The current owners have transformed the property into a thriving tourism venture. The potential is boundless for future custodians – a canvas awaiting its next chapter in hospitality, accommodation, or retail.”

From grain to greatness

Rooted in the town’s grain-growing heritage, Callington Mill Distillery has become a cornerstone of Oatlands’ revival. Here, visitors can delve into the world of whisky, from cellar-door tastings to self-guided tours across its historic grounds, set against the backdrop of the town’s iconic mill.

“Our vision is to make Callington Mill a globally recognised brand, exporting premium single malt whisky and establishing Oatlands as Australia’s whisky capital,” says founder John Ibrahim. “What Bundaberg is to rum, Oatlands will be to whisky.”

The distillery’s success has sparked local jobs for over 40 residents while attracting top talent globally. Drawing specialists like chefs and distillers from world-class destinations such as Dubai required competitive pay, benefits, and housing – particularly challenging in an area with limited rentals. To meet these needs, it acquired several properties to provide staff housing and support infrastructure expansion.

“Our $50 million investment has driven economic growth, bringing in 60,000 visitors annually,” Ibrahim says. “With an additional $20 million going into a cooperage and bottling plant, we’re ensuring that every step of whisky-making remains right here in Oatlands, fueling both community and craft.”

For sale in Oatlands

$990,000 WIWO

72-74 High Street, Oatlands TAS 7120

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Comprising three restored side-by-side cottages, Robinson’s is a main street gem. Currently an accommodation venture and former home to the successful The Imbibers merchant, it stands ready to capitalise on Oatland’s tourism trade with boundless commercial possibilities.