The 12-hectare Deloraine property was listed with KnightFrank on Monday, November 19, and sold “in a matter of days”, Launceston listing agent Rodney Rawlings said.

“We did have strong inquiries,” Mr Rawlings said, adding that the Victorian buyers were known to the agency through its existing network.

“The first couple who looked at it showed interest and we have been negotiating with them.”

Calstock’s new owners will live in the homestead and continue to run it as an accommodation business.

“They were looking for a grand colonial Tasmanian residence. They have run heritage accommodation [in Victoria],” Mr Rawlings said.

“It is arguably the best example of colonial architecture. [The new owners] loved the history of the property, its quality and the beautiful elm and oak trees.

“It seemed to tick every box for them.”

Calstock’s original house was built in 1831, but it became a grand stately property through the work of the Field family, who bought it in 1853.

The Fields added to Calstock’s prominence, both in stature and reputation, through their horse breeding program and agricultural pursuits.

As the property where two Melbourne Cup winners – Malua in 1879 and Sheet Anchor in 1880 – were bred was also another attraction for the new owners.

“They have an interest in horses and liked the history of the stables with the Melbourne Cup winners,” Mr Rawlings said.

Still boasting original shutters, locks and gas lights that have been converted to electricity, Calstock has all the modern features you would expect from a prestige property, with the hallmarks of its heritage significance.

Calstock has formal sitting and dining rooms accessed from its grand entrance hall, with stately bedrooms, bathrooms, library and study in the main part, and kitchen, conservatory and en suite bedrooms split between two wings.

Carefully manicured ornamental and productive gardens surround the home, with a walled kitchen garden and glasshouse flanked by hedges and convict-built walls.

Stables, a woolshed and further accommodation are also located outside the main home.

“It is liveable without losing its original charm,” Mr Rawlings said.

Vendors Bronwyn Shakespear and Terry Fahey bought Calstock in September 2017 for $3.15 million.

“They are absolutely delighted with the price.”

Calstock is at 14746 Highland Lakes Road, Deloraine.

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