HISTORY

Returning soldier, Dick Trethewey, Nathan’s grandfather, was allocated land south of Parndana under the World War II Solider Settlement Scheme. Many hours were spent clearing the land, planting crops and building up sheep numbers.

Nathan’s father, Richard continued to farm here for 50 years, grazing sheep and cattle on the property and setting up Eleanor Downs as the base for the family to develop their extensive agricultural business on Kangaroo Island.

Nathan's mother, Suzanne, is one of the most celebrated artists on the Island. Suzanne's artistic panache is seen in the character of the homestead and the surrounding garden which once cultivated 160 varieties of flourishing roses.

Richard and Suzanne are skilled horse riders, and thanks to their love for them Eleanor Downs is known for the Hunt Club events and the magnificent horses who have grazed its paddocks.

 Every year for the past 70 years shearing has taken place in November. The shearers are locally employed men and women who take great pride in their work, one shearer still shears here after five decades. 

For further Kangaroo Island Solider Settler history please visit www.parndanamuseum.org.au.