Our Story
Claremont was first established as a Georgian farmhouse on nine acres in circa 1843. In 1901, the Gunn family transformed the dwelling into a Federation home, where they lived for more than 100 years. Their businesses were integral to the development of Launceston, renowned for attracting exceptional craftspeople and delivering buildings of enduring quality.
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The family’s legacy of generosity and craftsmanship is still felt in the ambience of the house today. The most recent restoration has revived a suite of rooms historically used as a private retreat, honouring the estate’s origins while introducing refined modern comforts.
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The home is surrounded by majestic oaks—some older than the house itself—and heritage gardens that echo its long and colourful past. Guests are invited to wander freely, enjoying peaceful corners, sweeping lawns, and the timeless charm of a property lovingly shaped across generations.
Custodians of the land
A history of custodianship can be traced for the Estate by comparing the original land grant, advertisements for sale, and Launceston Council rate notices where they exist.
40,000+ years ago
The Traditional Custodians of this land, were the palawa (or pakana). At least six original tribes converged around kanamaluka/The Tamar Estuary: The litarimirina and panina from Port Dalrymple and Norfolk Plains; the tayarinutipana, rrulinamirimina and mawimirina from Stoney Creek and the North Midlands as well as the plintamirimina of Ben Lomond.
c1843
George Borradaile began construction of the Georgian homestead from pisé, a building material of stiff clay rammed between boards which are removed as it hardens. Borradaile had lived in a captain's cottage adjacent with his family since 1841.
1844
Surrounding land of 9 acres 1 rood and 24 perches (3.8ha) was officially granted to George Borradaile. The property was subdivided and auctioned that same year and acquired by Colin Nicol Campbell Esq who subsequently named the house Ormelie.
1858
Henry Bennett acquired Ormelie at auction from Campbell as the subdivided property of 4 acres 2 roods and 7 perches (1.84ha). The house was soon named Claremont under the ownership of Mr Bennett.
1882
The street on the northern boundary was briefly renamed Bennett Street and then Claremont Street after the Homestead.
1901
As part of the estate of the late Henry Bennett, Claremont was subdivided again and auctioned. Fred Gunn bought the property at auction and immediately built the first federation extension through his family construction firm J & T Gunn.
1919
An upstairs level was added and very rare Tasmanian Oak fiddleback timber paneling was used to line the main hall of Claremont.
1919-2011
Various further alterations and additions were made including the enclosure of the north facing verandah.
2011
After 110 years the Gunn family home was sold to Scotch Oakburn College.
2012
Claremont was subdivided again and the heritage rose garden and kitchen gardens excised from the property. Claremont was bought by the 6th custodians.
2012-2017
Extensive renovations were undertaken. The roof and internal rooms were repaired and kitchens and bathrooms renovated. The roofline was restored to reflect the original federation architecture.
2017
The 7th and current custodians purchased Claremont and began work on the overgrown and neglected gardens and continued to restore internal features.
2025
An extensive restoration and addition was completed with the help of Cumulus Studio and Burleigh and Dean Constructions. B&D Constructions won the Master Builders Award (TAS) for their work. Claremont Oak Estate is born.
In Other Words...
Claremont, built in 1843 as a Georgian farmhouse for George Borradaile, is one of Launceston’s most distinguished heritage properties. Constructed in pisé (rammed earth) from clay dug on site and once roofed in split shingles, it originally stood on a nine-acre estate stretching from Littleton Street to Erina Street. The property later passed to Henry Bennett, a prominent Launceston draper, and in 1901 was purchased by Fred Gunn, marking the beginning of a century of Gunn family custodianship. Through their firm J. & T. Gunn, the family transformed the home, adding an upper level in 1919 and adorning the interior with fiddleback Tasmanian Oak and Blackwood timber panelling salvaged from the historic Commercial Bank of Tasmania. Today, Claremont endures as a rare example of craftsmanship, heritage, and architectural grace — a timeless reflection of Tasmania’s rich cultural history.
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Claremont stands as a beautifully restored heritage estate, lovingly cared for by Franki and her son Andrew. Their meticulous work has revived the property’s original Celerytop Pine timber fretwork and preserved its exquisite interiors. The grand hall showcases rare fiddleback Tasmanian Oak panelling, while the formal dining room glows with rich Blackwood timber, salvaged from the historic Commercial Bank of Tasmania. Blending artistry, science, and heritage, Franki and Andrew have renewed Claremont with creativity and respect, ensuring its timeless elegance and spirit continue to inspire all who visit.