Lara’s “elegant old lady,” Pirra Homestead, hosted a morning tea and guided tour earlier this month as part of a Geelong Gallery outreach program visit to the You Yangs.

Bisinella Developments is the presenting partner of the Fred Williams in the You Yangs exhibition, on display at the Geelong Gallery until November 5.

As part of the partnership, the homestead welcomed a group of 25 people for a guided tour of the Bisinella family’s historic mansion. The party then visited the You Yangs, which feature prominently in Fred Williams’ artwork.   

Held on October 8, the tour of Pirra Homestead was hosted by Les Kelly and Ken Taylor from the Lara Museum, who spoke about the homestead’s colourful history. Built in 1880, Pirra was the location of elegant parties with rich pastoralists before becoming a rehab centre for alcoholics among other things. 

Richard Bisinella, Development Manager of Bisinella Developments, spoke to guests about his family’s involvement in the property.  The homestead was bought by the Bisinella family in 2006 and restored to its glory days. It now hosts events including the Lara Food and Wine Festival and Lara Carols.

Bisinella would like to thank Les Kelly and Ken Taylor for their assistance with the Pirra Homestead tour.

For more information about the Fred Williams in the You Yangs exhibition at the Geelong Gallery, visit www.geelonggallery.org.au/whats-on/exhibitions/fred-williams-in-the-you-yangs