Mint Inc is now engaged on its latest project, the restoration and subsequent leasing of Carome Homestead at 10 Hathfelde Boulevard, Mernda within the Plenty Gorge Parklands. Carome has had a long and varied history. It was once the site of one of Melbourne's early flour mills until the Yan Yean Reservoir, built to provide clean drinking water for the growing township of Melbourne, cut the flow of water to the Plenty River. The region then moved to mixed farming, later the site was a flourishing dairy and more recently used for training trotting horses and as a horse stud.

The current bluestone house built in 1864 had been empty for some years and was in a state of disrepair when acquired by Mint Inc and had no services connected. Mint Inc is now in the process of connecting water, power, gas and other services and restoring the homestead for possible use as a café/wine bar/restaurant. The gardens are being re-instated and fencing repaired. A new access road has replaced the old farm track no longer accessible due to the nearby Riverdale Estate layout. A major work has been the restoration of the plaster walls which were badly cracked and the installation of a commercial kitchen and public facilities.

PDF Downloads:

Expression of Interest Flyer

Carome Mill Historical Archaeological Assessment

Carome Homestead Conservation Management Plan

The shedding across the farm is typical and represented all phases of use from the 1940s dairy to the more modern lunge yards using to train trotters. The marks of original trotting track can still be seen and the paddocks are fenced for horse use. All old wire netting fences have been removed to allow for free access for the native wildlife but the sturdy rails and posts pose no threat and have merely been restored and, in some cases, lowered. Some sheds have suffered wind damage during the recent bad weather and have needed to be either demolished if irreparable or made safe. Others will be left in their original condition although not open for public access.

Mint Inc is working with Parks Vic to establish a community garden in one part of the site which has wonderful loamy soil. It is our hope that our neighbours in the nearby estate will utilize the orchard of fruit trees which has just been planted as well as the planned vegetable gardens and the new local school will avail themselves of the opportunity to develop their own kitchen garden once the school is opened. The new car park will cater for those visiting the community garden as well as those stopping for a coffee or a meal.

The community gardens will be opened by the Minister for Environment in November while it is hoped the café can start operating around December 2009.