The historic homestead built in the 1800s is open to the public on the first Saturday of every month, with owner Steve Rickett now offering three guided tours on the day. He said he has begun running the third later tour due to popular demand.

“I always love getting feedback and I was getting people telling me they finished work at 12 on a Saturday and weren’t able to make it in time.”

Mr Rickett said he is really happy with the way the open days have been received.

“For people who love the history of that era, as well as the gardens at the homestead, we transport them back to the 1800s and give them the full experience – they’re almost Victorian by the time they leave!”

As well as offering tours of his historic home, Mr Rickett runs a cafe in Nimmitabel, which has also seen a busy summer season.

“Nimmitabel is a great stopoff, halfway between Canberra and the coast.

“People bypass Cooma to avoid the hustle and bustle, here they can pull up outside and get whatever they’re after – it’s the perfect stop.”