The Story Behind Coolabah Cabin: A Glimpse into Lake Pleasant Farm

Every corner of Lake Pleasant Farm tells a story, and our beloved "Coolabah Cabin" is no exception. Its name isn't just a label; it's a nod to the very essence of the Australian landscape, the spirit of resilience, and the quiet beauty that surrounds us here in the Biloela region, gateway to the Sandstone Wonders.

When we envisioned our farm stay, we wanted each cabin to reflect a piece of the natural environment we work so hard to nurture. The Coolabah tree (Eucalyptus coolabah) immediately came to mind for this particular spot.

The Coolabah: A Symbol of the Land

Coolabah trees are quintessential Australian eucalypts, perfectly adapted to the often challenging conditions of the Australian inland. They are found across vast floodplains and along watercourses, thriving in the clay soils that characterise much of our region, including parts of Lake Pleasant Farm. These magnificent trees are known for their:

• Resilience: They can withstand both prolonged droughts and seasonal flooding, much like the land they inhabit. This adaptability resonates deeply with our regenerative farming philosophy, which aims to build resilience into our soil and ecosystems.

• Shelter and Life: With their spreading canopies, Coolabahs provide vital shade and shelter for wildlife and livestock alike, offering a cool respite during hot days. They are often home to a myriad of birds and insects, contributing significantly to the biodiversity we cherish.

• Quiet Beauty: While perhaps not as dramatic as some other eucalypts, the Coolabah possesses a subtle, understated beauty. Its grey-green foliage and often gnarled branches speak of endurance and a deep connection to the earth.

Built from Our Land: The Sustainable Timber Story

Naming the cabin "Coolabah" was our way of honouring these hardy, life-giving trees, and our connection to them extends even further. We believe in utilising our natural resources responsibly. That's why, when the opportunity arises from our land management practices – such as careful thinning for forest health or selective harvesting of fallen timber – we sustainably mill local timber right here on the farm with our own sawmill.

This beautiful, locally-sourced timber, often including the strong and durable wood from our eucalypts, forms the very fabric of Coolabah Cabin itself. You'll also spot bespoke furniture, crafted from these same trees, dotted around our farm stay, adding a unique, rustic charm and a tangible link to the land. This approach minimises our footprint by reducing the need for imported materials and celebrates the natural beauty of our environment.

We invite you to see our sustainable timber story firsthand! Guests staying at Lake Pleasant Farm are welcome to arrange a time to visit our sawmill, learn about the milling process, and see the timber work we produce. You can even speak with Matt, one of the owners and the passionate individual who cherishes the Australian Coolabah tree, sustainably harvests it, and personally transforms it into the beautiful timber you see across our farm stay.

Timber: A Powerful Tool for Carbon Management

Our commitment to growing and sustainably harvesting timber is one of the most valuable ways we contribute to carbon management. As trees grow, they absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, storing that carbon in their wood, roots, and leaves. When timber is harvested sustainably and used in long-lasting products like cabins and furniture, that carbon remains sequestered for decades, sometimes centuries. Furthermore, replanting ensures continuous carbon capture, making forestry a vital part of a healthy carbon cycle.

More Than Just a Tree: A Philosophy

It's a reminder that even in seemingly harsh conditions, nature finds a way to flourish, and that true strength often lies in adaptability and a deep connection to one's environment. Just as the Coolabah stands strong year after year, providing sustenance and shelter, we aim for Lake Pleasant Farm to be a place of enduring peace, nourishment, and connection.

When you stay at Coolabah Cabin, we hope you feel that sense of deep connection to the land, enjoy the shelter it offers, and appreciate the quiet, resilient beauty of the Australian bush and the sustainable practices that bring it to life. It's a place where you can truly switch off, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature – just as the Coolabah has done for centuries.