Rupert Murdoch Finds Australian Identity in Canberra Paddock
Rupert Murdoch has deep roots in Australian territory, particularly at Cavan Station near Canberra. This wool station, almost 200 years old, has been a significant site for Murdoch and his family for decades. Located off Wee Jasper Road, Cavan is described by the local mayor, Jasmin Jones, as “a jewel in the crown of the merino industry.”
Cavan Station: A Family Legacy
Cavan Station was acquired by Rupert Murdoch in 1966 for $196,000. He had launched The Australian two years prior, establishing his connection to media and agriculture. The land, known for its excellent sheep and cattle grazing conditions, quickly became a valuable asset for Murdoch.
Cavan previously spanned 52,000 acres (21,000 hectares) under its original ownership, but the Murdochs have significantly reduced that area. Despite limited visits from Murdoch, who has been in the U.S. since giving up his Australian citizenship in 1985, Cavan remains a nostalgic connection to his homeland.
Significant Events at Cavan
- Murdoch often celebrated Christmas at Cavan with family.
- In 1999, Lachlan Murdoch married Sarah O’Hare at Cavan, attracting media attention.
- In 2023, the Murdochs acquired the neighboring Boambolo property for $15.5 million.
Cavan not only symbolizes Murdoch’s personal ties to Australia but also represents the family’s efforts to sustain agricultural practices. The property manager, Matt Crozier, emphasized how the station makes the Murdoch family “feel Australian.”
Agricultural Innovations and Environmental Efforts
Cavan Station has a rich history of implementing innovative agricultural techniques, including structured breeding methods. The property is still home to high-quality merino production, particularly at nearby Bogo Stud.
In 2021, Cavan signed a $500,000 deal to sell carbon credits to Microsoft, showcasing the property’s commitment to environmental sustainability. This deal followed previous successful initiatives by the Murdoch family in regenerative farming.
The Future of Cavan Station
With Rupert Murdoch approaching 95 and family dynamics shifting, the frequency of visits to Cavan has decreased. As family members deal with ongoing legal disputes over the Murdoch Family Trust, traditional gatherings at Cavan may become rarer.
Despite these challenges, Murdoch’s attachment to Cavan remains strong. Sources suggest that when considering burial sites, Cavan is preferred over other luxury properties owned by the family.
Cavan Station embodies a significant slice of Rupert Murdoch’s identity in Australia, bridging his past with his legacy amid changing family circumstances.
