Just east of Hallett lies Netfield Cottage, the humble stone home where one of Australia’s greatest adventurers: Sir Hubert Wilkins who was born in 1888. From this modest beginning, Wilkins went on to live a life of daring exploration, discovery, and global recognition.
His thirst for knowledge first took him overseas in 1908 to pursue cinematography, a new and developing craft. Only a few years later, in 1912, he made history by filming the world’s first recorded combat during the Balkans War at just 24 years of age. By 1913, he had embarked on his first Arctic expedition, the beginning of a lifetime of polar adventures that kept him abroad for much of his life. Today, his incredible story is celebrated in The Illustrated Sir Hubert Wilkins by Jeff Maynard.
Visitors can step into this history by exploring the restored Wilkins Homestead at Netfield. Keys are available for a small fee from the Hallett General Store or Hallett Coffee & Collectables. The homestead is located at Mount Bryan East, only a short drive from Hallett. A daylight visit is recommended, as the property has no power.
The restoration of Netfield was sparked when Rosemary Lehman shared a photo of the ruined cottage with Australian Geographic. Aviation enthusiast Dick Smith (himself inspired by Wilkins’ pioneering flights) saw the image and was determined to ensure the site was saved. With support from the Australian Geographic Society, grants, and tireless local fundraising (including the much-loved “Jazz Affair” at Petherton Homestead that later became the Jazz in the Monster Mine event), Netfield was brought back to life.
Today, the site is cared for by the Sir Hubert Wilkins Memorial Cottage Committee, a volunteer group who continue to preserve Wilkins’ legacy. The committee celebrated its 20th anniversary in April 2021, marking two decades of dedication to sharing the story of this remarkable Australian with the world.