The early years
In 1974, Stanley and Betty Shuttleworth bought the property from Rex Jubb for R27 000. They named it Woodlands and renovated the small house on the 12-acre property.
The Shuttleworths were a fascinating couple. Betty’s garden designs are still evident today in the layout of the garden beds, trees and indigenous bush. She was also famous for her porcelain dolls, known as Diaz Dolls.
Although the couple travelled extensively abroad, their passion was local. Stanley wrote two books, Kenton Kaleidoscope and The Woodlands Story, exploring the history of the people, land and development of infrastructure in the local community.
Woodlands Country Cottages begins
In the mid-1980s, Beverly and Dave Selwyn Smith bought the property from the Shuttleworths and started Woodlands Country Cottages.
They began with one small cabin and opened their home to guests. Bev and Dave also played an important role in developing tourism in the area. Their efforts included international communication through Bev’s famous tea gardens.
A new chapter for Woodlands
In 2015, two years after the sad passing of Bev, Allen and Gail Cunningham bought Woodlands.
They invested considerable time and funding into improving and streamlining the operation for increased occupancy. At the same time, they remained passionate about preserving the authentic bush-stay experience, keeping rates affordable and conserving the environment.
During their time at Woodlands, they made several improvements to the property. The land was officially rezoned for trading, while creepers and bush were removed responsibly. They also installed a sewerage system with a bio plant and renovated the cottages without losing their rustic, peaceful bush setting.
In addition, an aquaponics system was established for chemical-free vegetable and herb farming.
The Goat Shed Bush Bistro & Bar
The Goat Shed Bush Bistro & Bar was established on the Woodlands property and named by local legend Thaine Theolopilos.
Allen and Gail took over this unique, rustic bush pub. It became a licensed venue where locals and visitors could enjoy entertainment by well-known bands and musicians.
Woodlands today
Matthew took over Woodlands and the Goat Shed in November 2021 and continued upgrading the property.
Improvements included solar geysers at three of the cottages, as well as new water tanks and pumps to allow water use throughout the year. This is particularly useful during summer, when Kenton often experiences pressure on its water supply because of the increased number of people in town.
The Goat Shed is now open five days a week throughout the year, from Wednesday to Sunday, 12pm to 9pm. During season, it opens seven days a week.
An inverter, battery and solar system also helps keep the property running during load shedding.