Closing chapter of Markdale's colourful past

Acting against the advice of a prominent sheep broker, by 1925 the Ashtons managed 15,000 sheep on 14,000 acres at Markdale, quelling the sons’ their past unproductive actions.

Coming from an underprivileged childhood in regional Victoria, Mr Ashton dropped out of school at age 10, but went on to become a journalist at the Riverine Herald and, later, owner and editor of the Narranderra Argus. He served as Minister for Lands for several years, and as acting Premier. Described as a strapping man, friendly in nature, he met US president Theodore Roosevelt and was life-long friends with Banjo Patterson. 

He married Helen Willis. Sons Jim, Bob, Geoff and Phillip were as ambitious as their father, and talented polo players. In the late 1920s, they set sail to England, referred to by the press as the ‘Goulburn Team’. In their first polo stint, they won 15 matches, but were ultimately defeated in the Hurlington Championship. Unexpectedly, the King of Spain presented them with a special cup for their sportsmanship.

The young Ashtons then travelled to the US and sold their horses for $76,000 as reported by the Sydney Morning Herald. The family returned home and continued to support the game. Their legacy is commemorated through the Ashton Cup, an award created by the Goulburn Polo Tournament of the time.

The Markdale garden was re-designed in 1949, contributed to by leading architects and designers. Now, more than 350 rare items will be up for auction on May 14.

“We’ve loved being here, love the district, love the people that have helped us,” said grandson Geoff Ashton, who grew up in Markdale. “It’s a very special memory for us. It’s always been a wonderful town.”

The house has been sold to another family – also with four sons. It will be open to the public from May 12.