Story: A Country Escape with Heart
Episode: 28
Presenter: Nikki Parkinson
Air Date: 10 August 2025

Nikki discovers the charm of simple living at Sandalwood Downs, a 100-acre paradise near Toodyay where rescued animals, off-grid serenity, and heartfelt hospitality come together to create the ultimate wholesome country getaway.

• Just under an hour from Perth, Sandalwood Downs operates as a fully registered nature reserve and working farm near the vibrant country town of Toodyay, making it easily accessible for a day trip or longer stay.
• Set across 100 acres of beautifully maintained paddocks, the property includes manicured lawns, walk‑trails to hilltop vantage points and scenic natural features like winter‑flowing creeks.
• Home to over 200 hand‑raised, rescue farm animals, including camels, donkeys, alpacas, emus, goats, deer, peacocks, chooks, ducks, geese, rabbits and more, all orphaned or rescued and lovingly cared for by hosts Marc and Jane, ensuring they’re exceptionally friendly and interactive.
• Their guided “A Day at the Farm” tours are limited to small group sizes (around 25 people) to guarantee up-close, hands-on animal feeding and educational interactions for all ages.
• The communal area features a BBQ zone, seating, children's nature playground, outdoor fireplace and a yarning‑circle fire pit (operational winter months May–September), fostering shared story‑time and connection around the campfire
• Accommodation options include 12 off‑grid camping/caravan/tent sites. scattered across the acreage for privacy and serenity, plus a charming 2‑bedroom farm stay bungalow with plunge pool, garden, outdoor fireplace and balcony, guests can interact daily with the friendly animal family either way.

For more information, head to:
adayatthefarm.com.au