The equine industry is buzzing with excitement after the recent sale of the first foal from the legendary race mare Winx. The 18-month-old filly was sold for an astounding $10 million at auction, setting a new record.

This sale not only showcases the thriving state of the equine sector in Australia but also highlights the increasing demand for rural land to support its rapid growth.

The sale of the filly coincides with Raine & Horne Rural Wyong Principal Jay Talbot and keen equestrian Alexa Talbot offering an exceptional 42-acre property at 1509 Mandalong Road, Dooralong, on the Central Coast of NSW.

State Forest trails surround the magnificent five bedroom retreat, and it boasts 18 acres of recreational bushland for horseback riding, biking, hiking, camping, and nature exploration. Its unique feature is a billabong covered in water lilies during summer. The owners have landscaped extensively, adding sandstone blockwork, paving, fencing, tree avenues, a vegetable garden, and water reticulation. The shed provides ample storage and immaculate property, with the potential for alterations.

Alexa Talbot says, “Equestrian enthusiasts can delight in sand dancing around a 60 x 20m river sand arena or hack around the 60 x 20m grassed arena. Explore the 11 large paddocks, each equipped with shelter and water, perfect for showjumping or cross-country riding.”

Jay Talbot, a skilled agent with over a decade of experience in rural property, noted that individuals interested in lifestyle properties tailored to equestrian activities are primarily from Sydney. According to Jay, properties like Mandalong Road appeal to buyers from areas like The North Shore, Northern Beaches, or the Eastern Suburbs. “These buyers typically own horses and have a passion for equestrian sports like eventing, dressage, or jumping,” he said. 

“They are boarding their horses in locations such as Dural, Acacia, Terry Hill, or Duffy’s Forest. They are searching for properties where they can agist horses and enjoy a change of scenery, either as a permanent tree change or for weekend getaways.”

Jay added that a robust equine community living and working on the Central Coast also appeals to equestrian-focused buyers from Sydney. “We have high-profile equestrians and trainers who attract people here. Some people buying properties here want closer access to these notable horse trainers.”

While the Central Coast may not boast the next Winx, Jay Talbot says there is a palpable passion for owning thoroughbred racehorses in this region. “With excellent facilities for training and spelling racehorses, it’s clear that the Central Coast is a haven for equine enthusiasts, catering to various disciplines, be it performance or thoroughbred racing.”

Travis Wentriro, Network Manager at Raine & Horne Rural, said buyers are beginning to reemerge “as they feel confident in the market for rural lifestyle properties.” 

He continued, “These properties typically require substantial upfront capital, meaning buyers are less likely to rely heavily on loans. While some may take out a loan for part of the purchase and then borrow against the property’s rental income, the trend is towards cash purchases or minimal borrowing. 

“The stability in interest rates since November has contributed to this confidence, signalling a positive outlook among buyers. The buyers in this market are often well-informed, and what unites them is their confidence in blue-chip rural real estate. This sector has a track record of providing solid returns over the long term, a trend that holds true in the Australian market.”

Contact your local Raine & Horne Rural estate agent today if you’re considering listing a rural property.