Labassa, a historic mansion in Melbourne, is more than just a building; it's a living, breathing testament to the city's rich history and the diverse communities that have called it home. Nestled in a quiet corner of Caulfield North, this magnificent estate has witnessed the passage of time and the changing tides of society.
A Mansion's Journey
The story of Labassa begins in 1887 when millionaire Alexander Robertson envisioned a grand residence that would become the talk of Melbourne's high society. He transformed a modest home into a 35-room mansion, complete with lavish interiors, manicured gardens, and all the accoutrements of an elite lifestyle. The mansion, then known as Ontario, became a hub for noble gatherings and extravagant parties.
Over the years, Labassa's ownership changed hands, and its purpose evolved. In the early 20th century, it was purchased by John Boyd Watson II's son, who renamed it Labassa, continuing the tradition of lavish social events. However, as time marched on, the mansion was subdivided, and by the mid-1930s, it housed multiple flats, a far cry from its grand beginnings.
A Sanctuary for Jewish Refugees
One of the most poignant chapters in Labassa's history is its role as a sanctuary for Jewish refugees fleeing the aftermath of WWII. Approximately 25,000 Jewish refugees arrived in Australia, with around 9,000 settling in Melbourne. Labassa, with its grand first floor converted into flats, provided a safe haven for these displaced families.
For Rachel Apfelbaum, returning to Labassa after 70 years was a surreal experience. She reminisced about sliding down the banister with her cousin and the beauty of the leadlight windows. Her mother, Helen, recalled the shock of discovering such opulence after surviving the Holocaust. Despite the meager living conditions, with just a mattress on the floor and no hot water, Helen felt a sense of rebirth, a return to life.
A Bohemian Haven
As Melbourne embraced the counterculture movement of the 1960s and 70s, Labassa became a haven for university crowds, beatniks, hippies, and artists. The mansion's soul resonated with these free-spirited individuals, and its grand rooms hosted magnificent parties and creative rehearsals.
Performer Jane Clifton, known for her role in the TV series Prisoner, resided in Labassa during this era. She described the mansion as a place of happiness, hope, and freedom, where people appreciated its beauty and unique character. The atmosphere was lively, with stories of motorcycle rides up the stairwell, but there was also a deep respect for the house, almost as if it were a sentient being.
Preservation and Legacy
By the 1980s, Labassa's future was uncertain, but the National Trust stepped in to preserve its significant history, purchasing the mansion for $282,500. Vicki Shuttleworth, author of "Labassa, House of Dreams," created the "Labassa Lives" project, collecting over 700 stories of personal connection to the mansion. Today, Labassa stands as a time capsule, a testament to the dreams of Melbourne's elites, the sanctuary of the Jewish community, and the creative freedom of bohemians.
Labassa's romantic nostalgia continues to captivate visitors, sparking curiosity about its architecture and the lives of those who called it home. It is a living monument, cared for by dedicated volunteers, and its stories continue to be shared and celebrated.
