The space

Mount William Station - Shearer's Quarters is a beautifully simple group house in Willaura, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Grampians. Originally built as accommodation for shearers and station workers, it has been thoughtfully transformed into a comfortable rural hideaway for groups who want space to celebrate, slow down and enjoy being together. For a hen weekend, it offers that rare combination of privacy, character and practical group living: plenty of beds, generous shared areas, outdoor space and memorable views from morning coffee through to evening drinks around the firepit.

This is a great choice for a bride-to-be who prefers countryside atmosphere over city-centre bustle. Think long lunches in the courtyard, grazing boards with local produce, relaxed games, stargazing, BBQs, hikes in the national park and a big group dinner where everyone can sit around the same table. The property sleeps up to 16 guests across 8 bedrooms, making it especially well suited to close-knit hen groups, mixed-age celebrations or a weekend with friends and family coming together.

The house is available for exclusive use, so your group can settle in and make the place your own. There are also catering options available on request, from continental breakfasts and BBQ packs to charcuterie boards, picnic experiences, campfire packs and a 3-course gourmet farm-to-table dinner at the Homestead. If you want the weekend to feel special without everyone spending the whole time in the kitchen, these add-ons give you plenty of ways to elevate the stay.

Inside the house

Inside, the Shearer's Quarters keeps its rustic station charm while offering the comforts needed for a smooth group weekend. The sleeping arrangements are practical and sociable, with 8 bedrooms in total: 1 master bedroom, 2 queen bedrooms and 5 twin-share rooms. This layout works well for hen parties because guests can be grouped naturally, whether that means close friends sharing twins, the bride taking the master, or family members having their own queen rooms. Extra beds for 2 additional guests may be available on request, giving a little flexibility if your guest list grows.

There are 3 bathrooms, helping keep mornings manageable when everyone is getting ready for brunch, a walk, a private dinner or an evening celebration. The interiors are simple, clean and stylish, with original features that remind you of the property's working-station heritage rather than a generic holiday rental feel.

The open-plan kitchen and living area is the heart of the house. The kitchen is set up for self-catering, so you can stock up for the weekend, prepare a group breakfast, build a grazing table or cook a celebratory meal together. The large dining table is a real highlight for hen groups: it gives everyone somewhere to gather, toast the bride, share stories from the day and enjoy one big communal supper without splitting into separate rooms.

For downtime, the living space is comfortable and easy-going, ideal for a relaxed quiz, present opening, hen party games or a chilled evening after a day exploring the Grampians. The property also includes table tennis, adding a fun, low-pressure activity for the group between meals, drinks and outdoor plans.

Hen weekend highlights

The outdoor space is a major part of the experience here. The courtyard has benches for al fresco dining, so sunny breakfasts, afternoon drinks and long BBQ dinners can all happen outside with the mountain views as your backdrop. The BBQ is ideal for an easy first-night feast or a casual celebration where everyone can help themselves, and BBQ packs can be arranged on request if you would rather keep planning simple.

As evening falls, the firepit becomes a natural gathering point. It is a lovely setting for a slower, more intimate hen night: blankets, drinks, stories, music at a respectful volume and a sky full of stars. For groups who want to lean into the rural setting, the optional campfire pack or stargazing pack can add a thoughtful extra touch.

While there is no need to over-schedule the weekend, the property gives you plenty to build around. Start with a continental breakfast at the quarters, head out for a scenic walk, return for table tennis and drinks in the garden, then enjoy a charcuterie board or self-cook BBQ. For a more polished celebration, the Bluestone Stables can be privately hired for a formal dinner or event, with exceptional cuisine and fine local wines available. That gives the bride-to-be the chance to have a proper occasion dinner while still enjoying the relaxed privacy of a countryside stay.

This is not a flashy party house with nightclub energy; it is better suited to hens who value conversation, good food, fresh air and a beautiful setting. If your group loves countryside weekends, shared meals, outdoor moments and a few special surprises, the Shearer's Quarters has all the right ingredients.

Location & getting around

The property is located in Willaura, Victoria, in the foothills of the Grampians. It is a peaceful rural base, so the main draw is the landscape rather than late-night bars on the doorstep. Many walks and hiking routes in the Grampians National Park are less than an hour away, with options for different fitness levels, making it a strong choice for a hen group that wants to include a scenic adventure as part of the weekend.

Because of the countryside location, having cars or pre-arranged transport is recommended. This will make it easier to bring supplies, explore nearby trails, visit local attractions or arrange any off-site activities. If you are planning a dressed-up dinner or a wine-focused celebration, it is worth organising transport in advance so everyone can relax.

Willaura gives you space to switch off from busy schedules and enjoy a slower pace. Days can be as active or as easy as you like: hiking, picnicking, taking in the mountain views, dining at the Homestead, playing games back at the house or simply spending time together in the garden courtyard.

Enquire today

If Mount William Station - Shearer's Quarters sounds like the right fit for your hen weekend, send an enquiry with your preferred dates, group size and any special plans you have in mind. You can ask about exclusive use, bedroom arrangements, extra beds, catering options, private dining at the Bluestone Stables and add-ons such as BBQ packs, picnics, charcuterie boards or campfire experiences. The host can help you shape a relaxed, scenic celebration that suits the bride and the whole group.