History

Chatsworth Park has a rich and interesting history with the world of thoroughbred racing at its core. James Redfearn, successful breeder, owner and trainer, owned this property in the late 1800’s. His name is linked for all time with racing history in Australia as he bred and trained 1891 Melbourne Cup winner Malvolio at Chatsworth Park, who is buried on the property. He also bred Tarcoola at Chatsworth Park, who won the Melbourne Cup two years later.

After Redfearn’s death in 1916, Chatsworth Park continued as a famous stud, owned by L.K.S. Mackinnon, after whom the time-honoured Group 1 race on Derby Day is named.

Douglas Boyd, grazier and wool industry leader, purchased Chatsworth Park and built the present homestead in 1932. The celebrated architect Robert Hamilton was employed to design the house. He adopted the English Tudor style and was famous for his layouts, detail and fastidious construction. His English style was utilised for a number of homes and shop buildings in Toorak Road, Toorak which led that area to be known as “Toorak Village”.

In 1948, Chatsworth Park was sold to the well known identity Ian Bayles DFC, a successful racehorse owner, VRC committee member and honoured World War II pilot. The majestic holding today remains in the Bayles family, with members of the family still actively involved in the thoroughbred industry.