The double-pronged event is on Saturday October 15.

President Brian Buckett said the 150 year old homestead and vineyard is acknowledged as an Australia-first.

“Historically speaking, this precinct is totally unique in Australia with volunteers operating and running a working vineyard and heritage site,” he said.

“Every cent raised by these events – along with our regular weekly operating hours – are reinvested in maintaining Douglas Vale in peak condition.

“The seven acres includes the homestead, the vineyards – with some of the original vines still producing one of five wins and a port which we also sell through the cellar door.”

The Douglas Vale Conservation Group secured a lease over the land 22 years ago and worked at re-establishing the original vines from cuttings.

“Significantly, March next year is the 150^th anniversary of the first day of the first harvest on these vines,” Mr Buckett said.

“This building is Port Macquarie’s oldest surviving timber cottage and has several associated buildings. Our role is to maintain the integrity of the site and to ensure its future.

“George Francis purchased the original 11 acres and built the homestead before developing more land for a vineyard. At one point this site boasted 11 acres of vines and 1500 fruit trees.

“Unfortunately, the last harvest was done in 1915.”

The garage sale and open day was a great opportunity for the community to enjoy the fruits of the volunteers’ labours.

The day includes a treasure trove, Devonshire Tea featuring country-made scones, a sausage sizzle and musical performances including Sing Australia.

“We will also have tours of the homestead, the oldest timber building in Port Macquarie,” Mr Buckett said.

“And of course we will have tastings/purchases of the boutique wines which can only be purchased at our cellar door.

The Douglas Vale garage sale and open day is on from 9.30am until 2.30pm.