A Day on Esther's Julatten Property Discovering Nature and Friendship
- apwarnett
- Jan 7
- 3 min read
Visiting a place where nature and friendship blend seamlessly offers a rare kind of joy. Esther’s property in Julatten, Queensland, is exactly that kind of place. Nestled in the lush countryside, her farm is home to horses, dogs, and a remarkable pair of Buff-breasted paradise kingfishers that return every year to nest in the same termite mound. Meeting Esther, a remarkable woman in her 80s and a close friend of my sister Margot, was a memorable experience. Although we didn’t see the kingfishers during our visit, their presence was felt in the air, as the young had already left the nest.
Life on the Farm with Horses and Dogs
Esther’s property is a lively place, filled with the sounds and movements of her animals. The horses roam freely across the open paddocks, their coats shining under the Queensland sun. They are gentle creatures, clearly well cared for and comfortable in their environment. Nearby, her dogs add to the farm’s charm, always alert and ready to accompany visitors on a walk or simply enjoy the outdoors.
The farm’s layout encourages a close connection between humans and animals. Paths wind down through the property, leading to shaded resting spots and open fields. This setup allows the animals to move naturally while giving Esther and her guests plenty of opportunities to observe and interact with them.
The Buff-breasted Paradise Kingfishers’ Annual Visit
One of the most fascinating aspects of Esther’s property is the annual return of the Buff-breasted paradise kingfishers. These migratory birds are known for their striking colors and unique nesting habits. Each year, the same pair comes back to nest in a termite mound on the farm, a rare and special sight for bird lovers.
Although we didn’t catch a glimpse of the kingfishers this time—the young had already left the nest—the knowledge that these birds choose Esther’s property as their home each year adds a magical quality to the place. It’s a reminder of the delicate balance between wildlife and human habitation, and how respect for nature can create lasting bonds.
Meeting Esther: A Friend and a Steward of the Land
Esther herself is a remarkable woman. In her 80s, she carries a warmth and wisdom that immediately puts visitors at ease. Her deep connection to the land and its creatures is evident in every story she shares and every corner of her farm.
Her friendship with my sister Margot adds a personal touch to the visit. It’s clear that Esther’s kindness and strength have touched many lives. Spending time with her was a reminder of the value of genuine relationships and the joy that comes from sharing a love of nature.
I will return this year with my sister to hopefully get a glimpse of this amazing species of Kingfisher, Esther showed us through her video collection captured on the farm it was magnificent until then happy dreaming.
Experiencing Julatten’s Natural Beauty
Julatten is known for its rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes. Esther’s property captures this essence perfectly. The farm is a peaceful retreat where the natural world thrives alongside human life.
Walking through the property, it’s easy to appreciate the sounds of birdsong, the rustle of leaves, and the gentle movements of animals. The environment invites quiet reflection and a chance to reconnect with the outdoors.
What Visitors Can Learn from Esther’s Farm
Esther’s property offers more than just beautiful scenery. It provides lessons in stewardship, patience, and respect for nature. Here are some key takeaways for anyone interested in rural life or wildlife conservation:
Respect for wildlife: Allowing the kingfishers to nest undisturbed shows how humans can coexist with nature.
Animal care: The healthy, happy horses and dogs demonstrate the importance of attentive and compassionate animal husbandry.
Connection to place: Esther’s long-term relationship with her land highlights the value of caring for a property over time.
Community and friendship: The bonds between Esther, Margot, and visitors show how shared experiences in nature strengthen relationships.
Final Thoughts on a Memorable Visit
Spending a day on Esther’s Julatten property was a unique experience that combined the beauty of nature with the warmth of friendship. Even without seeing the Buff-breasted paradise kingfishers up close, their presence was a powerful reminder of the cycles of life and the importance of protecting natural habitats.
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