In April 2007 we responded to an Expressions of Interest request from the South Australian Minister for Environment and Conservation, Gail Gago, for the future preservation and management of Marble Hill, the former summer residence of the governors of SA, which was destroyed by fire in 1955.

Our immediate concern was that Marble Hill could fall into the hands of unsympathetic developers and the history and heritage of this historic site could be lost forever.

After studying the 1998 Danvers Conservation Plan and Dilapidation Report, and being fully aware of the restrictions imposed upon the development of heritage properties and properties in the catchment area of the Adelaide Hills, we made a submission. The essence of our proposal was that in order to best "respect, preserve and interpret the natural and cultural significance of Marble Hill" the conservation plan should consider restoration and reconstruction of the main building, not just maintenance of the ruin.

Successive past governments have not been prepared to commit the resources required to do this. We took the view that the best way to resolve this was to offer to purchase the property and commit our own time and resources to rebuild the ruin. This would ensure that Marble Hill would be saved from further deterioration by weathering and vandalism.

In addition we have undertaken to retain public access to the site and to restore and maintain the surrounding grounds and bushland in a Heritage Agreement with the Minister.

We recognise the efforts of the Friends of Marble Hill, the East Torrens Historical Society and the National Trust, who over the years, have worked so hard against the odds for the preservation of this historic property.

Our submission foreshadowed future use of the restored buildings as an executive retreat, with an area designated as a museum, which would have public access on open days. The venue may be used for corporate and private events, but final use will depend on heritage and planning approvals. We believe that our plans for the property will find favour with those who value the history and heritage of our State. For us, this is a project driven more by civic pride than by commercial objectives.

Our families are 5th generation South Australians, who have had extensive experience in horticulture and commerce. For many years we have had a keen interest in the preservation and restoration of historic properties and believe that we have the experience and resources to undertake a project as challenging as this.