Bertha

Bertha is a 1937 International McCormack-Deering T20.  She is pulling an original plough from this property, "Privett".   

"Privett" was named for the original farm where Dr Frederick Maurice House MRCS, LRCP was born in 1865 in Hampshire, UK.  He migrated to Western Australia in 1891 and practiced as a Medical Doctor.  Dr House moved to Katanning in 1893 and was the first DMO and the Resident Magistrate. 

Fredrick moved away, but later returned and took up practice in Katanning in 1902.  He was at one time the only Medical Doctor between Albany and York.  On one occasion he travelled 90 miles where he had to amputate a man's leg on the kitchen table, under the light of hurricane lantern.  He was served stuffed emu's legs for supper before heading back home!  

Dr House's connection to this land began in 1891 when he and his brother, Monty House started this farm, "Privett".  Dr House retired here and devoted himself to improving the stud flock which acquired a very good name.  

The descendants of Dr Fredrick House are still the custodians of this land, living and working here and contributing to the Gnowangerup community.