Ian and Deb were present to welcome us to our four-day stay on Aquila Acres. It turned out to be a special, wonderful experience for us, especially our two young daughters. We were pretty much left alone to explore the place, but were always assured that Deb and Ian were close by. The place is part of a farm barn, with the ponies literally just at your doorstep. There is a simple but sufficient kitchenette for cooking meals for our family. An outdoor kitchen was also available but we didn't need it. Food supplies are available ten minutes drive away from supermarkets.
For a small fee, Deb arranged a wonderful pony ride and farm experience where we helped out with feeding the various animals around the farm (a few goats, horses, guinea pigs, a rabbit). It was a delightful experience.
The place was a convenient base for us to drive to various sights such as Grant's Picnic Ground, Puffing Billy train ride, Yarra Valley Chocalaterie, etc.
This is a special place, suitable for families with young children. There were board games, toys and books to keep the young ones occupied indoors as well. Just remember that this is a farm stay and there will be the occasional insect crawling about the house, but that's all part of the experience.
We would be happy to recommend this place!