Darkan Self-Contained Accommodation – The Back Rooms

I'm a photographer and the extra space which I wasn't using for my studio became The Studio Apartment (suitable for singles or couples) in 2022. The Back Rooms started operating in 2024. I'm married to a farmer, and our family has been farming in West Arthur since the 1950s. You'll see some of my artwork around the property, and on the big panels on the walk trail in town.

My co-host is my daughter Odette, who lives on a nearby farm. She is studying and working in the district. She does occasional shifts at the local pub, so if you have a drink or meal at the Darkan Hotel you might be lucky to be served by her!

Darkan had a lack of short-term rentals until very recently. The Shire council, in accordance with their strategic planning process, addressed the issue by building a couple of chalets at the caravan park. A shearing contractor had a house that was no longer needed for staff, so Marrahbella Cottage in Arthur Street became the very first Airbnb property in the town of Darkan.

I didn't actually realise there was a demand for short-term rentals until I had vacant rooms at the back of my photography studio. I had some young French guys come and stay to help me paint the building, and they suggested the rooms would be great for backpackers. Another friend was trying to bring a group of people to Darkan and told me she would stay at my place if I opened it up as accommodation. So I did!