The Canavan history

For more than 50 years, John Canavan has been an institution not only in Mansfield and district Real Estate, but in the Mansfield community. Over the years John served for an extended period as a Mansfield Shire Councillor, was Chairman of the Mansfield Water Board, and has been an active supporter of numerous Mansfield community groups.

Known and universally respected for his local knowledge, honesty, community spirit, and business acumen, John has in one way or another, been involved in the lives of many people who have lived and/or holidayed in the District for 50+ years. After establishing John Canavan Real Estate in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne in the 1960’s, John moved the business to Mansfield in 1970, having permanently relocated to his farm in Tolmie.

To share his love of the Tolmie region, John developed the first rural residential estates in the area, enabling others to enjoy the sweeping views and crisp mountain air that the area is now well known for.

John and wife Jenny ultimately moved from Tolmie to the historic ‘Cornhill’ farm in Merrijig. After more than 20 years enjoying views of Merrijig and Mt Buller, and running a successful Simmental Stud Cattle farm, John and Jenny moved to their current home on the Delatite River.