Early photo of the historic Lilianfels House - Katoomba in the Blue Mountains, New South Wales

In August 1888 Sir Frederick Darley purchased over 11 acres of land adjacent to Echo Point in Katoomba. He built a summer residence for the family over the year of 1889, designed by architect Varney Parkes (son of Henry Parkes).The Darleys had seven children, five daughters and two sons, and it was Lilian, who died of tuberculosis at age 22, for whom the Katoomba property was named. The property was used for a summer residence and nearly every noted visitor to Australia accepted the Darleys’ hospitality enjoying the magnificent outlook. Royalty, Vice Royalty and Princes of Statesmanship, Jurisprudence, Science and Art came in to view the Mountains from the magnificent vantage point at Lilianfels. It is assumed the house was named Lilianfels is in honour of Lilian, coupled with the German fels for high land. Please note in the second photo if you expand it the rope ladder and platforms. Wouldn't meet a risk assessment now?