National Trust NSW Magazine - October 2024 to January 2025
NEW SOUTH WALES
OCTOBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025
IN THIS ISSUE
EXPLORING HERITAGE ALONG THE COAST
SAVING OUR TREASURED COLLECTIONS
IT’S PEONY SEASON AT RETFORD PARK
The annual National Trust (NSW) Heritage Awards is always an exciting time for our organisation and the shortlisted entries never fail to inspire with their innovative approaches to heritage. This year, many of the entries can be found along the east coast of NSW, so if you’re planning a seaside getaway this summer, we encourage you to visit a few of the shortlisted spots along the way. Start planning your trip on page 9.
This issue, we’re also shining a spotlight on some of the significant items from our collection that are in need of restoration. With your help, we’re aiming to raise the funds to cover this important work. All the details are on page 6 and we do hope you’ll get involved.
National Trust (NSW) Observatory Hill, Millers Point, Sydney 2000 GPO Box 518, Sydney 2001 Telephone: (02) 9258 0123 nationaltrust.org.au/nsw
President: Kathryn Pitkin AM CEO: Debbie Mills
Editor: Michelle Bateman
Designer: Lauren Sutherland
Editorial Committee: David Burdon, Nick Corbett, Susan Hunt, Debbie Mills, Anja Stride, Leah Tasker, Jane Watters, Anne Weinman, Amanda Woodward-Brown.
The National Trust New South Wales magazine is published by the National Trust of Australia (New South Wales). Published articles reflect the opinions of the authors and are not necessarily reflective of the views of the National Trust. This magazine is printed by Enviropress, a division of Bright Print Group, on paper that is independently certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), carbon neutral and made with 100% recycled post-consumer waste in a chlorine-free environment.
On the cover: The North Head Viewing Platforms in Manly were shortlisted in the National Trust (NSW) Awards and are among the many spectacular heritage projects found along the NSW coast.
Preparing for the Future
BY KATHRYN PITKIN AM AND DEBBIE MILLS
Dear Members,
We’re pleased to share that work is underway on the new Strategic Plan 2025 – 2029, following engagement with our staff, volunteers, members, branches and committees. This builds on the work already achieved under the 2020 – 2024 Strategic Plan.
Despite the challenges of recent years, we’ve achieved vital work, together with our members, volunteers, donors and stakeholders. Guided by the 2020 – 2024 Strategic Plan, audiences have grown, membership diversified and engagement with the public, members, volunteers, donors and supporters has been enhanced. We have more than 20,000 members and care for more than 30 places, over 150 buildings, natural areas and gardens, and over 60,000 collection items. We’ve been a strong advocate and a leading voice for the state’s heritage at a time of monumental threat. The visitor experience has been refreshed at many of our places, with more opportunities for everyone to learn, appreciate and celebrate our rich heritage. Lastly, we’ve modernised our governance and systems to support our operations and people.
Today, we look confidently ahead to a sustainable future with our Strategic Plan for 2025 – 2029 firmly anchored in that goal. As the National Trust continues as a passionate and effective voice for heritage, our operations will be reviewed to ensure we continue to meet the needs and expectations of both current and future generations. The plans we implement will ensure we are financially sustainable and that we continue to care for our people and conserve and protect our built, natural and cultural heritage.
We look forward to sharing more details on the 2025 – 2029 Strategic Plan at this year’s Annual General Meeting (AGM). We hope to see you at the AGM on Saturday 30 November, where we will also share the highlights of the past 12 months. The AGM will be presented in person and online. We encourage you to take this opportunity to participate online if you can’t make it in person.
As this is our final magazine edition for 2024, we would like to thank you for your support. It is with your help that we continue to bring heritage to life and we couldn’t do it without your generosity. Thank you.
Best wishes,
Debbie Mills, CEO
YOU ARE INVITED TO THE National Trust (NSW) Annual General Meeting
Saturday 30 November 2024
3:30PM – 5PM
S.H. Ervin Gallery, Observatory Hill, Millers Point, Sydney
Please join us for the Annual Report, Board of Directors’ election results, the announcement of the National Trust Honours Awards and a presentation on the Strategic Plan 2025 – 2029. Drinks and canapés will follow in the S.H. Ervin Gallery, with a special viewing of select items from the National Trust collection. For the full agenda see your AGM Notice.
RSVP
Attendees may participate in person or online. This is a fantastic opportunity to join from any location. Please RSVP online at nationaltrust.org.au/event/nsw-agm-2024
Annual Report
ONLINE FROM WEDNESDAY 16 OCTOBER
For a digital copy of the year in review, visit us online at nationaltrust.org.au/about-us-nsw
For a printed copy, please email reception@nationaltrust.com.au
Kathryn Pitkin AM, President
National Trust News
Stay up to date on all the heritage news and initiatives from across the State. Read about our newly launched Reconciliation Action Plan, updates to the National Trust Register, a win for heritage in Newcastle and much more.
GENERAL NEWS
Reconciliation Action Plan launches
The National Trust is proud to launch its first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), outlining a commitment to acknowledging, understanding and valuing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage. Alongside our work with First Nations people in the community, we recognise our responsibility to create connections and identify opportunities to promote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stories and histories across NSW. The RAP also ensures our advocacy includes a strong voice for the protection of Aboriginal heritage.
Old Government House conservation
Meticulous restoration work to the Civil Officers Quarters at Old Government House has revealed the original heritage features of the building. Thanks to the support of generous donors and a grant from Heritage NSW, electrical work has been undertaken, all rooms have been painted and doors and windows repaired. Two previously hidden fireplaces have been uncovered and intrusive additions to the building removed. The rear laundry and courtyard are also cleared and ready for new uses.
A day in the Southern Highlands
Patrons and major supporters enjoyed a day in the Southern Highlands earlier this year. First stop was Harper’s Mansion in the historic village of Berrima, for a private tour of this 1834 house and its cool-climate gardens featuring a heritage rose collection and one of the largest mazes in Australia. The tour, led by some of the passionate volunteers who care for this special place, highlighted the important repairs needed. We are grateful to all donors who supported the recent appeal to enable important conservation work to take place.
Powerhouse heritage revitalisation
The heritage revitalisation of the Powerhouse Museum continues to push forward, with a new Development Application exhibited in May. While the National Trust welcomed the announcement of a heritage revitalisation, we question whether the current proposal adequately assesses the site as a purpose-built museum with a collection, and are concerned that an updated Conservation Management Plan has not been exhibited. The National Trust’s nomination for inclusion of the Wran and Harwood Buildings to be included on the State Heritage Register is awaiting ministerial approval.
Newcastle advocacy win
The National Trust commends the efforts of the NewcastleHunter Branch in their advocacy regarding stages 3 and 4 of the Iris EastEnd development. The proposal was a largescale development located in Newcastle’s Old Town heritage area. A recent modification substantially increased the size of the development, blocking important view lines and further changing the streetscape of the historic area. The branch argued that this development was not substantially the same as the original and the development was rejected in May.
Listing of Art Deco, Modernist buildings
The National Trust is currently working on updating our register with a number of important Art Deco and Modernist buildings throughout the suburbs of Potts Point and Elizabeth Bay. This area contains the greatest density of Art Deco dwellings in the country, many of which are among the earliest apartment buildings in Australia. We believe it’s important to continually update the National Trust Register with relevant heritage items and, as some of these buildings approach their centenary, it’s a great opportunity to recognise our early-to-mid-20th century architecture.
Opposite from top Papunya Tula: 50 Years exhibition at S.H. Ervin Gallery, 2021 (photography by Jane Watters); Previously hidden fireplaces were uncovered at Old Government House (National Trust image); Harper’s Mansion (photography by Michael Kennedy).
From top
Ultimo Powerhouse Museum (National Trust image); Newcastle’s Old Town heritage area (photography by ClaudineVM via istock.com); 20 Macleay Street, Potts Point (photography by Peter Sheridan).
Timeless Treasures: Restoring Items From Our Collection
BY REBECCA PINCHIN, NATIONAL TRUST COLLECTIONS MANAGER
There are tens of thousands of objects in our collection spanning furniture, paintings, books, textiles and so much more. Together, they weave a rich tapestry of heritage and help preserve the important stories of our places. The National Trust’s Rebecca Pinchin takes a closer look at some of these items, which are now the focus of a fundraising appeal.
include a delightful combination of birds, botanicals and other motifs from the natural world. I hope these objects bring you similar joy once they’re restored to their former glory.
Mortlake wall tapestry, Retford Park
London’s Mortlake Tapestry Works was in operation between 1619 and 1704 and we believe this particular tapestry dates from around 1675 – 1700. It was originally one in a series of three (the whereabouts of the others is unknown) and depicts the tragic lovers Pyramus and Thisbe, representing a scene from Ovid’s Metamorphoses. It was hung in the main hall of Retford Park from the 1960s until 2006. The sheer size and weight of the tapestry – it measures 202 x 375cm – means areas are in need of stabilising. The backing and supports will be replaced so we can keep this very special textile on display for many years to come.
Horses in the Snow by James Howe Carse, Woodford Academy
Being entrusted with a collection of more than 60,000 items is an enormous privilege, but it also comes with great responsibility. Once an item is accepted into the National Trust collection, we commit to caring for it forever, along with its conservation, storage and display. This year’s appeal will give us the opportunity to deeply examine some of the objects that help bring our places to life, allowing us to fulfil our important mission of keeping the state’s heritage alive.
We’re aiming to restore or repair up to 30 items from the collection, some of which are shared in this article. If you’ve visited Old Government House, Retford Park, Riversdale or our other properties, you may recognise many of them; some may hold a special significance for you. Personally, I feel a great fondness for the embroidered panels that hang in Riversdale in Goulburn, which are the work of the home’s longstanding resident Emily Twynam. Emily’s creative talent flourished in the later years of her life and like many of her works, these panels
I’ve always been fascinated by this painting by James Howe Carse, who was a popular Australian artist of the 19th century; his works are also represented in the Art Gallery of NSW. It’s part of the small collection of 19th century works that we believe may have arrived at Woodford Academy when it was still a gentleman’s private country retreat. We think the marvellous 1642 Hedda still-life that was rediscovered a few years ago might have been part of the same collection. The gold-hued frame surrounding Horses in the Snow is original to the painting and is a match to the frame on Carse’s work currently on display in the Art Gallery of NSW. After restoration, we are confident both the painting and the frame will look stunning.
Embroidered linen panels by Emily Twynam, Riversdale
Emily Twynam and her husband, the NSW Surveyor-General Edward Twynam, lived at Riversdale with their family from 1875. She was an extremely gifted artist who didn’t really explore her
creativity until her mid-50s, however in the last two decades of her life she created a large collection of sketchbooks, woodcarvings, needlework and embroidery – much of which can still be seen at Riversdale today.
There are three large linen panels, which we believe would originally have been a set of five, likely comprising a screen. Two of them feature apples, cherries, pears, plums, apricots and parrots, the third shows waratahs in the Australian bush, and together they were shown in the First Australian Exhibition of Women’s Work at Sydney and Melbourne in 1907. The original designs for these panels are seen in one of Twynam’s sketchbooks, with the embroidery executed by her neighbour and friend Louise Guerry de Lauret. It’s not often that we can see the entire creative process come to life in this way, making the panels even more special.
The Mott harp, Lindesay
Visitors to Lindesay will be familiar with this stunning harp, which has been displayed in the drawing room since the National Trust took ownership of the property in the 1960s; a maker’s mark shows it was the work of London luthier J H R Mott circa 1840. With its gilt-trimmed rosewood veneer and striking lion’s paw feet, the harp was clearly intended to be on display when it wasn’t being played and enjoyed by its original family. Although no longer played, the timber structure is in need of attention and its joints strengthened so it may continue to be on view at Lindesay.
Breakfast table, Old Government House
This piece is significant not only for its elaborate structure but also for its importance in the collecting history of the National Trust in NSW. It’s been in our collection since the 1960s and, like much of the furniture in Old Government House, is a prominent example of early colonial history. The table dates from circa 1825 and is made from the finest Australian cedar, cross-banded with casuarina on the top and possibly Australian white beech used for the Greek key pattern stringing. Also of note is the size of the table’s top – with a width of 120cm, we believe it may be the widest single piece of cedar known in Australian furniture.
According to the 19th century house museum specialist and curator Robert Griffin, there are only three tables with this form known to survive. This one is in need of repairs to preserve the ageing timber, which has begun to show signs of splitting.
‘This year’s appeal will give us the opportunity to deeply examine some of the objects that help bring our places to life’
Over page
Desk
From top Mortlake wall tapestry, Retford Park (photography by Paul Wallace); Horses in the Snow by James Howe Carse, Woodford Academy (photography by Parsa Jamalpour, Digital Restoration Service); The Mott harp, Lindesay (photography by SGR Photo).
belonging to Thomas West, Old Government House (photography by SGR Photo).
Desk belonging to Thomas West, Old Government House
This Australian-made secretaire is one of the most recent items to join our collection. It was donated to the National Trust this year by the family of Hilda Louise Brackstone (née Blackwood), who are descendants of its original owner, the former convict turned businessman Thomas West. It was reputedly made by the same carpenter as the magnificent Oatley Clock – which has pride of place at Old Government House – and we will be delighted to see the desk join the clock in Parramatta once it’s restored. The secretaire is a rather workman-like object but has the most fascinating stories attached. Correspondence between West and Governor Lachlan Macquarie dated June 1810 was found in the back of the desk; it had slipped down many decades ago and was only retrieved later. In it, West is seeking permission to construct a water mill on the outskirts of Sydney, providing a wonderful glimpse into his operation as an entrepreneur and businessman in the colony’s early years.
Together, we can restore these precious items
We need to raise $150,000 by the end of December to carry out vital repairs and conservation work on these and other significant items from our collection. Every donation from our generous members will help preserve our heritage for future generations. Please visit nationaltrust.org.au/donate-appeal-nsw to donate to the Collections Appeal.
Help us protect our timeless treasures
The National Trust is custodian to one of the most historically-significant collections in Australia. Many items, however, are in urgent need of conservation. Help us raise $150,000 to restore or repair over 30 at-risk treasures, from fine art and furniture, to textiles, dresses and artefacts, including our fragile 1840s Mott Harp.
Please donate to the National Trust 2024 Collections Appeal today
Visit nationaltrust.org.au/donate-appeal-nsw
Mott Harp c.1840 - Conserve timber frame Horses in the Snow c.1890 - Restore painting & frame
Thomas West Desk c.1825 - Conserve for display
Celebrating Heritage on the Coast
BY MICHELLE BATEMAN, EDITOR, THE NATIONAL TRUST MAGAZINE
The shortlist for the 2024 National Trust (NSW) Heritage Awards featured a dynamic and diverse array of projects, from private residences to public institutions. With many of them located along the state’s coastline, why not combine a visit with a beachside getaway this summer?
Fishing, swimming, sailing, surfing, diving… our coastline offers a plethora of summertime activities. And, as the 2024 National Trust (NSW) Heritage Awards can attest, heritage also occupies a well-deserved place on that list.
It’s always inspiring to see the breadth of entries and this year – the awards’ 30th –they came from far and wide, spanning the biggest cities and the small regional and rural communities in the state. With summer around the corner, we thought it a good opportunity to shine a light on some of the standout entries from along the coast. Here’s where to find them.
The Mid North Coast
If you’re planning a trip to Coffs Harbour on Gumbaynggirr Country, start by visiting the fabulous Journeys Mid North Coast website at journeysmnc.com . Shortlisted for the Resources and Publications Award, it offers a comprehensive overview of the history and culture of the region, and is full of the fascinating local stories and colourful characters that make a place feel vibrant.
Once you arrive in Coffs Harbour, head for Jetty Beach. Inhale the salty ocean air as you stroll along the 975-metre jetty before paying a visit to the SSILO Project on the foreshore. The SSILO (South Solitary Island Lighthouse Optic) first lit up South Solitary Island in 1880 and continued to shine for 95 years until it was
decommissioned in 1975. The optic has been meticulously conserved and was shortlisted for the Interiors and Objects Award.
Escape the afternoon sun with a trip to Yarrila Arts and Museum, just a short 10-minute drive away, where you can enjoy Yaamanga Around here, a permanent exhibition exploring the history and identity of the Coffs Coast and Gumbaynggirr culture. With its lively installations and multimedia works, this exhibition is great viewing for all ages – and it was shortlisted for an Events, Exhibitions and Tours Award.
Below
The SSILO Project, Coffs Harbour, submitted by City of Coffs Harbour and International Conservation Services (ICS).
Then, take a 20-minute drive south to Sawtell to see the newly restored Sawtell Reserve Hall. With its centenary fast approaching (it was constructed in 1929), the weatherboard hall received much-needed repairs and refurbishment to restore it to its former glory – earning it a place on the shortlist for the Built Conservation Award. In its heyday, this hall was a community hub that could hold up to 1,400 dancers at a time, and it still holds a fond place in the memories of many locals.
Newcastle and the Hunter region
Further south in the Hunter region, the spectacular Tomaree Coastal Walk weaves along the coastline in the Tomaree National Park in Port Stephens. The track covers 27 kilometres end-to-end and is designed to be trekked over a couple of days, but it’s equally enjoyable to pick a shorter section to explore over a few hours. Take in the panoramic ocean views from the top of Tomaree Head
The Winning Projects
The National Trust congratulates all the winners of the 2024 Heritage Awards and applauds their innovative approaches to heritage and conservation.
ABORIGINAL HERITAGE
Murrook Culture Centre
Williamtown
Art of Multimedia and Worimi Local Aboriginal Land Council
ADVOCACY
Marrinawi Cove swimming campaign
Barangaroo
Millers Point Community Resident Action Group
ARCHITECTURE (sponsored by Extent Heritage)
119 Redfern Street
Redfern
Aileen Sage with Djinjama, Jean Rice, Dr Noni Boyd and the City of Sydney Council
at Shoal Bay, trek across craggy rock ledges or take refuge in the cool of the angophora forest – this coastal walk has something for everyone; it was shortlisted for a Landscape Award.
Nearby, the Murrook Culture Centre in Williamtown was the winner of the Aboriginal Heritage Award and was also shortlisted for an Education and Interpretation Award. Located on the land of Worimi people in Nelson Bay, this purpose-built centre now runs Aboriginal cultural workshops, tours and educational camps, and can host conferences and events.
Sydney and surrounds
With noteworthy projects spread across the Harbour City, you could easily spend a few days exploring them all. A must-visit is the revitalised site of the White Bay Power Station in Rozelle, which was the winner in both the Built Conservation and Judges’ Choice categories. This decommissioned power station is now used to host a range of arts and cultural events – visit whitebaypowerstation.com to find out what’s on over the summer.
Afterwards, drive to nearby Balmain Wharf and catch the ferry across to Cockatoo Island (Wareamah), where restoration work on Building 10 was shortlisted for a Built Conservation Award. Constructed more than 100 years ago, the three-storey timber building was used for offices during the island’s use as a dockyard for the Royal Australian Navy.
Back on the mainland, Marrinawi Cove at Barangaroo has been transformed into Sydney’s first city beach. As you paddle in the cool waters, consider the Millers Point Community Resident Action Group who won the Advocacy Award for their campaign to open this urban aquatic spot.
BUILT CONSERVATION (sponsored by Heritage 21)
Small scale
The Glass House: Bill and Ruth Lucas
Castlecrag
Cracknell & Lonergan Architects
Large scale
The White Bay Power Station
Rozelle
Placemaking NSW, Design 5 – Architects, CBRE and FDC
INTERIORS AND OBJECTS
Interior
NSW Parliament Chambers Restoration Project
Sydney
Department of Parliamentary Services
Object
Restoration of D class Tramcar 117 of 1899
Loftus
Sydney Tramway Museum
LANDSCAPE
West Head Lookout
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park
Bruce Mackenzie and OCULUS with NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service
Head further north to Clontarf on the Northern Beaches, where the Clontarf Tidal Pool Renewal project gave an 80-yearold ocean pool an upgrade, which was acknowledged in the Landscape Award category. Take a short drive over to North Head in Manly where two new viewing platforms give breathtaking views across Sydney Harbour while celebrating Car-ran-gel Country and acknowledging the culture of the area’s traditional custodians. The North Head Viewing Platforms were shortlisted for an Aboriginal Heritage Award.
The views from West Head Lookout in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park are considered to be some of the best in Sydney and the lookout’s recent upgrade provides another compelling reason to visit. This project involved strong engagement with the original designer, Bruce Mackenzie, and was the recipient of the Landscape Award. Sit a while, take in the natural beauty in every direction and enjoy the serenity in this special spot.
The South Coast
Our coastal journey ends in Shellharbour, a 25-minute drive south of Wollongong, where the Yirran muru Aboriginal Interpretive Playspace is located. Designed in partnership with the local Aboriginal community, Yirran muru (Dharawal for ‘many pathways’) was the winner of the Education and Interpretation Award and shortlisted for an Aboriginal Heritage Award. Kids of all ages can climb on the hand-carved timber whale (Burri Burri), pretend to paddle a canoe across Lake Illawarra (Jubborsay), play in the sandpit and learn about bush tucker plants. There’s also an interactive language wheel, where you can listen to and learn words from the Dharawal language.
EDUCATION AND INTERPRETATION
Education
Construction Heritage and the Missing Drawings of the Sydney Opera House
The University of Sydney, University of NSW, EPFL (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne)
Interpretation
Yirran muru – Aboriginal Interpretive Playspace
Shellharbour
Shellharbour City Council
EVENTS, EXHIBITIONS AND TOURS
Event
ICOMOS General Assembly 2023
Sydney Australia ICOMOS
Exhibition
The People’s House: Sydney Opera House at 50
Sydney Museums of History NSW in collaboration with the Sydney Opera House
RESOURCES AND PUBLICATIONS
Killing For Country: A Family Story
David Marr
See the complete list
Visit nationaltrust.org.au/national-trust-heritage-awards-nsw to read more about the winners and shortlisted entries from the 2024 National Trust (NSW) Heritage Awards.
JUDGES’ CHOICE
The White Bay Power Station
Rozelle
Placemaking NSW, Design 5 – Architects, CBRE and FDC
PRESIDENT’S PRIZE
Bathurst Heritage Trades Trail
Bathurst Regional Council
HERITAGE SKILLS AWARD
Lee Adamou (Heritage Roofer)
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD (sponsored by Museums of History NSW)
Chris Betteridge (Cultural Landscape & Heritage Specialist)
YOUNG ACHIEVER AWARD (sponsored by GML Heritage)
Sophie Canaris (Architect)
CATHY DONNELLY MEMORIAL AWARD
Dr Jillian Comber (Archaeologist & Heritage Consultant)
The National Trust Heritage Awards is a signature event of the Australian Heritage Festival in New South Wales and is proudly supported by the NSW Government through Heritage NSW.
From left
Tomaree Coastal Walk, Port Stephens, submitted by NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service; The White Bay Power Station, Rozelle, submitted by Placemaking NSW, Design 5 –Architects, CBRE and FDC.
The Surprising History of an Inner-Sydney Street
WITH NICOLE CAMA, HISTORIAN, CITY OF SYDNEY
It spans little more than a kilometre, but Liverpool Street in Darlinghurst has a surprisingly colourful history. Historian Nicole Cama has traced the transformation of this inner-city street from the 1850s to 1940s, bringing its heritage to life in the Darlinghurst Stories website, which was shortlisted for a 2024 National Trust (NSW) Heritage Award. Here, Cama shares a snapshot of the street’s storied past.
Nicole, what made Liverpool Street ripe for a research project?
I wanted to look at a main street within Darlinghurst, but one that wasn’t as well known as William Street or Darlinghurst Road. My goal was to track the urban transformation of the street and my research followed two key themes: the built environment and the social data of the area.
Where did your research begin?
My preliminary research used the City of Sydney Archive’s assessment books, which record details about properties in the local government area. In Darlinghurst these were updated every three-to-five years between 1845 and 1948, so they span a huge timeframe; I found more than 4,000 entries for Liverpool Street alone. The city assessors would record all sorts of details in these books, like the names of the landlord and the rate payer; a description of the structure that was on the property; the fabric of the building. This is all important to understanding the heritage of a place and how it develops over time, because I could compare the same dwelling from book to book.
Other sources included newspaper articles, photographic collections, survey plans and even memoirs from early residents of the area. One was from a young woman named Caroline Husband, who lived with her parents in a little cottage on Liverpool Street, near the Darley Street corner. The historian Anne Philp has published excerpts from her journals in the book Caroline’s Diary – it was a great discovery for me to have a firsthand account from a woman. [Editor’s note: After marrying, Caroline Thomas (née Husband) moved from the city to take up residence at Saumarez Homestead in 1857]
How did Liverpool Street transform?
Rushcutters Bay was originally called Kogerah by the Gadigal people and was mainly mudflats, which attracted aquatic birds and other animals – this landscape was a rich resource for Aboriginal people. In the early 19th century, Darlinghurst became populated by small farms; one newspaper article described it as a ‘pretty hamlet’. Around the 1850s, people like John Rae started building bigger properties, but over time, these were overtaken by smaller lots with Victorian terraces constructed on them. There was a real late Victorian building boom.
From the 1920s until the late 1930s, we saw the development of modern apartment buildings, with examples like Mont Clair and Ballina Flats, both of which are still standing. These buildings were seven or eight storeys high, which was curious to people at the time. It changed people’s relationship to the area and gave them new choices in how they wanted to live – living in an apartment building was completely novel.
Is it true there were seven hotels on the street at one stage?
There were certainly quite a few, built on street corners. I was surprised to learn that the Burdekin Hotel, on the corner of Liverpool and College Streets, has been the site of a public house or hotel since 1847. The first building was originally a two-storey stone public house known as the Terrace Inn and then the Blind Beggar Inn; the second was quite an ornate brick building with a decorative tower, it was known as Andy Flanagan’s Hotel. Then, when Oxford Street and College Street went through a streetwidening program, they had to demolish the building and council paid for another hotel to be constructed there. Tooth’s Brewery built the current building in its Art Deco style in 1939.
Opposite from top View of Sydney from Hilton villa, Darlinghurst, showing animals grazing and Hyde Park in the distance, watercolour by John Rae, after 1851, State Library of NSW; Hilton villa, c1879-82, State Library of NSW.
Left
A Flanagan’s Hotel (formerly Blind Beggar Inn), c1901, Mrs Arthur George Foster, State Library of NSW.
Were there any other surprises?
The Darlinghurst Skating Rink was an unexpected find. It was built in 1889 and occupied an entire city block. The building shows how people were starting to spend their leisure time and how their relationship to the area was changing. The design of the rollerskating rink was inspired by the Imperial Palace of Japan, so it was architecturally very interesting. Inside, they had flags for different nations, chandeliers and even a cage suspended from the centre of the ceiling with a bandstand in it. Despite attracting thousands of people, the rink was used for skating for less than a year before being converted into an athletic club with a boxing ring.
How have the street’s current residents responded to your research and website?
There’s been a genuine community engagement with local history and an understanding of place that has strengthened the relationship between people and their community. I’ve had a lot of people tell me they live in the area and love it so much, but they didn’t know that some of the places I’ve mentioned even existed; the project has helped them see the street in a completely different light.
Find out more
The Liverpool Street project was undertaken with support from the Australian Centre for Public History, UTS and the Paul Ramsay Foundation. Visit darlostories.au to see the full history of Liverpool Street brought to life.
Discover the Magic of Peonies at Retford Park
BY MICHELLE BATEMAN, EDITOR, THE NATIONAL TRUST MAGAZINE
October is peony season at Retford Park, the voluminous blooms filling the gardens with colour and scent. We spoke to volunteer Dominic Wong about what to look forward to, when you visit.
Dominic Wong never met James Fairfax AC but you get the impression they might have gotten along famously, the two sharing a great love of peonies. Fairfax filled the gardens of his Retford Park property with dozens of peonies during the 1990s, and Wong is one of the country’s foremost experts on the species, and now volunteers in those same gardens.
“The peony is a symbol of prosperity, feminine beauty and hierarchy; in China, it’s known as the ‘King of Flowers’,” Wong says. “The blooms are so huge and when they flower, it’s the most spectacular sight.”
It was while living in Japan in 1947 that Fairfax first encountered these magnificent blooms. Almost 50 years later, in the early 1990s, he commissioned the Melbourne-based landscape architect David Wilkinson to design the Peony Walk at Retford Park and a significant tree peony collection was planted. Many of the plants are still there today.
“If they’re well-planted in well-drained soil with enough sun, peonies can live for 100 years or more,” notes Wong.
Wong’s own passion for peonies began decades ago, eventually inspiring a move from Sydney to the Southern Highlands in pursuit of the hot, dry summers and cold winters preferred by the plants. He designed and built the highly regarded private show garden Chinoiserie in Mittagong, where the blooming peonies were one of the major drawcards for visitors. After downsizing to a smaller home four years ago, Wong began volunteering his time and expertise to Retford Park.
One of his first suggestions was to plant herbaceous and Itoh peonies alongside the existing tree varieties. “One of the new plants is called coral charm – it looks spectacular and is one of the easiest herbaceous peonies to grow,” Wong explains. These coral charms
This page, clockwise from top left Peonies at Retford Park include Etienne de France, a Chinese variety tree peony; Rockii tree peony seedling; and a Japanese variety tree peony. Over page Leda, an American hybrid variety tree peony.
Opposite Retford Park (photography by SGR Photo).
‘They are most spectacular in the morning, as the flowers open their petals to the sun.’
will be in bloom for the very first time this spring, their petals revealing their namesake coral hue in contrast to the vibrant pinks of the shrubbery tree peonies.
“The month of October is the very best time to see the peonies at Retford Park,” Wong continues. “The Japanese and Chinese varieties will flower first, followed by the American hybrids and finally the coral charm peonies. They are most spectacular in the morning, as the flowers open their petals to the sun.”
But Wong cautions not to leave it too late to plan your visit.
“Peonies only have a very short flowering time – about three weeks each year – and then they’re gone. But when they’re all in flower, it’s a sight to behold.”
Plan your visit
Retford Park is open Thursday – Sunday, 10AM – 4PM. House access is by guided tour only and bookings are advised. For more details or to book, visit nationaltrust.org.au/places/retford-park
Dominic Wong’s Growing Guide
We asked Wong for his expert tips for thriving peonies.
SPRING
“Early September is when new foliage growth will start to appear. It begins with a burgundy shade in the leaves, turning to green as they expand and the buds come up. Once the buds have developed into a flowering size, they open up and you enjoy the flowers.
“The end of their flowering season usually coincides with the Mebourne Cup. Once they’ve finished flowering, deadhead the plants and feed them with rose fertiliser and blood and bone. The rose fertiliser is absorbed quickly and is rich in potash (a potassium-rich salt), which peonies need for flower production. The blood and bone takes a couple of months to slowly break down, so you have a long feeding period.”
SUMMER
“Peonies go dormant after they’ve finished flowering –the roots shut down and the plant stops growing. You might give them some supplementary watering if they look droopy but they don’t need much. And don’t worry if the leaves get scorched in very hot weather as they’ll eventually drop off in autumn.”
AUTUMN
“It might look like nothing is happening on top, but by ANZAC Day the roots will have reactivated, so it’s time to feed them all the nutrients they need, with rose fertiliser, potash, blood and bone and garden lime. Once all the leaves have dropped off in May, it’s time for pruning. Tree peonies require tip-pruning and any dead branches removed, whereas herbaceous varieties need to be cut back to ground level.”
WINTER
“There’s nothing really to do in winter. As long as you’ve fertilised them in autumn, your peonies will have all the nutrients they need to flower again in spring.”
What’s On
Step out and make the most of spring with a range of seasonal tours, open days and inspiring exhibitions. Our glorious gardens are bursting with blooms – start planning your picnics now! Then, mark the start of summer and the festive season with unmissable celebrations and performances at our special places.
PORTIA GEACH AT 60
S.H. ERVIN GALLERY, OBSERVATORY HILL
UNTIL 20 OCTOBER, TUESDAY – SUNDAY, 11AM – 5PM
This unmissable exhibition examines the art of Portia Geach and showcases winning works from the annual award that bears her name, now celebrating its 60th year.
(Pictured: Autumn Detail by Portia Geach).
Tickets: Members free, adults $15, concession $12, family $42, children under five free
SIRENS REVISITED
NORMAN LINDSAY GALLERY, FAULCONBRIDGE
UNTIL 23 OCTOBER, THURSDAY – MONDAY, 10AM – 4PM
Examine a unique display of costumes and film paraphernalia from the original production of the 1994 film Sirens, as well as the Norman Lindsay works that inspired this iconic Australian production.
Tickets: Members free, adults $17, concession $15, family $49, children under five free
Book your tickets or find out more at
Event details are correct at the time of printing. To purchase tickets and check for updates, visit nationaltrust.org.au/whats-on-nsw
ELEMENTS: SUSAN CARTER & GINA FAIRLEY
WHITE COTTAGE GALLERY, RETFORD PARK, BOWRAL UNTIL 27 OCTOBER, THURSDAY – SUNDAY, 10AM – 4PM
The wearable artworks in this exhibition take their cue from earth, water, fire and air, and Retford Park’s impressive Four Elements mural.
Tickets: Free exhibition entry
BIG SKIES – WILD WINGS
EVERGLADES HOUSE & GARDENS, LEURA
UNTIL 27 OCTOBER, WEDNESDAY – MONDAY, 10AM – 4PM
Browse photographer Dr Graham Cam and watercolourist Steve Tredinnick’s beautiful display of inspiring works showcasing the wonder of our feathered friends.
Tickets: Members free, adults $17, concession $15, family $49, children under five free
BACK TO BLACK
OLD GOVERNMENT HOUSE, PARRAMATTA UNTIL 10 NOVEMBER, THURSDAY – SUNDAY, VARIOUS TIMES
From mourning a loved one to the chic elegance of the little black dress, this stunning selection of black items from our fashion collection is rarely on public display. Don’t miss your final chance to view the exhibition.
Tickets: Members free, adults $15, concession $12, family $42, children under five free
GHOST NIGHT
OLD GOVERNMENT HOUSE, PARRAMATTA
THIRD FRIDAY MONTHLY, 7:30PM – 9:30PM
What are those eerie sounds coming from seemingly empty rooms? Bring your torch and your courage to unveil the secrets of Australia’s oldest surviving public building.
Tickets: Members $35, adults $38
TWILIGHT DELIGHTS
GROSSMANN & BROUGH HOUSES, MAITLAND
19 OCTOBER, 5:30PM – 7:30PM
Experience an enchanting evening in historic surrounds. Explore a softly lit Grossmann House and savour drinks and home-crafted canapés served in the fragrant rose-laden garden.
Tickets: Members and concession $35, adults $40
MISS TRAILL’S SPRING MARKETS
MISS TRAILL’S HOUSE, BATHURST
20 OCTOBER, 10AM – 3PM
Set in stunning heritage gardens, Miss Traill’s Spring Markets make for a charming Sunday. Browse local stalls, take a tour of this carefully preserved home and recharge with tea and a BBQ lunch.
Tickets: Gold coin donation. House tours $5
GOLDEN VALE NATURE WALK
GOLDEN VALE HOMESTEAD, SUTTON FOREST
20 & 27 OCTOBER, 10AM – 1PM
Welcome spring at historic Golden Vale Homestead with a walk through the virgin meadows before meandering along the Medway Rivulet to the Homestead, where a light picnic lunch will be served.
Tickets: $60
SPRING HOUSE & GARDEN INSPECTIONS
MEET AT BERRIMA MUSEUM, BERRIMA
24 OCTOBER, 10:30AM – 3PM
Immerse yourself in heritage and the beauty of spring in the Southern Highlands. Enjoy morning tea at Berrima Museum before setting off to inspect three charming houses and their glorious gardens.
The Portia Geach Memorial Award is Australia’s most prestigious art prize for portraiture by women artists. View finalists’ works from across the country in this exceptional display.
(Pictured: Longhand (Judith Lucy) by Deborah Walker).
Tickets: Members free, adults $15, concession $12, family $42, children under five free
Norman Lindsay’s diverse artistic talents shine in this display of original book illustrations – some on show for the very first time –and an impressive collection of rare volumes containing his work.
Browse new and diverse works by 13 members of the Artists of the Round Yard collective that includes painters, sculptors, printmakers, photographers, multimedia and installation artists.
Tickets: Free exhibition entry
UP LATE WITH THE CARAVAN DANCE COMPANY AND BAND
NORMAN LINDSAY GALLERY, FAULCONBRIDGE
9 NOVEMBER, 5:30PM – 9:30PM
Norman Lindsay Gallery comes alive after dark with original compositions by Devi Mamak and the Caravan Band, and mesmerising bellydance performances by the Caravan Dance Company.
Tickets: Members $30, adults $35, concession $32, family $99, children under five free
Book your tickets or find out more at nationaltrust.org.au/whats-on-nsw
In November, discover how the Porter family practised sustainability by learning how to skilfully mend and make do. December brings Christmas festivities, and Australia Day is marked with a display of Australiana collection items including photos, news clippings, memorabilia and more.
Tickets: Members free, adults $12, concession $10, family $34, children under five free
Visit the oldest complex of colonial buildings in the Blue Mountains to view the finished work of photographic artist Eloise Maree Crossman as she concludes her three-month residency.
Tickets: Members free, adults $12, concession $10, family $34, children under five free
GOLDEN VALE HOMESTEAD, SUTTON FOREST 17 NOVEMBER, 11AM – 3PM
Picnic basket in hand, head to Golden Vale Homestead for a delightful day of live acoustic music, lawn games, romantic carriage rides and tours of the 1870s homestead, rarely open to the public for viewing.
Tickets: Members $40, adults $50, concession $35, family $100, children under five $20. Carriage rides $10, boxed lunch from $12
LINDESAY AFTER DARK
LINDESAY, DARLING POINT
26 NOVEMBER & 28 JANUARY, 6PM – 8PM
Uncover stories from the past at an intriguing after-dark tour of historic Lindesay. Enjoy wine and canapés in the garden before exploring this spectacular 1830s property as night falls.
Tickets: $35
ON STAGE: THE THEATRICAL WORLD AT EVERGLADES
EVERGLADES HOUSE & GARDENS, LEURA 11 DECEMBER – 10 OCTOBER 2025, WEDNESDAY – MONDAY, 10AM – 4PM
View a curated display exploring the art and history of performance at Everglades House & Gardens, as well as highlighting the theatrical collections held by the National Trust.
Tickets: Members free, adults $17, concession $15, family $49, children under five free
ARTFUL ESCAPADES
Celebrate an incredible season of art at our special places. S.H. Ervin Gallery (pictured), Retford Park and Everglades House & Gardens have each revealed an exciting line-up of exhibitions and our galleries are brimming with displays. View the latest exhibition programs at nationaltrust.org.au/whats-on-nsw
2025 National Trust Desk Diary
Celebrating six decades of the popular annual desk diary, which has been produced by National Trust Women’s Committee members since 1965. This special retrospective edition features imagery taken from the past 60 years, offering thought-provoking memories and noteworthy moments every week of the year.
One diary $25, two for $40 or 10 for $160, plus postage. To order, please email lindesay@nationaltrust.com.au or phone 0416 039 235.
GOLDEN VALE PICNIC DAY
Christmas Comes Alive at the National Trust
Ring in the festive season with an inspiring day out at one of our places. Find unique gift ideas for everyone on your list, sing along to your favourite carols and turn back time to experience Christmas 100 years ago. The little ones might even get a visit from Santa!
Held in beautiful heritage surrounds overlooking Sydney Harbour, the Lindesay Christmas Gift Fair is the perfect place to shop for unique jewellery, clothing, gourmet foods and artisanal gifts. Enjoy a bite to eat, relax in the stunning gardens and enter the draw to win some great raffle prizes. Santa visits on Saturday.
Tickets: $5 at entrance. Free shuttle bus available from Edgecliff Station. Enquiries: lindesay@nationaltrust.com.au
From gourmet hampers, handmade jewellery and accessories to merino wraps, homewares and wines, you’ll find the perfect gift at Vienna Cottage’s 36th annual Christmas boutique. (Photography by Markus Spiske, Unsplash).
Tickets: Free
CHRISTMAS WITH THE PORTERS
MISS PORTER’S HOUSE, NEWCASTLE WEST
8 DECEMBER, 1PM – 4PM
Experience an Edwardian Christmas and see how the Porters celebrated with cards, recipes, decorations and toys. Take a special snap under the traditionally decorated tree.
Tickets: Members free, adults $12, concession $10, family $34, children under five free
TRADITIONAL NIGHT OF CHRISTMAS
MISS TRAILL’S HOUSE, BATHURST
13 DECEMBER, 5:30PM – 8PM
Sing along to your favourite carols and delight in the traditional decorations adorning this historic house museum. Kids can enjoy a range of activities and a very special visit from Santa.
Tickets: Adults $10, family $25, children $5, children under five free
Book your tickets or find out more at nationaltrust.org.au/whats-on-nsw
LEURA SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
EVERGLADES HOUSE & GARDENS, LEURA
4 – 19 JANUARY, VARIOUS TIMES
Staged by the Sport for Jove Theatre Company, the much-loved Leura Shakespeare Festival returns for its 16th season. Pack a picnic and enjoy an evening of theatre in a spectacular setting.
View an array of significant paintings and ethereal prints from the past 25 years at the first survey of leading Australian artist Peter Godwin’s practice.
(Pictured: Studio interior with Eastern Grass Owl by Peter Godwin)
Tickets: Members free, adults $15, concession $12, family $42, children under five free
LIFE DRAWING WITH ANTHONY CAHILL
NORMAN LINDSAY GALLERY, FAULCONBRIDGE
11 – 12 JANUARY, 9AM – 4:30PM
Be inspired by Norman Lindsay’s evocative sculptures in this intimate two-day life-drawing workshop, led by artist and tutor Anthony Cahill. Includes morning tea and lunch.
Tickets: $320
CREEPY STORIES
OLD GOVERNMENT HOUSE, PARRAMATTA
16 & 21 JANUARY, 4PM – 5PM
All mini ghostbusters-in-training are invited to join a special twilight ghost tour. With ghost-meters in hand, spooky stories and eerie experiences will be revealed. BYO scary costumes are encouraged.
Tickets: Members $20, adults $25, concession $20, family $60, children aged nine to 15 $15. Not suitable for children under nine.
Australia’s leading team of fine arts conservators and heritage experts
Making Membership a Family Affair
For the Layton family, a National Trust membership is best enjoyed as a shared experience. Here, they tell how three generations cherish their membership.
“Our family has been members of the National Trust for as long as I can remember,” says James Layton. “I’m originally from England and my family enjoys gardens, being outdoors and places with interesting history. We like to use our membership on the weekends and holidays, both here in Australia and overseas. There’s always something to see or do.”
The Laytons – James, together with his mother Jennie and 11-year-old daughter Tallow – recently planned a special family trip to the Southern Highlands. “When we’re researching where to visit, we usually like to see if there’s a National Trust place or event that we’d like to go to. In the Southern Highlands we visited two National Trust places: Retford Park and Harper’s Mansion.”
They each took away special memories from the trip, reflecting the power of our places to connect with people in different ways. James appreciated the volunteers at Harper’s Mansion – “they were very welcoming and knowledgeable,” he notes.
For Jennie, “the beautifully cared for gardens at Retford Park” were a standout. “It was nice to wander through the gardens at leisure. It’s great for kids and adults,” she adds. As for James’s daughter, Tallow: “I liked hearing the stories about the people who lived in Harper’s Mansion and seeing the rooms set up how they used to be,” she says.
James encourages others to enjoy their National Trust membership with family from across the generations. “It’s nice to help support the National Trust through membership and to learn more about interesting people, places and stories.”
The Gift of Membership
With the festive season approaching, a National Trust membership is the ideal gift for loved ones. As a member, they’ll receive free entry to more than 100 special places throughout Australia and more than 1,000 places around the world, plus exclusive invitations and special offers. Find out more at nationaltrust.org.au/mem-gift
Follow us on Facebook
Stay up to date with what’s on by following @nationaltrustau or by searching for your favourite National Trust (NSW) place on Facebook. Don’t forget to share photographs from your visit using the hashtag #NationalTrustNSW
Jennie and Tallow Layton in the Retford Park garden.
THANK YOU
Patrons, Corporate Members and Sponsors
The National Trust (NSW) acknowledges and appreciates the support we receive from these generous individuals and organisations
