Trial Bay Gaol
Arakoon National Park
Overview
If you’re looking to hire a venue with a historic twist, look no further than Trial Bay Gaol in Arakoon National Park. Set against a backdrop of historic ruins, you and your guests will enjoy a glimpse into Australian history while enjoying your event.
- Venue is suitable for
- Wedding ceremonies and wedding reception
- Capacity
- Maximum people: 500
- Facilities
- Amenities block, picnic tables, barbecue facilities, boat ramp, drinking water, toilets
- Fees
-
$500 for a wedding ceremony held between 9–5pm. For wedding reception fees, please contact the Trial Bay Gaol Visitor Centre.
- Availability
-
Available for non-exclusive hire daily from 9am to 5pm (6pm during daylight savings). Available for exclusive hire daily from 4.30pm – 10pm. Venue not available for hire during school holidays.
Venue available for exclusive hire - Bookings
Please submit a completed application form at least 6 months prior to your the event. Initial assessment of the event application, site plan and supporting documentation may take 2-3 weeks.
To make a booking or for more information contact the Trial Bay Gaol Visitor Centre.
- Other Information
- Filming and photography shoots on application
- This venue is suitable for movie screenings and theatrical performances. Please contact the NPWS Events Team on 02 9585 6570 to discuss your requirements.
You and your guests can step back in time while enjoying your event at Trial Bay Gaol, soaking up the history and the amazing coastal views that surround the gaol.
Opened in 1886, after 13 years of construction, it must have been a strange feeling building a prison in such a beautiful setting. The prison labourers were there to construct a breakwater to make Trial Bay a safe harbour between Sydney and Brisbane. Unfortunately the scheme failed, but you and your guests still be able to see the remains of the breakwater from the guard tower lookout. During World War I, the gaol became an internment camp for people of German descent who were feared to be enemy sympathisers.
Today, this picturesque historic ruin stands as a testament to those who lived and died here, with a museum and memorial for visitors to get a better idea of life in those days. The historic, scenic surroundings make Trial Bay Gaol an ideal venue.
Also see
Operated by
- Trial Bay Gaol Visitor Centre
- 9am to 4.30pm daily. Closed Christmas Day.
- 02 6566 6168
- npws.hastingsmacleay@environment.nsw.gov.au
- 73 Trial Bay Gaol Road, Arakoon NSW 2431
Park info
- in Arakoon National Park in the North Coast region
Arakoon National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.
What's nearby:
Things to do (24)
- Aboriginal culture (1)
- Birdwatching and wildlife encounters (7)
- Cafes and kiosks (1)
- Canoeing/paddling (2)
- Cultural heritage (2)
- Cycling (1)
- Fishing (3)
- Historic heritage (10)
- Photography (1)
- Picnics and barbecues (7)
- Road trips and car/bus tours (2)
- Sightseeing (12)
- Snorkelling and scuba (1)
- Surfing (1)
- Swimming (4)
- Walking (9)