Writing NSW occupies Garry Owen House, a restored Georgian manor set in the leafy grounds of Callan Park, Lilyfield. Built in 1840, the heritage-listed building boasts unique architecture including a stunning ceiling dome, high timber doors and a wide wraparound verandah. It is surrounded by magnificent heritage-listed jacaranda and magnolia trees.
We have several spaces for hire that are suitable for seminars, workshops, book launches, weddings, meetings and private functions. We also invite members to contact us using the below enquiry form for more information on discounted room hire for book launches. These rooms can be browsed below.
Judith Wright Room (approx 6.5m x 9m)
- Located on the ground floor with north and west facing windows opening to the verandah and lawns
- Wheelchair accessible
- Accommodates up to 60 people with lecture style seating and up to 20 people with a u-shape table configuration
- Whiteboard available
- Ceiling fans and gas heater (no air-conditioning)
Patrick White Room (approx 7.5m x 12m)
- Located on the ground floor with west facing windows opening to the verandah and lawns
- Wheelchair accessible
- Direct access to bathroom facilities
- Accommodates up to 90 people with lecture style seating and up to 40 people with a classroom table configuration
- Whiteboard available
- Ceiling fans and gas heater (no air-conditioning)
Henry Lawson Room (approx 6.5m x 6m)
- Located on the first floor with north and west facing windows (unfortunately this room is not wheelchair accessible)
- Accommodates up to 15 people with a u-shape table configuration
- Whiteboard available
- Ceiling fans and gas heater (no air-conditioning)
Whole Ground Floor
- Includes use of Judith Wright Room, Patrick White Room, the foyer, verandah, and kitchen.
- Recommended for larger events and special functions such as conferences, parties, weddings and film shoots.
Kitchen
The main kitchen is available for shared use by Writing NSW patrons. It is equipped with ample bench space, double commercial sink, filtered hot water urn and cold water dispenser, refrigerator, freestanding gas stove and electric oven and a microwave. Catering, tableware and napery are not provided by Writing NSW.
Bathrooms
There is a wheelchair accessible bathroom and 3-stall unisex bathroom on the ground floor at the rear of the Patrick White room, and a 3-stall bathroom and shower on the first floor.
Pricing
For members-only book launch rates, please contact us
Pricing effective from 1 February 2026.