Outdoor Venues

Please remember to always have an alternative venue in mind in case of inclement weather.

Lake Macquarie

Rathmines Park - Dorrington Road, Rathmines. A large open foreshore park with an “F Jetty” built to replicate the original war F jetty there. Also in the park there is a war memorial and rose garden.

Speers Point Park - Park Street, Speers Point. A foreshore park on the lake with a jetty. This is the only foreshore park with a large open shelter (up to 60 guests).

Valentine Park - Valentine Crescent, Valentine.  Small foreshore park on Macquarie Lake. Many older boats are moored in front of the park and trees line the Lake. Many older fig trees also line the road beside the park. Also check out Valentine newly renovated Bowling Club – contact number (02) 4946 7232.

Wangi Foreshore Reserve - Watkins Road, Wangi. Located on the western shore of the Lake, there is a large foreshore park with its own jetty.

For bookings call Lake Macquarie Council Assets Management Department on 4921 0299.

The Warners Bay Rotunda located on the Warners Bay foreshore has grassy areas and shady trees and is also supplied with power if needed.

For bookings and information contact Lake Macquarie City Council on (02) 4921 0493.

Hunter Region Botanic Gardens

Pacific Highway, Heatherbrae, Raymond Terrace

Phone: (02) 4987 1655 

Not far from Port Stephens is the spectacular Hunter Region Botanic Gardens which has a large collection of Australian flora, many of which are rare or endangered, in a natural bushland setting.

These peaceful gardens offer four settings for outdoor wedding ceremonies or wedding photographs.

Rotunda on the Eucalyptus Lawn - a large, open, flat area with a classic Victorian style Rotunda.

Bush Chapel - a natural grove surrounded by bush and a water feature. Entry is though a rustic timber arch and there are eight wooden pews for guests. The Chapel can be decorated with red carpet, topiary trees, flowers and ribbon etc.

Sundial Pond - a lovely lily pond surrounded by lawn, paved areas and sculptures.Lord Howe Island Waterfall - in a peaceful setting, the pond and waterfall display the Garden’s native Lord Howe Island plants. For intimate ceremonies.

Newcastle

All Newcastle’s parks, gardens, beaches and lookouts are available for wedding ceremonies and photographs. Check with Newcastle City Council on (02) 4974 2000 for more information or bookings.

Custom House Plaza – Watt Street, Newcastle.  Features a harbourside frontage, renovated historic buildings and large paved area.

King Edward Park – Shortland Esplanade, Newcastle.  Features heritage rotunda, beautiful flower gardens, overlooks Newcastle coastline and rose garden (for photographs only).

Civic Park – King Street, Newcastle.

Gosford area

Edogawa Commemorative Garden located at 36 Webb Street, Gosford features a traditional Japanese Garden with a peaceful feel.  The garden is available for ceremonies and photographs.  Contact (02) 4325 0056 for further information.

Terrigal Haven - access from Scenic Highway, Terrigal. This scenic area lies inside Terrigal Bay and includes large flat grassy areas adjacent to the ocean as well as The Skillion headland which provides spectacular views of the Pacific and northwards to Terrigal Beach.

Mount Ettalong Lookout – Patonga Drive, Pearl Beach – beautiful views but access to this lovely spot involves a bit of a walk.

Kincumba Mountain Reserve – a popular venue for outdoor weddings – easiest directions are to take Avoca Drive and follow the signage.

All sites must be booked and a fee is payable. For bookings please contact Gosford Council’s Recreation Services on 4325 8486.

 
Updated: 30-Dec-2011