With a little food and wine mixed in!
Ngununggula is newly designed and is housed in Retford Park’s original dairy building. Photo Zan Wimberley
Inside Ngununggula’s state-of-the-art exhibition spaces, designed by Tonkin Zulaikha Greer. Photo Brian Rapsey
Welcome to Ngununggula
This is the Southern Highlands’ first regional art gallery, a haven for art lovers, created through the campaign efforts of the acclaimed local artist Ben Quilty and other artistic supporters. The gallery’s name, which means ‘belonging’ in the local Gundungurra language, highlights a space that reflects the diverse stories of the Southern Highlands, showcasing a dynamic range of contemporary and traditional art featuring established and emerging Australian artists. The beautifully restored former dairy building of Bowral’s Retford Park houses the gallery, offering a unique blend of history and modernity.
Make sure you schedule your visits for The Art World Came to Us: Macquarie Galleries 1938 – 1963, an exhibition with more than 50 Australian artists and the story of the women who changed the course of art history, from September 14 to November 17, 2024. And don’t miss the exciting 2024 Archibald Prize exhibition, alsoshowcased at Ngununggula, from November 30, 2024 to January 26, 2025.
Retford Park, the grand Italianate-style residence owned by James Fairfax. Photo Gary White
Then visit Retford Park Estate
After the gallery, wander through Retford Park, a heritage-listed property offering a superb view of Australian history and elegant architecture. The house, built in 1887 by merchant and stockbreeder Samuel Hordern, is a grand Italianate-style residence. In 1964, James Fairfax bought the property and turned it from an agricultural property to a gentleman’s residence.
The house, with its striking façade, is open for guided tours, featuring exquisite interiors and sharing the interesting histories of its former residents. Alternatively, just walk the stunning estate. The expansive gardens are a highlight, with formal hedges, vibrant flowerbeds and outdoor sculptures adding to the charm. You’ll explore lush gardens and tree-lined avenues, as well as the original stables and workers’ residences.
One of the beautiful rooms of Retford Park that you’ll visit during your guided tour. Photo SGR Photo
Side trips for food and wine
While you’re in the area, drop into the beautiful Southern Highlands Winery on Oldbury Road, Sutton Forest, for award-winning cool-climate wines. Then head out for a truly great home-style Italian eating experience at Sutton Forest Estate Wines, on Black Horse Lane, Sutton Forest – you’ll love the setting, the food, the hosts, and more good wine with your antipasto and minestrone!
