Edina Estate Tour with Michael Waterhouse

The HHA is delighted to offer a unique opportunity to visit one of Sydney's hidden historical gems, with a two hour tour by Michael Waterhouse, author of a new book Family, Faith and Fortune in Victorian Sydney. The Edina Estate. This explores the history of the house and the estate between 1859 and its transfer to the Methodist Church in 1922.

‘Edina’ is today better known as the War Memorial Hospital, Waverley. This is the first time that ‘Edina’, a stunning but little known example of late Victorian architecture, has been opened for tour groups. As well as its glorious exterior and ornamental gardens, many of Edina’s interior features are well preserved. ‘Edina’ was home to three generations of a wealthy, religious family with a unique lifestyle. Professor E G (Gowrie) Waterhouse of ‘Eryldene’, Michael’s great uncle, was one of 24 children who grew up on the estate and he encountered his first camellias there.

After a short introductory presentation, the tour will cover both interior and exterior features. There will be ample time for questions. Michael has a wealth of knowledge from his extensive resexarch and family connection, and as well as discussing features of both the interior and eterior of ‘Edina’, will provide insights into the lifestyle of the families who lived on the estate.

FOR WEEKDAY TOUR- Join the two hour tour and then enjoy the cafe facilities on site or bring a picnic to enjoy on the lawn in the garden. FOR WEEKEND TOUR- Join the two hour tour and bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on the lawn in the garden or visit one of the many nearby cafes in Bondi Junction Bondi Junction train station is a gentle 10-15 minute walk away and buses from the station stop very close to the War Memorial Hospital. WHERE: A plan of how to reach the Hospital’s Education Centre, where the tour will commence, will be provided to those who book for one or other of the tours. TIME: 10.30 am - 12.30 pm. PRICE: $35 per member / $45 per non-member