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Stories

  • Tales of a Vice Regal Vanilla Orchid

    Just over a year ago, the Vice Regal household’s Vanilla Orchid was in bloom! This was a rare, precious and beautiful botanical event, as Vanilla Orchids are extremely difficult to pollinate. No wonder they are the second most expensive... more »

  • Not Your Usual Standard

    The Governor’s Standard is the name of the flag, banner or pennant which represents the Governor; it is sometimes also referred to as the Governor’s Personal Standard or the Governor’s Personal Flag.  In New South Wales, the Governor’... more »

  • The History of the Arcade

    Government House has recently completed the restoration of the Arcade ceiling to its original condition. Restoration has removed the 20th Century painted finish to reveal the original timber.  Construction of the Arcade began in 1879... more »

  • Extraordinary Floral Displays Celebrate Extraordinary Australians

    Amid heady scents of the Australian bush and with just over 24 hours to go before the first of the May Investiture ceremonies, our florists are arm-deep amid arrangements and flowers and foliage of every hue and colour as they orchestrate... more »

  • 150 Years on – The Story of Australia’s First Attempted Political Assassination

    1st May 1868 - Letter from The Duke of Buckingham and Chandos, Secretary of State for the Colonies [1], acknowledging receipt of the Telegrams from the Earl of Belmore – 13th Governor of New South Wales – informing of the attempted... more »

  • Photographs by Stealth - Government House Under the 3D Scanner

    A tripod-mounted rotating scanner is silently examining the external sandstone walls. In its sights are the graceful arched entry doors welcoming people to Government House.This is all part of the work of maintaining the historic and state... more »

  • From Garden to Plate

    A story from summer.Today’s harvest at Government House:5 different lettuces – cos, red oak, butterhead, mizuna and rocket3 cucumbers1 spring onionHerbs - Lemon balm, basil and chervilThe principle of garden to plate is alive and well at... more »

  • Art for More than Art's Sake

    Off the walls of the Main Hall and into the Sitting Room for restoration
    Just after New Year, when Sydney was recovering from its festivities, Government House turned over a new page in its conservation calendar.For a few weeks the House... more »

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