From the gallows of convict hangings and the dreaded arrival of the death fleet, to grisly murders and grotesque discoveries that once horrified the colony – these are the tales that history tried to forget. Dark, sinister and all too real. Blending premium whiskey with spine-tingling storytelling, this intimate evening is the perfect way to step into the Halloween spirit.
Thursday, 30 October 2025 at 7:00 PM
Discover Chowder Bay’s hidden past over a delicious dinner, as rare imagery and infamous stories reveal its 19th-century “Pleasure Grounds,” secret military operations, spectacular structures, chaotic picnics, explosions, mysteries, and the colourful characters who shaped this quiet harbour cove across two centuries.
Thursday, 23 October 2025 at 6:30 PM
With a focus on the harbour-side heritage and colonial architecture of this unique stretch of Sydney, this tour will examine Balmain’s early beginnings and the fascinating figures who helped shape its bustling local industries and hard-working wharf fronts.
Known for its abundance of historic pubs, sandstone mansions and terraced streets that wind their way down to watery views, Balmain is a vibrant village with many stories to tell.
Friday, 7 November at 10:00 AM
Over the course of an easy going 1.45 hr guided walk, Sydney historian Max Burns-McRuvie will reveal the secrets of Chowder’s sub-marine mining depot and the dangerous duties of its mysterious army engineers once tasked with the construction, installation and even detonation of underwater explosives throughout Sydney Harbour at the end of the 19th Century.
At the same time, discover how the peaceful waters of Chowder Bay would see a transformation from Indigenous fishing to American whaling and eventually into an infamous ‘Pleasure Grounds’ where blasting brass bands, drunken larrikin gangs and picnic enthusiasts converged each weekend to enjoy its long-lost beach pavilion, marine hotel and enormous swimming facilities.
Saturday, 8 November at 10:00 AM
Reflecting on the changing tides of Sydney Harbour throughout the ages this unique event will recount tales of shark attacks, shipwrecks, seaplanes and historic sandstone structures over dinner at the Pavilion, Nielsen Park.
Thursday, 13 November 2025 at 6:30 PM