Tocal Homestead

31/05/2026

It’s been 156 years since the death of the notorious bushranger Captain Thunderbolt, also known as Fred Ward.

Before becoming one of Australia’s most famous bushrangers, Fred Ward worked at Tocal as a horsebreaker. He later forged the legend of Captain Thunderbolt—a story that has become an enduring part of Australian history and continues to captivate people more than a century and a half after his death.

Have you explored Thunderbolts connection to Tocal?

Visit us on the 4th Sunday of the month, next opening Sunday 28th June and you can see Thunderbolts cottage which was built in the late 1830s.

30/05/2026

Step back in time at Tocal Homestead with a school excursion.

Our educational programs give infant and primary students the chance to discover how people worked and lived on an Australian farm more than 150 years ago.

Through hands-on activities, storytelling and heritage farm chores, students explore historic buildings, hear stories from the past and gain an understanding of what life was like for children their own age living in another era.

Students and teachers alike enjoy a structured, engaging and memorable day while developing an appreciation for our unique heritage site.

It’s a day filled with a wonderful mix of learning, history and fun in the countryside.

Be sure to tag your school in this post so they can book an excursion at Tocal Homestead.

27/05/2026

Our white picket fence gateway, the main entrance to Tocal Homestead, has seen it all.

From wedding couples arriving for their special day, buses filled with school groups and senior tours, visitors attending events and creative workshops — and even flood waters passing through.

12 months apart, these photos are a reminder of the many stories this place holds and the resilience that comes with every season.

25/05/2026

Last week was National Volunteer week and we would like to take the time to thank all of our volunteers for their hard work, passion, and dedication to Tocal Homestead. Their contribution helps keep Tocal Homestead thriving, welcoming, and full of life — we truly couldn’t do it without you. If you are thinking of joining the Friends of Tocal volunteer group, perhaps you would like to help out with our garden group? The garden group meet every second Thursday at Tocal Homestead.

Perhaps gardening is not your thing, well there are plenty of other ways to get involved:
• Helping restore and preserve antique furniture and silverware
• Polishing and caring for our Rolls Royce, Rover and historic farm equipment and machinery
• Assisting with Homestead events, tours and open days
• Baking and food preparation
• Researching and uncovering the rich history and stories of Tocal and its people

For more information on how to join and to learn about the benefits of joining the Friends of Tocal call us on 4939 8901 or email [email protected] – we’d love to hear from you.

Volunteering Australia

23/05/2026

Step back in time and enjoy a country day out at Tocal Homestead this Sunday 24 May, open from 10am–3pm.

Explore the grounds with our self-guided audio tours, enjoy a delicious Devonshire tea with our famous homemade scones, or pack a picnic and relax in the beautiful surroundings.

Bring the kids along too — they’ll love seeing the farm animals and exploring the homestead grounds. A perfect family day out in the countryside.

My Maitland Visit Dungog Visit NSW

21/05/2026

FLOWER WORKSHOPS with Ela Flora this Sunday 24th May at Tocal Homestead.

Set within the historic charm of Blacket Barn, enjoy a creative morning in the countryside designing your own beautiful arrangement using a ceramic vase and a stunning selection of dried flowers and embellishments.

Your workshop includes:
💐All materials and tools
💐 Refreshments
💐 Step-by-step guidance
💐 A relaxed and inspiring rural setting

Perfect for a catch-up with friends, a creative escape, or simply trying something new.

Only 4 spots left, book now.

https://www.elaflora.com.au/book-a-workshop/p/driedvaseworkshop2

11/05/2026

Only a few tickets left to By the Banyan Tree with Sound & Spirit — don’t miss this beautiful experience under the trees. Secure your spot before it sells out.

Our final gathering beneath the Banyan Tree before we pause for winter 🌳🧘‍♀️🎶

There’s something really special about this space, slowing down, lying back, and letting the sound and nature hold you for a while.

A gentle country drive, fresh air, and the quiet of nature… arriving with space to breathe before we settle in beneath the tree.

We’ll guide you through meditation and live sound, weaving together live-looped music, traditional sound healing instruments, and the natural surroundings into a deeply calming, multi-layered experience 🎶🧘‍♀️🌿

A space to soften, rest, and come back to yourself.
Bring a picnic, settle in, journal or read a book if you feel to… or simply be. We’ll then ease into a 60-minute sound meditation beneath the tree.

📅 Saturday, May 16th
🕓 3:30 – 5:30 PM
📍 Tocal Homestead
🎟️ $55 — Tickets via booking link here: https://www.trybooking.com/DLHLR

09/05/2026

A perfect day out starts here — bring the family and explore.

See the the pigs, Clydesdales and sheep, wander the heritage grounds, and enjoy a day in the countryside.

Open Sunday 10am-3pm

04/05/2026

Discover Tocal Homestead, open on the 4th Sunday of every month.

Wander at your own pace with self-guided tours, enjoy the rich history, and indulge in a classic Devonshire tea. It’s the perfect day out to explore, learn, and connect.