Situated in a pristine lakeside forest on the mid-South Coast, Bawley Bush Retreat is a gorgeous, secluded DIY wedding venue, and is ideal for couples who’d love the creative freedom to design their wedding exactly as they see fit. Bawley Bush Retreat offers couples the chance to self-manage and choose their own caterer - whether that’s a tasty food truck, family friend or preferred caterer. A convenient, well-equipped caterer's kitchen and an inside or outside BYOG bar are available for preparing wedding meals and serving delicious drinks. Might we suggest some beer and a tasty Merlot or two?

Located at Bawley Point, surrounded by burrawang ferns and spotted gums, this charming coastal wedding venue can host up to 120 seated or standing wedding guests. It also offers couples and their families the ability to enjoy the rustic, secluded property and accommodation exclusively, with on-site, hand-built cottages available for up to 30 guests. 

This breathtaking, expansive property's lawns are adjacent to stunning Lake Willinga, a scenic, on-site water feature complete with lily pads and black swans. Bawley Bush Retreat also features a tree-lined entrance, undercover alfresco area (perfect for mingling and drinks), a large central function area and dining and lounge facilities. With plenty of locations for wedding photographs, a PA system and speakers, ceremony location options, space for a marquee, and beautifully manicured gardens, Bawley Bush Retreat is a magical, tranquil spot for a wedding.

“This location is a little-known gem which provides a fabulous setting, and offers flexibility for ceremonies and receptions. It provides an environment for family and friends to come together to have a fun-filled time. Staff are friendly and extremely helpful.  Nothing was a problem.  Highly recommended.” KT

What you can expect when working with Bawley Bush Retreat for your NSW South Coast wedding:

• Beautiful venue. Bawley Bush Retreat is absolutely gorgeous, and features plenty of eucalyptus trees, a tree-lined entrance, a beautiful lake with lily pads and swans, and manicured lawns and gardens - choosing a place for your wedding photographs will be fun! 

• Relaxing atmosphere. Situated in the bush on the mid-South Coast of NSW, and near to the beach, this secluded venue is tranquil, serene and quiet - your guests will love the peaceful, relaxing atmosphere.

• Reception options. At Bawley Bush Retreat you are welcome to choose the Cockatoo Function Room (complete with a timber truss cathedral ceiling, wood fire, PA systems, and stage) for your wedding celebrations, or you might like to host your reception outside in a stunning marquee. Hmmm… decisions, decisions!

• Prime location. Situated at Bawley Point, this rustic, lakeside venue is perfect for couples after a charming, Aussie experience - the plentiful amount of gum trees, ferns and local wildlife will attest to that! Located just moments from the beach, this coastal venue is ideally placed, and is a lovely mix of the bush and the beach, which pretty much sums up Australia! 

• Ceremony choices. You might choose to have your ceremony on the venue’s manicured, graded lawns, with the gorgeous lake nearby, or if you’re after a beachside wedding, Bawley Beach Reserve is only 3km away from the venue - the choice is entirely up to you!

Here’s what else you need to know about Bawley Bush Retreat:

• Self-catering. One of the perks of Bawley Bush Retreat? You can bring in your own caterers and drinks. Whether you’re after a favourite caterer of yours, know a family friend that can cook or want to order your favourite food (why not have your favourite cuisine - Italian, anyone?), the choice is yours, which means you can control your budget and what you serve your guests.

• Lounge area. Your guests will be able to mingle, unwind and relax in the convenient Casuarina Lounge Room. This area is the perfect place for guests to catch up either before or after your wedding ceremony.

What event spaces are available for a wedding ceremony?

While most couples opt to have their wedding ceremony on the manicured lawn on the property,

Bawley Beach Reserve is just 3km away, and beach lovers can opt to have their ceremony here. Alternatively, there are other beautiful beaches in the area, including Cormorant, North Beach, and Gannett. Just keep in mind that passersby may stumble on your ceremony as they are public beaches.

Is there accommodation on-site or nearby?

Yes, there is on-site accommodation available for up to 30 guests - so you can stay the night before and after your wedding! Bawley Bush Retreat offers self-contained cottages that contain king or king single beds and fold-ups. These architect-inspired cottages have from one to four bedrooms, and come with linen supplied.

Can couples bring in their own catering and suppliers?

Yes! Bawley Bush Retreat is perfect for self-catered weddings and functions, and features a large, central catering kitchen for your chosen caterer to prepare food in. 

“It was the perfect place for our daughter's wedding. We had full use of the whole retreat which was very well equipped and comfortable.  The setting is spectacular. We would definitely like to return for a holiday at some time.” Sue

“Wedding location.... can't go past the Bawley Bush Retreat,  from the very cosy cabins to the pristine grounds, pet friendly to make the day literally the best day ever.... Thank you” Tanya