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Constructed by convicts, using sandstone quarried on the island, building 20 dates to 1848 when the island was a penal establishment. Originally, it housed an official known as the Clerk of Petty Sessions. Later, during the island’s shipbuilding era, it served as the Dockmaster’s Residence.
Between 2021 and 2023, the Harbour Trust undertook conservation works on the building with the aim of preserving its immense heritage character and, eventually, relaunching it as a holiday accommodation offering. As part of these works, the building’s convict era facade and stone flagging were revealed and conserved.
Today, the building is again known as the Dockmaster’s Residence in honour of its longest historic use. Offering commanding harbour views from the upper island, and able to sleep 8 guests, it will be available to hire for the first time this New Year’s Eve. It features 4 queen bedrooms as well as 4 bathrooms.
For a chance to hire the Dockmaster’s Residence, enter our New Year’s Eve accommodation ballot. A 4-night stay minimum applies (29 December 2026 to 2 January 2027). Be quick – the ballot closes at 2pm AEST on Wednesday 16 September.
