Saumarez Homestead - National Trust NSW

01/09/2026

15/07/2026

Saumarez Homestead is closed through the winter months, but its story continues behind the scenes.

Our volunteers are carefully preparing a new chapter to share when we welcome visitors again in September. Take a look at these images for a hint of what's to come.

Bookings are still open for our on-site accomodation during this time, find out more and book your cosy winter escape https://www.nationaltrust.org.au/places/saumarez-homestead/saumarez-homestead-accommodation/

27/05/2026

In 2024 the National Trust (NSW) launched our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). A collaborative partnership with Reconciliation Australia, the RAP formalises the National Trust’s ongoing commitment to advancing reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

During Reconciliation Week we look back at one of the key projects of this initial phase, Reflect.
Read more https://www.nationaltrust.org.au/news/reflecting-a-shared-history-at-saumarez-homestead/



Image: Anaiwan Elder, and community advocate Uncle Steve Widders at Saumarez Homestead. (Photography by Mike Terry).

22/04/2026

This Anzac Day, we celebrate the life of Harold Fletcher White (1883-1971) of Saumarez Homestead and Bald Blair, both near Armidale. Known by his friends as 'Bill', in 1906 he joined the 6th Light Horse, Australian Military Forces and was promoted to Captain in the 5th Light Horse in 1914. He was later promoted to Major and embarked as officer commanding 'D' Company of the 33rd Battalion. Wounded in 1917, he was engaged in action at Armentieres and Messines and was awarded the Distinguished Service Order. The citation spoke of 'his utter disregard of personal danger, his indomitable will and his tireless energy' during his time on the front line. White returned to Australia in 1919, receiving further promotions to Lieutenant-Colonel. He returned to Bald Blair and continued the pasture and stock improvements to his properties. White was prominent in local and regional affairs, a councillor for the Guyra shire and vice-president of the Northern New State Movement. He sat on the council of The Armidale School and supported the campaign for a university college at Armidale and he was a council member of the university in 1954. Survived by his wife, two sons and two daughters, Harold White died in 1971 at Armidale.

21/04/2026

Volunteering information session and morning tea at Saumarez Homestead.

We invite those interested in learning more about volunteering at Saumarez Homestead to an information session and morning tea to be held Saturday 2 May 2026, at 10:30am. Current volunteers and staff will share their experiences from behind-the-scenes at New England’s heritage jewel. Learn about handling and conserving precious items from the nationally significant collection, discover how you can assist with research or find out how you can get involved in the gardens.

Attendees interested in volunteering in the house will be invited to a preview inside the 30-room Edwardian mansion, or for those interested in lending a hand in the gardens, join our team on a walk-through of the picturesque grounds of Saumarez Homestead.

To attend the event, RSVP to [email protected] before 30/04/2026.

If you can’t make the event, express your interest or learn more about volunteer opportunities at our website https://www.nationaltrust.org.au/volunteers-nsw/