Affordable professional development facility: the conference centre at Currawong seats 25.

Ideal holiday or training venue

A holiday at Currawong Beach Houses keeps costs to a minimum, writes OWEN HASLER.

Currawong Beach Cottages, owned by Unions NSW, is a rare and special hideaway retreat set on 23 hectares of bushland and beachfront on Pittwater adjoining the Kuringai Chase National Park.

It was originally established by the Labour Council of NSW in 1949 to provide affordable accommodation for the workers of NSW.

Currawong has nine original 1950s cottages, each one self contained, as well as the original homestead, Midholme, dating from 1911.

According to managers Robyn and Bob Ellis there is significant usage by teachers and nurses during the weekend and holiday periods, but mid-week accommodation is still available.

"School staff are encouraged to utilise the modern conference centre for professional development activities as we have a training facility which is large enough to comfortably seat 25 or more people and it has two private accommodation rooms with kitchens and bathrooms for group leaders. These complement our other accommodation," Mr Ellis said.

Currawong's only access is by ferry from Palm Beach, the delightful 20 minute trip across Pittwater taking you past Mackeral Beach and The Basin. Ferries depart on the hour.

"We have submitted plans to the labor council to upgrade our BBQ areas to electricity, provide a new table tennis facility and construct a new pathway linking the wharf to the conference centre as well as an overall upgrade to the cottages which will see the refurbishment of the bathrooms and the interiors," Mr Ellis said.

"Apart from no noise of cars or roads, no television or radio, no shops and no telephones to disturb your tranquillity at Currawong, we have 300 metres of private sandy beach, a great tennis court, a nine-hole chip and putt golf course, stunning bushwalks, excellent BBQ facilities which complement the stunning views over Pittwater and I think that your members will find our rates very reasonable, particularly those who can take some long service leave and utilise Currawong midweek. They won't be disappointed."

Ms Ellis said: "Costs are kept to a minimum as guests supply their own food and drink and basic personal requirements which makes a very affordable 'escape' at little more than normal living expenses, which is one of the great attractions of the place."

"Groups of friends 'in the know' are regular visitors to Currawong and many would like to keep it that way but we are trying to get the word out to other unionists so that they can also enjoy this unique experience on the edge of the city," Ms Ellis said.

Bookings maybe made by phone (02) 9974 4141, fax (02) 9974 1328 or email mailbox@currawong.com.au

Owen Hasler is a Country Organiser.

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