Silverwater Prison Complex Conservation Area (under consideration: amendment)

Item details


Name of item:	Silverwater Prison Complex Conservation Area (under consideration: amendment)
Other name/s:	Metropolitan Remand and Reception Centre; Silverwater / Mulawa Correctional Centre, Silverwater Gaol, Newington Estate, Silverwater State Hospital and Asylum
Type of item:	Landscape
Group/Collection:	Landscape - Cultural
Category:	Gaol/Lock-up
Location:	Lat: -33.8290675726 Long: 151.0568352620
Primary address:	Holker Street, Silverwater, NSW 2128
Parish:	St John
County:	Cumberland
Local govt. area:	City of Parramatta
Local Aboriginal Land Council:	Metropolitan
Hectares (approx):	26.1

Property description

Lot/Volume Code	Lot/Volume Number	Section Number	Plan/Folio Code	Plan/Folio Number
LOT	22		DP	876995

All addresses

Street Address	Suburb/town	LGA	Parish	County	Type
Holker Street	Silverwater	City of Parramatta	St John	Cumberland	Primary Address
Newington Road	Silverwater	City of Parramatta			Alternate Address

Owner/s

Organisation Name	Owner Category	Date Ownership Updated
Corrective Services - Department of Communities and Justice	State Government	06 Nov 98

Statement of significance:


	Silverwater Correctional Centre has exceptional historic, associative, aesthetic, research potential and rarity significance as the core remaining part of important colonial figure, John Blaxland's Newington Estate, the foundation site for Newington College and as the State Hospital & Asylum for Women, for its subdivision and subsequent use for a variety of institutional functions, as an expression of changing philosophy regarding the care of the aged and care of prisoners. On the estate were established a number of early industries, the most important to the colony being the saltworks. Remaining estate components such as Newington House, the Chapel and adjacent landscape have aesthetic value and can demonstrate the 19th century way of life. The estate's development since the 1830s provides a continuous record of private and institutional occupation, as house, school, asylum, hospital and prison, reflecting changes in attitudes and practices to patient and inmate rehabilitation over time. The site also has archaeological potential to reveal information about past uses and occupation. The Silverwater Correctional Complex site has a significant association with the institutional care of women, beginning with the early asylum for poor and destitute women in 1886 and continuing through the hospital phase to the present correctional centre phase as demonstrated by the Mulawa Correctional Centre. The early Asylum buildings demonstrate the social custom of accommodating and treating destitute women in the 1880s, and some of the early 20th century hospital buildings are examples of buildings designed by Government Architects under Walter Liberty Vernon. The several phases of adaptive reuse, demolition of many building components, construction of new buildings, introduction of new uses, operational systems and elements have removed the site's integrity as a 19th-century rural estate. Its heritage significance is primarily related to certain individual buildings and their immediate curtilage and remnant pockets of vegetation on the site, rather than the site as a whole. Individual significant components include Newington House, a substantial, reasonably intact example of a rural colonial Regency style villa, an important reminder of colonial expansion westwards towards Parramatta and the Blue Mountains, and its setting along the Parramatta River. It demonstrates the quality of life of prominent early settler families. It has associations with a notable NSW family, being built for John Blaxland, whose entrepreneurial activities were amongst the earliest in the colony, and whose more famous explorer brother Gregory assisted in activities relating to this site. With Elizabeth Bay House and Camden Park, it is recognised as one of the three great colonial houses of Sydney. Its use since the Blaxlands reflects several social changes as a college, asylum / hospital, and prison administration building. Newington House is unusual in architectural terms, for its character rather than its quality: externally it forms a typical Regency structure, although somewhat marred by the awkward latre placement of the verandah. Internally the main items of significance are the room layout and rigorous but rustic character of its joinery, which is idiosyncratic in detail rather than of refined quality. It has aesthetic value in its relationship with the family chapel and Parramatta River, although the latter has been diminished by landfilling to the north. Its remaining garden setting, which includes the carriage loops in front and east of the house, has aesthetic significance notwithstanding the positioning of the Mulawa Correctional Centre security fence. In its heyday the estate was famous for its landscaped gardens and orchards. It has continued to be the prominent building on the site and accomodated senior officers in each phase of its development. This continuity further emphasises its role as a central and integral part of the site's heritage. St. Augustine's Chapel is a simple, substantial demonstration of the strong religious convictions of early settlers. It has significant associations with a range of occupants on site, including weekend chapel / weekday school rooms for workmen during the Blaxland family era, uses as a classroom during the Newington College occupancy, residential accomodation during the asylum / hospital era and a chapel during the prison phase. It has significant history and social value as the chapel for Newington House, the first church in the Auburn area and for its range of educational and communal uses over time. Parts of Silverwater Correctional Complex site have high aesthetic value, particularly the surviving historic core around Newington House and Chapel, their adjacent landscape and the Irwin House collection of buildings and garden. Significant elements include the carriage loops in front (north) and east of the house, trees and shrubs, open landscape between house and chapel, the remaining relationship of Newington House and the Parramatta River (once its primary means of access), the archaeologically sensitive area at the house's rear, the sites of Blaxland's original cottage, other outbuildings and structures such as a well; and the archaeologically sensitive area east of the chapel where the former vault was located and in general the area around the chapel. The precinct also features a number of significant trees, including a group of Araucarias (Bunya pines & hoop pines) and Moreton Bay figs (Ficus macrophylla) in the Mulawa Correctional Centre compound (remnant of a former landscaped walk to the river), the extremely rare Schotia afra (Kaffir bean, Boer bean) and the surviving turpentines (Syncarpia glomulifera) which are likely to be indigenous to the site. Irwin House has aesthetic and technical significance as a domestic scaled face brick building comprising three distinct wings with verandas to each elevation. Its Federation era design is unique, as no other known hospital buildings from c.1895 have a similar layout. Its design, probably by Government Architect Walter Liberty Vernon, draws on the tradition of military hospitals developed for hot climates. It has technical significance in its elaborate, skilful provisions for natural ventilation, use of both dry and wet bricks, detailed timber embellishments and intricately carved sandstone elements. Few examples of hospital buildings, and even fewer examples of staff accommodation remain that date from this period. Its aesthetic significance is enhanced as it is situated in an attractive landscaped area, the most complete setting of the hospital period that complements its architectural style. Blaxland House (former Superintendent's Cottage) has historic, associative and aesthetic value as a Federation-style home associated with senior staff members, particularly the Hospital Superintendent. It represents a specific era in hospital design, where senior staff accommodation was provided on-site, typically on the outskirts of grounds. It was designed under the guidance of Government Architect, Walter Liberty Vernon and retains its overall layout, form, original joinery as its mmain distinguishing features. Its significnace is enhanced by its location in an established garden surrounded by mature rainforest trees and palms, such as Moreton Bay fig, hoop and Bunya pines, cotton palms and swamp mahogany. Margaret Catchpole House and Caroline Chisholm House have historic significance as evidence of the original development of the Asylum in 1886. They were originally constructed as a pair of ward buildings, but their integrity has been lost by later additions which have reduced their aesthetic significance and ability to be understood in their heritage context. They are typical buildings of late 19th century and early 20th century hospital precincts. The Children's Cottage (former Engineer's House) has historic and aesthetic significance as an intact Federation style cottage, heightened by its setting as an individual building in a garden setting. It was part of the complex of buildings and grounds erected during the early phase of transition to the State Hospital & Asylum for Women. It was a key building in providing accomodation for the site engineer and a dormitory / support building to core areas in each of the site's changes of use since 1913. It has aesthetic and associative values as a good, intact example of Federation domestic architecture and particularly of the work of the Government Architect's office in the time of Walter Liberty Vernon. Despite later additions surrounding the building, its aesthetic value is heightened by its garden setting. Mum Shirl Building (former Church Hall) has historic and aesthetic significance as part of the early hospital phase and is typical architecture of its time. Morgan House (former Bathroom) has historic significance as evidence of the early hospital complex and the changing requirements of the site. The Meeting Room (former Solarium) has historic and aesthetic significance as a specially-designed facility in a hospital precinct. Its formre use is evident in architectural qualities including large triple-sash windows. The Boiler house has historic significance as evidence of the original development of the asylum in 1886 and subsequent alteration to adapt to future uses. It generally retains its original utilitarian design and original layout. The Main Switchboard (former Mattress Making Room) has historic significance for its association with the early hospital phase and its industrial use of mattress making. Externally it generally retains its original aesthetic characteristics including simple form, pitched roof and arrangement of openings including timber framed windows. Some parts of the complex and the site of Newington House, Chapel and gardens are of historical archaeological potential, including the potential remains of wells, cess pits and outbuildings. Silverwater Correctional Complex contains rare surviving elements and evidence of late 18th century and early 19th century subdivision and estates, particularly that of John Blaxland from 1807, including Newington House and Newington Chapel in the 1830s. Two-storey brick accommodation buildings from 1886, such as Margaret Catchpole House and Caroline Chisholm House, are not common in NSW. The buildings are barrack style, which were common in the first half of the 19th century, but rare in the second half of the century. Irwin House is a symmetrical complex of pavilions designed as one building, which does not appear to have occurred at other hospitals.
	Date significance updated: 13 Jan 20
	Note: The State Heritage Inventory provides information about heritage items listed by local and State government agencies. The State Heritage Inventory is continually being updated by local and State agencies as new information becomes available. Read the Department of Premier and Cabinet copyright and disclaimer.

Description


Designer/Maker:	John Verge, Walter Liberty Vernon
Construction years:	1829-1850
Physical description:	ESTATE / SITE The site has an area of over 27 hectares, bordered by Holker Street in the south, Newington Street to the west, and Jamieson Street to the east, with its northeast boundary in the shape of an arc. Main access to the site is from Holker Street and secondary access via Jamieson Street. Blaxland's estate was 1290 acres of rich, riverside land, with villa and farming community. A farm, factory and saltworks were established 1829 -32. The Blaxlands began a cattle industry: breeding, slaughtering and salting them. They produced usable salt, from brine gathered from marshes in an area of c.40 acres besideon the Parramatta and Duck Rrivers. Newington House was built as an integral element in a landscaped setting (with chapel to east). Elements of landscaped grounds are extant, including scattered individual and groups of mature trees and the outline of the formal carriage loop north of the house. (Erdelyi 2010). Part of the site was bought by the NSW government in 1880 as an asylum for aged women. Newington is now part of Silverwater Correctional Centre. The site includes significant trees that lined the main north-south and east-west estate avenues, all inner and outer grounds. The Blaxland Estate was famous for its landscaped gardens and orchards. During the later phase of use as Asylum and hospital, pavilion buildings were erected within its landscaped setting. NEWINGTON HOUSE (E1) Located in the centre of the site. A two storey Regency villa, built 1829 -32 in two stages. In its heyday surrounded by gardens and orchards. The house had a 1840s addition of verandah and sandstone pillars along the length of the facade, featuring 14 Doric sandstone columns, supporting a balcony on the first floor. The roof is M-shaped with an internal box gutter. Constructed of rendered brick on sandstone foundations, the house is rectangular in plan, with a curved bay at each end. The roof is predominantly slate, with copper to internal facing roof pitches. Gutters and downpipes are also copper. The main (northern) facade is symmetrical, divided into five bays, with a central pedimented break-front over the entrance. The main door is surmounted by a decorative fanlight, over a double-leaf door. These are surrounded by rendered brickwork, giving the appearance of stone quoins. The two bays either side of the entrance have French doors with timber shutters. Doors on the ground floor have highlights. The shutters are not original. The east and west facades feature small balconies with timber bases and wrought iron balustrades. Similarly, to the front facade, are French doors with timber shutters to the ground and first floors. On the western elevation, a contemporary window has been added to the ground floor. The stone floor of the verandah continues around the east and west facades matching the curved shape of the projecting bays. There are curved steps to the western facade providing access to the garden. The southern facade has a portico over the rear entrance at the building's centre. The portico is supported by sandstone columns and has rendered capitals. Above the portico is a casement window with star pattern glazing, providing light to the central stairwell. Above this window is a small hemispherical fanlight. The remaining windows on this elevation are generally double-hung with multiple panes. The stone paving continues around to the rear entrance. Stone steps give access to the garden from the portico to the courtyard. A small single-storey service wing was added to the house's rear: it is rendered with a corrugated metal roof. The house has a basement, accessed by a hatch from the ramped area of timber floor in the back hall, which leads to several underfloor areas of walk-in height. These are useable rooms: the remaining sub-floor spaces are crawl spaces only, with limited access. Some are accessible by small openings from one space to another, others via floor hatches. Generally, floors are earth, and walls are a mixture of stone, frequently the lower portion, and brick, either entirely brick or as brick footing courses for brick walls to upper floors. (McConnel Smith and Johnston 1985). Internally, the layout is structured around a central entrance hall and staircase. On the ground floor are large rooms to either side of the entrance hall, which open out to verandahs on the front elevation. A series of smaller rooms are located along the rear elevation as well as a second staircase. The first floor is divided into five large rooms which open out onto the verandah, and several small rooms to the rear. The walls are rendered throughout, and ceilings are a mix of corrugated iron, timber panelled, and plaster. The ceiling above the staircase has a star pattern which matches that of the window to the stairwell. The flooring is predominantly timber, some of which has been covered in carpet. Bathrooms and the kitchenette have contemporary tiled or vinyl floors. The building features extensive, ornate timberwork which has been carved with various designs. It is of fine craftsmanship and in very good condition. Significant timber elements include the central staircase, door frames, panelled doors and skirting. There are several fireplaces throughout the building with either timber or marble mantles and surrounds. c1840s - verandahs added. c.1863 - extensive repairs to renew the house for Newington College use. c.1860s-70s external shutters intalled (removed early 20th century). 1890s present staircase installed. 1950s - rear kitchen demolished, new rear wing constructed. c.1969 - interiors including joinery painted, except entrance hall, where only the panelled skirting is painted. Joinery stripped back to original finish around this time. c.1996 - extensive works, including new corrugated metal roof to 1956 extension, remodelling interior layout, stone repair, repairs to balconies and balustrades. c.2000 - landscaping works undertaken. The design has been variously attributed to John Verge and Henry Cooper (?) but no original drawings have been located. 1860 records give a good indication of its layout and furnishing, which included a lobby, five bedrooms, a nursery, dining or drawing room, pantry, kitchen, store room, servant's room and a 'large room' (GBA 2004: 9). It is now (2004) used as administration block of Silverwater Corrective Centre. The house is unusual in architectural terms, for its character rather than its quality; externally it forms a typical Regency structure, its initial conception somewhat marred by the awkward later placement of the verandah, which however presents a fine portal to the house. Internally the main items of significance are the room layout and the rigorous but rustic character of its joinery, where aspirations to the manner and style of a (John) Verge house are seen in primitive form, revealing more general standards of workmanship of the day, and thus the joinery is idiosyncratic in detail rather than of refined quality. GARDEN & CARRIAGE LOOP Located east of Newington House, in the centre of the site. Elements of the former garden, and estate landscaping remain, mostly scattered individual and groups of mature tree plantings, outline of formal carriage loop north of house (marked by brick and concrete kerb edging today). No original 1830s fabric remains on or near the ground surface (Erdelyi, 2010) and now isolated elements elsewhere such as mature trees, an avenue of rainforest tree species and palms north from house towards the river, and more detailed elements such as a pedestal and urn, east of the house on the edge of the former carriage loop. The essential landscape components around the original Newington House surrounds and chapel include: - the carriage loop in front (north) of the house currently divided by a security fence and the trees and shrubs in and around it; - the carriage loop east of the house with the service and formal parts, the trees and shrubs around it, the bollard on the corner and pond; - the open landscape between the house and the chapel; - the remaining relationship of Newington House and the Parramatta River (once its sole means of access); - the archaeologically sensitive area at the rear of Newington House and the site of Blaxland's original cottage and other outbuildings and structures (eg: well); and - the archaeologically sensitive area east of the chapel where the former vault was located and in general around the chapel. A 1911 photograph east of Newington House looking west shows carriage loops east and north with 2 prominent hoop (Araucaria cunninghamii) and Norfolk Island pines (A. heterophylla), garden beds cut into lawns and spikey plants (eg: Agave sp. in pedestal urn and New Zealand cabbage trees (Cordyline australis) near the house). A pond and 3 tiered fountain were as east of the house in the centre of a grass 'island' between two drives. A 1953 photograph from the same location shows hoop pines gone and 3 prominent Canary Island palms (Phoenix canariensis) east and north of the house. (Read, Stuart, from photographs supplied 5/06 by Dept. of Commerce). Close to the house's north-west corner is an extremely rare shrub or small tree, reputedly planted c.1840 during the Blaxland residency, the South African species Boer or Hottentot bean (Schotia afra), related to the parrot flower tree (S. brachypetala), itself rare in NSW. A sign near the shrub claims this is the only one in the Southern Hemisphere. This seems unlikely, perhaps an inflated claim, unless it is now now extinct in its home regions, but this it could still be the only such specimen in NSW or Australia. Tree plantings lining or near the former carriage loop north of the house include Canary Island date palms (Phoenix canariensis), southern nettle tree (Celtis australis), cotton palms (Washingtonia robusta) with their tall, clean trunks to 20m high. East of the house towards the chapel are groves of trees, some older (pre 1900), some more recent 20th century plantings - c1950-70s. These include, west of the house: Norfolk Island hibiscus/cow itch tree, (Lagunaria patersonia), Canary Island date palms; south of the house more C.I. date palms, a golden Monterey cypress, Cupressus macrocarpa 'Aurea'; east of the house a Qld. black bean tree, (Castanospermum australe) & 2 Mediterranean cypresses, (Cupressus sempervirens). East of the house and outside the carriage loop, towards the chapel, are groves of Bhutan cypress (C. torulosa), Qld. lacebarks (Brachychiton discolor), a clump of African olives (former hedge plant in colonial gardens), cock's comb coral tree (Erythrina crista-galli), African coral tree (E. caffra), cotton palms and a species of pine tree (Pinus sp.) nearer the chapel; The avenue of trees towards the river comprises Bunya Bunya pines (Araucaria bidwillii), hoop pines, Moreton Bay figs (Ficus macrophylla), Canary Island date palms and swamp mahoganies (Eucalyptus robusta), the latter of which may be later plantings. This former walkway planting may date to the 1860s-1900, the main period of popularisation and fashionability of these species, and their promotion by such public figures as then Directors of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney, Charles Moore and Joseph Maiden. These men provided such species to many public institutions such as parks, hospitals, asyla etc. Cotton and Canary Island date palms were also commonly promoted species in this period. Close to Holker Street and the jail's main entry are large specimens of Hill's fig (Ficus macrocarpa 'Hillii') and Moreton Bay figs (F. macrophylla), transplanted from estate remnants to the east of the current entry driveway as part of a redevelopment of the main entry. These trees are at least of 1880s vintage, possibly older to the 1860s. ST. AUGUSTINE'S CHAPEL (E5) Located east of Newington House, in the centre-east of the site. A private chapel built in 1838. A single storey rendered / stuccoed brick building with corner buttresses and a rectangular floor plan. The design has been described as Gothicised Georgian as it features pilasters, string course and pedimented gable but also Gothic Revival style pointed arches, rudimentary tracery with amber glass and quatrefoil vents. Rendered externally and detailed with ashlar lines giving the appearance of stonework. There are protruding buttresses located at each corner and at the centre of the north and south elevations. It has a gabled roof of corrugated steel and modern quad profile gutters and downpipes. Each gable end has rendered coping and cornice and a central air vent in the shape of a quatrefoil. The chapel entrance comprises a modern, double-leaf timber door with timber panelling, set within a pointed arch opening. The arched opening has been fully enclosed above the door with timber panelling. A marble plaque , dated 1838, sits above the main entrance, saying 'St. Augustine's Church erected in 1838 by the Hon. John Blaxland MLC.'. Timber-framed windows in the shape of pointed arches. They feature tracery and panes of leadlighting which alternate horizontally between sections of rectangular diamond patterns. A vault once formed part of the eastern end of the chapel, accessed by an internal staircase (GBA 2004: 77). Other than the walls, very little original fabric remains. The timber window frames, and lighting are of unknown date, leadlighting appears to be twentieth century. Extensive repairs were made in 1947, including a new floor, door threshold, rebuilding of the north buttress and a new roof. Internally, walls are rendered and painted with a patterned dado line. The floor and ceiling are both of timber. c.1970s - a plasterboard ceiling was added. Conservation works included reinstating the timber-boarded ceiling, repairs to windows and painting of walls. The building is furnished with timber pews, a lectern, altar rail and communion table. The grassed area around it includes some large palms and is fenced by a high metal fence. The chapel was used as a school room from the 1860s to 1880. The gardens surrounding it have archaeological potential (along with the site of Newington House), to reveal locations of water tanks, the vault on the chapel's eastern end and other structures built around the house. (GBA 2004: 79). MAIN SWITCHBOARD (FORMER MATTRESS MAKING ROOM) (D1) Located west of Newington House, in the site's centre. Associated with the early Hospital phase. Designed under George McRea in the Government Architect's Office and built in 1918. Single storey painted brick building with hipped, corrugated metal roof. Timbers and timber double-hung and doors are timber. Air conditioning has been installed and contemporary lights added to the facades. It is surrounded by a high wire mesh security fence. Internally it has a concrete floor. 1990s - terracotta roof was replaced with corrugated metal, and the building converted for use as vegetable storage. (GBA 2004: 73). MULAWA CORRECTIONAL CENTRE (MCC) Located in the northwest and north of the site, occupying an area roughly triangular, between Newington Street and the arched line facing the former Armaments Depot. Its grounds are compartmentalised by tall security fences. It consists of two sections of distinctive character. The old section comprises a collection of buildings of various ages, including the first Hospital (ward) buildings from 1886 and some other buildings from the early Hospital phase (e.g.: Morgan House, a former hospital bathroom). Its landscape includes a number of mature trees - pines, palms and figs - which retain a general park-like effect. (GBA 2004: 40). The track to the wharf (Blaxland / Asylum era) was lined with an avenue of trees including several stands of Cook's and Bunya pines (Araucaria columnaris, Araucaria bidwilli), these still survive in the grounds of Mulawa. These are significant survivors of the Blaxland and later period plantings (Taylor Brammer Landscape Architects 2004: 9) along walks to the former wharf (GBA 2004: 47). MULAWA ACCOMMODATION UNITS Mulawa Accommodation Units are a 1980s construction, located in the southeast corner of the site. It can hold 235 inmates and is divided into 12 living units, protection / segregation area and induction unit. It includes a hospital annex, accommodation for both sentenced and unsentenced inmates and various special program units. Inmates work in a plant nursery, assemble airline passenger headsets. Cottage industries and telemarketing are also available. (GBA 2004: 27). MARGARET CATCHPOLE BUILDING (FORMER HOSPITAL WARD BLOCK)(C12) Located in the Mulawa Correctional Centre, in the site's north. c.1886 two storey rendered brick building, hospital ward building. Victorian Georgian style. The 1886 site plan shows it and the Caroline Chisholm building were built as two identical ward buildings linked by a covered walkway to a dining room and to the kitchen area at the rear of Newington House. Painted brick, with a timber truss roof structure covered with corrugated metal roofing. Windows are generally double-hung in either timber or metal frames. The primary entrance is at the centre and external steel fire escape stairs are located at each end of the building. A lift has been installed in the two storey annex to the building. Original chimneys remain at the east and west ends of the roof. The original configuration consisted of two large open rooms on each floor. These were located either side of the central entrance and each contained a separate laundry, bath and store to the end of the room away from the staircase. Both floors have been divided internally by lightweight partition walls. No original detailing remains internally. Asylum era, adapted for hospital use. 1968 - verandah and covered walkways were removed. After 1969 adapted as part of Mulawa / Training and Detention Centre for Women. The Industries loading dock adjacent to Margaret Catchpole House is an intrusive carport type structure, detracting from the architectural significance of the 1886 ward building. 1990s renewal of the roof, removal of chimneys and repainting. (GBA 2004: 41). CAROLINE CHISHOLM BUILDING (FORMER HOSPITAL WARD BLOCK)(C13) Located in the Mulawa Correctional Centre, in the site's north. c.1886, Asylum era, adapted for hospital use. Two storey rendered brick building, Victorian Georgian style. The 1886 site plan shows it and the Margaret Catchpole building were built as two identical ward buildings linked by a covered walkway to a dining room and to the kitchen area at the rear of Newington House. Painted brick, with a timber truss roof structure covered with corrugated metal roofing. Windows are generally double-hung in either timber or metal frames. The primary entrance is at the centre and external steel fire escape stairs are located at each end of the building. Original or early copper gutters and downpipes remain extant. Original chimneys remain at the east and west ends of the roof. After 1969 adapted as part of Mulawa / Training and Detention Centre for Women. A lift has been installed in its two storey annex. Windows of the northern elevation of the ground floor have been altered and enlarged. The ground floor has been divided internally by lightweight partition walls. The building now houses Mulawa's reception facilities (GBA 2004: 41). Grounds to south west include several large (possibly 1880s/1900 vintage) camphor laurel trees (Cinnamomum camphora), and immediately south of the building include tree ferns (Cyathea sp.). BLAXLAND HOUSE (FORMER MEDICAL SUPERINTENDENT'S HOUSE)(C3) Located in Mulawa Correctional Centre, in the site's north. Two storey face brick Federation style cottage with terracotta tiled roof, built 1911 (GBA 2004: 33) / 1912 (GBA 2004: 43) as the Asylum adapted to hospital use. Designed by Government Architect Walter Liberty Vernon. A good example of two storey Federation domestic architecture. Its aesthetic values are heightened by its setting as an individual building in an established garden setting, adjacent to a remnant landscaped walk. The garden is surrounded by mature rainforest trees, such as Moreton Bay fig (Ficus macrophylla), hoop pine (Araucaria cunninghamii), Bunya pine (Araucaria bidwillii), cotton palms (Washingtonia robusta) and swamp mahogany (Eucalyptus robusta). There are several rockery garden beds with bush stone edging. Terracotta-tiled roof, three tall brick chimneys, protruding eaves and exposed timber rafters. Large, covered verandah with open brick arches extends around the northeastern corner of the building and gives access to the ground floor entrance. The Verandah has a timber baludstrade, which has been enclosed on the eastern elevation with 9-paned timber framed windows and sheeting. A metal staircase has been added to the eastern elevation to provide direct first-floor access via the enclosed verandah. The northern elevation of the sunroom which was enclosed later has plasterboard sheeting and metal windows. On the southern elevation is a single-storey section of the building with corrugated iron roof. This section was extended in 1960 to provide a toilet block. The exterior wall has been rendered and painted with a mural. Windows are generally timber-framed and double-hung. Several contain 9 panes to the top section. Doors and windows on ground floor are covered with contemporary security screens, which are detracting. Air conditioning units have been installed into several windows as well as security cameras on the exterior. The house retains its overall layout, form, original joinery as its main distinguishing features. Internally, it has timber floors covered with carpet and pressed metal ceilings throughout. Several original doors remain including lead lighting around the front entrance, an original fireplace on the ground floor, timber skirting and the central, timber staircase. Used by Medical superintendent in 1931 and as inmate accommodation until 1990. Roof retiled in 1938, and additional ablutions added to west side, c.1960. Verandah enclosed and a fire escape added. Adapted as Pre-/Post-Natal Clinic. Now used as an education and learning centre. It retains its original form, layout and much early fabric, such as joinery (GBA 2004: 43). Addition has a concrete slab floor, tiled and corrugated iron roof. MORGAN HOUSE (FORMER HOSPITAL BATHROOM)(C9) Located in the Mulawa Correctional Centre, in the site's north. 1909 new bathroom for women, designed by Government Architect Walter Liberty Vernon as part of the hospital complex. A single storey utilitarian Federation style brick building, with corrugated metal roof, which has a Dutch gable with timber vents to the north and south elevations. A roughcast render has been applied to the upper portoin of the building facades. Prominent eaves with exposed timber rafters. Windows are timber framed with 9 panes and open using a horizontal pivot hinge. Windows have been covered with metal security cages on the western elevation. Windows on the eastern elevation have internal metal security bars. 1968 - Bathrooms were converted to an admission building. New internal partition walls were added, and bathroom fit-out removed. The building has lean-to additions on the south and eastern elevations, a c.1980s extension "Step-down" facility for mental health care patients to the Rose Scott building. It adjoins high concrete and metal walls to the nortwestern corner. The southern elevation is partly enclosed by a high wire-mesh fence. The building was renamed after Denis Morgan, the first female chief prison officer, 1979-80. It is used for inmate accommodation. Retains much of its external architectural integrity. (GBA 2004: 42, 63, 74). MUM SHIRL ACUTE CRISIS UNIT (FORMER ROSE SCOTT BUILDING (HOSPITAL BUILDING), FORMER CHURCH HALL)(C8) Located in the Mulawa Correctional Centre, in the site's north. c.1910 original church hall - a part of the hospital phase. A single storey Federation style red brick building with gabled terracotta tile roof, roof air vent and timber openings. (GBA 2004: 96). It has prominent eaves with exposed timber rafters and metal downpipes. The lengths of the building on the east and west elevations are defined by bays separated by brick engaged piers with sandstone corner details. The southern elevation gable features a shingled facade and timber framed windows with coloured glass. The roof has a central timber framed ventilator with exposed raftres, metal roof and timber finial. Windows and doors are generally timber framed. Where openings have been altered, doors and windows are metal framed. Some have been infilled with a combination of concrete and brickwork. 1941 bio box room addition. 1948 extension, 1955 - dressing room added. 1968 converted into a hospital and cells with an exercise yard. Timber windows were replaced with aluminium ones and the hall was subdivided into wards, office, kitchen and bathroom. 1997 Mum Shirl extension added to the northern elevation, creating a larger 'T' shape, to accommodate prison functions. This addition follows the roof pitch and width of the former hall. c.1990s alterations to the southern elevation included removal of the original entrance and bricking in of doors and windows. A smaller brick lean c.1990s addition was built on the southeastern elevation of the original hall. It includes cells and service facilities, forms an internal courtyard with the former hall. c.1990s both east and west courtyards were added. Original external hall walls and the 1960s aluminium windows survive. The spatial qualities of the hall have partially been recovered exposing the hall's high ceiling. MARY REIBY BUILDING Located in the Mulawa Correctional Centre, in the site's north. Built in 1969, a painted brick building with concrete foundation and concrete roof. Originally inmate accommodation, it is now office accommodation. Traditional layout, small openings. (GBA 2004: 44). KITCHEN / STORE (FORMER HOSPITAL SHELTER). Located in the Mulawa Correctional Centre, in the site's north. Built in 1929 as a shelter for the hospital. It accommodated the dining room in the early prison phase. Now used as a kitchen and store for MCC. Concrete foundation, face brick walls and colorbond roof (GBA 2004: 43). FORMER SOLARIUM (FORMER HOSPITAL BUILDING)(C10) Located in Mulawa Correctional Centre, in the site's north. 1950 specifically designed as a solarium and library facility, for the hospital. Interwar cottage form with timber pedimented gables. Single storey face brick external walls, corrugated metal roof, with timber panelled gable ends. Brick facades have been painted. Windows are a combination of large double and triple-hung timber frames, with 9 panes of glass, reflecting its former use as a solarium. Original copper gutters, downpipes and rainwater heads generally remain intact. A verandah has been provided to the north side. Internally it has been divided into offices, in 1968. Now used as the front office. The solarium was previously connected to a building via a brick passageway to the south, which has now been bricked up. (GBA 2004). CHAPEL (FORMER HOSPITAL TOILET BUILDING)(C18) Located in Mulawa Correctional Centre, in the site's north. 1957 (GBA 2004). Re-converted to chapel use c.1996. Brick, single storey building west of the MARGARET CATCHPOLE BUILDING. Immediately south of the chapel is a tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima), possibly a sucker of an older specimen from the former estate or hospital periods. (NSW Department of Corrective Services Heritage and Conservation Register, 1995)(updated 6/7/2004, Stuart Read, site visit). BOILER HOUSE ((FORMER HOSPITAL BATHROOM)(C14) Located in Mulawa Correctional Centre, in the site's north. 1886 former lavatories and part of the original Asylum ward (now Caroline Chisholm House). Painted brick building with concrete floor and corrugated metal roof. Windows and doors rae timber. Extended in 1957 and west section converted into a plant room in 1968 as part of adaptation of the site for use as a prison. Currently there is a boiler room in the older section and toilets in the newer section. (GBA 2004: 73). LAUNDRY AND STORE ((FORMER HOSPITAL BATHROOM)(C17) Located in Mulawa Correctional Centre, in the site's north. 1886. Former lavatory for the original Asylum ward building (now Margaret Catchpole House). Single storey painted brick building with concrete floor and hipped corrugated metal roof. Windows are timber double-hung and doors are timber. Gutters are metal. 1957 addition to provide additional facilities. Converted to a laundry in .c1969, its west section converted into a plant room extended post-1970 and used as a maintenance shed in the 1980s. Refurbished in the 1990s - including replacing terracotta tile roof with corrugated metal sheeting and repainting painted surfaces. (GBA 2004: 73). METROPOLITAN REMAND AND RECEPTION CENTRE (MRRC) Located in the site's south-eastern corner, defined by high security perimeter fencing. Built in 1995-96. MRRC can accommodate 900 inmates. Robust, simple materials. External appearance of individual buildings are similar to other modern, low-scale institutions such as schools, TAFE colleges and low-rise hospitals (GBA 2004: 35). MRRC opened in 1997. Irwin House is the only component retained providing evidence of the previous occupation and use of this part of the site. It was adapted to an administration centre for MRRC. (See Irwin House entry, below). Modern, low-scale service buildings encircle Irwin House and its gardens. The external appearance of MRRC's accommodation and other buildings are similar to other contemporary low-scale institutional buildings, such as schools, colleges and low-rise hospitals. It includes buildings for visitors, intake, inmate accommodation, laundry, industries, library and workshops, clinics and a mental health assessment unit. (GBA 2004: 52, 64). MRRC is divided into 12 living units, protection / segregation area and induction unit. It includes a hospital annex, accommodation for both sentenced and unsentenced inmates and various special program units. Inmates work in a plant nursery, assemble airline passenger headsets. Cottage industries and telemarketing are also available. (GBA 2004: 27). IRWIN HOUSE (H1) Located within MRRC in the south-east of the site, Irwin House is now the centrepiece of a landscaped formal courtyard space with its surrounding landscape and several mature trees. There are circular garden beds within its surrounding garden. Adjacent to it, modern low-rise service buildings encircle the premises, further contributing to the overall boundary of the facility. To add visual interest, a few mature trees have been carefully relocated to the site. Irwin House was built between 1911 and 1918 when the asylum was converted to a State Hospital. During this phase of use, pavilion buildings were erected in a landscaped setting. Irwin House and the Engineer's Cottage were built at this time (GBA 2004: 15 considers Irwin House was built in the 1890-1911 period). A domestic scaled face brick building with terracotta tile roofs in Federation style, comprising three distinct wings with verandahs to each elevation, with a formal landscaped garden. The house faces northeast and towards a circular carriage loop. The central section functioned as dining room and common spaces, with dormitories situated on either side and a separate toilet block for each dormitory building at the rear. The central wing has timber ceilings, floorboards, cornices and skirting. Each wing has covered timber verandahs on both sides. The buildings feature prominent eaves with exposed timber rafters and detailed timber brackets. Roofs to the main buildings have several, well-detailed brick chimneys along the centre ridgeline, timber air vents to the roof and Dutch gables to outer roof elevations of the former dormitories. The central entrance and two toilet blocks have timber cupolas. The windows are generally timber-framed, double-hung with sandstone sills (some of which have been painted. Doors are generally panelled timber. Doors to former dormitory rooms have sidelights and a central top light. Both outer wings (former dormitories) were originally divided into 12 rooms with doors onto the verandah. Some have since been opened up to create larger spaces. They generally have timber skirtings and carpeted floors over timber floorboards. Fireplaces have been covered and ceilings contain modern down lights in plaster ceilings. The central wing has timber ceilings, floorboards, cornices and skirting. Its design, probably by the Government Architect WL Vernon, draws on the tradition of military hospitals developed for hot climates. Few examples of hospital buildings, and even fewer examples of staff accommodation remain that date from this period. A number of demountable buildings were built on the western side of Irwin House. Some restoration work to Irwin House was done in 1969, with incorporation of it into the Correctional Complex. A well designed Federation building (believed to be former Nurses' Quarters) represented by fine details in the timber verandah, roof, gable ends, chimneys, brickwork and sandstone detailing. It has unusual design as no other hospital buildings of this type are known from the period c1895 possibly for staff accomodation (medical nursing and domestic staff). It is sympathetically planned in an open lawn landscape with trees, including an avenue, all of which provide an attractive setting for the building (Philip Cox et al, 1993). PRISONERS CHILDREN'S (or CHILDREN OF PRISONERS') COTTAGE (FORMER ENGINEER'S HOUSE)(I12) This is located in the southwest of the complex, close to Holker Street. Built between 1911 and 1918. (c.1999: GBA: 2004: 33). Designed by Government Architect Walter Liberty Vernon. (GBA 2004: 63). Single storey Federation style cottage with corrugated iron roof. prominent eaves and exposed timber rafters supporting detailed timber brackets The roof has three large brick chimneys with sandstone cornices and terracotta chimney pots. Chimneys are a mix of brick and rendered section with terracotta chimney pots. It retains a large verandah to west and south, but part of the original verandah has been removed and rooms added at the south-east corner. A second small verandah is on the northwest elevation, above an entrance. Both have a brick base with concrete floor and steps. Verandahs feature well-detailed timber posts, brackets and fretwork. Original face brick walls were painted in 1989. Windows are generally timber-framed, double-hung, with rendered architraves below. Several have 12 panes of coloured glass in the top section. An arched highlight window on the southwest elevation features diamond shaped leadwork. The base of the building is rendered and has metal air vents. Internal walls are rendered, with timber architraves, skirting and panelled doors, and plaster ceilings. Floors are vinyl-covered timber generally, and tiled concrete in the amenities. Timber board ceiling in the sitting room has a large, profiled cornice. Coloured panelled glass in timber, double-hung windows to the bay windows, and lozenge-shaped highlights over the door making an unusual and well-detailed room. Western arched window also has a lozenge-shaped coloured glass highlights. All fireplaces have been bricked up, except the kitchen, which is now a recess (GBA 2004: inventory). The cottage and adjacent building are enclosed by a contemporary metal palisade fence. There are some mature plantings to the west of the cottage, including a fig tree (Ficus sp.) and hoop pine (Araucaria cunnighamii). The cottage was originally located at the corner of the Newington Hospital site oriented to face the intersection of Holker Street and a former street perpendicular to it. It was set in a large block surrounded by a garden with trees along the road, perpendicular to Holker Street. This setting has been significantly diminished by subsequent additions and alterations to site and layout. A large carpark was added to the north, and the adjacent cottage was added c.2000. c1975 - kitchen integrated with rest of the house, part of the verandah was enclosed. c.1980s - used as inmate accommodation. 1989 brickwork painted. c.1990s - cottage refurbished - 1975 addition removed, verandah reconstructed. Roof renewed. DAWN DE LOAS CORRECTIONAL CENTRE (FORMER SILVERWATER CORRECTIONAL CENTRE) AND PERIODIC DETENTION CENTRE Located in the southwest corner of the site. Early 1990s constructions. Robust, simple materials are used in the buildings. External appearance is similar to other modern, low-scale institutions such as schools, TAFE colleges and low-rise hospitals (GBA 2004: 38). A minimum security facility for men: it can accommodate up to 450 inmates with associated support services and industries complex. Many inmates work in the light engineering facility, making a range of metal products. Services such as kitchen, boiler house, laundry, maintenance and library employ about 100 inmates. Others work in a workshop, which refurbishes and makes furniture. A private sector statue workshop employs others. (GBA 2004: 25, 26). INDUSTRIES BUILDING Located in the site's southwestern corner. 1994 construction. (GBA 2004: 25). Part of Silverwater Work Release & Centre.
Physical condition and/or Archaeological potential:	Newington House, and areas to its east and south Archaeological excavation and monitoring has revealed deposits and features relating to the construction of Newington House, in addition to aspects of its alteration and refurbishment. Key conclusions are: - the sandstone staircase providing access to the verandah appears to be largely original in terms of its location, approximate size and fabric. Despite evidence for repair, it is also likely to be roughly contemporary in construction date with the house; - recent (1995) activities have impacted upon the steps to the extent that only a portion of the original fabric survives. Work by the Dept. of Public Works undertaken in the current projet has endeavoured to stabilise, retain and incorporate this fabric into the ongoing maintenance and refurbishment programme of Newington House; - the changes evident in the fabric of the verandah floor and its relative height which have occurred since construction, in addition to the alteration and/or repair of the western verandah sandstone wall and colonnade, provide evidence for the range of transformation Newington has undergone since construction. The archaeological evidence is complementary with the available historical information. The four brick vents identified under the verandah and the archaeological deposits filling the verandah cavity space are likely to be contemporary with the construction of Newington House and the cellar. The strongest evidence for this is derived from the close similarity of the brickwork and mortar which is evident in the formwork of each of these three features. The quantity and form of the bricks and mortar suggests it is likely that the building materials for the house, cellar, verandah and cavity fill were manufactured on site. (Godden Mackay (Dominic Steele & Matthew Kelly), 1995) An archaeologist should be commissioned to oversee works associated with the (1995 MRRC) development; - priority should be given to investigation of the area to the south of Newington House at the northwest corner of the development. This will enable an archaeologist to record features should they be exposed, direct further work to minimse the impact upon the work timetable and more accurately assess the nature, extent of survival and depth of relics or deposits to assess the impact during the grading phases. (Dept. of Public Works, 1995)
Modifications and dates:	1807 - a 1290 acre grant made to John Blaxland. A small cottage was built on the land. 1829-32 a farm, factory and saltworks established and c.1829-32 Newington house (weatherboard, with a shingled roof), with disciplined English gardens. Also near it were buildings and structures such as kitchen and store (said to form an attached wing, west of the house)(an 1880 plan shows the kitchen was a separate building directly south of the house), coach house and stable (west of the house), barns, sheds, workmen's cottages, service buildings. 1834 - a gazebo was immediately east of the house. 1838 a private chapel (St.Augustine's) was built 1840s monolithic sandstone verandah colonnade added to the house 1845 John Blaxland died. Property used to manufacture salt. The house was considerably neglected. 1860-63: short term industrial activities 1863 19 boys formed the nucleus of what would become the third of the GPS schools, Newington College, with surrounding gardens and parklands. During the College's occupation and use, the house was restored and had extensive repairs made. By 1863 the house was used as a piggery and its dining room as a barn. 1860s on - the chapel was used as a school room for Newington College. The Wesleyan Methodist Church were tenants, also running an abattoir (1880), rendering plant (1862) and bone-crushing mill (1866) on the estate. c.1860s-70s: external shutters installed (removed in early 20th century) By 1876 another classroom was added - its location is unknown. 1880 the school moved to Stanmore. Part of the site was bought by the NSW government as an asylum for aged women. Existing estate buildings were reused for the Asylum. An 1880 plan shows the kitchen as a separate building directly south of Newington House. There were several outbuildings and a row of brick cottages further south. Fences, carriageways, tracks and orchards are also shown on this plan (GBA 2004: 13). 1881 site was subdivided. 1882 - land to the southeast was resumed for Homebush Abattoirs 1882+ /1884-86 - construction of a purpose-built (Asylum) buildings began, including its major wards, continuing until 1886, when female inmates from Hyde Park Immigration Department relocated here. Asylum buildings built consisted of two barrack-style buildings with associated toilets, together with a dining room in a separate wing. An 1886 plan shows buildings on the western side of Newington House, running towards Blaxland Street: a separate bathroom, laundry, stable, and 'dead house'. The hospital was a separate building facing onto Blaxland Street. A vegetable garden of c.0.5 acres was near the corner of Blaxland and Day Streets. Two paddocks stretched from the Asylum to Newington Street. There was also a dairy, fowl yard and piggery. The dam for water supply was near the corner of Holker and Jamieson Streets. (GBA 2004: 13, 14). 1882 - major wards built for the asylum. 1886 - Hyde Park Barracks Immigrant Dept. closed: its elderly ladies moved to Newington 1887 - by then the house was centre of the Silverwater State Hospital (retaining this role until 1969). 1888-1890s - the Asylum came under the new Colonial Secretary's department, a Director of Government Asylums was appointed and started proposals for improving asylums, particularly their hospital facilities. In the 1890s 'pavilion' wards were considered the ideal hospital design. They were single storey free-standing structures enabling separation of patients according to disease categorisation. Natural ventilation was important. Verandahs were wide, to allow beds to be wheeled onto them. A number of buildings were built on site, reflecting these ideals, including - 11896 Dormitory Block, ward buildings between Irwin House and Newington House and south of Iwrin House. It is also considered that Irwin House was built in this period built for the asylum. Nurses' quarters, residences and support buildings such as maintenance sheds and laundries were built. Residences such as the Medical Superintendent's cottage and Engineer's Cottage were built (with change from asylum to hospital use).(GBA 2004: 15, 16). 1890s - present staircase installed in Newington House. Continuing building works, updated drawings for Vernon buildings 1896 - a Dormitory Block was built for the asylum. Late 1900s (decade) - additional land was resumed and dedicated for public purposes as additions to the site of the Asylum. 1901-10 - upgrading of various amenities - boiler house bathrooms 1907 - a laundry was built 1911 -18 - the asylum was converted for use as a State Hospital. Superintendent's house was built. Irwin House and the Engineer's Cottage were built at this time. (see 1888-1990s, above: NB: OCP date Irwin House's construction to the c1890s, and Superintendent's House to 1911). Hospital staff and accommodation expansion continued in this period, although less than the previous period. Services and amenities gradually improved, often resulting from investigations into conditions. Additions and alterations were made to buildings (GBA 2004: 17, 18). 1918: new wards added to south of existing, near Holker Street, for venereal patients. 1929 Newington Women's Home - a shelter block was built. It is now used as a kitchen for Mulawa. A 1932 plan (that also shows buildings built as late as 1946) shows development in this period, including buildings, road alignment and landscape features. (GBA 2004: 17, 18). 1934 - a new dormitory for men was built 1940s - a new men's dormitory and other minor works were done. 1941 - the addition of a 'bio box room' to the Hall (c.1910), which is now enclosed in Mum Shirl building. 1947 - significant repairs to the Chapel, including a new roof, ceiling, floorboards and front door. North buttresses rebuilt at the time, and the building re-rendered. Other repairs to leadlight windows. 1950 - a Solarium and Library built, which is now used as an office (GBA 2004: 18, 19). A 1953 photograph shows the hoop pines gone and 3 prominent Canary Island palms (Phoenix canariensis) east and north of the house (Read, S., from photographs supplied by Dept.of Commerce). 1950s: demolition of Newington House's rear kitchen, and construction of a new rear wing in 1956. 1968 - drawings for conversion to a prison - alterations to older buildings, various new buildings. 1969 - the Department of Corrective Services took over the site as the Silverwater Correctional Centre (SCC), a new minimum security men's prison and women's prison (Mulawa Correctional Centre MCC). : which opened in 1969). Mulawa was centred on the large, two-storey ward buildings (1880s, Asylum era) renamed Caroline Chisholm and Margaret Catchpole House. Existing buildings were put into use as prison facilities. The oldest wards of the Asylum were converted into dormitory and cell accommodation (1968). Timber floors became concrete. MCC can hold 235 inmates and is divided into 12 living units, protection / segregation area and induction unit. It also includes a hospital annex, accommodation for sentenced and unsentenced inmates and special program units. Inmates work in a plant nursery. (GBA 2004: 26). The Church Hall was altered to hospital use, the former Bathroom Block became the Admission building and the former Superintendent's Cottage became Pre-/Post-Natal Clinic. A number of demountable buildings were built on the western side of Irwin House. (GBA 2004: 22). Development occurred on the site throughout the next 20 years, although it was not until 1985 that a major redevelopment of the site took place. c.1969 - joinery in Newington House stripped back to its original timber finish (had been painted in 'sickly pastel colours' except the entrance hall, where only the panelled skirting was painted). 1970s and 1980s - Silverwater Light Engineering Facility developed progressively on site. c.1970s - Chapel had a plasterboard ceiling added to it. 1980s - two major reorganisations of the centre, including construction of additional accommodation units at Mulawa. 1982-c.1986 - use of area now of Sports Oval, blocks F, & G as a landfill site. 1985 - a major redevelopment of the site occurred - an expansion of the present built form was undertaken to the north and west. Significant buildings were constructed from 1986-88 to enable additional accommodation at Mulawa. Early 1990s - additions included a minimum security facility and periodic detention centre, west of Day Street. Newington House was refurbished and used as DOCS administration centre on site. 1994 - Industries Building built. Forman's Cottage was demolished. A new administration and support facility building for Silverwater Correctional Centre was built. This included relocation of the central access road, additional car parking, tree removals and new plantings, demolition or removal of existing buildings and structures. The former Library and Silverwater House were both lost. (GBA 2004: 25). 1995-96 - the Metropolitan Remand Reception Centre (MRRC) was constructed around Irwin House in the eastern half of the site, as a maximum security men's prison. Electrician's Workshop and Boiler Room, Feed Shed, Fuel Store and Dormitories demolished as part of MRRC construction - it opened in 1997. (GBR 2004: 25, 26). Mulawa Correctional Centre (Womens' Prison) was built in the western third of the site, incorporating the Caroline Chisholm Building, Margaret Catchpole House (1880s hospital era buildings), other c.1910 hospital era buildings to the east, and the former Superintendent's house to north east. A Men's minimum security prison facility was constructed - Silverwater Correctional Centre, which includes the Periodic Detention Centre. It provides accommodation for up to 450 inmates with associated support services and industries complex: light engineering facility. Services include kitchen, boiler house, laundry, maintenance and library, workshop and a private sector workshop. .New cottage style building built near Children of Prisoners Cottage. (GBR 2004: 26). c.1996: extensive works to Newington House including new corrugated iron roof to 1956 extension (rear), remodelling the interior layout, stone repair, repairs to balconies and balustrades 1997 - alterations to former Rose Scott Hospital (originally, church hall) at Mulawa, to form the Mum Shirl Acute Crisis Unit (opened, 1997). 1998 - major restoration prior to occupation of Newington House by Inmate Classification and Case Management Branch. Porch reconstructed at south faade and new rose garden on south side installed. Conservation work to Irwin House and setting completed. (GBA 2004: 25) Late 1990s: other conservation works, including (2000) restoration of the Chapel (including reinstating its timber-boarded ceiling, repairs to windows and painting of walls, inside and out) and Irwin House and its and Newington House's landscaped setting. 1999-2000 The topography of the surrounding land to the north and north west, namely Millenium Parklands, has substantially changed as part of preparation for the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games, and development of the Parklands. This has included large areas of ground grading and addition of extensive amounts of fill (contaminated soil and subsoil), formed into landscaped spiral mounds. The Parklands now physically cut off the former connection of the Newington Estate to the Parramatta River. c2002-4: Newington House: renovation works to create new toilet facilities for staff - new concrete floor, partitioning and fittings 2004 A new Mental Health Assessment Unit and Clinic located within Mulawa was approved in early 2004 as part of a current program to improve facilities at MCC.


Current use:	Correctional Centre;(mansion / house: Police Charging Station: for prisoners behind bars, being charged); offices/administration (Rawsthorne, 2020, 4).
Former use:	Aboriginal land, timber-getting, farm estate, saltworks, beef slaughtering, School, asylum, hospital, chapel

History

Historical notes:

Statement of Country:
The site that would become Newington estate formed part of the territory occupied by the Wangal (of whom, Bennelong is the best known) that formed part of the larger Darug (coastal) language group. The Wangal were documented as having occupied the southern side of the harbour from Long Cove to Parramatta and Rose Hill. Known archaeological sites along the Parramatta River and hinterland record fishing activities adjacent to Newington Armory and bark from trees within the vicinity of the site were cut for use as shelters. Limited observations of Aboriginal life in the Homebush Bay area are recorded. Records from neighbouring areas would suggest that the Wangal would have actively participated in river fishing, eeling, gathering shellfish as well as hunting kangaroos, wallabies and other small land mammals, reptiles and waterfowl.

Land grants locally started as early as 1797 after an exploration party with Governor John Hunter up the Parramatta, Duck and George's Rivers. Two officers, formerly of the Sirius, Lieutenant John Shortland and Captain Henry Waterhouse, each received 25 acres, which they stocked with animals from South Africa. First Fleeter marine, Isaac Archer received 80 acres next to Shortland's in 1800. The Waterhouse grant was known as Waterhouse Farm and later formed part of the grounds of Newington. These grants were north of Parramatta Road, because the sole means of transport was the river.

Newington estate (1807-60):
This was part of a grant of 1290 acres in 1807 to John Blaxland, who arrived in the colony that year, as wealthy free settler. It covered all land between Parramatta River and Parramatta Road, Duck River and Haslam's Creek, except that held by Waterhouse, Shortland, Archer and Haslam.

A farm or rural estate, factory and saltworks were established and Blaxland's "Newington House" built 1829 -32. The name commemorated his family property in Kent. John and younger brother Gregory began a cattle industry, breeding, slaughtering and salting. They were first to produce usable salt, using brine from local marshes. Blaxland was promised 8000 acres before he left for NSW, but it was not until 1831 that he got his full quota: 10,240 acres in different areas. He finally held 29,000 acres.

The present Newington house was an English Regency-style mansion, with disciplined English gardens, and private chapel (St. Augustine's, 1838). It was and remains an integral element in a landscaped setting (with chapel to east) somewhat altered due to its location in a correctional centre. Elements of its grounds remain, including scattered individual and groups of mature trees and the outline of the formal carriage loop north of the house. The carriageway fabric is a mix of gravel and broken concrete. No original 1830s fabric remains on or near the ground surface (Erdelyi 2011).

In the 1840s a sandstone veranda colonnade was added to the house. John Blaxland died in 1845 and the family moved, leasing Newington to owners of a slaughtering industry. It was used for salt and slaughtering, its kitchens as a piggery and dining room as a barn (Roberts 2013: 1) - the house was considerably neglected. It was sold in 1851 by the Australian Trust Company to recover the mortgage. In 1854 the whole estate returned to Blaxland family ownership. By 1860 bankruptcy led to its lease to the Methodist Church. (Graham Brooks & Associates 2004: 7).

Methodist Boys' School (1863-80)
In 1863 Rev. John Allen Manton, Methodist clergyman engaged for missionary pastoral work in newly developed Parramatta, leasing Newington (house and c.10 acres: Graham Brooks & Associates 2004: 10) as a boy's school. By 16 July, it comprised 19 boys as nucleus of what became the third of the GPS schools, Newington College. (Roberts says 16 boys enrolled on 16 July, aged 7-16, from as far as Goulburn and Yass), with several more on following days). Two who entered on 20 July were the first Theological students (Roberts 2013: 4).

While this was a major undertaking, Wesleyan Methodists had been involved in NSW education over two decades: a short-lived Grammar School (1840). From 1849, Wesleyans and other churches ran denominational day schools, until the NSW Public Schools Act of 1866. Newington College was part of transforming NSW education from the 1860s-80s. Manton and colleagues advocated for a secondary school, other Wesleyans wanted a university college, others an institution for training ministers (Roberts 2013: 1).

A week later some 200 people gathered for the college's inauguration: the culmination of years of advocacy and fundraising. A tireless advocate was Rev. Marnton, chaplain at Port Arthur and founder of Horton College at Ross, Tasmania. He was appointed Principal in January 1863 and served until his death in 1864 (Roberts 2013: 1).

The College made extensive repairs to the mansion. Masters sought from England hadn't arrived before opening day. Marnton regarded the arrival of 22 year old Rev. James Moulton in May 1863 as a gift from God: he served as Head Master until November 1863. Its location meant that all early students were boarders (Roberts 2013: 1, 4).

The old bell, which summoned Blaxland's convict servants, now called boys to lessons, and free hours were spent roaming parklands. The chapel was used as a school room from the 1860s.

The site was leased, with no long term security for a growing school. In 1869, the Methodist Conference decided to use land bequeathed it at Stanmore, as permanent home. From 1876-80, a building there was built and the college moved there in 1880 (Roberts 2013: 4).

In 1881 the estate was subdivided.

Newington Asylum (1886-1890) / Newington State Hospital (1887-1918);
In 1882 the government bought part of the land for an Asylum for aged and destitute women. Existing buildings housed destitute old men. Construction of new, purpose-built barrack-style buildings (and dining room, kitchen, bathroom, laundry and stable) took from 1884-85, when women inmates from Hyde Park Barracks occupied the site. In 1888 it came under the Department of Charitable Institutions. A Director of Government Asylums was appointed and commenced proposals for improving them, in particular hospital facilities. (Graham Brooks & Associates 2004: 12, 14, 15).

By 1887 Newington House was the centre of Silverwater State Hospital/State Hospital & Asylum (until 1969). Several buildings (dormitory and ward buildings, nurses' quarters, residences and support buildings) were added during this period, reflecting 'pavilion' hospital ward ideals, free-standing to enable separation of patients, with wide verandas to wheel beds onto. (Graham Brooks & Associates 2004: 15).

Between 1911 and 1918 the Asylum was converted for use as a State Hospital. Irwin House and the Engineer's Cottage were built. In 1913 it was known as the State Hospital and Asylum for Women, Newington. That year, control of Government Asylums passed to the Director General of Public Health, recognising their expanded role as hospitals.

Walter Liberty Vernon (1846-1914) was an English architect and soldier, emigrating to NSW in 1883 and in 1890 appointed Government Architect - the first of that title. He saw his role as building 'monuments to art'. His major buildings included the Art Gallery of NSW (1904-6), the Mitchell Wing of the State Library, Fisher Library at the University of Sydney and Central Railway Station. He added to many buildings by predecessors, including Customs House, GPO and Chief Secretary's Building. (Le Sueur, 2016, 7).

Jail and periodic detention centre (1968/9+):
In 1968/9 the Department of Corrective Services took over the site for use as the Silverwater Correctional Centre (SCC) a new minimum security men's prison, and women's prison (Mulawa Correctional Centre MCC). Development occurred on site over 20 years, although it was not until 1985 that major redevelopment occurred, with expansion to north and west in buildings added 1986-88 for extra accommodation at Mulawa. Early 1990s additions included a minimum security facility and periodic detention centre.

A new Mental Health Assessment Unit and Clinic was approved in 2004 as part of a program to improve facilities (NSW Department of Corrective - Services Heritage and Conservation Register 1995; Pollon 1996; BBC 2004).

Newington mansion today is used as a police charging station, where cops from across NSW, and occasionally Australia, come to charge people already behind bars with further offences. The Metropolitan Remand and Reception centre houses 1200 inmates and 520 staff (ibid, 2020, 4). In 2020 Silverwater was a construction site for another 440 bed facility, with an influx of inmates due in 2021 when completed. (Rawsthorne 2020: 5).

Historic themes

Australian theme (abbrev)	New South Wales theme	Local theme
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Gardens-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Other open space-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	River flats-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Topography: How did the environment, topography and the River influence early settlement? Is there a strong relationship-Peopling the Continent Contact
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Introduce cultural planting-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Changing the environment-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Cultural: Rivers and water bodies important to humans-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent	Aboriginal cultures and interactions with other cultures-Activities associated with maintaining, developing, experiencing and remembering Aboriginal cultural identities and practices, past and present.	Daruk Nation - sites evidencing occupation-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent	Convict-Activities relating to incarceration, transport, reform, accommodation and working during the convict period in NSW (1788-1850) - does not include activities associated with the conviction of persons in NSW that are unrelated to the imperial 'convict system': use the theme of Law & Order for such activities	Working on private assignment-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Growing vines and maintaining vineyards-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Experimenting with new crops and methods-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Clearing land for farming-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Orcharding-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Farming by detainees and prisoners-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Experimenting with new breeds of animal-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture	Ancillary structures - wells, cisterns-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Commerce-Activities relating to buying, selling and exchanging goods and services	Trading amongst the Australian colonies-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Commerce-Activities relating to buying, selling and exchanging goods and services	Keeping a butchery-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Landscapes and countryside of rural charm-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Gardens and landscapes reminiscent of an 'old country'-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Landscapes and gardens of domestic accommodation-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Landscapes of food production-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Landscapes of institutions - productive and ornamental-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Significant tree(s) providing rural amenity or character-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Events-Activities and processes that mark the consequences of natural and cultural occurences	Developing local landmarks-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Health-Activities associated with preparing and providing medical assistance and/or promoting or maintaining the well being of humans	(none)-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Industry-Activities associated with the manufacture, production and distribution of goods	Manufacturing foodstuffs-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Industry-Activities associated with the manufacture, production and distribution of goods	Processing meat-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Industry-Activities associated with the manufacture, production and distribution of goods	Processing meat-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Pastoralism-Activities associated with the breeding, raising, processing and distribution of livestock for human use	Agisting and fattening stock for slaughter-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Pastoralism-Activities associated with the breeding, raising, processing and distribution of livestock for human use	Beef cattle breeding and raising-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Transport-Activities associated with the moving of people and goods from one place to another, and systems for the provision of such movements	Building and maintaining jetties, wharves and docks-
5. Working-Working	Labour-Activities associated with work practises and organised and unorganised labour	Working in health care-
5. Working-Working	Labour-Activities associated with work practises and organised and unorganised labour	Working on pastoral stations-
5. Working-Working	Labour-Activities associated with work practises and organised and unorganised labour	Working in factories-
5. Working-Working	Labour-Activities associated with work practises and organised and unorganised labour	Working at enforced labour-
6. Educating-Educating	Education-Activities associated with teaching and learning by children and adults, formally and informally.	Private (independent) schooling-
6. Educating-Educating	Education-Activities associated with teaching and learning by children and adults, formally and informally.	Private (religious) schooling-
7. Governing-Governing	Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities.	Developing roles for government - jailing prisoners-
7. Governing-Governing	Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities.	Developing roles for government - providing health care facilities-
7. Governing-Governing	Law and order-Activities associated with maintaining, promoting and implementing criminal and civil law and legal processes	(none)-
7. Governing-Governing	Law and order-Activities associated with maintaining, promoting and implementing criminal and civil law and legal processes	Incarcerating prisoners-
7. Governing-Governing	Welfare-Activities and process associated with the provision of social services by the state or philanthropic organisations	Hospital/nursing home phase-
7. Governing-Governing	Welfare-Activities and process associated with the provision of social services by the state or philanthropic organisations	Hospital/nursing home phase-
7. Governing-Governing	Welfare-Activities and process associated with the provision of social services by the state or philanthropic organisations	Providing geriatric and old age care-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Landscaping - Victorian period-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Landscaping - colonial period-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Landscaping - Federation period-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Architectural styles and periods - Victorian Regency Revival-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Architectural styles and periods - colonial Georgian-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Designing landscapes in an exemplary style-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Architectural styles and periods - Federation Queen Anne-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Designing in an exemplary architectural style-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions.	Kitchens and servants-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions.	Living in a rural homestead-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Religion-Activities associated with particular systems of faith and worship	Providing schools and education-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Religion-Activities associated with particular systems of faith and worship	Practising Orthodoxy-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with Walter Liberty Vernon, Government Architect 1890-1911, private architect-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with Governor (Rebel government, 1809) Lt-Col. William Paterson, soldier and naturalist-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with John Verge, architect-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with John Blaxland, wealthy free settler, pastoralist-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with J.W. (John) Pender, Maitland architect-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with Rev. John Manton, Methodist missionary and educator-

Assessment of significance


SHR Criteria a) [Historical significance]	The Silverwater Correctional Complex site is the core of the Newington Estate, which was the site of the earliest colonial settlement in the district and the home of an important settler figure, John Blaxland and his family, and where on the surrounding land he developed a number of important early industries, particularly the saltworks. His house, Newington House is a substantial and reasonably intact example of the rural colonial villa and is an important reminder of the expansion westwards towards Parramatta and the Blue Mountains, and the setting of the land along the Parramatta River. It demonstrates the quality of life of prominent citizens and families from early settlements. The site has association with the institutional care of women from the early asylum for poor and destitute women of the colony in 1886 through the hospital phase to the present correctional centre phase as evidenced by Mulawa Correctional Centre. Its development provides a continuous record of private and institutional occupation over more than a 200-year period. Its built fabric demonstrates the use of Newington House and grounds as a college, asylum, hospital and prison and reflects changes in attitudes to such institutions over a 160-year period. The continuing development on the site since 1969 linked to penal use provides a clear indication of the changing philosophy regarding rehabilitation of prisoners since that time. The Silverwater Correctional Complex is likely to meet the threshold for this Criterion at a state and local level.
SHR Criteria b) [Associative significance]	The Silverwater Correctional Complex is associated with John Blaxland and his Newington Estate which encompassed the site. Blaxland was an important businessman and merchant in colonial Sydney, whose land grant and settlement was the first in the area and who built both Newington House and the Chapel. Walter Liberty Vernon was the Government Architect when several buildings at Silverwater were designed and built including the Superintendent's Cottage (Blaxland House), staff and hospital cottages and possibly Irwin House. The site was the foundation site of Newington College in 1863. The college remained on the site until it relocated to Stanmore in 1879. The site has association with the institutional care of women from the early asylum for poor and destitute women of the colony in 1886 through the hospital phase to the present correctional centre phase as evidenced by Mulawa Correctional Centre. The Silverwater Correctional Complex is likely to meet the threshold for this Criterion at a state and local level.
SHR Criteria c) [Aesthetic significance]	Parts of the Silverwater Correctional Complex have high aesthetic value particularly the surviving historic core around Newington House and the Chapel with their adjacent landscape and the Irwin House collection of buildings and garden. The open relationship between Newington House and the Chapel contains outstanding examples of well-developed plantings that illustrate the continued use of the site over the past 190 years, while the remaining relationship between the house and Parramatta River are important design and aesthetic elements. The relationship between the house and the river has been diminished by landfilling operations on adjoining land and by buildings and vegetation forming part of the Mulawa Correctional Centre. Irwin House with symmetrical complex of pavilions designed as one building, its designed garden and its fine details has aesthetic appeal and richness not in other buildings at Silverwater. Its garden area is the most complete setting of the hospital period and complements its architecture. The Superintendent's Cottage (former) has aesthetic values heightened by its setting as an individual building in an established garden setting, adjacent to a remnant landscaped walk formed by mature rainforest tree species and palms, including Moreton Bay fig (Ficus macrophylla), hoop pine (Araucaria cunninghamii), Bunya Bunya pine (A.bidwillii), cotton palms (Washingtonia robusta) and swamp mahogany (Eucalyptus robusta). The former Engineer's House / Children's Cottage has historic, associative and aesthetic significance as an intact Federation style cottage, heightened by its setting as an individual building in a garden setting. It was part of the complex of buildings and grounds erected during the early phase of transition to the State Hospital & Asylum for Women. It was a key building in providing accomodation for the site engineer and later a dormitory / support building to core areas of the site in each change of use since 1913. Its continuity of use and association with the main complex are significant. It has historic and aesthetic values as a good, intact example of Federation domestic architecture and particularly of the work of the Government Architect's office in the time of Walter Liberty Vernon. The trees of significance include a group of Araucarias (Bunya pines & hoop pines) and Moreton Bay figs in the Mulawa Correctional Centre compound (remnant of a former landscaped walk to the river), the extremely rare Schotia afra (Kaffir bean, Boer bean) and the surviving turpentines (Syncarpia glomulifera) which are likely to be indigenous to the site. The Silverwater Correctional Complex is likely to meet the threshold for this Criterion at a state and local level.
SHR Criteria e) [Research potential]	Silverwater Correctional Complex has the ability to demonstrate a way of life and usages through multiple phases of its development from private estate to hospital to correctional centre. This particularity applies to Newington House, which demonstrates the quality of life from early settlement as lived by prominent citizens and families. The Chapel emphasises the religious conviction of early settlers. The first buildings of the Asylum (Catchpole and Chisholm Houses) demonstrate the social custom of accommodating and treating destitute women in 1880s. These buildings are also a physical link with earlier modes of accommodation of poor women, who had been housed at Hyde Park Barracks and various charitable asylums. Hospital buildings of the early 1890-1910 demonstrate a change in philosophy of health care, where single-storey pavilions in a landscape setting became the norm. Irwin House demonstrates this philosophy while also exhibiting fine qualities of Federation architecture and an unusual layout and room configuration. Other buildings also demonstrate particular functions of the hospital, which are of interest. These include a former church hall, a former bathroom (now Morgan House), former Solarium (now offices) and former cottages (now Blaxland House and the Children of Prisoners Cottage). The accumulated impacts associated with the ongoing land use activities reduces the possibility that substantial archaeological evidence for past Aboriginal use of the place survives. Potential archaeological resources that may remain undetected on the site will most likely comprise isolated items and/or low-density distributions of material that will be located in largely disturbed sub-surface contexts. Some parts of the Complex and the site of Newington House, Chapel and gardens are of historical archaeological potential, including the potential remains of wells, cess pits and outbuildings. The Silverwater Correctional Complex is likely to meet the threshold for this Criterion at a state and local level.
SHR Criteria f) [Rarity]	Silverwater Correctional Complex contains rare surviving elements and evidence of late 18th century and early 19th century subdivision and estates, particularly that of John Blaxland from 1807. Blaxland constructed Newington House and Newington Chapel in the 1830s and both are extant. Two-storey brick accommodation buildings from 1886, such as Margaret Catchpole House and Caroline Chisholm House, are not common in NSW. The buildings are barrack style, which were common in the first half of the 19th century, but rare in the second half of the century. Irwin House is a symmetrical complex of pavilions designed as one building, which does not appear to have occurred at other hospitals, where more compact individual ward pavilions exist. The Silverwater Correctional Complex is likely to meet the threshold for this Criterion at a state and local level.
Assessment criteria:	Items are assessed against the State Heritage Register (SHR) Criteria to determine the level of significance. Refer to the Listings below for the level of statutory protection.

Recommended management:

Development within the site should be permitted provided it does not compromise the significance of items or their setting (Cox et al, 1995) - A conservation area should be adopted (house, carriage loop to north, carriage loop to east, open landscape between house and chapel, relationship between house and river, archaeologically sensitive area at south of house and site of Blaxland's original cottage and other outbuildings and structures (eg: well), and archaeologically sensitive area east of chapel where former vault was and in general around the chapel); - new buildings or structures in this conservation area should reflect the scale and character of existing buildings; - the existing open relationship between the chapel and Newington House should be maintained; - new buildings or structures within this conservation area should not be located over the carriage loops or lawn areas enclosed by these loops; - new buildings or structures adjoining the conservation area should be sympathetic in design, scale, materials and location to Newington House and to Irwin House; - no extensions to the chapel building should occur; - access to carriage loops should be retained; - all components of carriage loops and associated significant vegetation should be retained to provide a setting and curtilage for Newington House; - the front oval lawn to Newington House should be reinstated if the opportunity arises. This would include relocation of the security fence crossing the carriage loop; - consideration should be given to controlled public access to Newington House if consistent with security rating of an operational correctional centre. This might include organised open days possibly during Heritage Week. (Planning Workshop, 1993) It is proposed that an area be defined within the Newington House precinct which bounds Newington House and the chapel. This area would then be defined by soft and hard landscape elements intended to screen the surrounding correctional centres. Within this zone the original historic garden would then be established. (Dept. of Public Works, 1995)

Recommendations

Management Category	Description	Date Updated
Recommended Management	Review a Conservation Management Plan (CMP)
Recommended Management	Prepare a maintenance schedule or guidelines
Recommended Management	Carry out interpretation, promotion and/or education

Procedures /Exemptions

Section of act	Description	Title	Comments	Action date
CMP-Endorse	Conservation Plan submitted for endorsement	Silverwater [Mulawa] Correctional Complex CMP, by Graham Brooks & Associates for Dept of Commerce, dated November 2003.	CMP endorsed by Heritage Council 26 March 2004, expires 26 March 2009	Mar 26 2004
57(2)	Exemption to allow work	Standard Exemptions	HERITAGE ACT 1977 ORDER UNDER SECTION 57(2) TO GRANT STANDARD EXEMPTIONS FROM APPROVAL I, Penny Sharpe, the Minister for Heritage, on the recommendation of the Heritage Council of New South Wales and under section 57(2) of the Heritage Act 1977: revoke the order made on 2 June 2022 and published in the Government Gazette Number 262 of 17 June 2022; and grant an exemption from section 57(1) of the Act in respect of the engaging in or carrying out the class of activities described in clause 2 Schedule A in such circumstances specified by the relevant standards in clause 2 Schedule A and General Conditions in clause 3 Schedule A. This Order takes effect on the date it is published in the NSW Government Gazette. Dated this 29th day of October 2025 The Hon Penny Sharpe MLC Minister for Heritage For more information on standard exemptions click on the link below.	Nov 7 2025

Standard exemptions for engaging in or carrying out activities / works otherwise prohibited by section 57(1) of the Heritage Act 1977

Listings

Heritage Listing	Listing Title	Listing Number	Gazette Date	Gazette Number	Gazette Page
Heritage Act - State Heritage Register		00813	02 Apr 99	27	1546
Heritage Act - s.170 NSW State agency heritage register	Silverwater Correctional Complex - Irwin House	3360127	20 Aug 26
Heritage Act - s.170 NSW State agency heritage register	Silverwater Prison Complex Conservation Area	3360124
Heritage Act - s.170 NSW State agency heritage register	Silverwater Correctional Complex - Newington House	3360126
State Environmental Planning Policy	Silverwater Prison Complex Heritage Conservation A	024	24 Sep 93	104	5989
Register of the National Estate	Silverwater Prison Complex Conservation Area		21 Mar 78

Study details

Title	Year	Number	Author	Inspected by	Guidelines used
Department of Corrective Services: Interim Heritage and Conservation Register	1995	028	State Projects Heritage Group		No

References, internet links & images

Type	Author	Year	Title	Internet Links
Written	Aitken, Richard	2002	'Villa Garden' (entry)	View detail
Written	Archaeological & Heritage Management Solutions		Mulawa Correctional centre, stage 1 development :archaeological excavation report
Written	BBC Consulting Planners	2004	Statement of environmental effects for demolition & erection of new buildings and other works at Mulawa Correctional Centre, Holker Street, Silverwater
Written	BBC Consulting Planners	2002	Statement of Environmental Effects for addition of a Mental Health Assessment Unit to the Metropolitan Remand & Reception Centre, Silverwater
Written	BBC Consulting Planners	1995	Statement of environmental effects Newington House & St. Augustine's chapel works for their conservation and adaptive reuse
Written	BBC Consulting Planners	1995	Statement of environmental effects to accompany a DA for extension of the Engineer's Cottage - Silverwater Correctional Centre
Written	Briggs Brindle & Chambers (BBC) Consulting Planners	1995	Newington House and St. Augustine's Chapel Conservation Plan - summary statement
Written	Department of Public Works & Services Public Buildings Branch	1995	Conservation Strategy (draft) Newington House, St Augustine's Chapel and curtilage
Written	Dept. of Public Works & Services Public Buildings Branch	1995	Conservation Strategy Newington House, St. Augustine's chapel and curtilage
Written	Engledow, Sarah	2019	'Petal to the Metal' (about the very civil service of Dame Helen Blaxland)
Written	Erdelyi, Katalin	2011	Statement of Heritage Impact & Part 5 Analysis - Newington House Carriageway - resurfacing
Written	Godden Mackay	1995	Assessment of Archaeological Sensitivity (south and east of the house) - area of upgrade of Silverwater Corrective Centre
Written	Godden Mackay	1995	Interim Results of site monitoring - south and east of house - site works
Written	Godden Mackay	1994	Newington House, Silverwater Archaeological Monitoring
Written	Godden Mackay (Dominic Steele & Matthew Kelly, for)	1995	Newington House Silverwater Archaeological Monitoring (south and east of house, verandah)
Management Plan (HC endorsed)	Graham Brooks & Associates.	2004	Silverwater Correctional Complex Conservation Management Plan
Written	Heritage Design Services, NSW Department of Commerce	2005	Newington House Silverwater - Condition Survey
Written	Heritage Group, NSW Dept. of Public Works & Services	1998	Statement of heritage impact - Air Conditioning installation - Newington House
Written	Jillian Comber Archaeologist/Heritage Consultant	2003	Archaeological Survey & Assessment of Silverwater & Mulawa Correctional Centres
Written	Le Sueur, Angela	2016	Government Architects - part 2
Written	McConnel Smith and Johnson P/L	1985	Newington House and Chapel Conservation Study, Volume 1 & 2
Written	OCP Architects	2024	Silverwater Correctional Facility Conservation Management Plan
Written	Philip Cox, Richardson, Taylor & Partners	1995	Engineer's Cottage Silverwater Correctional Centre Final Conservation Plan
Written	Philip Cox, Richardson, Taylor & Partners	1995	Engineer's Cottage Final Conservation Plan - Silverwater Correctional Centre
Written	Philip Cox, Richardson,Taylor & Partners	1993	Irwin House Conservation Plan - Silverwater Correctional Centre
Written	Planning Workshop	1993	Silverwater and Mulawa Correctional Centres Conservation Plan & Appendices
Written	Planning Workshop	1993	Metropolitan Remand and Reception Centre Silverwater Statement of Environmental Effects
Written	Pollon, Frances (ed.) and Healy, Gerald, in 'The Book of Sydney Suburbs'	1996	Silverwater (entry)
Written	Rawsthorne, Sally	2020	Lunch with Craig Smith (current Governor, Metropolitan Remand and Reception Centre)
Written	Roberts, David (College Archivist)	2013	'Newington College celebrates 150 years', in "The Newingtonian" (advertisement)
Written	Taylor Brammer Landscape Architects	2004	Supplementary Report to: Silverwater Correctional Complex Conservation Management Plan - Landscape Component
Written	Taylor Brammer Landscape Architects	2004	Supplementary Landscape Report (appendix in Conservation Management Plan - Silverwater Correctional Centre

Note: internet links may be to web pages, documents or images.

(Click on thumbnail for full size image and image details)

Data source


The information for this entry comes from the following source:
Name:	Heritage NSW
Database number:	5045306
File number:	S90/03638/3

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