190th birthday celebrated at Historic Tanilba House Port Stephens Port Stephens News by News Of The Area - Modern Media - April 6, 2021 Lady Deirdre and Lord Glen of Tanilba House. Photo: Carly Clark. THE 500 visitors who attended the 190th birthday celebrations of Historic Tanilba House were astounded by the restoration of the old convict built mansion. Working in tandem with the heritage authorities and at great expense, Deirdre Hall and Glen Short now have the property in showcase condition and are taking bookings for weddings and corporate events. The Covid-19 restrictions saw the numerous planned functions set aside but things are now back on track for the enterprising couple. Advertise with News of The Area today. It’s worth it for your business. Message us. Phone us – (02) 4981 8882. Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au A great worry was that the 500mm of rain which fell before the big open day would spoil the event. This didn’t happen and three days of sunshine saw the lawns dry out and manicured. The position of the historic homestead on top of the hill greatly assisted in the shedding of the torrential rain. While some visitors chose to dress up in colonial outfits to add colour to the day, none looked more resplendent than the owners who very much resembled a colonial governor and his lady. Indeed, they stole the show. Deirdre said that she was overwhelmed by the response. “It was great to see the community coming together and interacting after such a long time with no social activity on the peninsular,” she said. By Geoff WALKER Convict caretaker Graham Delaney flanked by Sharon Boots and Andrea Delaney. A convict in lock-up. Photo: Carly Clark.