We’re working to bring the unique historic property of Billilla Homestead in the heart of Brighton back to community use for the first time in over 15 years.
Over three months from 2 December 2021 to 28 February 2022, our community shared their exciting vision for Billilla through our online Have Your Say platform, postcards, meetings, interactive activities and two events, including the highly successful Billilla Garden Party.
Who took part?
Hear from community members about Billilla
How would you like to enjoy Billilla?
Ideas such as art retail, health and wellness experiences, accommodation, events, nursery, cafes and restaurants, and museum and history tours.
“It would be fabulous to see an iconic chef use one of the spaces … Imagine a lovely high tea, long lunch or dinner encompassing the romance of Billilla Mansion”.
Ways to make it easier to enjoy the gardens and outdoor spaces, through music events, picnic infrastructure, community garden and horticultural tours of the site.
“It was so lovely to see small groups using the grounds for play and picnics during the lockdown.”
Retaining Billilla’s artistic and cultural expression, creating opportunities for upcoming artistic individuals. Ideas such as art installations and events, farmers and makers markets, school programs and art classes.
“... I loved it when there were concerts inside and a regular market day in the gardens – to build community at this site is so important …”
Continued community use and access to Billilla Gardens and Homestead was a frequent request, with spaces that allow for a variety of uses, including meeting rooms and adaptable spaces for activities that provide inclusive programming opportunities for the community.
“Spaces for local social enterprises and community groups.”
Top ten supported ideas ✨
Find out more
What we’re doing:
The research phase of the Reimagining Billilla project has now concluded and the findings have been compiled into a report for Council to consider at its 28 June 2022 meeting.
From this meeting, the direction for Billilla Historic Mansion will be decided along with further actions required.
Once Council determines the future use of Billilla, a scope of works will be drawn up for the remaining restoration work and the community will be notified. Community access to the building during this time will be limited. Please select the +Subscribe button at the top of the page if you'd like to receive updates about this project.
