Historic Warkworth House to get new lease on life

Warkworth House, East Devonport. Picture: Supplied

It was a Sunday, no one was working, and inspecting a home was not possible.

But these hurdles did little to dampen Amber and Rhys Taylor’s excitement.

They had just found their new home.

Mrs Taylor said the couple love to search for what’s new on the property market, even when they are not seriously looking to buy.

“When Warkworth House came up, I almost dropped my phone,” she said.

“Rhys was on the phone with someone, but I had to interrupt him. ‘This is it, this is it’; it was hard to contain my excitement.

“He took one look and agreed wholeheartedly.

“By Friday we had put our offer in.

“It was 100 per cent, absolutely, love at first sight.

“The wait to find out if we had been successful in buying it was excruciating. That gut-wrenching feeling of knowing in your heart that something is perfect, and hoping that it all works out.”

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Warkworth House, East Devonport.

Warkworth House, East Devonport.

Warkworth House, East Devonport.

Warkworth House is a beloved landmark in East Devonport.

Originally built in 1860 by the Winspear family, this stately residence is one of the area’s most enduring historical homes.

In 1966, it became the much-loved home of the Burgess family, whose maritime and artistic legacies are woven into the fabric of the community.

The Taylors, a local family well-known in the community as the owners of Laneway Cafe, have a deep respect for the property’s heritage and a passion for local history.

They plan to lovingly restore Warkworth House and breathe new life into its storied walls — not as a private retreat, but as a living, breathing part of the community.

Warkworth House’s new owners Amber and Rhys Taylor. Picture: Supplied

Mrs Taylor said they have both remodelled homes independently, but not one together until now.

“We will get the keys in mid-August, so what it needs most will be revealed then,” she said.

“As a family, we want a liveable, warm, bright environment to be in.

“Once we are in we will see if there are things that are just maintenance, or others that need attention immediately. Time will tell.”

Warkworth House, East Devonport.

Warkworth House, East Devonport.

Warkworth House, East Devonport.

Mrs Taylor, a musician, envisions Warkworth as a sanctuary for the arts — a place that will host world-class, intimate house concerts, uphold a tradition of excellence, and nurture a new generation of creativity.

The couple is aiming to create a destination that celebrates Tasmania’s rich heritage through tours, events, and meaningful encounters with local culture.

They are committed to restoring Warkworth with care and within heritage overlay guidelines, ensuring the property remains a proud part of East Devonport’s cultural landscape.

Warkworth House, East Devonport.

Warkworth House, East Devonport.

Elders Tasmania agent Amy Rawston said at the heart of Warkworth’s story is the legacy of Captain Dick Burgess.

He was the master of the ketch, Julie Burgess, and his wife, Deda Ann Burgess, a renowned local artist whose spirit and creativity continue to inspire, she said.

“Some of Deda’s original artwork remains in the home, with more to be displayed in a local museum, preserving her artistic contribution for future generations.”

Playing a role in the Taylors becoming Warkworth House’s custodians is a career highlight.

“I’m incredibly proud and privileged to have been part of such a heartwarming sale and piece of local history,” she said.

Warkworth House, East Devonport.

Warkworth House, East Devonport.

“Warkworth House is truly iconic, and I’m so excited to follow its journey as it begins its next chapter with Amber and Rhys.

“Warkworth House is set to be more than restored, it will be reborn. A beacon of history, heart, and high art for generations to come.”

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