Massive Fire Destroys 160-Year-Old Wedding Venue in Hawkesbury Locals Call It ‘Irreplaceable’

A devastating fire has reduced one of New South Wales’ most iconic wedding destinations, Loxley on Bellbird Hill, to ashes, leaving the Hawkesbury community in shock. The venue, which dates back to 1864, was a heritage-listed property known for hosting weddings, conferences, and milestone celebrations for generations.

The blaze broke out at around 7pm on Friday in Kurrajong Hills, a semi-rural suburb of the Hawkesbury region, triggering a massive emergency response. More than 80 firefighters and 25 trucks from the NSW Rural Fire Service and Fire and Rescue NSW battled the inferno through the night, working to stop the flames from spreading to nearby bushland and properties.

The Struggle to Contain the Flames

According to Inspector James Morris of the Rural Fire Service, fire crews faced multiple challenges on arrival. “We saw access challenges given it’s such a narrow short driveway to the structure, we saw challenges around water supply,” Morris explained. Fortunately, the venue’s large pool and two water tanks provided vital resources that helped firefighters slow the spread.

The fire was further complicated by gas cylinders at the site and the age of the building, which carried the risk of asbestos exposure.

Despite the valiant effort, the main building could not be saved. Fire crews continued to monitor hotspots into Saturday morning, ensuring the blaze did not flare up again.

Staff Narrowly Escape

At the time of the fire, no weddings or events were taking place. However, three staff members were inside the venue, including the owner’s son. The 40-year-old suffered minor burns while attempting to douse the flames before firefighters arrived. Police confirmed he was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

The quick evacuation prevented a greater tragedy, but the emotional scars for the staff and ownership remain profound.

A Heritage Gem Lost

The loss of Loxley on Bellbird Hill is more than the destruction of a business—it is the erasure of a cultural landmark. Built in 1864, the property had stood for more than 160 years as a symbol of Hawkesbury’s rich heritage. The venue had earned a reputation for its breathtaking views over the Blue Mountains and Hawkesbury Valley, making it a dream location for weddings and special events.

Over the decades, countless couples celebrated their unions within its walls, while businesses and community groups hosted conferences and retreats in its serene surroundings. For locals, Loxley was more than a venue—it was a piece of history interwoven with their own personal milestones.

Community Reaction

News of the fire has spread quickly, with residents sharing memories on social media of the weddings, anniversaries, and celebrations they held at the venue. Some described the loss as “heartbreaking” and “irreplaceable.”

“It feels like part of our history has gone up in smoke,” one local wrote. Others praised the bravery of the RFS and FRNSW crews who risked their lives to save what they could.

What Comes Next

Police confirmed that investigators will examine the scene, but the fire is not being treated as suspicious. The exact cause remains unknown.

As the community comes to terms with the destruction, the future of the property remains uncertain. Rebuilding a structure with such historic significance poses not only financial challenges but also emotional ones, given the deep ties locals feel to the site.

For now, the ashes of Loxley on Bellbird Hill serve as a stark reminder of how quickly history can be lost to the flames.

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