Description

Tay Creggan, a magnificent heritage building on the Yarra, was built as a family home by architect Robert Guyon Purchas in 1893. An architect’s passion project, Tay Creggan was destined to be a home for his family influenced by Guyon Purchas' travels. This original plan, however, did not come to fruition. In 1892 funds ran dry and the building stood incomplete. Yet the building is still architecturally significant as one of the finest examples in Victoria of the Victorian Queen Anne Revival style, incorporating elements of Elizabethan Revival and Arts and Crafts styles, and is on the Victorian Heritage Register.

Historic guests include Princess Margaret in 1975, the Ballet Russes, Anna Pavlova in 1920 and artist Constance Stokes in 1933. The live-action remake of Charlotte’s Web (2006) was filmed in the ornate front rooms.

Strathcona Girls Grammar purchased Tay Creggan in 1969 with the help of an anonymous deposit donation, and opened Australia’s first independent Year 9 girls’ campus. It is now the home to the Year 9 TC Envision Program that teaches life-ready skills through entrepreneurship and leadership.

What's On

Tour one of Victoria’s finest examples of unique architecture, Tay Creggan, also known as “the house on the rocks,” in Strathcona Girls Grammar’s centenary year.

Take a tour of this magnificent building and learn about its interesting history from alumnae, students and staff. Explore the historical building and its surroundings and take a trip down to the banks of the Yarra River.

Get involved in activities for all ages that complement the unique Year 9 program Tay Creggan offers its students.

Children's Activities

Children’s activities will be available on the day.