
Byron Bay bliss
Newrybar Downs gets the thumbs up for gay weddings
Words: Damien Woolnough
21th February 2019
There is something magical in the air around Byron Bay that has nothing to do with the hippie drippy clouds drifting down from Nimbin.
The Northern New South Wales region has become a haven for those seeking spirituality alongside sophisticated accommodation and dining options, making it a leading choice for gay grooms.
The magnificent Newrybar Downs balances the natural beauty of the area with amenities that the pickiest mother of any groom will find difficult to fault for wedding ceremonies. They can also help organise your wedding reception nearby, with partners such as the award-winning Harvest, for receptions.

Pip and Greg Rooke have put their passion into the 10 acre wedding venue and luxury accommodation option on the outskirts of Byron Bay in the magnificent, unspoiled town of Newrybar.
Since purchasing the property in 2011 the couple have carefully crafted a chic escape for grooms wanting the best from the Byron Bay region, having hosted more than 60 weddings already.
We asked Pip to share her love for Newrybar Downs with Marry The Man.
What do most people comment on when visiting Newrybar Downs?
The privacy, space and scale of the house is generous. The interior styling is on point, combining Asian aesthetics with contemporary art.

What makes it so popular for weddings?
There are several gorgeous spots for the all-important wedding ceremony, large rooms for preparation and retiring, loads of lawn and rolling grass for lawn games and general chilling.
Most importantly there’s a covered cabana for those intimate wedding receptions and wet weather options.
Can the house sleep the wedding party?
We can look after 10-12 guest in four queen bedrooms and one twin rooms, which can sleep four individuals if required.
Who are the people that you partner with and how did those relationships come about?
We pattern with anyone delivering the highest of standards in catering, styling, music, photography, floristry and guest care. We have a strong association with Harvest of Newrybar as they are our fabulous neighbours and only deliver to the highest standard. We do however let the couples select the providers they love.

For bigger receptions that we cannot handle our guest also head to Harvest, The Earth House and Beach Byron Bay to name a few.
What makes Newrybar so special?
Newrybar Downs is special because it becomes the place couples think of as home, as well as a place to gather family and friends around at this most important time in their lives. The property wraps its arms around you in a loving embrace.