War widows, defence and veteran families are invited for a special picnic

The everyday challenges of defence life — relocation, absence, grief, or caregiving — can shape the lives of war widows and veteran families. On Sunday 5 October 2025, we invite you to join us for a free picnic at Government House Sydney, during the Jazz@theHouse public live event.

Jazz@theHouse is a public event hosted by Government House Sydney, open to everyone, where jazz ensembles from the State’s service bands perform outdoors in the splendid gardens, on one Sunday each month. Attendance is free of charge and allows attendees to sit back with their own picnic lunch in the gardens. 

Picnic at Jazz@theHouse

War widows, defence and veteran families are invited to come with us for a relaxing picnic at the Government House Sydney. At the Jazz@theHouse event, the Australian Army band will perform in the relaxed ambience of the Government House gardens. As well as the opportunity to enjoy a picnic and great music, you are welcome to go inside and explore the magnificent State Rooms of Sydney’s ‘Castle by the Harbour’ or go on the garden sculpture walk. 

The picnic lunch will be provided for you on the day. Please bring along a picnic rug and/or chairs, water, and any additional food you would like to enjoy during the picnic. As this is an outdoor event, please wear comfortable, weather appropriate clothing. This includes but is not limited to; a hat, sunscreen, enclosed shoes that provide effective support to walk on grassy surfaces. Also, consider wearing long sleeves and pants to reduce the risk of sun exposure and if necessary, wet weather gear which may include a rain jacket.     

Directions and accessibility:  

Government House is a 7min train ride from Central Station to Circular Quay station and then about a 10min walk from the station.  

Eligible war widows who require assistance with transport should request this during registration for the activity on Eventbrite. 

More information here on their website: governor.nsw.gov.au

There is no cost for this activity. Your wellbeing walk and coffee/tea will be covered by Families of Veterans Guild. 

Previous attendees to Wellbeing activities said “I just wanted to express my gratitude for being able to connect with such a wonderful group. It was such a great opportunity to do a self-care activity and get to know some of the other attendees at the same time.” 

Event information

• Location: Government House Sydney, Macquarie Street Sydney NSW.

• Date and Time: Sunday 5 October 2025, 12pm – 2pm.
  

• Registrations: Open NOW. Registrations close 3 October.

• Cost: FREE for families of veterans.

Registration is a must, places are limited. Register below or call us on 02 9267 6577. For more information, please email wellbeing@fov.org.au.