Shape the Future of Hospitality at Rippon Lea Estate

The National Trust of Australia (Victoria) invites experienced and passionate hospitality operators to submit an Expression of Interest for Catering and Event Services and/or Retail Café Services at the magnificent Rippon Lea Estate - a grand 19th-century mansion surrounded by 14 acres of breathtaking pleasure gardens, just 10 kilometres from Melbourne’s CBD.

A Destination Steeped in History and Celebration

A jewel in Victoria’s cultural landscape, Rippon Lea Estate is more than a venue. It is a nationally heritage-listed treasure where elegant architecture, sprawling gardens and rich storytelling come together to create unforgettable experiences for over 100,000 annual visitors. From weddings and garden parties to corporate functions and community events, Rippon Lea offers a unique setting where every occasion is elevated by its charm and character.

The Opportunities

Operators are invited to express interest in one or both of the following:

1. Catering and Event Services

Deliver exceptional catering for weddings, private celebrations, corporate and community events, centered around Rippon Lea’s historic Ballroom and Pool Terrace.

• The Ballroom accommodates up to 180 guests seated or 250 cocktail-style.

• Additional outdoor spaces include sweeping lawns, an orchard, fernery, and ornamental lake.

• Current catering revenue sits at approximately $2.2 million per annum, with significant opportunity to grow through creative programming and enhanced event experiences.

• The appointed caterer will have exclusive catering rights to the Ballroom and Pool Terrace and may collaborate with the Trust to activate other spaces across the estate.

• A fully equipped finishing kitchen is available for use, with a requirement to convert it from gas to electric in alignment with heritage conservation requirements.

  
  

Rippon Lea is already recognised as a premier wedding destination and is poised for growth across corporate and cultural markets - from storytelling-led dinners and elegant high teas to bespoke culinary experiences that celebrate the estate’s essence, or as we like to say, “Rippon Lea on a Plate.”

2. Retail Café Services (A First in Rippon Lea’s History)

For the first time, proposals are being sought to establish a café or casual dining experience within Rippon Lea’s historic Old Stables Building.

• Create a warm, high-quality café destination for morning coffees, light lunches, and weekend outings.

• Menus should champion local produce, seasonal ingredients, and connection to Rippon Lea’s history and gardens.

• The successful operator will lead the full design and delivery of the café concept — including capital investment, layout, equipment and operations.

• All planning will be undertaken in collaboration with the Trust to meet rigorous heritage standards.

  
  

This is an exciting opportunity to introduce a daily hospitality offering that has long been awaited by local, interstate, and international visitors - and to create a new way for the public to engage with this beloved heritage landmark.

What We’re Looking For

The Trust seeks operators who can deliver:

• Exceptional guest experiences that feel bespoke, high-quality and authentic to Rippon Lea’s spirit.

• Respect for heritage and place, meeting strict conservation standards.

• A creative and relevant food identity, telling Rippon Lea’s story through ingredients, presentation and hospitality.

• Shared values, including warm and generous service, sustainability, inclusivity and innovation.

• Strong professionalism, with a proven track record and impeccable references.

• Collaborative and transparent communication with both the Trust and clients.

• Brand strength and market reach to attract existing and new audiences.

• Commercial strength and purpose-driven growth, aligned with the Trust’s mission of conservation, advocacy and community engagement.

  
  

Why Partner with Rippon Lea Estate?

This is a rare and exciting opportunity to work within one of Melbourne’s most enchanting event destinations - where timeless beauty, rich history and community connection come together. Operators will benefit from:

• A nationally recognised heritage venue with strong existing demand.

• Significant potential to grow catering revenue and expand into new markets.

• The ability to shape a new café offering within the estate.

• A collaborative partnership with the National Trust of Australian (Victoria).

EOI Process and Next Steps

• Submission deadline: 5.00pm Monday 19 May, 2025

• Shortlisted applicants will be invited to participate in a formal Request for Proposal (RFP) process, with potential for one or multiple operators to be appointed.

Comprehensive details, venue capacities and submission requirements are outlined in the EOI Prospectus. To register your interest and request a copy, please contact Perfectly Paired Group enquiries@perfectlypaired.com.au