Tanilba House, established in 1831, and surrounding Tanilba Bay will turn 190 years old on March 31. To celebrate, Tanilba House and its gardens will be open to the community from 10.30am to 2.30pm on Sunday, March 28.

The event, being organised by current Tanilba House owners Deidre Hall and Glenn Short with help from volunteers, will include a display by Port Stephens Family History Society, talks from historian and author Denise Gaudion, a presentations from Tanilba Bay Public School, a performance from a local dance troop, Devonshire tea and a variety of community stalls.

"All are welcome," Ms Hall said. "This is a celebration for the community. It's not every day you turn 190."

Murrook Culture Centre representatives will perform a welcome to country, smoking ceremony and tell a Dreamtime story during the March 28 community event.

Tilligerry Lions Club and Tilligerry Habitat will be among the local community groups that will have a stall set up, while a local brass and ukulele band will provide live music entertainment throughout the day.

Tanilba Bay Public School will be a feature of the community celebrations. The choir will sing colonial songs, students will present a 'then and now' history project of colonial and modern children and artwork.

"Tanilba House has a long history with the school," Ms Hall said. "It was important to involve the students because they carry the local history into the future."

Another highlight of the community celebration will be a a display of photos showcasing Tanilba Bay, its residents and Tanilba House from over the years.

This display has largely been coordinated by Port Stephens Historical Society which is working on a new book documenting the history of the Tilligerry Peninsula.

Ms Gaudion will present historical talks at 12pm, 1pm and 2pm on March 28.

Tanilba House is the Port's oldest surviving original house. It was built by convicts for Lieutenant William Caswell who received a land grant of 50 acres on March 31, 1831.

Tanilba Bay is even older than the city of Melbourne, which was established in 1835.

Ms Hall is seeking volunteers to help on March 28. Email dee@tanilbahouse.com.au.

If you have historical Tilligerry photos you wish to contribute to the society's book and open day presentation email them to Ms Gaudion at dcgaudion@gmail.com.

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