Wedding Reception at The Shearing Shed

Celebrate your love, your way.

At The Shearing Shed, we believe your wedding reception should feel as personal and unforgettable as your ceremony. Set on 20 acres of private farmland just outside Cowes on Phillip Island, our lovingly restored 1950s shearing shed and surrounding spaces offer the perfect backdrop for relaxed, rustic, and beautiful celebration.

The Shearing Shed

Our namesake and most iconic space, The Shearing Shed was built in 1953 and has been lovingly restored to honour its rustic charm while adding all the modern touches you need. With room to seat up to 110 guests – or cater for more cocktail-style – this space features air conditioning, heating, and an open fireplace to keep your guests comfortable year-round.

From styling to logistics, we’ve thought of it all, so you can focus on celebrating with your favourite people.

The Courtyard

Perfect for golden hour mingling or a laid-back reception, The Courtyard is a versatile outdoor space with festoon lighting and plenty of room for guests to relax. Portable furniture can be rearranged or customised to suit your theme – or swapped out with hired pieces to create your dream look.

It’s especially popular for cocktail weddings and pre-dinner drinks between your ceremony and reception.

The Marquee (Hire Item)

Want to celebrate under the stars without worrying about the weather? Our clear roof marquee is available as an optional hire item for The Courtyard, giving you the freedom to plan an outdoor wedding reception with peace of mind.

This all-weather solution allows us to create a fully seated reception space while still enjoying the ambiance of Phillip Island’s night skies.

FAQ

​How many guests can The Shearing Shed accommodate for a wedding reception?

We can comfortably seat up to 110 guests in The Shearing Shed for a sit-down reception or cater for more in a cocktail-style format. The Courtyard is also available for relaxed, outdoor celebrations.

Is The Shearing Shed available year-round?

Yes! Our venue is fully equipped for weddings in every season. The Shearing Shed itself has air conditioning and heating – plus a roaring fireplace – making it a cosy option no matter the weather.

What is included in the reception hire?

Reception hire includes a 5-hour booking, full access to our bar, use of our tables, chairs, tableware, glassware, basic linen, and light styling placement (e.g., menus, name cards, guest book). We also include a courtesy shuttle drop-off service for guests. You can find all details in our current pricing guide.

Can we extend our reception time?

Yes, you may purchase an additional hour for $1,200. Please note, our venue does not trade past midnight, and this extension does not include an alcohol package extension.

Do you offer reception packages with catering?

Absolutely. Our talented chefs offer a variety of catering options including alternate drop, feasting menus, cocktail-style receptions, and our premium smokehouse BBQ feast. You can also customise your menu with a consult (1 hour – $150).

​Is there a wet weather option for our reception?

Yes, while many couples love our outdoor Courtyard, The Shearing Shed itself provides a beautiful all-weather reception space. We also offer a clear-roof marquee for The Courtyard (additional hire), so you can celebrate outdoors no matter the conditions.

Can we bring our own decorations?

Yes, absolutely! You’re welcome to personalise the space to suit your wedding style. Access is from 12pm on the day of your event, or earlier with a venue hire upgrade (if available). Our team can assist with light placement of items like menus, place cards, or the guest book.

Is The Shearing Shed a licensed venue?

Yes, we are fully licensed. All of our wedding reception packages include a 5-hour drinks service with a variety of beverage packages to suit your celebration style. You also have the option to run a bar tab or add on a cocktail hour.

Is there a minimum guest number for receptions?

Yes, we have a minimum of 40 adult guests for all wedding receptions. Our wedding packages are designed to be flexible and offer exceptional value, whether you're planning an intimate celebration or a larger event.

Do you provide vendor meals or children’s meals?

We sure do. Vendor meals are $50 per person and children’s meals (for guests aged 12 and under) are also $50, including canapés, a main meal, and soft drinks or juice. We also cater to all dietary requirements with advance notice.

"We just wanted to say a massive thank-you to you all for such a wonderful day. Everything about it was amazing!!
All of our guests had the best time and they've all said it was the best wedding they have ever been too. 

The food was incredible, the drinks were delicious and all the staff were so friendly and helpful.
Thank you again for all your help leading up to the day, your advice and expertise helped us make it the best day of our lives"