The Manor House and its surrounding lawns have a rich history. Known as Gleniffer Brae, the Tudor style Manor was built upon its stately hill for the Hoskins family who were one of the original owners of the Australian Iron and Steel company.

In 1955 the Manor and its grounds became property of the Sydney Church of England Grammar School, which operated a private girls school on the site until the end of 1977, when the school was amalgamated with The Illawarra Grammar School. Relics of this time remain within the Manor House, with bathrooms and school rooms adjusted for the female residents.

Eventually the property was offered for sale and purchased by Wollongong City Council as an addition to the Wollongong Botanic Garden. Negotiations with the New South Wales State Conservatorium of Music resulted in the establishment of a Wollongong branch on the current site.

Due to the foresight of Wollongong City Council, the Wollongong Conservatorium of Music now has a home of which it can be justly proud…one that will delight the music lovers of the City of Wollongong, and in particular the musicians of the future

The heritage features of the Manor House have been carefully restored for your enjoyment today, as the Wollongong Conservatorium of Music continues to shape the history of Gleniffer Brae.