Our Story

Aerial view of a house with a green roof surrounded by trees with fall foliage in yellow, orange, and green during daytime.

Oscar’s on the Yarra is a century-old guesthouse on the banks of the Yarra River. Expansive grassy lawns, clear skies and fresh air abound on this historic property. The main building was built in the 1920s, and the current decor is styled after that era. The Birch family - Brian, Cathie, Christine, Jason, and their children - have owned and operated the property since 2017.

Since the 1920s the property has been run primarily as a guesthouse, and has taken a variety of different forms throughout its lifetime. Past incarnations have advertised a croquet lawn and a tennis court, and boasted a pianola and electric light. It was once a retreat for war widows to convalesce. Throughout time, however, one thing has always remained the same: a genuine desire to provide others with restful and caring hospitality.

Today it is a house filled with peace and calm, with expansive nature at the doorstep. It’s the perfect place for an escape from the chaos of modern life.

A group of seven people, including children and adults, gathered outdoors on a grassy lawn around a calf, petting and interacting with it. The scene is cheerful, with a house and trees in the background.

With 100 years of hospitality under our belt, Oscar’s on the Yarra is the perfect place for a conference, retreat, or weekend away. Set in the heart of beautiful Warburton, our peaceful, nurturing environment invites you to slow down, reconnect with nature, and enjoy thoughtful comfort.