closed after two inmates escaped by scaling the prison wall using ladders without being seen by guards. In July 2011, Corrective Services NSW announced that the Parramatta Correctional Centre would close, which took effect on 9 October 2011. State Property Management Authority administered the site until 2015, and has now been returned to the Deerubin Local Aboriginal Lands Council as part of a historic lands grant. Timeline 1865 – Perimeter wall extended. Cookhouse and additional cells added to existing wings. Underground water tanks installed. 1883–1889 – The perimeter is further extended and three new wings are built in the resulting area. 1899 – 32 unit radial exercise area built. Cells are converted from associated to single. 1906–1908 – Chapel built and sewerage upgraded. 1927 – Internal refit. Single cells are converted back to associated cells. 1970s – Parramatta Linen Service, an auditorium and gatehouse extensions are built. 1985 – 32 unit radial exercise area demolished. 1993 – A new entrance and areas for administration and reception are built. 1997 – being disestablished. 2011 – The jail was closed at the end of 2011. Current use During 2012 the centre was used for the setting of a film, The Convict, and has been used in filming for Home and Away, Underbelly, Packed to the Rafters, Rake, Redfern Now, and Housos television series. On 24 February 2012 the NSW Aboriginal Land Council lodged a land claim on the former jail site (as decommissioned Crown Land); and it was reported that management of the property was transferred to the Deerubbin Local Aboriginal Land Council in 2015. The Gaol also runs "Ghost Hunts" and tours fortnightly. Description Parramatta Gaol is a tooled sandstone structure of several wings, enclosed by high sandstone walls topped with observation towers. Designed in Old Grecian style, it consists of six cell blocks, three storeys in height. To the rear are three radiating semi-circular or rectangular two storey prison blocks. A number of cells have been enlarged to house two prisoners. Uniformity of materials used during times of addition contribute to the cohesion of this group of sandstone buildings. Talls are generally hand dressed, with slate clad timber roof structure. It was reported to be in good condition as at 28 July 1997. Much of the original precinct remains intact although many of the internal fittings have been removed. Heritage listing Parramatta Correctional Centre was listed on the New South