Visit Gulf Station and learn what life was like for a family living on the land in nineteenth century Australia.
Gulf Station is an extraordinary survival of Victoria’s farming heritage, showcasing self-sufficiency and resilience.
The farm buildings are all hand constructed using traditional techniques making use of the materials available. They show the development of the farm and its domestic uses.
Scottish immigrants Agnes and William Bell colonised the land in the 1850s to run a farm. The practical and hardworking Bell family were generous, resourceful and kind. They ran the Station for 100 years. Mary Anne Bell was the matriarch and after her husband died, she continued to run the property.
Hospitality was a matter of honour for the Bells, and no guest left without a hamper of farm produce.
During the gold rushes, the family prospered feeding diggers heading to the gold fields.
The National Trust acquired stewardship of the property in 1976 and restored its buildings and cottage garden.
Gulf Station Open Days
First Thursday & Last Sunday of the Month
Step into the rhythm of 19th-century farm life at Gulf Station, one of Victoria’s oldest and most authentic working farm complexes.
On Open Days, families can join a guided tour at 11.30am or explore at their own pace — wandering through the homestead, old schoolhouse and historic outbuildings. Meet the resident Clydesdales, visit the sheep, and explore the barns and sheds where generations once worked the land.
Pack a picnic to enjoy on the lawn and experience the domestic world of a colonial farming family, where resilience, resourcefulness and hard work shaped daily life.
Themed Sunday Open Days
Throughout the year, our last Sunday Open Days come alive with special themes celebrating Gulf Station’s agricultural heritage, creative traditions and seasonal rhythms. These immersive days offer hands-on activities, demonstrations and family experiences that connect past and present.
Sunday 29 March – Family Fun Day
Children’s activities, lawn games, craft, story time and a treasure hunt.
Sunday 26 April – Artist Day
More than 30 artists painting en plein air across the property, plus a coffee van. Presented as part of the Australian Heritage Festival. Find out more.
Sunday 31 May – Working Horses
Heritage Draught Horse Club demonstrations and static displays showcasing traditional working horses in action.
Sunday 28 June – Dairy Day
Discover Gulf Station’s dairy history with butter-making demonstrations and historical displays.
Sunday 26 July – Open Day
A relaxed day to explore the farm and grounds.
Sunday 30 August – Details to be announced
Sunday 27 September – Spring Celebration
Garden tours, plant sales and family activities celebrating the season.
Sunday 25 October – Details to be announced
Sunday 29 November – Fleece Day
Blade shearing demonstrations, spinners and weavers at work, and fleece sales.
Sunday 27 December – Closed
