How to enjoy the Australian Heritage Festival for Free
The Australian Heritage Festival (Victoria) is a celebration of our state’s rich cultural legacy, offering a diverse array of events that showcase the depth and breadth of our shared heritage. From historic buildings to industrial sites, and botanical gardens to heritage parks, there's something for everyone to explore. What's even better is that many of these events can be enjoyed without spending a dime – offering an easy and affordable way to engage with our heritage.
Each of these events is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register (VHR) – owing to their cultural heritage significance – and a chance to celebrate the VHR's 50th Anniversary. We're grateful for the support of the Heritage Council Victoria, whose support helps make the Australian Heritage Festival possible.
This post is sponsored by the Heritage Council Victoria
Pompously Bendigo: Explore the Former Bendigo Post Office on Pall Mall
Step back in time as you explore the grandeur of the former Bendigo Post Office on Pall Mall. When it opened in 1887 it was the largest building of its type outside of Melbourne. Delve into its rich history, from its origins as a bustling hub of communication to its present-day significance as a heritage landmark. This free tour offers a rare glimpse into Bendigo’s past and one of its architectural marvels.
Visitors can also explore the artworks on display in the First Nations Djaa Djuwima Gallery.
When: 11 May 2024. Open 10am-3pm, with tours at 10am, 11.30am, 1.30pm and 3pm.
Where: 51-67 Pall Mall, Bendigo, Victoria
More information & secure FREE tickets
Presented by the Bendigo & District Branch, National Trust of Australia (Victoria). Image credit, Visit Victoria.
Spotswood Industrial Heritage Walking Tour
Uncover the industrial heritage of Spotswood with this immersive walking tour. Journey from Spotswood’s agricultural beginnings to its transformation into an important industrial centre of Melbourne and discover how Spotswood has contributed to Victoria’s history in many unexpected ways. The tour also features the iconic Spotswood Pumping Station, which was built the 1890s as a key component of the Melbourne sewage scheme.
When: 18 April 2024, 11am-12.30pm
Where: Starting from Scienceworks Museum (Meet on the corner of Hudsons Road and Booker)
More information & secure FREE tickets
Presented by the Hobsons Bay City Council
Jack’s Magazine Tour
Jack’s Magazine, is a former explosives store by the banks of the Maribyrnong River. Opened in 1878 and has been locked up and unused since the 1990s. Get a rare glimpse behind it’s imposing bluestone walls and explore its buildings, tunnels, tramways and giant earth mounds on foot. Learn about its connections to Victoria’s gold mining, world wars and the local area’s industrial past.
A must visit for those intrigued by Melbourne’s hidden places and industrial past!
When: 5 May 2024, 11am-12.30pm & 1pm-2.30pm
Where: 17 Magazine Way, Maribyrnong
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Presented by Working Heritage
Mother’s Day at Day’s Mill
Treat your mum to a special day out at Day’s Mill, a living museum nestled south of Murchison in the Goulburn Valley. Days Flour Mill Complex is the best preserved 19th century flour mill in Victoria and contains one of the finest examples of traditional milling technology in working form in its original setting in Australia. For this special Mother’s Day event, come and hear stories about the important role women have played in our agricultural industry.
Tea, Coffee and snacks will be available to purchase from vendors on the day.
When: 12 May 2024, 10am-4pm
Where: Days Mill Historic Area, Day Road, Murchison
More information & secure FREE tickets
Presented by Parks Victoria
Nobelius Heritage Park Walking Tour
Come and traverse centuries of horticultural history inside the heritage-listed Nobelius Heritage Park on this special guided walking tour.
Join a guided walking tour of the lush Nobelius Heritage and dive into the history of the former Gembrook Nurseries. Discover how Nobelius’ innovation and entrepreneurship developed the nursery into the largest fruit and ornamental tree exporter in the southern hemisphere. Many of the original trees planted by Nobelius still stand today.
When: 5 May 2024, 2pm-3pm
Where: Nobelius Heritage Park, 5 Crichton Road, Emerald
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Presented by Emerald Museum
Balancing the Past, Present, and Future of Williamstown Botanic Gardens
Nestled by the sea, and complete with rare and significant trees, the Williamstown Botanic Gardens, opened in 1860, and provides a peaceful setting in which to enjoy a picnic, take a stroll along the intricate pathways or just relax and daydream on the cool green lawns.
On this fascinating tour learn how one of Melbourne’s first public gardens is preparing to face the challenges of future climate events, all while maintaining a heritage-listed garden.
When: 30 April 2024, 6.30pm-7.30pm
Where: 123 Queen Street, Altona, Victoria
More information & secure FREE tickets
Presented by the Hobsons Bay City Council
So mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and get ready to embark on a journey into Victoria’s rich heritage. With a wealth of free activities to choose from, the Australian Heritage Festival promises to be an unforgettable experience for everyone to enjoy.
Looking for more events? Be sure to browse the full program here.