Events to immerse yourself in stunning Cultural Landscapes
Victoria is brimming with opportunities to delve into its rich cultural tapestry. From the serene gardens to the echoes of history in forgotten goldfields, there's something for everyone to explore and uncover during this year’s Australian Heritage Festival.
Take a journey through some of the top events that promise to immerse you in stunning cultural landscapes during this festival season.
Each of these events takes place at a Victorian Heritage Register (VHR) site – and is 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
Domain Discovery: Shrine and Gardens Tour
Discover the fascinating history behind the Shrine of Remembrance, an iconic Melbourne landmark built to honour those who served in the First World War. Hear the stories behind this iconic memorial, from its architectural marvels to its contemplative spaces and exhibits on those who served our nation.
After your tour, enjoy a guided bus ride through the magnificent Royal Botanic Gardens – the beautiful inner-city oasis – ending with a relaxing morning tea.
When: 18 April, 2 May, 16 May. 10:00am-11.30am
Where: Royal Botanica Gardens, Melbourne
Presented by the Royal Botanica Gardens Melbourne
A Walk in the Flagstaff Gardens
Join expert guides from the Royal Historical Society of Victoria on a walking tour through the beautiful Flagstaff Gardens, the historical heart of Melbourne. Climb Flagstaff Hill and learn about its early role as a burial ground, signalling station, and weather station.
Afterward, enjoy an exhibition Melbourne’s Storied Laneways, at the The Royal Historical Society of Victoria’s (RHSV) home in neighbouring A’Beckett St, which looks at the history of a collection of Melbourne’s lanes and their buildings.
When: Mondays 22 & 29 April, 6 & 13 May. 11:00am-12.30pm
Where: Meet at Drill Hall, 239 A’Beckett Street, Melbourne
Presented by the Royal Historical Society of Victoria
Victoria’s Forgotten Goldfield
Venture into the Grant Historic area to explore the ghost town of Grant, including a guided tour of one of the main mines in the district. At its height the former gold town of Grant, had a population of 2000 people and in 1865 was the largest town east of Melbourne.
With your 4WD, drive to the heritage-listed Harrison’s Cut water diversion to understand how alluvial mining was carried out during the 1860s Crooked River Goldrush. This scenic track passes numerous old hut sites and a walnut farm along the Dargo River.
When: 20 & 21 April, beginning at 10am each day.
Where: Grant Historic Area, Crooked River
Presented by Friends of Grant Historic Area. Image: Parks Victoria
Echoes Across Time: Come & Connect with Osborne House
Located on the St Helen’s shoreline overlooking the city and Corio Bay is the magnificent 1858 Osborne House. Step back in time and connect with the stories and legacies of the past. Explore the grounds surrounding the Victorian-era mansion including its beautifully landscaped gardens, uncovering the echoes of those who once lived there.
Unfortunately, the buildings are permanently closed to public access but bring along a picnic, enjoy the serenity of the grounds, the Bay views, and games on the lawns.
When: 21 April 2024, 10:00am-2:00pm
Where: 53 Swinburne Street, North Geelong
Presented by Osborne Park Association Inc
Williamstown Botanic Gardens Secrets of Pinetum
Uncover the hidden gems of the Williamstown Botanic Gardens, including the remarkable Pinetum – a collection of rare and historic pine trees. Join a guided tour to learn about the significance and stories behind these magnificent specimens. Discover lost garden structures, the elegance of Edward La Trobe Bateman’s garden design and how the garden is preparing for the future while honouring the past.
When: 2 May 2024, 10am-12pm
Where: Osborne Street, Williamstown
Presented by Hobsons Bay City Council
Connections to Country
Cape Nelson State Park and Lighthouse is part of an Aboriginal cultural landscape in the traditional Country of the Gunditjmara Peoples. Join Gunditjmara man Shea Rotumah in a conversation about his culture, relationship and spiritual connections with country, including Deen Maar and the coastal formations of Cape Nelson. Learn about Aboriginal occupation of coastal areas, including evidence of that occupation.
Shea will use ancient Indigenous artefacts, Indigenous weapons to demonstrate traditional dance and song, and will discuss with visitors his collection of stone tools and grinding stones and axes.
When: 21 April 2024
Where: Cape Nelson Lighthouse, Portland
Presented by Portland Heritage Services
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore these stunning cultural landscapes and uncover the stories that make Australia’s heritage so unique and captivating. Mark your calendars and get ready to be immersed in the 2024 Australian Heritage Festival.
Looking for more events? Be sure to browse the full program here.