Join magician and historian Dr Jo Clyne and historian Dr David Waldron as they explore through magic Harry Houdini's life and fateful 1910 Australian trip.
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Black Powder Mill Open Day
Cairnlea, vicSee where gunpowder was made, hear how firearms changed the world, learn the history of gunpowder and the the importance of fireworks in Asian cultures.
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Hume and Hovell Expedition Termination
Werribee, vicAt this event we will be discussing the termination point of the Hume and Hovell expedition of 1824-5 with particular emphasis on the three days prior to reaching Port Phillip and the first three days of their return journey.
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Avro Anson Restoration Project
Werribee, vicCome and take a guided tour of the restoration of an Avro Anson, our latest project at the B-24 Liberator Memorial Australia museum in Werribee. Learn how the Anson's history connects us to Australia's World War II aviation history.
Old Laverton School Open Day
Altona Meadows, vicVisit the restored Old Laverton School, taking in the history of the historic site as an early school building and rural outpost of the developing city in Melbourne’s west in the late 1880s.
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Preserving the past in jars
Brooklyn, vicLearn the age-old skills of preserving food with jam and chutney making. Connect with the memories of the kitchens of parents and grandparents at a time when nearly every household had pantries filled with jars of preserved food.
William Cooper- An Aboriginal Life Story presentation by Bain Atwood
Altona, vicWilliam Cooper's passionate struggle against the dispossession of Aboriginal people and the denial of their rights and his heroic fight for them to become citizens in their own country has been widely commemorated and celebrated.
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Hidden Histories – South Kingsville and Spotswood
Altona, vicHidden Histories is a short film created as part of Better Places – Spotswood and South Kingsville. Celebrating stories of this unique area captured through listening to and filming locals to the area. This beautifully filmed little gem reminds us how a small local area can have a distinctive style and feel. Screening at the Digital Lounge at the Altona Civic Centre.
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Pier Revue Exhibition
Altona, vicThe Altona Pier Revue Exhibition features the heritage of Altona Pier through contemporary works.
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Balancing the past, present and future of Williamstown Botanic Gardens
Altona, vicEstablished in 1860, the Williamstown Botanic Garden was one of Melbourne's first public gardens. Together we will explore what it takes to maintain it.
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Altona Homestead Guided Tour
Altona, vicThe Altona Homestead provides visitors of all ages the opportunity to take a step back to the time of our early settlers to the region of Altona.
Jack’s Magazine Tour
Maribyrnong, vicGet a glimpse behind Jack's Magazine'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.
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Heritage walk of Newport Lakes
Newport, vicNewport Lakes is celebrating 40 years since it was reclaimed and rehabilitated as a stunning park and wetlands. Join author Dominique Hes and colleagues for a guided walk around the Lakes with before and after photos and stories.
Broadmeadows Historical Museum Renewal
Broadmeadows, vicThe Broadmeadows Historical Museum is reopening after extensive redesign of displays, to become more Broadmeadows and district centric. Enjoy our clean more open display with designated research facilities.
Footscray Park: An Edwardian Paradise
Footscray, vicTake a guided walking tour through this wonderful Edwardian Park, to learn its heritage and history. It is the largest and most intact Edwardian park in Australia Hear its unique story of community advocacy to save open space and create the park.
UPDATED – Big Country Games Day
Newport, vicCome and try traditional children's games from First Nations communities across mainland and the Torres Strait Islands. Many of the games you see today have evolved from traditional games of the past. Stretch your body and mind as we play and learn together.
Due to unforeseen circumstances, Aunty Pauline will regrettably not be able to join us on Big Country Games.
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Researching Your Family History: Introduction to Ancestry Library Edition
Glenroy, vicLearn how to document your family history online using Ancestry Library Edition and other free resources
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A history of the Moonee Ponds Creek and its Friends
Glenroy, vicJoin us for a fascinating talk about the history of the Moonee Ponds Creek
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Civic Triangle and Environs Heritage Walk
Moonee Ponds, vicIf you want to know more about the wonderful history of the Moonee Ponds Junction and surrounds, join an experienced and passionate local historian who will guide you through the history of our heritage buildings and talk about changes that have taken place.
Talk & Tour: ESU House (Former ES&A Bank)
Ascot Vale, vicLearn how the former Ascot Vale branch of the English Scottish and Australian Bank has been recently restored, with a heritage architect on hand to answer questions. Join the optional tour after the presentation to explore this intriguing building.
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UPDATED – Life So Full of Promise: Australia’s lost generation of World War I
Williamstown, vicAcclaimed historian, biographer and speaker Ross McMullin presents his most recent book Life So Full of Promise a multi-biography about Australia’s lost generation of World War I. "His scholarship is impeccable, he writes like an angel … and his narrative gift is Blaineyesque.” -Barry Jones
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Sons of Williamstown
Williamstown, vicThe Sons of Williamstown project involved the refurbishment of the Great War honour board in the Williamstown Town Hall and tells the stories of the Williamstown soldiers who did not return from the war.
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Signatures from the Front
Williamstown, vicThe Agnes Hansen WW1 Signature Quilt will be on display for the first time in six years.
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Connecting with the past through Photographs
Williamstown, vicHistoric photographs from the Williamstown Historical Society collection, including Williamstown, Newport & Spotswood, alongside present-day photographs taken near the same spot.
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An Afternoon in the Heritage Room
Williamstown, vicJoin us in the Heritage Room at Williamstown Library and immerse yourself in the wonders of our archive collection with favourite items curated by our Heritage Librarian and discover our new Library of Things collection.
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Williamstown Botanic Gardens: Secrets of the Pinetum
Williamstown, vicFollow the historic, winding pathways of Williamstown Botanic Gardens through the rejuvenated Pinetum to discover the intriguing origins of the tree collection and the fascinating stories behind how they came to be here.
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Ballan Heritage and Connections
Ballan, vicCome and see a display on the history and heritage of the old Ballan Shire.
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Neighbourhood History Walk: Flemington
Kensington, vicTake a walk with us into the history of Flemington. Led by library staff, join us as we explore Flemington -- big and small. Admire local buildings, learn about past residents, and hear quirky local anecdotes.
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Holy Trinity Vicarage Tours
Williamstown, vicGet a look inside the historic Holy Trinity Williamstown vicarage, built in 1886, and recently renovated.
Williamstown Heritage Walking Tours – Step back in time
Williamstown, vicUnlock the secrets of the historic Williamstown waterfront and seaport. One hour in duration and catering to all abilities, explore the historic seaport of waterfront Williamstown, as well as its hidden lanes, monuments and buildings.
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Lantern Ghost Tours
Williamstown, vicExplore King William's Town, the original capital of Victoria, by lamp light. Steeped with history, apparitions, alleyways and lager it was once a thriving town full of colourful ladies, drunken sailors and convicts.
HMAS Castlemaine -Heritage Listed Ship J244
Williamstown, vicA guided tour of the World War II Corvette HMAS Castlemaine.
How maritime steam helped build Australia
Melbourne, vicExperience the romance of the bygone era of Maritime Steam in a tour over 1933 ST WATTLE to see how this historic ship served Australia’s navy using the only steam engine of its type in Australia at that time.
Tall Ship Restoration Docklands
Melbourne, vicTake a tour Behind the Scenes of the Restoration of a 1903 Australian built wooden 3 masted tall ship. Learn about her 120 year history and the new role Alma will play in providing Youth Sail Training once complete.
Fawkner Memorial Park Historical Walking Tour
Fawkner, vicDiscover some of the interesting graves and landmarks that give us an insight into the social history of 19th and 20th century Melbourne.
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Fast-track your family history with Beverley Eikli (Coburg)
Coburg, vicLearn tips on how to collate a cohesive family history from a pile of letters, documents, and photos.
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Melbourne Ghost Signs: Unearthing Coburg’s Hidden Histories
Coburg, vicHave you ever noticed those faded, flaking hand-painted advertisements clinging to the sides of buildings and old shops? These ghost signs, echoes of Melbourne's vibrant past, are more than just relics; they're portals to untold stories.
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Pentridge Prison Precinct Tour
Coburg, vicThe Pentridge Prison Precinct Tour will encompass not only the infamous H Division, but also the surrounding precinct where visitors can learn about the ever-changing landscape of the Prison, including sections not usually included on public tours.
Pentridge Prison Tours
Coburg, vicThis is a place that challenges and confronts, deeply connected to the social and cultural fabric of Australia. The stories within this journey are deep, unique, and expose the intricacies of prison punishment. Visitors are able to explore the former prison’s B Division and the notorious H Division. Nights tours and family-friendly tours are also offered.
B Division Tour & Live Painting With Chris Austin
Coburg, vicAn exclusive opportunity to hear from The Torch artist and Keerraaywoorrong man, Chris Austin about his artwork that is deeply influenced and informed by his own time spent behind the bluestone walls of Pentridge, followed by a live painting in the Old Warders residence.
Locked Up in Pentridge Prison’s D Division
Coburg, vicOur tours provide insights into D Division's history (Remand prison) and introduces individuals who have spent time in the prison. The tour is conducted by ex-prison officers and former Pentridge inmates.
A Walk in the Flagstaff Gardens
Melbourne, vicJoin expert tour guides from the Royal Historical Society of Victoria on a guided walk through beautiful Flagstaff Gardens - the historical hears of the City.
Visitors will climb Flagstaff Hill to consider its early role as a burial ground, flagstaff signalling station and weather station.
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Polly Woodside Open Day
South Wharf, vicAfter travelling 1.5 million miles across the globe, the Polly Woodside now welcomes you aboard! Built in Belfast in 1885, the three-masted cargo vessel carried coal and wheat between England and South America. You can join the crew, come aboard for a tour of the ship and discover what life was like on a tall ship sailing the seven seas.
The People of Polly Woodside
South Wharf, vicPolly Woodside is a tangible reminder of Australia’s rich maritime history.
Portable Iron Houses Open Day
South Melbourne, vicExperience Melbourne in the 1850s via a unique Portable Iron House. See first hand what it was like living in Melbourne during the 1850s gold rush period. Emerald Hill was a canvas town but an entrepreneur, Robert Patterson, established a collection of Portable Iron Houses - one of which still stands on its original site.
Mr Coppin’s Tour of Civil War America
Melbourne, vicJoin Theatre Heritage Australia and Melbourne writer-researcher Simon Plant for ‘Mr Coppin’s Tour of Civil War America’ and a rare opportunity to see behind the front door of the Melbourne Savage Club, one of Australia's oldest private members’ clubs.
Old Melbourne Gaol: The Female Ward Tour
Melbourne, vicWalk in the footsteps of past female prisoners and discover what life was like for women incarcerated in Old Melbourne Gaol.
Old Melbourne Gaol
Melbourne, vicVisit Old Melbourne Gaol, Melbourne’s oldest and most feared prison since 1845. Now operated by the National Trust discover where some of Australia’s most infamous characters, including bushranger Ned Kelly and gangster Squizzy Taylor, spent time behind bars.
Jewish Museum of Australia historical walking tour of Melbourne
Melbourne, vicEmbark on a captivating walking journey through Melbourne's rich Jewish history with the Jewish Museum of Australia's Historical Walk, led by popular and expert guide, Terry Ashton.
History Walk and Talk – Victorian Grandeur
Princes Hill, vicJoin local historian Jeff Atkinson for a walk through some of south Carlton’s most picturesque and historic streets, and enjoy some of its grandest buildings.
The Athenaeum Library turns 185 this year – have you ever been?
Melbourne, vicThe Melbourne Athenaeum Library is almost as old as Melbourne itself. Archivist, Fiona Moore, will present a lively and interactive discussion about the role the Ath has played in the cultural life of Melbourne since 1839.
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Strengthening sutures – connecting to Surgical History
East Melbourne, vicA short talk will be offered by the Heritage Collections Co-ordinator about the history of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, and its historical collections.
Walking Tour: Shorthand History of Melbourne
Melbourne CBD, vic“Silently and inconspicuously” shorthand writers and shorthand educators have contributed to the legacy which has shaped the City of Melbourne. Melbourne’s central grid is brimming with shorthand history and stories, all of which contribute to the endowment shorthand has left to our society. Join this guided walk around Melbourne, and discover how these scenarios and opportunities
Fire Services Museum of Victoria Display
East Melbourne, vicExhibition of equipment, and artefacts relating to Victoria's Fire Service History.
Collins Street Characters and Connections Walking Tour
East Melbourne, vicJoin me for a walk down Collins Street starting from the top end at the former Treasury as we uncover colourful characters and their Collins Street connections. Be fascinated as you are introduced to these characters and discover their stories linking people and places to the sites we visit.
Belongings: Objects and Family Life
East Melbourne, vicWe’re surrounded by objects, but have you thought about how important these things are in your life? Do you have a few favourite things you absolutely can’t live without? What about others in your family? Are they important for what they do, or what they represent?
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Old Treasury Building Public Tour
East Melbourne, vicGo behind the scenes at one of Melbourne's finest buildings!
The Old Treasury Building, built during the gold rush, showcases a selection of exhibitions relating to Melbourne's past, but on this exclusive tour you will venture past the public spaces to discover the deep history of the building.
“Mr Mac, The Chocolate King” -His Story
Fitzroy, vicWho was the great chocolate master 'MacPherson Robertson'? He was perhaps the greatest entrepreneur Fitzroy has known. The "white factory" took up many blocks spuing out the fragrant smells of milk kisses and other favourites. Let us walk the walk and meet the man behind the nail can story.
There’s More to This Story: Diverse Histories at the Shrine
Melbourne, vicJoin us for a captivating talk that uncovers the narratives of Australian Defence Force personnel and their families from culturally diverse backgrounds, as well as the poignant tales of immigrant Victorians who found a new home in Australia after being displaced by conflict.
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Victoria’s Government House Tours
Melbourne, vicDiscover Melbourne’s rich heritage in the grand State Rooms of Government House
Open House at La Trobe’s Cottage
Melbourne, vicLearn about the La Trobe Family's life in early Melbourne, in their simple yet elegant prefabricated cottage surrounded by a delightful garden.
Aboriginal Heritage Walk
Melbourne, vicThis is an interactive 90 minute walk through Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne with an Aboriginal guide.
Domain Discovery: Shrine and Gardens Tour
Melbourne, vicLearn about the fascinating history behind the Shrine of Remembrance followed by a guided Explorer Bus ride through Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne ending with morning tea.
Flora and the Baron
Melbourne, vicThis is a free 50 minute audio tour at Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne where visitors can learn about first Royal Botanic Gardens Director, Ferdinand von Mueller.
Start from Oak Lawn Gate (formerly Gate F) any time during Gardens opening hours and use your smartphone and headphones to listen in.
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Sketching in Historic Fairhall (1860) with Alissa Duke
East Melbourne, vicLearn to sketch with watercolour pencils and be inspired by antiques and beautiful objects. Your class will be held in Fairhall, the 1860s home of The Johnston Collection, a museum of fine and decorative arts in East Melbourne. All materials are provided and absolute beginners are welcome.
Ethics in the House Museum: the Challenges of Historical Collections
East Melbourne, vicHouse museums often contain collection objects with dark pasts. Drawing on examples from The Johnston Collection, this lecture considers some of the ethical questions addressed by museum and gallery professionals today. What are appropriate narratives for historical collections in 2024?
Fit for a King: Vincent Jenden reimagines the Johnston Collection
East Melbourne, vicTo celebrate the much-anticipated Australian Royal Tour by King Charles III and Queen Camilla, and the accession of King Frederik X and Queen Mary of Denmark the interiors of historic East Melbourne townhouse, Fairhall, have been theatrically reimagined by guest curator Vincent Jenden.
Sunset Cocktails at Walsh Street
South Yarra, vicOpen the door to Robin Boyd’s iconic Walsh Street residence after-hours for Autumn Sunset Cocktails.
Guided Walk: Acland Street end to end
St Kilda, vicDiscover the stories of Port Phillip with our free, all ages Guided Walks program.
Our walks will give you fascinating insights into the places, events, lives and legends that built this City.
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Chapel Street Walks
Prahran, vicMeet at the PMI Victorian History Library then step into a charming adventure. Discover the tales of yesteryear's department stores on Chapel Street, Prahran. An all-inclusive experience, perfect for everyone – families, individuals, and even your beloved pets!
World premiere – ‘Let the Light Shine’ documentary on Australian commemorative stained glass
Prahran, vicJoin GLAAS Inc at the world premiere of 'Let the Light Shine', a 30-minute documentary that sheds new light on war by exploring the social, cultural and military history embedded in glass, especially some spectacular (rarely seen and often forgotten) stained-glass windows throughout Australia.
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Yarra Bend Park Archaeology Discovery Walk
Fairfield, vicJoin a guided walk with heritage experts from Parks Victoria, Heritage Victoria, and Alliance Archaeology to learn about the management of the archaeological remains of the former Yarra Bend Lunatic Asylum and the extent of what is still under our feet at this popular urban park.
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Marvellous Melbourne Mansions with Andrew Dixon
Kew, vicThree marvellous mansions in Melbourne: Labassa (Caulfield North), Villa Alba (Kew) and Mandeville Hall (Toorak) are all rare survivors of the late nineteenth century.
Villa Alba Museum Open Day
Kew, vicCome and explore the 1880s mansion's wonderful hand-painted and stencilled decorations and recreated heritage garden.
Church Organs of St Kilda
St Kilda, vicPort Phillip Guided Walks Program:
Discover the stories of Port Phillip (St Kilda, South Melbourne and Port Melbourne) with our free, all ages Guided Walks program. Our walks will give you fascinating insights into the places, events, lives and legends that built this City.
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Como House and Garden
South Yarra, vicImmerse yourself in the history and luxury that make Como Melbourne’s most glamorous stately home.
Archaeology Site Dig and Expert Panel Discussion
South Yarra, vicThe National Trust and the Heritage Council of Victoria presents this opportunity for visitors of all ages to immerse themselves in Victoria’s rich history, while exploring the exciting discipline of archaeology.
Como House of Discovery: Under Things
South Yarra, vicA subtle uncovering of layers, Como House is transformed into an imagined dressing room, where under things are revealed in their material beauty.
Magistrates Barristers and Prosecutors: Personalities involved with Ned Kelly’s Capture and Trial
East St Kilda, vicCome on a fascinating tour of selected graves in the historic St Kilda Cemetery. Be transported back 140 years to hear about
some of the people who were involved with Ned Kelly.
Unmasked: celebrating Nursing and Midwifery, Victoria and beyond
Kyneton, vicAn exhibition on loan from the Her Place Museum in Melbourne, on display at the Kyneton Town Hall. The exhibition pays tribute to the nurses and midwives of Australia, with a particular focus on Victoria.
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Celebrating 140 years
Kyneton, vicCelebrate the 140th anniversary of the formation of Kyneton Fire Brigade at an open day on 11 May 2024. Learn about the history of the Brigade and compare the beaters, buckets and hand pulled carts of 1884 with the massive fire trucks of today.
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Rippon Lea Estate
Elsternwick, vicRippon Lea is a large 19th century mansion surrounded by 7 hectares of Victorian pleasure gardens. It is listed on the National Heritage Register as one of the finest examples of original suburban estate in Australia.
Bird Spotter Walks at Rippon Lea Estate
Elsternwick, vicThe varied landscape of Rippon Lea Estate provides a refuge to many of south-east Australia’s disappearing bird species. This tour offers birdwatching enthusiasts of all levels a new appreciation of the biodiversity of this magnificent 19th century Estate.
Significant Trees of Rippon Lea – a walking tour
Elsternwick, vicThe trees at Rippon Lea are an important part of the Estate’s history, with some dating back to the 1880s. This walking tour will provide a fascinating insight into the work required to manage and nurture this magnificent collection for the enjoyment of today’s visitors and future generations.
National Trust Stone Fruit Jam and Raspberry Jam making competition
Elsternwick, vicCalling all Jam makers! It’s time to get out your jam pans, cook up a storm and enter a jar (or two) of your home made jam in the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) Stone Fruit Jam and Raspberry Jam Making Competition. Show off your skills and share the story that inspires your love of jam making.
Botanica Festival
Elsternwick, vicA celebration of our natural environment, gardening and sustainability.
Stitch in Time Exhibition
Kyneton, vicStitch in Time, an exhibition looking at craft and folk art history in the Macedon Ranges Shire created in collaboration with the Kyneton Historical Society will be running at Kyneton Museum during the Heritage Festival this year.
Toorak Mansion Tour
Toorak, vicCome on a guided tour with architectural historian and former Mayor of Stonnington, Steve Stefanopoulos OAM, to discover the magnificent features, exquisite interiors and opulent rooms of this internationally significant Toorak mansion, ending with a glass of sparkling wine.
Still Life Sketching in the Gallery
Toorak, vicCome join us for a relaxed still life sketching session in the gallery. Sketch with others, be inspired by the exhibition on display in a charming 1890s manse. Bring your own materials (hard back sketch book preferred) and enjoy some creative time in good company.
Bundoora Homestead History Tours
Bundoora, vicJoin this unique guided experience to hear the stories that shaped Bundoora.
Architectural Glass with Bruce Hutton
Ivanhoe, vicA predominately theory based workshop at Waller House which will cover a history of glass and glazing, installation, decoration, maintenance and repair. A house tour will also form a part of this workshop.
Waller House Open Day
Ivanhoe, vicImmerse yourself in the lives of those who lived, created, loved, and lost in Waller House.
Treasures of Trove
Kew, vicLearn how to navigate and find the resources available through the National Library of Australia's huge database, Trove.
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Ned Kelly: Hero or Villain?
Kew, vicHis name has become synonymous with courage, the phrase “game as Ned Kelly” having become part of the Australian lexicon. Regardless of your viewpoint the Kelly legend is enshrined in Australian folklore. Join us to hear about some whose lives became linked with Ned’s - the Ned Kelly Connections
The Art of Sacrifice
Hawthorn, vicEnjoy an evening with portrait artist George Petrou OAM to discuss his book, 'The Art of Sacrifice.'
‘The Art of Sacrifice’ features 70 portraits, 63 stories, and historical images to tell the stories of Anzacs' courage and sacrifice. It is a stunning contribution to the understanding and commemoration of all those who have served Australia.
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Malvern Heritage Walk
Malvern, vicBeginning at the base of the clock tower of the Malvern Town Hall, you will explore and see differently heritage places in Malvern such as the Town Hall, nearby Police Station and former Court House, Stonnington’s only bluestone house and more!
CANCELLED – History Matters: A brief history of Gardiners Creek
Malvern, vicLearn the history of Gardiners Creek in this engaging and informative talk by renowned archaeologist and historian Dr Gary Presland.
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Ned Kelly Connections
Caulfield South, vicCome and meet Ned Kelly and his associates in three cemetery walks across Melbourne. At Brighton, you will meet the Police involved in hunting and capturing Ned Kelly after the Stringybark Creek killings, a kindly preacher, journalist & official witnesses at the hanging. Costs include afternoon tea.
Eye Spy! Waking our Secret Agents
Heidelberg, vicSome museum objects seem to be asleep in our storage rooms. They are like secret agents.
From the extensive array of objects collected over six decades, this exhibition connects you with more than 180 secret agents. Their undercover identities slept in our store, preserved by our Society.
Researching Military Ancestors
Camberwell, vicLearn how to search for records on the world wars and other conflicts, repatriation files, soldier settlement files and more, with Way Back When historians.
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