Angular, geometric, sculptural and soaring, Town Hall House is a statement piece of Brutalist architecture. Presented in Town Hall House, this talk by assistant curator Rebecca Anderson will take the audience through the development of this fascinating building.

On the 130th anniversary of Paddington Library, join City Historian Dr Lisa Murray and Woollahra's Local History Staff for a talk which will examine the history of the Library service and the changes it has seen across 130 years.

How did people live in the old days? 'Boronia' Willoughby District Historical Society's cottage Museum is ready to show you the memorabilia and stories about home life, schools, work and entertainment of people who lived in the district,

Enjoy a glass of beer and a meal whiling listen to some incredible stories about the gangs, pushes and larrikins who brought fear and chaos to the streets of old Sydney between 1850 and 1950. The talk takes place in the Royal albert Hotel, the club house of the most dangerous gang of the 1890s.

Surry Hills and Darlinghurst were quiet villages in colonial times... until 1891 happened and for the next 100 years, they became the vice & murder capitals of Australia. Discover how and hear about the worst and most sensational murders committed that were forgotten until now.

WW2, thousands of American servicemen flooded Sydney seeking vice and debauchery. US racial segregation meant only Surry Hills was where African American servicemen were allowed to party. The gangsters made bank. But all parties must end and when this one ended the streets ran red with blood.

In this talk you will discover the murders committed in Sydney between 1800 and 1950 that remain a mystery. Hear about the crime scene, the investigation, the reaction from the public.

Over 120 pubs existed in East Sydney in the 19th century. Some are still licensed, some since demolished and many, like old ghosts, haunt the streets as cafes, homes and shops. They all have incredible stories of mayhem, madness and murder. Listen to incredible stories about these old pubs.

The Balmain Watch House represents a slice of social history from the mid 19th century through to today. Visitors to the exhibition will be able to get a sense of the various incarnations the building has gone through. From police lockup to family home to a hub of social action.

Explore Sydney Harbour aboard a restored heritage vessel. Experience the magic of a 1902 steam vessel (Waratah or Lady Hopetoun) on Sydney Harbour Secrets. Hear stories of the harbour and Parramatta River islands and foreshores on six guided cruises in the 1943 former naval motor launch Harman.

Providing playgrounds in the city was a uniquely 20th century phenomenon. In this lunchtime talk, historian Laila Ellmoos will look at how children occupied Sydney's urban spaces, with a focus on the introduction of supervised children's playgrounds in the inner city from the 1930s.

City Archivist Janet Villata and Archivist Mathilde de Hauteclocque will introduce you to the City Archives collection in this lunchtime talk.

Practicing both as architect and historian, Peter Freeman has dedicated more than four decades to the conservation, documentation and celebration of Australia’s architectural heritage. This is a rare opportunity to hear from one of Australia's foremost heritage architects and historians.

On this not-so-typical walking tour, you will meander through dark alleys and winding lanes, exploring the dark history of Sydney’s Surry Hills. You will investigate the ghastly crime scenes from between 1880 and 1945. This is Sydney's ultimate crime & punishment social history tour.

Eaton Gorge Theatre Company will deliver The People's Park - history and theatre come together. A 90minute promenade visiting many landmarks of one of the world's largest urban parks - Centennial Park. A myriad of historical facts, secret spots and vibrancy nestled in amongst wildlife and nature.

Discover the historic Waverley Estate, where a Victorian mansion, turned hospital, is nestled amongst beautiful gardens. Explore an interactive tour and gather with friends or your children for a picnic.

Find out about the 1974 purchase by the Whitlam Government of church estates to conserve this historic suburb and keep it for low-income earners. See how today almost fifty years of good urban and social policy is threatened by sale and demolition. Tour is 2.5 hours.

Join a walking tour to explore heritage-listed Callan Park.

Devonshire Teas $5 , Free Organ Recitals, Free Church History Talks, Church History / Memorabilia Display, 2pm Guided Walk $20

A full day Open House where this private residence is usually closed off from public viewing. The event shall feature literary speakers and historians who will share their discourse on the legacy of Ethel Turner and her contribution to early Australian literature. Go back into the past to 1890s!

As one of the oldest schools in Australia, students and staff from Fort Street have made significant contributions to the national and world stage. The Ron Horan Museum makes accessible the notable archival exhibitions celebrating the achievements of Fortians from the past and present.

This Anzac Day weekend, share the story of the people in Australia and New Zealand in the build up to World War Two.

Learn how to master writing your family history with writer Keith Whelan and our Local History Librarian Jessica Graham.

If only these walls and this land could talk ... Hear Peter FitzSimons talk about his new book The Opera House.

Sioman Yen and Richard Horsburgh discussing this book in a special talk for Heritage Festival.

A self-guided walking tour along Ramsay Street in Haberfield to learn about the origin of the name Haberfield.

The Festival will include a series of enriching and interesting events including photo exhibitions, open homes, historical talks, walking tours, fashion exhibitions, author talks and more.

The Italianate style was a very popular housing style in Ashfield and throughout much of the inner west of Sydney during the 1880s through to 1900. Why was this style so popular? What is Italian about the Italianate? How did the style originate and how did it arrive in the Sydney suburbs?

Museum of Curiosities
Amongst our regular displays will be hidden a number of items from our collection, depicting a time long ago. Some you might recognise - some may baffle you - and all will rouse your curiosity, but you will leave with a better knowledge of life in the "good old days"!

Join us for an unmissable series of fine music events being performed in the beauty of Blacket's finest Church.

Be part of a curated tour of one of Australia’s most iconic buildings – Rose Seidler House, right in the middle of Ku-ring-gai!

Explore the historic, Rose Seilder House.

Family History Beginners Workshop. Are you curious about your ancestors? Have you always wanted to trace your family tree? A free Beginners' Workshop for people starting out on their journey into their family history. Begin your family tree with experienced volunteers to get you started.

The guided walking tour by Architectural Historian Dr Zeny Edwards will trace the history of Wahroonga Park’s journey through time with its memorials, commemorative plantings and interesting surrounds and a potential viewing of a historical landmark.

Once the site of the former State Brickworks at Homebush Bay, this powerful and dramatic landscape now has a quieter pace. Join the Behind the Scenes tour and be engaged in the layered history of the site from its industrial past to its current role as a biodiversity haven!

Visit the Abattoir Heritage Precinct for a special twilight viewing! Finish your tour at the mesmerizing photo display projected on the Pullman Hotel to celebrate Australian Heritage Festival.

Come, visit one of Hornsby Shire’s oldest buildings, now the home of the Hornsby Shire Historical Society. See our displays showcasing the lifestyles of Hornsby residents during the 19th and 20th centuries. Go on to visit Pennant Hills Library and Hornsby Library to see our cabinets of curious.

Tour iconic Armory buildings from the 1897 period, including the old Gunpowder Magazine with lamplight tunnels and museum displays from days of the Armory.

This tour builds on the Newington 1897 tour by extending the story of Newington Armory from 1921 when the site became a Navy establishment, to the end of its working life in 1999. You’ll enter restricted areas - places normally off limits to the general public only made accessible on a guided tour.

While visiting the Hornsby Library check out the Curious Objects display, do you know what they are or what they do? Have you seen any before? Some were common objects and some have always been curious.

Guided tour of Rookwood Cemetery, including its most historic and captivating areas.

While visiting the Pennant Hills library check out the Curious Objects display, do you know what they are or what they do? Have you seen any before? Some were common objects and some have always been curious.

Did you know that the Female Orphan School is the oldest three-storey building in Australia? Visit the restored building now home to the Whitlam Institute within Western Sydney University and visit the exhibitions on display.

"The Calder Estate - James Elder's Land Grant 1832 to Now", a talk by David Senior

"The Curious Tale of Louis Bertrand - The Amorist Dentist", a talk by Judith Dunn OAM

"Love, Labour and Loss - an historical perspective on objects given as expressions of love and esteem, a talk by Ronda Gaffey

"The Curious Edward Smith Hall - Forgotten Champion of the Underdog", a talk by Ken Smith OAM

Ride with Capt. Harry Mance, back to a time, when steam powered ferries ruled the waters of Parramatta River - a talk by John Brock.

An insatiable curiosity to find out what lies behind a name, a few words or an unusual tombstone results in the discovery of many intriguing stories 'from the grave'. Kerima-Gae Topp's powerpoint presentation will take you to cemeteries throughout NSW and finally to one in London.

A colourful and interactive powerpoint presentation where you will discover many amazing and curious facts about your country.

With her 'curiosity' working overtime Kerima- Gae Topp's powerpoint presentation has more intriguing 'tales from beyond the grave', which will include stories from Australia's oldest remaining cemetery to one in New Zealand devastated by an earthquake.

Find yourself in the past as Botanicals transports you to 1800’s colonial Parramatta. Stunning floral displays accompanying the National Trust’s intricate floral-patterned ceramics.

Join our experienced guide on this walk to hear the hidden histories unfold of dispossession, trade, friendships and frontier conflicts

Visit one of the oldest colonial buildings in Australia and view a rare sunken dairy on this intimate group tour.

Visit one of the oldest colonial buildings in Australia, view a rare sunken dairy, discover the history of Parramatta Park’s monuments with AUSLAN interpretation

Find out about Australia's forgotten war, the Boer War from 1899-1902, with a retired Lancer guiding you through the finest Boer War collection in Australia, all contained within Lancer Barracks Parramatta, a Governor Macquarie heritage precinct

Interactive games and activities will engage children as they discover the strange lives of colonial children and characters

Archaeology unearths hidden stories from our past, much like cold case detective work brings to light the truth about past crimes.

Discover the central role of the Parramatta River throughout the ages, from pre-settlement days and colonial times through to the present day.

Test your archaeological skills through recording actual artefacts, piecing together the evidence they provide to draw your own conclusions.

As you emerge from enforced isolation and race to and from work, or search dining options have you noticed the artworks that adorn the CBD?

The Dharug people are Parramatta’s first people and its traditional custodians.

Join an Aboriginal guide to discover how traditional owners cared for country. Learn what you can do to contribute to a sustainable future.

Join us as we time-travel through the evolution of Australian medicine, from colonial times to the cutting-edge treatments of today

Join a traditional custodian on this relaxed walk to learn how local Aboriginal clans survived and thrived in the Parramatta region.

Discover the intriguing history & significant sites of Parramatta on a relaxed coach tour!

This abridged walking tour focuses on the highlights of Parramatta’s rich cultural and heritage offerings.

Visit some key archaeological sites in Parramatta, using each to shine a light on the intriguing stories being unearthed in the CBD.

Discover the diverse heritage architecture within the core of Parramatta and satisfy your curiosity with this enjoyable walking tour!

Celebrating 200 years of history and medical care in Parramatta - a gracious Georgian building stands on the corner of George and Marsden Streets in Parramatta. It is the oldest existing dwelling house in the inner City of Parramatta and since 1983 has been a Medical and Nursing Museum.

Much has been written & spoken of the men of Parramatta who influenced Australian history. Sadly less is known of the women who did likewise.

This pleasant walk in a World Heritage listed landscape encompasses some intriguing stories of the scientific advances made in Parramatta!

Pick up professional tips on seeing landscapes, wildlife, architecture & heritage in a new light. Ge the most out of your phone & camera whilst enjoying beautiful natural surroundings

Explore UNESCO World Heritage listed Parramatta Park, its history and stories with our knowledgeable guide.

Explore World Heritage listed Parramatta Park with all its history and stories with our knowledgeable guide.

Join a Dharug custodian, a river catchment management expert and a heritage guide to discover how the Parramatta River and its surrounding lands changed over time and how the sustainable management of the River is important for future generations.

Have you ever wondered if you have a colonial soldier in your family? Christine Yeats a well known historian will give a 1 hour talk at the Parramatta Female Factory Friends Rooms at 1pm to 2pm on Friday 22 April 2022. Tickets are through Eventbrite so book early so you don't miss out.

Acknowledging our past, present and future, Parramatta North Heritage Day returns to the precinct on Sunday 29 May as part of the Australian Heritage Festival.

Join this revealing walk to visit significant sites were Aboriginal and colonial history unfolded during the first 40 years of the colony.

Come along and create a beautiful wooden spoon made with your own hands with Nordic Edge at Old Government House.

Enjoy a candlelit tour of Old Government House, Parramatta and hear stories of strange happenings experienced by volunteers, staff and past guests.

Join the Parramatta Art Society for a leisurely day of art at Old Government House and get up close with some of the beautiful items from the collection which are not normally on display.

Bring along the family and try your hand at chalk and shadow art these Easter school holidays at Old Government House

Making Good explores the lives of convict artisans who used their skills to transform their place of exile into a thriving modern settlement.

Visit one of the oldest colonial buildings in Australia, view a rare sunken dairy, discover the history of Parramatta Park’s monuments!

Join Anna Ridley, Old Government House curator for a special tour of Making Good, and find out more about the convict artisans featured in the exhibition.

A 'lively' and intriguing cemetery walking tour of one of Parramatta's oldest cemeteries, which oozes with stories and curiosities from 'beyond the grave'.

Join our friendly, experienced nature guide on this pleasant meander in a beautiful parkland setting.

Trees live for a long time and take on many roles in the ecosystem. What wisdom can we glean from listening to the stories they tell us?

The Dharug people are Parramatta’s first people and the traditional custodians of this land.

There will be a range of specialty groups besides our own Society with experts to assist with your World Wide research

Come along and 'Discover Linnwood' - Western Sydney's hidden gem. Built in 1891 by George McCredie - 'Victor of the Plague'. See and hear the history of the house, plus a display of WWII domestic memorabilia entitled 'We'll Meet Again', then relax and enjoy a Devonshire Tea.

Brinsley's Joinery Shop as it stands today was established in 1929 after fire destroyed the original building and is still used to produce timber joinery & furniture. It is one of the few intact examples of inter-war industrial buildings in the Sutherland Shire & is well worth a visit.

Special Vintage Bus in the Sutherland area linking Sydney Tramway Museum, Loftus to many other Heritage Events.

The opportunity to appreciate an earlier era of Sydney's public transport, when trams were the major people movers.

The Sutherland Shire Citizens' Heritage Festival Committee is a group of Shire Committees that work as team to co-ordinate a variety of interesting and varied activities for you to enjoy during the National Trust Heritage Festival

Enjoy a pleasant afternoon of Celtic Heritage and displays of Celtic music, song and dance at Parc Menai Celtic Festival.

Please join us during the Australian Heritage Festival 2022 for “Curiosity” a guided tour of the Fairfield City Vintage Village

How much do you know about this intact heritage property which is of cultural significance to the nation?
This Heritage Festival, take time to satisfy your curiosity about what makes Bella Vista Farm so special.

Free exhibition and Public programs. Liverpool Pioneers’ Memorial Park is the resting place of more than 13,000 people; here lie buried the early pioneers of Liverpool. Notables and New Discoveries re-assesses the park’s inhabitants and hierarchy, learn about them through the exhibition and talks.

Celebrate an amazing shipbuilding heritage and walk the scenic waterfront on a flat, relatively short pathway from Kincumber. Historical displays along the way. Stamp your 4 Villages passport. Answer simple questions, drawn for prizes. Arrive at Davistown waterfront for entertainment, food and fun!

Join us for a guided walking tour of the Era shack community in the Royal National Park and see how the shacks at this remote location were built and maintained by the owners. Hear the stories of how the shacks survived to be listed on the State Heritage Register in 2012.

This is a day when you can learn more about the fascinating story of Australia’s oldest church - Ebenezer Church. You will hear about the people who built the church, pioneers such as … Andrew Johnston, the architect of the church and John Grono who was a ship-builder and sea captain.

Early Colonial Lifestyle brought to life in a genuine Australian 19th Century setting, see each building come to life as it would have back in the 1800's as The Australiana Pioneer Village becomes a working Village

Do you love exploring old graveyards? Come on a fascinating tour of one of Australia's oldest cemeteries. You will learn more about the lives of some of the people from our history that shaped the development of Campbelltown.

Visit Gledswood Homestead & Winery for a history walk around the property with our resident historian. Learn about our rich history, hear stories of Count Gabriel de Huon escaping the French revolution and then enjoy a Devonshire tea at the convict built coach house, now used as our cellar door.

Explore one of Campbelltown’s grandest homes on this tour of historic Blair Athol House.