Glimpse is an immersive group exhibition featuring works from each of the 44 studios participating in the Dandenong Ranges Open Studios program. This collective display of local talent highlights their individual approaches to art-making whilst exploring a shared theme...Glimpse.

Join 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.

Three marvellous mansions in Melbourne: Labassa (Caulfield North), Villa Alba (Kew) and Mandeville Hall (Toorak) are all rare survivors of the late nineteenth century.

Come and explore the 1880s mansion's wonderful hand-painted and stencilled decorations and recreated heritage garden.

Learn the history of Gardiners Creek in this engaging and informative talk by renowned archaeologist and historian Dr Gary Presland.

Beginning 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!

Come 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.

The Scout Heritage Adventure Centre - 'Museum on Mackie' is the premier Scout Museum in Victoria. It showcases the History of Scouting in Victoria from 1908 to the present day. The Centre holds our Victorian Scouting Archives and memorabilia collection.

Come 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.

Immerse yourself in the history and luxury that make Como Melbourne’s most glamorous stately home.

The 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.

A subtle uncovering of layers, Como House is transformed into an imagined dressing room, where under things are revealed in their material beauty.

Who 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.

Learn 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.

House 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?

To 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.

Come 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.

Our 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.

Bear's Castle, circa 1846, lies locked away in the catchment of the Yan Yean Reservoir. Access to this unique building is only granted on special occasions and this is one of them. Take this rare opportunity to visit the only known building of cob construction in Victoria.

Open the door to Robin Boyd’s iconic Walsh Street residence after-hours for Autumn Sunset Cocktails.

This 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.

An 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.

The 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.

A City of Greater Dandenong exhibition that celebrates, reflects and recognises the significance of trees in the local landscape over time and the essential timber industry that grew the local community. An opportunity to understand how we can sustain the tree canopy for future generations.

Meet 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!

Join 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.

Exhibition of equipment, and artefacts relating to Victoria's Fire Service History.

Have 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.

Learn tips on how to collate a cohesive family history from a pile of letters, documents, and photos.

Come 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.

“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

We’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?

Go 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.

A 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.

Discover Melbourne’s rich heritage in the grand State Rooms of Government House

This 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.

Join 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.

Discover some of the interesting graves and landmarks that give us an insight into the social history of 19th and 20th century Melbourne.

This is an interactive 90 minute walk through Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne with an Aboriginal guide.

Learn 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.

Learn about the La Trobe Family's life in early Melbourne, in their simple yet elegant prefabricated cottage surrounded by a delightful garden.

Rippon 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.

The 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.

The 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.

Calling 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.

A celebration of our natural environment, gardening and sustainability.

Join 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.

The 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.

Visit 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.

Port 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.

Walk in the footsteps of past female prisoners and discover what life was like for women incarcerated in Old Melbourne Gaol.

Embark 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.

Our fabulous vintage clothing boutique in Melbourne’s iconic Block Arcade.

Join 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.

Join 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.

Discover 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.

After 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.

Polly Woodside is a tangible reminder of Australia’s rich maritime history.

Experience 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.

Take 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.

Learn 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.

Experience 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.

Take 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.

If 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.

Learn how to document your family history online using Ancestry Library Edition and other free resources

Join us for a fascinating talk about the history of the Moonee Ponds Creek

Traverse centuries of horticultural history inside the heritage-listed Nobelius Heritage Park on this special guided walking tour.

Learn how to preserve your memories in the same way museums do using digitisation. Bring one three-dimensional object to be photographed by our team of volunteers and receive archival quality image files to keep forever.

The 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.

Join a panel of expert architects, designers and creatives with experience in renovating and restoring mid-century modern homes or building a house inspired by mid-century modern design. The talented panel will present images of their projects and answer questions at the completion of the discussion

Visit historic Black Rock House in the city of bayside and explore the history of its inhabitants of yesteryear. 168 years ago the house was built as a family summer home. Visit and see for yourself how they lived in 1856.

In 1878 Robert Bain, owner of the Border Hotel, gave land on a 500-year lease for a Mechanics Institute and Library. The connection between the library and the pub continues. The Berwick Mechanics Institute & Free Library still operates a free lending library on this land, close to the Berwick Inn.

Take 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.

Get 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.

Unlock 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.

Explore 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.

A guided tour of the World War II Corvette HMAS Castlemaine.

Get a look inside the historic Holy Trinity Williamstown vicarage, built in 1886, and recently renovated.

Acclaimed 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

The 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. 

The Agnes Hansen WW1 Signature Quilt will be on display for the first time in six years.

Historic photographs from the Williamstown Historical Society collection, including Williamstown, Newport & Spotswood, alongside present-day photographs taken near the same spot.

Follow 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.

Come 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.

Newport 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.

If you are just beginning your family history, maybe you have come up against some brick walls with a certain relative, or you want to research some people in the Casey Cardinia area, come along and our volunteers will assist you with your research enquiries.

Learn 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.

Trees in the Australian Garden show the diversity of Australian plants and how they have survived over time. Learn about how plants have been adapted to the changing environment.

At which National Trust property on the Mornington Peninsula was Joan Lindsay’s book Picnic at Hanging Rock written? If you know the answer to this question, join us at Frankston Brewhouse for our don’t be caught dead pub quiz.

Hidden 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.

William 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.

McClelland Gallery invite you to hear from a panel of historians who contributed to the recently published book. On Bunurong Country: Art and Design in Frankston. Learn about Frankston's fascinating connections with artists such as Daryl and Joan Lindsay, Violet Teague, Christian and Napier Waller.

The 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.

Established in 1860, the Williamstown Botanic Garden was one of Melbourne's first public gardens. Together we will explore what it takes to maintain it.

The Altona Pier Revue Exhibition features the heritage of Altona Pier through contemporary works.

Witness the talent of ARIA-nominated, award-winning Indigenous singer and songwriter Emma Donovan and her band. Join us for this incredible concert where she will share stories, providing an understanding of Country and community.

Learn about the history and provenance of one of Australia’s most remarkable gardens. Created over more than 80 years by renowned philanthropist Dame Elisabeth Murdoch, Cruden Farm is an oasis of flowers, trees, formal gardens and lakes. A true labour of love left as a place of public recreation.

2024 is a momentous year in the history of Frankston High School.....the school turns 100! We would like to share some of the celebrations with the wider community. Come along and visit our museum which documents the school's development since 1924.

See where gunpowder was made, hear how firearms changed the world, learn the history of gunpowder and the the importance of fireworks in Asian cultures.

Home of Artist Sir Daryl and Joan Lindsay, author of Picnic at Hanging Rock.

A guided walk through parts of the Walter Burley Griffin designed Ranelagh Estate in Mt Eliza to learn about the history and heritage values of the estate, including an opportunity to visit the Ranelagh Club House at conclusion.

Visit 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.

This rarely seen property offers visitors the opportunity to explore an intact 1930s Roy Grounds waterfront holiday house set amidst a faithfully reconstructed landscape of native coastal vegetation, located in the Victoria Heritage listed Ranelagh Estate designed by Walter Burley Griffin in 1924.