How does a pretty hamlet with windmills, cottages and paddocks transform into an inner-city suburb of Victorian terraces, Art Deco flats and rowdy pubs? Join us for a part how-to, part history talk about exploring the City of Sydney’s archives and connecting its people, places and stories.

Come and immerse yourself in the soundscape of Darlinghurst in the 1920s and 30s with historians Paula Hamilton and Lisa Murray, as they evoke localised sounds and trace how modern living and technology triggered complaints and new definitions of noise.

Use images from the City of Sydney Archives to create a laser-cut printing plate and print your image on our printing press!

Immerse yourself in an evening of Crime Trivia, Cocktails and Sinister Stories of the past.

Historian Max Burns-McRuvie and SILY Bar will animate your passion for true crime stories through a unique series of live events in a heritage setting.

Join us for: Crimes, Quizzes, Cocktails and Connections.

Embark on a curated tour that will unveil the rich history and architectural grandeur of the heritage-listed Hotel Morris. Following the tour, indulge in a culinary journey with a specially crafted shared menu packed with mouthwatering Italian flavours and limited-time dishes.

That Sydney has a rare intact example of a large Edwardian private residential estate surprises many. The Yaralla Estate was developed by the Walker family between 1848 and 1937 as a farm, pleasure garden, residence and one of Sydney’s premiere social destinations. You can see it on our Open Day.

Step back in time! Join us for a fun-filled cruise of Sydney Harbour aboard historic steamer: 1902 VIP Steam Launch Lady Hopetoun!

In this talk, City Historian Laila Ellmoos will tell us about the history of the City of Sydney's Condemnation and Demolition Books, a key photographic collection held in the City Archives comprising almost 5000 photographs and associated glass plate negatives.

Embedded in the floor of the Hall of Service is a ring displaying 100 battlefields or sites of military significance. Join our senior historian to learn how this artwork was created and of the NSW service personnel who have fought, sweated and bled beyond our shores between 1863 and 2018.

Experience the thrill of ocean sailing on a fully restored Tall Ship from the 1870s: James Craig!
Your amazing experience begins as this historic 1874 square rig sail ship leaves her berth at Pyrmont.

Step back in time, join us for a fun-filled guided Saturday cruise aboard historic steamer: 1902 Steam Tug Waratah!
Whether you're a steam enthusiast or just looking for a unique experience, this cruise is perfect for you!

Join industrial heritage expert and Artefact Principal Dr Iain Stuart on a specially curated guided tour of Jones Bay Wharf in Pyrmont.

'The Balmain Observer' goes inside the Post Office and Court House and takes us on a tour of the original building before it was opened. Explaining in detail the fittings both upstairs and down. An amazing observation from over 100years ago.

Located in Waverley in Sydney’s busy Eastern Suburbs, Edina is described as ‘one of the grandest private houses surviving in Sydney from Colonial times’, yet few people know of this historical gem, hiding in plain sight. Tour this historical gem and enjoy morning tea.

Discover the history of East Balmain as Sydney historian Max Burns-McRuvie from Journey Walks whisks you away to an earlier era, with stories of Balmains culture, mystery & colourful characters. You will meet at The Fenwick, be taken on a historical walking tour before returning for a 2 course lunch

Join us on a guided tour of Cabra-Vale (Cabramatta and Canley Vale) to uncover the fascinating history behind each of these suburbs. Discover parks, heritage sites and colourful Daoist temples along the way... A visit to Canley Vale is a timeless experience for first timers!

Step into the sinister, sensational and sexed-up world of old Kings Cross. This unique exploration will connect contemporary visitors with the colourful characters, notorious crime stories and infamous clubs of Sydney’s historic entertainment hub. 2 hour evening tour led by Sydney Crime Historian.

Australia has a rich natural and cultural heritage that underpins a sense of place and national identity. Our heritage includes stories, traditions, events and experiences inherited from the past and is comprised of natural, historic and Indigenous places and people.

Make your way through the murky maritime village of old Millers Point on a historian-led walk that uncovers the fascinating locals, legends and layout of this history drenched hub. This tour will visit convict built pubs, hidden laneways, colonial mansions, shipping wharves and views of the harbour.

Delve into the depths of Paddington's peculiar past. This history hunt will expose the crimes before the cafes and the slums before the chic. Exploring hidden alleys, terraced streets, historic pubs, we'll connect with odd identities, local legends and unusual architecture. Don't miss this 2hour Historian led tour.

The Heritage Centre brings alive the spirit of the Sisters of Charity, its history and heritage. It is a creative and inclusive space comprising of a permanent and temporary exhibition, chapel and courtyard, and meeting room. We'd love to welcome you!

Discover the history of Sydney’s Walsh Bay as historian Max Burns-McRuvie from Journey Walks rewinds the clock to an earlier age, leading guests on a historical walking tour delving into local murders, mysteries and tales of ancient pubs, smugglers and street gangs

Uncover the hidden gems of Double Bay's heritage on this 2-hour walking tour, with our dedicated library staff as your guides. Discover historic stories, images and information that illustrate local themes and connect us to the past.

Linnwood is a NSW State Heritage Listed house (1891) on 5 hectares at Guildford. The house will be open on Sunday 28 April with various displays of local and historic interest. Devonshire tea provided and visitors are free to roam the house and grounds. Parking on site.

Bradfield Park North is a little gem. Join a guided walk in the park with our 3 local experts to discover the layers of history evidenced by the landscape, architecture and engineering features around us.

Carisbrook will be open during the Australian Heritage Festival on May 18th and 19th between 10am and 4pm.

Enjoy a self-guided audio tour through Carisbrook's 1880s rooms and Devonshire tea or coffee and cake in the sunny courtyard. The gardens are always a delight to wander through afterwards

The Parramatta River has been an essential waterway for Australia’s indigenous population as well as for the early settlement of the colony. Over time settlement followed the river, spreading into surrounding districts in order to secure the best agricultural land and open up the area.

Join a guided walking tour and enjoy exclusive access to view the Graythwaite site that sits within Shore, North Sydney. Discover the story of the site from its beginnings as a stone cottage to a grand 19th century estate incorporating a Coach House, the Stables and a former Rose Garden and Hut.

Enjoy twilight at May Gibbs' harbourside house in Neutral Bay.

Hear from citizen heritage sleuths who uncovered an important contributor to North Shore development, the long-forgotten architect, E.S. Garton. They diligently connected the incredible jigsaw pieces that spanned decades of Garton’s life that ultimately reconnected history with local heritage.

The Female Orphan School building has been a key witness to some of the most significant social changes in Australian history. The building has shaped thousands of lives over the two centuries it has stood on the banks of the Parramatta River.

An intriguing talk, with morning tea, which will showcase many connections between artworks and surveyors, including world renowned and lesser known artists who were also surveyors, plus be delighted with an array of artworks featuring surveyors, many painted by some of our early surveyors.

Lively power-point presentation, with morning tea, that will bring tombstones 'alive' as some intriguing historical connections are revealed.

Join internationally renown speaker, John Brock, for a captivating talk, with morning tea, which will reveal many historical connections between Australia and the tiny island of St. Helena.

Join the Heritage Team on a guided tour of the Vintage Village at Fairfield City Museum & Gallery during the Australian Heritage Festival in 2024.

Gore Hill Memorial Cemetery connects the physical heritage of the present to the historical past highlighting those individuals whose achievements forged our future.

Explore the different meanings of black across a century of fashion, from mourning a loved one, to the chic elegance of the little black dress, at Old Government House's new major exhibition Back to Black.

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

A walk through one of Parramatta's historic cemeteries where many ‘residents’ have strong connections, good and bad, with the City of Parramatta.

Discover the connected history and compelling stories of Parramatta North, located by the Parramatta River, by exploring the restored buildings, cultural and innovation hub and open spaces. Heritage Day is family friendly, with guided tours, talks and workshops, live music, great food, and children's activities.

To help celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Sister City relationship between the cities of Campbelltown, New South Wales and Koshigaya, Japan, the Campbelltown and Airds Historical Society, has installed a large display of objects and photos, at Glenalvon House.

Our latest temporary explores the Natural History of Willoughby focusing on local fungi, flora and fauna and the importance of protecting and enhancing the habitat essential for its survival. See how humans connect with nature in restoring local bushland for the benefit of all.

Are you ready to publish your book? Then join award winning publisher, Margaret Szalay who will guide you through the maze of editing, design and marketing.

Since inception, The Faces in the Crowd series of exhibitions have celebrated Mosman residents and business owners. This year the focus is the unique stories of three amazing locals.

A Place to Call Home: Why heritage houses matter. Artist Marta Madison presents a collection of watercolour paintings depicting Federation and Arts and Crafts style homes (circa 1880-1920), on display at Art Space on The Concourse, Chatswood, 24 April-05 May 2024, 11-5pm. Closed Anzac Day.

To celebrate the Australian Heritage Festival, the Harbour Trust is opening the doors of Sydney’s oldest navigational light source for a special guided tour.

Visit our exhibition of items related to the Campbelltown-Koshigaya sister city relationship. This April marks 40 years since the connection between both cities originated, and Campbelltown Library is celebrating it with an interesting array of memorabilia.

Take a guided walk in the Griffins’ Castlecrag and visit the interiors of two beautifully restored homes designed by Walter Burley Griffin.

The Paradise Plan.

A short (14-minute) film that explores connections between Canberra and Castlecrag. It intertwines the aspirations of the Griffins in both places with the history of the Gigante puppets created in their name, as part of the campaign to save Castlecrag Infants School back in 1989.

Join this talk and be inspired by the geological wonders of Ku-ring-gai GeoRegion project.

The General (1926) restored black and white silent movie presented by Film Heritage Academy with live music (Graeme Costin).

Peter Pan (1924) restored silent classic presented by Film Heritage Academy with live music (Graeme Costin).

Delight in the elegance of these original 1930s glamorous evening gowns and accessories.

The Friends of Ethel Turner Society will be hosting tours of Historic 'Woodlands' for one day only on Sunday 5th May 2024. We'll be sharing the built heritage and stories of past resident and blue plaque recipient, famous Ethel Turner, author of the classic, Seven Little Australians.

As a part of the Ku-ring-gai Heritage Festival, The Friends of Ethel Turner will be hosting tours of historic 'Woodlands' Killara.

Follow in the footsteps of Ethel Turner, author of Seven Little Australians and join local artist Marguerite de Fondaumiere to capture the unique character and charm of the beautiful and historic Woodlands House with its late Victorian Georgian and Federation Filigree style.

Join a guided walking tour and be inspired by the geological wonders of Ku-ring-gai's Bicentennial Park.

Join Joy Bryan, daughter of Mr Arthur Newling Swain and Council’s resident gardener Adam for a guided walk and talk through Swain Gardens, followed by a morning tea on the tennis lawn.

Eryldene will be hosting its popular Mothers' Day Teas on the weekend of 11-12th May 2024. Treat Mum, Nana or that special loved one to morning or afternoon tea while relaxing in the beautifully serene garden of historic Eryldene.

Take a garden tour with one of our volunteers followed by a delicious morning tea on the verandah while soaking in the serenity of this beautiful, historic garden.

Join us for the Mothers Day weekend at Eryldene.

This presentation is a fascinating journey through 60 years of bridal fashions and more.

Curious about local history? Ku-ring-gai Library will be presenting a digital display featuring historical photographs from the library’s Local History Collection.

Ku-ring-gai Historical Society holds a vast amount of information on the history of Ku-ring-gai, its buildings, residents and much more.

Discover the history of your house at Ku-ring-gai Library by booking in for a one-on-one tutorial with our Local History Librarian.

Maria Locke is a significant figure in Australian history, yet not as well-known as she deserves to be. The daughter of Yarramundi, chief of the Richmond tribes, Maria went on to have notable achievements in education, the first legally recognised marriage between an Aboriginal person and a settler,

The past is never past but alive in our present. Connecting the stories of its compelling history to today’s heritage site, Q Station’s next open day, Quarantine Connections will bring the site alive through a program of free tours and activities.

Discover the intriguing history of Little Manly as you join Max Burns-McRuvie from Journey Walks on a historical walking tour, delving into the past and sharing stories that make our surroundings so special, before enjoying a delicious 2 course lunch with bread and snacks at Ripples Little Manly.

Through the Millennia, Sandon Point Bulli has been a gathering place. Aboriginal Peoples came together here – from the north, south and west; then Europeans came. Our exhibition will feature images, stories and memorabilia of past decades – capturing Sandon Point – the Place and Its People

Join a guided walking tour and be inspired by the geological wonders of Turramurra's Sheldon Forest.

Come and see operating steam driven engines from yesteryear and have a ride on our narrow gauge cane train. Check out petrol and kerosene run engines, mower racing, archery display, model boats on the lake, and our model railway display. A great day out for the family at reasonable prices.

Ku-ring-gai Council presents a program of free and ticketed events for the Australian Heritage Festival which explores the rich history of Ku-ring-gai and celebrates our Indigenous, natural, built and cultural heritage.

In an exclusive event at a private Sydney home, architectural photographer Eric Sierins recalls his time at Max Dupain & Associates, as well as Dupain's connection to Castlecrag. Included is a display of Dupain photographs of selected Griffin homes at Castlecrag.

Bella Vista Farm sits in spacious, picturesque parklands. Once owned by John and Elizabeth Macarthur it was later farmed by the Pearce family who developed it into a thriving citrus orchard. The farm, preserved in its entirety, sits upon a hilltop with sweeping views of the district.

A eulogy or tribute can be a special part of a funeral, but where does one start with this important task? Join experienced presenter Keith Whelan for this free workshop.

Enjoy a tour of Rose Seidler House with Museums of History NSW curator Michael Lech, plus a rare peek at the Julian Rose House with Brian Seidler AM.

Join us for an Indigenous Heritage presentation and guided walk through the Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden presented by the Aboriginal Heritage Office. Learn about how Aboriginal people lived, Aboriginal figures of the area, bush tucker, tools, weapons and shelter.

Join a guided walking tour and be inspired by the geological wonders of the Northern Beaches Long Reef.

A hands-on event for preschoolers and their carers looking and handling objects from the past. Children will be taken into the Camden Museum and a craft activity will follow in the library. Objects will reflect communication methods from the past. Includes storytime.

An exhibition of photographs from our Camden Images combined with memories from our Camden Voices oral history collection.

Learn of Illawarra 's less well known stories: "Wollongong History & Fairy Meadow Memories", by U3A Member-Historian Stuart Traynor & " Illawarra's 1840's Bankruptices - Misfortune or Fraud" by Lorraine Neate, President Illawarra Historical Society. More tales following in succeeding weeks.

Did you meet your sweetheart at the movies? Were you in a local theatre group? Remember your first kiss in the drive-in? This exhibition of photos from the collection on display and online will evoke memories of connections made as participant or audience at theatres in the Illawarra.

Enjoy a guided tour and a cup of tea at the rarely open historic Nudjia House, Garden and Museum located in Unanderra. Nudjia House provides connections with the 1817 first five land grants in the Illawarra. The Museum provides a connection with past owners and their stories.

Come and enjoy a very special afternoon listening to a descendent talk on their Family History (Gibson, Denniss, Hogg & Mulligan Families) from the Berkeley/Unanderra area and hearing about Illawarra's Early Maritime History.