Pentridge appoints National Trust of Australia (Victoria) as tourism partner
Significant heritage buildings at Melbourne’s former Her Majesty’s Prison Pentridge, which housed some of Australia’s most infamous criminals, are set to open for visitors in 2023.
To bring this experience to life, Pentridge has appointed National Trust of Australia (Victoria) as its tourism operations partner.
Simon Ambrose, CEO of the National Trust of Australia (Victoria), said the National Trust is thrilled to partner with Pentridge.
“Pentridge is a heritage listed former state prison that was established in 1851. We’re excited to be working with Pentridge to bring back to life its 170-year history to help visitors gain a greater understanding of Victoria’s penal history and appreciation for this historic property,” said Mr Ambrose.
Once open, visitors will be able to explore the former prison’s A and B Division, plus the notorious H Division.
Michael Wade, Pentridge Precinct Manager, said the partnering with the National Trust was a natural fit for this iconic Australian landmark.
“The National Trust have a wealth of experience delivering engaging and informative visitor offerings for a range heritage listed properties, including the Old Melbourne Gaol, so we’re excited to be working with them to create one of Victoria’s must-see tourist experiences at Pentridge,” said Mr Wade.
“The public have an appetite to learn more about Pentridge, and we look forward to helping them to discover its historic and criminal underbelly,” Mr Wade concluded.
Pentridge Prison closed in 1997 and since then the site has had several owners. In 2013, Shayher Group purchased ‘Pentridge Coburg’, the northern part of the property, in a derelict state and can be credited for its revitalisation.
In 2023, visitors will also be able to enjoy the Adina Pentridge hotel, which will offer guests restaurant, bar and conferencing facilities and the opportunity to stay within the historic B Division cell block.
Today, visitors can enjoy an array of amenities at Pentridge, including a 15-screen Palace Cinema, restaurants, retail shops alongside a Ritchies IGA Fine Food and Wine Supermarket, playground and a heritage fronted public piazza. Pentridge is also home to Pentridge Studios (creative studios) and the newly launched Divisions Gallery. A collection of stunning apartment residences have also been built, which are positioned within the bluestone walls of the Pentridge precinct.
ENDS
Media Contact:
Lauren Crystal (Your Creative – Pentridge Agency)
Email: lauren@yourcreative.com.au
Nicole Panoutsos (Wrights PR – NTAV Agency)
Email: npanoutsos@wrights.com.au
