Car Museums and places to visit in Western Victoria
1. Campe's Motor Museum
Glen and Margaret Campe began Campe's Coaches in December 1979. They bought their first local school run from their friend Eric Taylor. Eight months later they bought another bus run. They picked up another school run a few years later. Over the years they had a fleet of 14 buses but they had to make many sacrifices over this period. It was 11 years later before they could draw a wage as they had many financial commitments to meet in the business.
They did everything together working seven days a week, paying wages to staff and cleaning the buses on a daily basis. If the buses broke down it was common for Glen to change the clutch or a gear box at short notice so they can have the bus ready for the next day.
They also started a charter business in Hamilton and took customers to Melbourne events, including musicals such as the Phantom of the Opera. They transported customers to hundreds of shows each year and they would not get home to Hamilton until the early hours of the next day. They also started Campe's Tara Travel in Hamilton which saw them booking domestic and international holidays. On these trips the Campes were able to travel overseas, including New Zealand.
Campe's Coaches was sold in October 2011 to Trotter's Coaches and this lead to starting the classic car museum in Hamilton. Campe's Motor Museum includes over 80 classic, vintage and veteran cars, trucks and motor bikes.
Admission is $10 for adults and $8 for children. Group bookings can be organised by appointment.
Contact Margaret for more information on Mobile: 0409 168 400 Open Saturday and Sunday or by appointment.
Address: 226 Coleraine Road Hamilton, Victoria. Email: [email protected]
They did everything together working seven days a week, paying wages to staff and cleaning the buses on a daily basis. If the buses broke down it was common for Glen to change the clutch or a gear box at short notice so they can have the bus ready for the next day.
They also started a charter business in Hamilton and took customers to Melbourne events, including musicals such as the Phantom of the Opera. They transported customers to hundreds of shows each year and they would not get home to Hamilton until the early hours of the next day. They also started Campe's Tara Travel in Hamilton which saw them booking domestic and international holidays. On these trips the Campes were able to travel overseas, including New Zealand.
Campe's Coaches was sold in October 2011 to Trotter's Coaches and this lead to starting the classic car museum in Hamilton. Campe's Motor Museum includes over 80 classic, vintage and veteran cars, trucks and motor bikes.
Admission is $10 for adults and $8 for children. Group bookings can be organised by appointment.
Contact Margaret for more information on Mobile: 0409 168 400 Open Saturday and Sunday or by appointment.
Address: 226 Coleraine Road Hamilton, Victoria. Email: [email protected]
2. Sir Reginald Ansett Transport Museum
The Ansett story
On the morning of 7th December, 1931, a young Reginald Ansett drove a Studebaker car from Hamilton to Ballarat -
"The Ansett empire was born". Just eleven years later this one-man passenger service, started with a secondhand car, had become the biggest road passenger service in the Commonwealth.
The road was not always a smooth one. Around the 'mid-1930s'. the Victorian Government took steps to curb the development of the Ansett company. It was proving a more popular service than the 'State-owned'. railways. Undaunted, Reg Ansett flew his 'Moth'. aircraft to Sydney, navigating with a road map, and bought a Fokker Universal passenger plane. On 17th February 1936, the Fokker Universal left Hamilton for Melbourne and the rest is history.
Ansett went on to become an 'international'. airline operating one of the most modern fleets in the world. The museum is located on the shores of Lake Hamilton and is near the city centre. The museum is operated by an incorporated association and offers tax deductibility status for gifts and donations over $2. The museum is staffed by volunteers and the museum committee ensures the Ansett memorabilia on display 'conveys'. the entrepreneurialism of Reg Ansett and Ansett Transport Industries (ATI) staff; the rapid growth from a single vehicle, to a major busline and international airline.
The museum is based on the Ansett company's original aircraft hangar, which has been relocated. The Centrepiece of the display is a 1928 Fokker Aircraft (VH-UTO) similar to the aircraft used for the first Ansett passenger flight from Hamilton. Also on display is a jet engine from a "BAe". 146 aircraft, a complete set of Ansett and Ansett-ANA Flight Attendant uniforms and a restored 1928 Studebaker.
Open Daily: 10 am to 4 pm. Closed Good Friday, Christmas day and ANZAC day.
Address: Corner Ballarat Road & Riley Street Hamilton, (P O BOX 651) Victoria 3300.
Phone: 03 5571 2767 Email: [email protected]
Admission: Adults $10, Children / Pensioners $8 and families $20
https://ansettmuseum.com.au www.facebook.com/AnsettMuseum?fref=ts
Source: Content provided by Secretary / Treasurer in June 2019.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=ou17QIEXlvo
www.busnews.com.au/bus-reviews/1904/video-review-1954-ansair-flxible-a36-clipper
On the morning of 7th December, 1931, a young Reginald Ansett drove a Studebaker car from Hamilton to Ballarat -
"The Ansett empire was born". Just eleven years later this one-man passenger service, started with a secondhand car, had become the biggest road passenger service in the Commonwealth.
The road was not always a smooth one. Around the 'mid-1930s'. the Victorian Government took steps to curb the development of the Ansett company. It was proving a more popular service than the 'State-owned'. railways. Undaunted, Reg Ansett flew his 'Moth'. aircraft to Sydney, navigating with a road map, and bought a Fokker Universal passenger plane. On 17th February 1936, the Fokker Universal left Hamilton for Melbourne and the rest is history.
Ansett went on to become an 'international'. airline operating one of the most modern fleets in the world. The museum is located on the shores of Lake Hamilton and is near the city centre. The museum is operated by an incorporated association and offers tax deductibility status for gifts and donations over $2. The museum is staffed by volunteers and the museum committee ensures the Ansett memorabilia on display 'conveys'. the entrepreneurialism of Reg Ansett and Ansett Transport Industries (ATI) staff; the rapid growth from a single vehicle, to a major busline and international airline.
The museum is based on the Ansett company's original aircraft hangar, which has been relocated. The Centrepiece of the display is a 1928 Fokker Aircraft (VH-UTO) similar to the aircraft used for the first Ansett passenger flight from Hamilton. Also on display is a jet engine from a "BAe". 146 aircraft, a complete set of Ansett and Ansett-ANA Flight Attendant uniforms and a restored 1928 Studebaker.
Open Daily: 10 am to 4 pm. Closed Good Friday, Christmas day and ANZAC day.
Address: Corner Ballarat Road & Riley Street Hamilton, (P O BOX 651) Victoria 3300.
Phone: 03 5571 2767 Email: [email protected]
Admission: Adults $10, Children / Pensioners $8 and families $20
https://ansettmuseum.com.au www.facebook.com/AnsettMuseum?fref=ts
Source: Content provided by Secretary / Treasurer in June 2019.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=ou17QIEXlvo
www.busnews.com.au/bus-reviews/1904/video-review-1954-ansair-flxible-a36-clipper
Hamilton - History
Hamilton is situated in south western Victoria, south of the mountain range named the Grampians. Fertile and widespread grazing land impressed explorer Thomas Mitchell who was the first European to set eyes on the area, and he named it " Australia Felix" in his reports. Settlers moved overland from New South Wales to take up pastoral runs.
The Grange, as Hamilton was known at it's earliest, became a major town, the largest in rural Victoria around the 1900's. Sheep farming, dairying and cropping were the main actiivites of the region. In the 1980's it became known as the "Wool Capital of The World" based on the numbers of sheep per acre. The Hamilton Pastoral Museum preserves the local farming and domestic history and makes it come to life for visitors.
Hamilton is situated in south western Victoria, south of the mountain range named the Grampians. Fertile and widespread grazing land impressed explorer Thomas Mitchell who was the first European to set eyes on the area, and he named it " Australia Felix" in his reports. Settlers moved overland from New South Wales to take up pastoral runs.
The Grange, as Hamilton was known at it's earliest, became a major town, the largest in rural Victoria around the 1900's. Sheep farming, dairying and cropping were the main actiivites of the region. In the 1980's it became known as the "Wool Capital of The World" based on the numbers of sheep per acre. The Hamilton Pastoral Museum preserves the local farming and domestic history and makes it come to life for visitors.
3. Hamilton Pastoral Museum
The Hamilton Pastoral Museum began in 1968 by a group of volunteers interested in local history
The museum houses an extensive static display of farming implements, small town, and domestic displays. Members provide active demonstrations on two weekends a year, enhancing the historical experience for visitors.
The museum is situated over three blocks. The church block takes on a small town feel and is the organisational centre of the museum, The Dundas block and the Handbury block have a small farm atmosphere and is the site of large farming demonstrations. The areas all open onto Hiller Lane.
The museum's active displays are the highlight of any visit to the museum. The "Plough & Seed" weekend and the "Harvest Days" have become a unique annual feature of this museum. Exhibitors with tractors, stationary engines or collections of tools etc. are invited to exhibit at any rally.
Schools or groups can organise hands-on activities to make history come alive. The museum has a large open area with an adjoining canteen for schools or groups to plan meals or undercover activities. The museum also welcomes new members and meets on the first Monday of each month (except August).
Most recent project
Is the Clyde Engineering shed valued at about $70,000 including voluntary labour. It has been funded by 2 benefactors and plenty of voluntary labour and houses Deutscher built machinery of Hamiltons heritage. The sheds facade is a copy of the original works located on Lonsdale st just prior to 1920.
Land purchase
Land was purchased by the Shire of Dundas. 6 acres & later 10 acres adjoining what had been purchased by the committee with help from Geoff Handbury. This allowed more storage and display space and and plenty of area to persue a History in Action theme.
Summary
Many benefactors/supporters - local business’s with goods ( concrete, building materials etc) interested community people and members with $ for particular projects generally building materials and restoration of exhibits. Rotary has been involved and restored the School rotunda shelter shed, relocated and restored the jail and relocated the police station. Community work has come from the “Red scheme” in 70s, work for dole programs.
Address: Corner Ballarat Road & Hiller Lane Hamilton. Contact the Secretary, P O Box 220, Hamilton Vic 3300
Phone the museum: 03 55711595 and / or Glen on 0409 258 135, Malcolm on 0409 926 095.
Note: Event on Saturday and Sunday 10-11th October 2020 (Subject to Covid 19 Regulations).
A weekend of History in Action featuring early tractor ploughing. See the museums streetscape of period buildings, appreciate the extensive local rural collection, watch working displays, past farming practices, lost trades, model railway, vintage cars and 2pm grand parade. Exhibitors welcome. See current brochure above in slideshow photos.
Follow us on facebook https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Allis-Chalmers
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fordson https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Farmall
The museum houses an extensive static display of farming implements, small town, and domestic displays. Members provide active demonstrations on two weekends a year, enhancing the historical experience for visitors.
The museum is situated over three blocks. The church block takes on a small town feel and is the organisational centre of the museum, The Dundas block and the Handbury block have a small farm atmosphere and is the site of large farming demonstrations. The areas all open onto Hiller Lane.
The museum's active displays are the highlight of any visit to the museum. The "Plough & Seed" weekend and the "Harvest Days" have become a unique annual feature of this museum. Exhibitors with tractors, stationary engines or collections of tools etc. are invited to exhibit at any rally.
Schools or groups can organise hands-on activities to make history come alive. The museum has a large open area with an adjoining canteen for schools or groups to plan meals or undercover activities. The museum also welcomes new members and meets on the first Monday of each month (except August).
Most recent project
Is the Clyde Engineering shed valued at about $70,000 including voluntary labour. It has been funded by 2 benefactors and plenty of voluntary labour and houses Deutscher built machinery of Hamiltons heritage. The sheds facade is a copy of the original works located on Lonsdale st just prior to 1920.
Land purchase
Land was purchased by the Shire of Dundas. 6 acres & later 10 acres adjoining what had been purchased by the committee with help from Geoff Handbury. This allowed more storage and display space and and plenty of area to persue a History in Action theme.
Summary
Many benefactors/supporters - local business’s with goods ( concrete, building materials etc) interested community people and members with $ for particular projects generally building materials and restoration of exhibits. Rotary has been involved and restored the School rotunda shelter shed, relocated and restored the jail and relocated the police station. Community work has come from the “Red scheme” in 70s, work for dole programs.
Address: Corner Ballarat Road & Hiller Lane Hamilton. Contact the Secretary, P O Box 220, Hamilton Vic 3300
Phone the museum: 03 55711595 and / or Glen on 0409 258 135, Malcolm on 0409 926 095.
Note: Event on Saturday and Sunday 10-11th October 2020 (Subject to Covid 19 Regulations).
A weekend of History in Action featuring early tractor ploughing. See the museums streetscape of period buildings, appreciate the extensive local rural collection, watch working displays, past farming practices, lost trades, model railway, vintage cars and 2pm grand parade. Exhibitors welcome. See current brochure above in slideshow photos.
Follow us on facebook https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Allis-Chalmers
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fordson https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Farmall
4. Hamilton Model Railway Museum
Club history
The Hamilton Model Railway Group was formed in April 2004, by a group of like-minded rail enthusiasts who wished to build a large exhibition sized model railway. A suitable sized storage shed in central Hamilton was hired and after cleaning, painting and fitting out the premises became home to the exhibition layout Kilmore East, under construction, along with many collected, donated railway items, making this shed a mini museum as well.
In 2007, the group was fast outgrowing its home and after approaches by the Hamilton Pastoral Museum, a decision was made to move to new purpose built club rooms at Hiller Lane, on part of the pastoral museums Dundas block. With a generous donation from local benefactor, Mr Geoffrey Handbury, work was started and completed on a large shed comprising of a meeting room, display room and garage, with the move complete by 2008.
In 2010, saw the start of construction, of our outside, ride on miniature railway and following year a portable miniature track as built for hire, all completed by members of the club.
Summary
Club rooms are open to the public every Sunday afternoon from 1.30 to 4.30, entry by gold coin donation. All other times by appointment only. With many projects still to be completed, we welcome anyone and volunteers or interested in joining us. Current members at the moment is 22, and would like to have new members joining.
Australian HO Model Layout Kilmore East 7 1/4' Miniature Railway. You can ride the outside railway during open times - $3 per person.
Address: Dundas block, 12 Hiller Lane, Hamilton. Postal Address: 37 Foster Street, Hamilton, Vic 3300
Miniature railway in Eltham www.dvr.com.au www.vmr.com.au
Contact Secretary Wayne Brooks on mobile: 0418 538 009 for more information. Email: [email protected]
The Hamilton Model Railway Group was formed in April 2004, by a group of like-minded rail enthusiasts who wished to build a large exhibition sized model railway. A suitable sized storage shed in central Hamilton was hired and after cleaning, painting and fitting out the premises became home to the exhibition layout Kilmore East, under construction, along with many collected, donated railway items, making this shed a mini museum as well.
In 2007, the group was fast outgrowing its home and after approaches by the Hamilton Pastoral Museum, a decision was made to move to new purpose built club rooms at Hiller Lane, on part of the pastoral museums Dundas block. With a generous donation from local benefactor, Mr Geoffrey Handbury, work was started and completed on a large shed comprising of a meeting room, display room and garage, with the move complete by 2008.
In 2010, saw the start of construction, of our outside, ride on miniature railway and following year a portable miniature track as built for hire, all completed by members of the club.
Summary
Club rooms are open to the public every Sunday afternoon from 1.30 to 4.30, entry by gold coin donation. All other times by appointment only. With many projects still to be completed, we welcome anyone and volunteers or interested in joining us. Current members at the moment is 22, and would like to have new members joining.
Australian HO Model Layout Kilmore East 7 1/4' Miniature Railway. You can ride the outside railway during open times - $3 per person.
Address: Dundas block, 12 Hiller Lane, Hamilton. Postal Address: 37 Foster Street, Hamilton, Vic 3300
Miniature railway in Eltham www.dvr.com.au www.vmr.com.au
Contact Secretary Wayne Brooks on mobile: 0418 538 009 for more information. Email: [email protected]
5. Woods' Farming and Heritage Museum - Rupanyup
John and Michael Woods
The huge collection was established in the 1980s by two brothers - John and Michael Woods - out at their farm at Rupanyup South. Their parents and grandparents were also collectors, so they had a great base to start with. They outgrew all the sheds at the farm, so in 2001 they purchased 9 acres of land on the outskirts of Rupanyup.
Sheds and outbuildings on a 9 acre property
They decided to build a big shed to house the collection, but of course, it soon outgrew the shed and another one had to be built; then an extension, then another extension, and so it goes on. Woods' Farming and Heritage Museum was officially opened in 2007. The house from the farm at Rup South was moved onto the site in 2016, and their sister Alison lived there until her passing in 2020. John passed away in 2013. As none of the Woods’ have any children, the Museum has been entrusted to the Rupanyup community. They have a good group of about 30 active volunteers who open the Museum daily to visitors.
The Farming and Heritage Museum is a 9 acre property with two huge sheds and many, many outbuildings. The main shed houses mostly household memorabilia, wedding dresses, thousands of biscuit tins, ball gowns, sewing machines, a vast tool collection, bottles, toys, matchboxes, cameras, and other items too numerous to mention.
This shed is set up with a "street" with olden day shops - general store, medical centre, boot makers, post office, and butchers. There is also another "street" with a shearing shed, blacksmith, dairy, and workshop. In 2020 during Covid lockdowns, Michael built a replica of his "Grandma's house", with mostly original materials and furnishings. During the 2021 Covid lockdowns, he has built a replica of "Mum & Dad's house". There are also other rooms with miniature Fordson tractors, a music room, a church, a Returned Services League room, and more recently, a school room, and another with model cars.
Wedding dresses and accessories
A very popular feature of the Museum is the huge collection of wedding dresses, ball gowns, debutante frocks and lots of other dresses and accessories. Many of them are housed in spectacular glass cabinets, which displays them beautifully. They get thousands of visitors each year, although in 2020 they weren't allowed to open for most of the year because of strict Covid lockdowns and 2021 has also been very restricted for most of the year.
Tractors, ploughs and tools
The second large shed houses more than 100 tractors, as well as harvesters, combines, reapers, strippers, seed drills, trucks and everything else farm-related. Most of the tractors are Fordsons, although a good range of many other makes. The oldest is a 1918 Fordson, purchased as a deal of seven Fordsons from a collector from Poochera, near Ceduna in South Australia. A rare tractor in the collection is a 1945 Fordson E27N, which is the first model and purchased from a Museum in Bendigo, Victoria. An unusual tractor is a petrol Dexta purchased from a farmer at a neighbouring town, Murtoa. There were not many petrol models around. Some of the tractors actually belonged to the Woods family and were used on their farm.
There is a huge 3000 piece tool collection which belonged to collector Bob Wilson from Winchelsea in Victoria and was purchased after he died. There are lots of locally made products in the cultivation range, like Ackland bars, ploughs and scarifiers, all made in Rupanyup. There are also many stationary engines. Most tractors are in running condition and almost all tinkering happens on-site by Michael and volunteers.
The huge collection was established in the 1980s by two brothers - John and Michael Woods - out at their farm at Rupanyup South. Their parents and grandparents were also collectors, so they had a great base to start with. They outgrew all the sheds at the farm, so in 2001 they purchased 9 acres of land on the outskirts of Rupanyup.
Sheds and outbuildings on a 9 acre property
They decided to build a big shed to house the collection, but of course, it soon outgrew the shed and another one had to be built; then an extension, then another extension, and so it goes on. Woods' Farming and Heritage Museum was officially opened in 2007. The house from the farm at Rup South was moved onto the site in 2016, and their sister Alison lived there until her passing in 2020. John passed away in 2013. As none of the Woods’ have any children, the Museum has been entrusted to the Rupanyup community. They have a good group of about 30 active volunteers who open the Museum daily to visitors.
The Farming and Heritage Museum is a 9 acre property with two huge sheds and many, many outbuildings. The main shed houses mostly household memorabilia, wedding dresses, thousands of biscuit tins, ball gowns, sewing machines, a vast tool collection, bottles, toys, matchboxes, cameras, and other items too numerous to mention.
This shed is set up with a "street" with olden day shops - general store, medical centre, boot makers, post office, and butchers. There is also another "street" with a shearing shed, blacksmith, dairy, and workshop. In 2020 during Covid lockdowns, Michael built a replica of his "Grandma's house", with mostly original materials and furnishings. During the 2021 Covid lockdowns, he has built a replica of "Mum & Dad's house". There are also other rooms with miniature Fordson tractors, a music room, a church, a Returned Services League room, and more recently, a school room, and another with model cars.
Wedding dresses and accessories
A very popular feature of the Museum is the huge collection of wedding dresses, ball gowns, debutante frocks and lots of other dresses and accessories. Many of them are housed in spectacular glass cabinets, which displays them beautifully. They get thousands of visitors each year, although in 2020 they weren't allowed to open for most of the year because of strict Covid lockdowns and 2021 has also been very restricted for most of the year.
Tractors, ploughs and tools
The second large shed houses more than 100 tractors, as well as harvesters, combines, reapers, strippers, seed drills, trucks and everything else farm-related. Most of the tractors are Fordsons, although a good range of many other makes. The oldest is a 1918 Fordson, purchased as a deal of seven Fordsons from a collector from Poochera, near Ceduna in South Australia. A rare tractor in the collection is a 1945 Fordson E27N, which is the first model and purchased from a Museum in Bendigo, Victoria. An unusual tractor is a petrol Dexta purchased from a farmer at a neighbouring town, Murtoa. There were not many petrol models around. Some of the tractors actually belonged to the Woods family and were used on their farm.
There is a huge 3000 piece tool collection which belonged to collector Bob Wilson from Winchelsea in Victoria and was purchased after he died. There are lots of locally made products in the cultivation range, like Ackland bars, ploughs and scarifiers, all made in Rupanyup. There are also many stationary engines. Most tractors are in running condition and almost all tinkering happens on-site by Michael and volunteers.
Summary
The Museum is situated at 93 Wimmera Highway, Rupanyup, Victoria. Phone 0427 159 154.
Opening hours: Weekdays 9am - 12:30pm. Weekends 9am - 4pm. All other times by appointment.
Other places to visit in Rupanyup
There are a series of six chainsaw art sculptures along the footpath in the middle of the main street, featuring two eagles, goanna, Rupanyup farmer, school children and Rupanyup woman.
There are two excellent walking tracks in Rupanyup, which meander through bushland, with information boards along the way. The Rupanyup Lions Club runs a fabulous caravan park by the billabong, with powered sites only $10/night.
The Rupanyup Historical Society has erected historical plaques at various sites around the town Rupanyup is the beginning of the original silo art trail of six silos throughout the Yarriambiack Shire.
Places to visit in the region, include the Silo Art in Gibson Street Rupanyup, Minyip and the Stick Shed in Murtoa.
Note: Volunteers wanted at the Heritage Museum - Contact 0427 159 154 for more information.
The Museum is situated at 93 Wimmera Highway, Rupanyup, Victoria. Phone 0427 159 154.
Opening hours: Weekdays 9am - 12:30pm. Weekends 9am - 4pm. All other times by appointment.
Other places to visit in Rupanyup
There are a series of six chainsaw art sculptures along the footpath in the middle of the main street, featuring two eagles, goanna, Rupanyup farmer, school children and Rupanyup woman.
There are two excellent walking tracks in Rupanyup, which meander through bushland, with information boards along the way. The Rupanyup Lions Club runs a fabulous caravan park by the billabong, with powered sites only $10/night.
The Rupanyup Historical Society has erected historical plaques at various sites around the town Rupanyup is the beginning of the original silo art trail of six silos throughout the Yarriambiack Shire.
Places to visit in the region, include the Silo Art in Gibson Street Rupanyup, Minyip and the Stick Shed in Murtoa.
Note: Volunteers wanted at the Heritage Museum - Contact 0427 159 154 for more information.
6. Portland Powerhouse Motor & Car Museum
Club History
The car club was formed in 1970 as a branch of the Mt Gambier Veteran and Vintage Car Club following interest shown by a group of individuals who had an enthusiasm for old cars. In 1971 this affiliation was broken and the Portland Vintage Car Club was formed. Over a period of years, the club membership fluctuated and several successful rallies were staged.
Through a number of members leaving the district, selling their vehicles, or general lack of interest, numbers waned in 1979 to a point where the group went into recess for one year. A newly revitalised group came into being in 1980, and through meeting at a centralised neutral meeting place (library), the club has grown from strength to strength. Members of car clubs, and in Portland, came from all walks of life.
The envisaged project is a further chapter in the car club history. It is seen as a scheme where members will be able to display their vehicles or machinery, and at the same time see the town benefit. Current membership is around 100.
Finance - Local council
Due to the non-profit nature of the club, the group had little funds for the establishment of a museum in Portland. Despite this, the car club with the support of the Portland City Council, now the Glenelg Shire Council, were able to get the "old power house" building and do a full restoration over a few years. The old building was originally used to generate electricity for the local area, and was then used by the local council as a depot. It now is a fully restored building and includes a new kitchen and a clubroom in the back section for members to use, and has car parking facilities at the rear of the property. The Museum is in walking distance to the CBD of Portland.
Summary
The Powerhouse Museum opened to the public in November 1985 and is staffed by volunteers and features veteran, vintage and classic cars, motorcycles, stationary engines, signs, models, a 1920s Cable Tram and Grip car, tractors and general motoring memorabilia. There are also interactive displays for children including a moving steam engine, and two sectioned, push button operated motors, including a Holden 6 cylinder grey motor.
Group bookings are most welcome. Meetings held 4th Tuesday each month at 7.30.pm.
New members and volunteers are welcome. Annual General meeting is held in October each year.
Peter Kurtze (70) has been a volunteer for 16 years and loves all classic and vintage cars (see photo with M B).
Address; Corner Glenelg & Percy Street, Portland, Victoria.
Note: Name changed to Portland Powerhouse Car Club in March 2019.
Contact: Bill Sandeman (President) by email: [email protected] for more information.
Open Daily: 10 am to 4 pm. Anzac Day 1 to 4 pm. Closed Christmas day and Good Friday.
Phone: 03 5523 5795 Admission: $8 Adults, $6 Concession, $1 for children and $16 family.
Places to visit in Portland
The Great South West Walk (GSWW) is located in South West Victoria and has been developed as a bushwalking trail suitable for most ages and abilities comprising short 2-hour loop walks, full-day walks, or for the intrepid, the whole 250km loop that begins and ends in Portland, Victoria, Australia.
https://greatsouthwestwalk.com
http://portlandcabletrams.com.au
www.youtube.com/portlandcarmuseum
www.glenelg.vic.gov.au/Things_to_See_and_Do_in_Portland
www.facebook.com/Beach-House-Pizzas-1420071684879153/
The car club was formed in 1970 as a branch of the Mt Gambier Veteran and Vintage Car Club following interest shown by a group of individuals who had an enthusiasm for old cars. In 1971 this affiliation was broken and the Portland Vintage Car Club was formed. Over a period of years, the club membership fluctuated and several successful rallies were staged.
Through a number of members leaving the district, selling their vehicles, or general lack of interest, numbers waned in 1979 to a point where the group went into recess for one year. A newly revitalised group came into being in 1980, and through meeting at a centralised neutral meeting place (library), the club has grown from strength to strength. Members of car clubs, and in Portland, came from all walks of life.
The envisaged project is a further chapter in the car club history. It is seen as a scheme where members will be able to display their vehicles or machinery, and at the same time see the town benefit. Current membership is around 100.
Finance - Local council
Due to the non-profit nature of the club, the group had little funds for the establishment of a museum in Portland. Despite this, the car club with the support of the Portland City Council, now the Glenelg Shire Council, were able to get the "old power house" building and do a full restoration over a few years. The old building was originally used to generate electricity for the local area, and was then used by the local council as a depot. It now is a fully restored building and includes a new kitchen and a clubroom in the back section for members to use, and has car parking facilities at the rear of the property. The Museum is in walking distance to the CBD of Portland.
Summary
The Powerhouse Museum opened to the public in November 1985 and is staffed by volunteers and features veteran, vintage and classic cars, motorcycles, stationary engines, signs, models, a 1920s Cable Tram and Grip car, tractors and general motoring memorabilia. There are also interactive displays for children including a moving steam engine, and two sectioned, push button operated motors, including a Holden 6 cylinder grey motor.
Group bookings are most welcome. Meetings held 4th Tuesday each month at 7.30.pm.
New members and volunteers are welcome. Annual General meeting is held in October each year.
Peter Kurtze (70) has been a volunteer for 16 years and loves all classic and vintage cars (see photo with M B).
Address; Corner Glenelg & Percy Street, Portland, Victoria.
Note: Name changed to Portland Powerhouse Car Club in March 2019.
Contact: Bill Sandeman (President) by email: [email protected] for more information.
Open Daily: 10 am to 4 pm. Anzac Day 1 to 4 pm. Closed Christmas day and Good Friday.
Phone: 03 5523 5795 Admission: $8 Adults, $6 Concession, $1 for children and $16 family.
Places to visit in Portland
The Great South West Walk (GSWW) is located in South West Victoria and has been developed as a bushwalking trail suitable for most ages and abilities comprising short 2-hour loop walks, full-day walks, or for the intrepid, the whole 250km loop that begins and ends in Portland, Victoria, Australia.
https://greatsouthwestwalk.com
http://portlandcabletrams.com.au
www.youtube.com/portlandcarmuseum
www.glenelg.vic.gov.au/Things_to_See_and_Do_in_Portland
www.facebook.com/Beach-House-Pizzas-1420071684879153/
7. Portland Cable Trams
Portland Cable Trams was established in 199
The 7.4km Portland Cable Tram route travels along Portland's historic and spectacular foreshore and past tourist attractions and takes approximately one hour. You can hop on and off the tram and visit the Botanic Gardens, the Maritime Discovery Centre and the World War 11 Memorial Lookout.
The company is a community owned, not for profit tourism attraction. They operate modified 1885-1940 era cable trams on a coastal tourist railway in Portland, Victoria. There are 5 trips a day and the first trip leaves the depot at 10 am and returns around 11 am, The last trip eaves at 3 pm. It is seasonal and can also depend on the weather conditions.
The tram journey runs five times a day - 364 days a year. Closed on Christmas day.
Tickets: Family $45, Adult $18, Concession $16, Children $7, Under 5 years is free.
Address: 2a Bentinck Street, Portland. See map below.
Contact 03 5523 2831 for more information during business hours.
Email: [email protected] http://portlandcabletrams.com.au
Note: Photos above provided by Glenelg Shire Council Portland, Media and Communications in August 2019.
The company is a community owned, not for profit tourism attraction. They operate modified 1885-1940 era cable trams on a coastal tourist railway in Portland, Victoria. There are 5 trips a day and the first trip leaves the depot at 10 am and returns around 11 am, The last trip eaves at 3 pm. It is seasonal and can also depend on the weather conditions.
The tram journey runs five times a day - 364 days a year. Closed on Christmas day.
Tickets: Family $45, Adult $18, Concession $16, Children $7, Under 5 years is free.
Address: 2a Bentinck Street, Portland. See map below.
Contact 03 5523 2831 for more information during business hours.
Email: [email protected] http://portlandcabletrams.com.au
Note: Photos above provided by Glenelg Shire Council Portland, Media and Communications in August 2019.
8. Geelong Museum of Motoring and Industry
History
Geelong was once one of the largest manufacturing hubs in Australia and has been the home to the likes of Ford, International Harvester, Shell and AIcoa. Geelong has had a fascinating history in the automotive and manufacturing industry, but as the City transforms into a thriving tourist destination, they cannot afford to Iose the history of where they came from.
The Geelong Museum of Motoring and Industry (GMMI) is a community project that's working to preserve Geelong's rich manufacturing heritage for future generations. The museum tells a story of the region and why Australia has Iong been considered a car-centric nation.
The essence of the project is to use the Museum as a modern repository for significant artefacts and an educational centre where young people can learn about our heritage and pride in workmanship. It’s a place where old skills can be shared and enjoyed, and will act as a cultural hub for motoring enthusiasts, clubs and groups. Most importantly, it will be an asset to the region and will be a tourism drawcard. They have an open-minded approach to what’s cool, classic, retro, or just plain odd.
The Museum has an extraordinary displays of vehicles, equipment, artwork, fashion and artefacts from a range of eras, dating back to the pre-war period through to more contemporary pieces.
The motor car has revolutionised the way of life in the 20th century. It has allowed people to travel where they desire, in comfort and security, at a time of their own choosing. Many technologies have played an important role in it progression and the Geelong Museum highlights such developments.
Loans and donations to the GMMI
The Museum relies on the generosity of people who donate vehicles, automobilia, documents, records and images to the collection. They carefully ensure the collection will continue to grow without duplicating items already held by the Museum and ensure we have the resources to preserve them.
The Museum also welcomes offers of loan from generous vehicle owners. Most loan agreements are for 3 or 12 month periods. They are always looking for additional material for the collection, however, unfortunately they cannot always meet the offers due to space restrictions and display priorities. All offers of loan and donation are assessed by the Museum committee on a regular basis and we endeavour to respond to your offer as quickly as possible.
The museum is a repository for significant artefacts and accepts donations as a key part of expanding it's collection and making sure their history is preserved for future generations. If you are able to donate significant artefacts, they would b be greatly appreciated. All donations are fully tax deductable.
Contacts and links
Note: Located at Western Heights Secondary College, Building 5, Hamlyn Heights.
www.shannons.com.au/club/video/geelong-museum-of-motoring-industry-classic-restos-series
Address: 15 minutes from Geelong’s CBD, the Museum is at 23 Waymouth St, Hamlyn Heights VIC 3215
They are closed Good Friday, Easter Sunday and Christmas day. Open Thursday - Monday 10am to 4pm.
Email: [email protected] Website: http://www.gmom.com.au Phone: 0466 041 803 for more information.
Geelong was once one of the largest manufacturing hubs in Australia and has been the home to the likes of Ford, International Harvester, Shell and AIcoa. Geelong has had a fascinating history in the automotive and manufacturing industry, but as the City transforms into a thriving tourist destination, they cannot afford to Iose the history of where they came from.
The Geelong Museum of Motoring and Industry (GMMI) is a community project that's working to preserve Geelong's rich manufacturing heritage for future generations. The museum tells a story of the region and why Australia has Iong been considered a car-centric nation.
The essence of the project is to use the Museum as a modern repository for significant artefacts and an educational centre where young people can learn about our heritage and pride in workmanship. It’s a place where old skills can be shared and enjoyed, and will act as a cultural hub for motoring enthusiasts, clubs and groups. Most importantly, it will be an asset to the region and will be a tourism drawcard. They have an open-minded approach to what’s cool, classic, retro, or just plain odd.
The Museum has an extraordinary displays of vehicles, equipment, artwork, fashion and artefacts from a range of eras, dating back to the pre-war period through to more contemporary pieces.
The motor car has revolutionised the way of life in the 20th century. It has allowed people to travel where they desire, in comfort and security, at a time of their own choosing. Many technologies have played an important role in it progression and the Geelong Museum highlights such developments.
Loans and donations to the GMMI
The Museum relies on the generosity of people who donate vehicles, automobilia, documents, records and images to the collection. They carefully ensure the collection will continue to grow without duplicating items already held by the Museum and ensure we have the resources to preserve them.
The Museum also welcomes offers of loan from generous vehicle owners. Most loan agreements are for 3 or 12 month periods. They are always looking for additional material for the collection, however, unfortunately they cannot always meet the offers due to space restrictions and display priorities. All offers of loan and donation are assessed by the Museum committee on a regular basis and we endeavour to respond to your offer as quickly as possible.
The museum is a repository for significant artefacts and accepts donations as a key part of expanding it's collection and making sure their history is preserved for future generations. If you are able to donate significant artefacts, they would b be greatly appreciated. All donations are fully tax deductable.
Contacts and links
Note: Located at Western Heights Secondary College, Building 5, Hamlyn Heights.
www.shannons.com.au/club/video/geelong-museum-of-motoring-industry-classic-restos-series
Address: 15 minutes from Geelong’s CBD, the Museum is at 23 Waymouth St, Hamlyn Heights VIC 3215
They are closed Good Friday, Easter Sunday and Christmas day. Open Thursday - Monday 10am to 4pm.
Email: [email protected] Website: http://www.gmom.com.au Phone: 0466 041 803 for more information.