Gulf Station will open its gates on Sunday 27 October, for the Gulf Station Heritage Festival, a vibrant family-friendly event celebrating traditional trades and local stories.
Returning for its second year, the festival is hosted by the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) and offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and discover the traditional skills and craftsmanship of yesteryear.
National Trust of Australia (Victoria) acting chief executive officer Brook Powell said the Gulf Station Heritage Festival offers a truly unique opportunity to journey into the past and experience the traditions and craftsmanship thatshaped Victoria’s history.
“There’s something special about learning history right where it happened, on the land where those trades were practiced, and life waslived,” she said.
“This beloved annual event reflects our deep commitment to preserving and sharing our heritage with the community, and we’re excited to invite everyone for a day of fun, discovery, and connection to our shared stories.”
The festival features a variety of hands-on activities, including butter churning and apple coring, along with live demonstrations of blacksmithing, woodworking, and traditional rope-making.
Visitors can also enjoy rare trade displays, vintage model trains, working horses, and rare breed animals.
Enjoy live folk music performed by the Billabong Band, and children will be entertained with activities throughout the day by Joey Scouts.
The historic homestead, outbuildings, and gardens will be accessible to visitors, who can explore them on guided tours led by National Trust volunteers, or at their own pace on a self-guided tour.
A plant sale and market stalls featuring local makers will provide opportunities to support community groups, start early Christmas shopping and discover unique items.
Visitors are welcome to bring their own picnic to enjoy within the scenic heritage grounds or purchase food from the variety of food vans or sausage sizzles.
Festival Highlights:
Guided Tours: Discover the history of the Gulf Station homestead and garden, established in the 1850s.
Craftsmanship in Action: Observe demonstrations of blacksmithing, woodworking, and traditional rope-making.
Hands-On Activities: Experience traditional butter churning and apple coring techniques.
Heritage Displays: View rare breed animals, working horses, and vintage model trains.
Farm Animal Interactions: ‘Meet the Clydesdales’ with Heritage Draught Horse Club, and ‘Pat a Chook’ with The Mountain District Poultry Society
Tickets cost: Adult: $25; Child $10; Concession: $20; Family: $55; Children under five are free.
Tickets can be purchased online from the National Trust website, nationaltrust.org.au/vic
