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31st August 2009 |
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The White Hat Guide to Historic Houses in Melbourne and Victoria
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Black Rock House
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This historic mansion, after which the suburb of Black Rock is named, is open
to the public on Sunday afternoons.
More info >> |
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2 to 4pm, Sundays Feb to 2nd Sun in Dec (except. Easter Sun) |
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34 Ebden Avenue
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Black Rock |
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Enquiries: (03) 9589 4912 |
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Bundoora Homestead
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Bundoora Homestead is a wonderful Queen Anne style Federation mansion operating as a historic house, art gallery and licensed café. Free admission.More info >> |
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11am to 4pm Wed to Sun, noon to 5pm Sat & Sun |
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7-27 Snake Gully Drive
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Bundoora |
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Enquiries: (03) 9496 1060 |
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Como House
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10am - 5 pm daily |
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corner Williams Road & Lechlade Avenue,
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South Yarra |
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Enquiries: (03) 9827 2500 |
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La Trobe's Cottage
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La Trobe's cottage was the home of Victoria's first Lieutenant-Governor, Charles La Trobe. He transported the pre-fabricated dwelling with him when he came to Australia in 1839. More info>> |
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2pm to 4pm, Sundays (Oct to May), last Sun (June to Sept) & other selected dates |
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cnr Birdwood Ave & Dallas Brooks Drive
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South Yarra |
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Enquiries: (03) 8663 7223 |
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Labassa
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This historic mansion is managed by the National Trust and open on the third
Sunday of the month (except December). Informative house tours occur at 11am and
2.45pm and weather permitting, exterior tours at 1 pm. Refreshments in the
Servants Hall throughout the day. A special exhibition occurs from 3.30pm
featuring women's clothing from the 1880s. Adults $8, Concession $5.50, Families $20. More information at
Labassa. |
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10.30am to 430pm, 3rd Sunday of month (except Dec) |
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2 Manor Grove
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Caulfield |
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Enquiries: (03) 9527 6295 |
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Old Treasury Building
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One of Australia's finest Victorian era buildings. It is open to teh public
on Wednesdays and Sundays and features fine displays related to Melbourne
history. More info >> |
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10am to 4pm, Sunday to Friday |
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Cnr Spring St & Collins St
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Melbourne |
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Enquiries: (03) 9651 2233 |
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Portable Iron Houses
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A unique set of portable corrugated iron houses exported from England to Australia during the Gold Rush period to provide housing for the great influx of migrants at that time. These are some of the few 19th Century prefabricated iron buildings remaining in the world and are open to the public once a month. A small admission charge applies. |
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1pm to 4pm, first Sunday of month (except Jan) |
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399 Coventry Street
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South Melbourne |
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Enquiries: (03) 9699 2172 |
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Villa Alba
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A stately mansion in Kew open to the public on the first Sunday of the month. Villa Alba was built between 1882 and 1884 and is notable for its painted decorations. It is being restored as a museum and educational facility for the collection, study and display of interior decorations and decorative finishes. More
info >> |
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1pm to 4pm, 1st Sunday of month |
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Walmer Street
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Kew |
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Enquiries: (03) 9944 8722 |
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Westgarthtown
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The remains of a historic German settlement in the northern suburbs of
Melbourne. The farmhouse is open to the public once a month and a small entry fee applies but it is possible
to wander around the exterior of the buildings at any time. More information at
Westgarthtown. |
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1am to 4pm, 2nd Sunday of the month |
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100 Gardenia Road
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Thomastown |
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Enquiries: (03) 9464 1805 |
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In addition to the houses above which are open to the public at various times, the following historic houses are of significance: Historic Houses on the Bellarine Peninsula and west coast of Port Phillip Bay
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Barwon Grange
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A heritage home in Geelong from the 1850s with gardens and riverside walks. White Hat can recommend a visit to this this property for two reasons. Firstly it is is only fashionable mid 19th century valuable river frontage residences built along the Barwon River which remains intact. Secondly, while most homes change and evolve over time, it has been decided to maintain this property as a time capsule of 1855-6 which again makes it unusual among heritage homes in Victoria. A small entry charge applies. White Hat recommends that if you are interested in visiting Barwon Grange you are also likely to be interested in visiting The Heights Heritage House & Garden (see below) - this is about 10 minutes drive away and is also open on Wednesdays and Sundays. |
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1pm to 4pm, Wednesdays & Sundays (opens at noon Sept to May) |
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Fernleigh Street
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Newtown |
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Enquiries: (03) 5221 3906 |
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The Heights Heritage House & Garden
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A German prefabricated house and outbuildings in Geelong constructed in 1855 then later refurbished in 1930s style. A small entry fee applies. The house is surrounded by impressive gardens and and the grounds contain stables, the groom's cottage and other outbuildings suited to a wealthy family in the late 19th century. White Hat particularly recommends you visit the dovecot (one of the few of its type remaining in Victoria to our knowledge) as well as the delightful one-off Standard motor car which is housed in the stables. White Hat recommends that if you are interested in visiting The Heights you are also likely to be interested in visiting Barwon Grange (see above) - this is about 10 minutes drive away and is also open on Wednesdays and Sundays. |
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11am to 4.30pm, Wednesdays & Sundays |
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140 Aphrasia Street.
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Newtown |
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Enquiries: (03) 5221 3510 |
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The Mansion at Werribee Park
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A stately home set in an impressive estate and maintained by the National Trust. Built by Thomas and Andrew Chirnside between 1874 and 1877 and surrounded by a grand garden this is one of Victoria's most important surviving stately homes. November-April: 10am - 4.45 pm daily. May-October: 10am-3.45pm weekdays, 10am - 4.45pm weekends. More information on The
Mansion at Werribee Park. |
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K Road,
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Werribee |
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(Mel ref 201 D1) |
Enquiries: 13 19 63 |
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Historic Houses in the Great Ocean Road region
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Barwon Park
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A historic bluestone mansion with 42 rooms and an enduring reminder to the
wealth and success of the Western District graziers of the 19th century. The
mansion also includes a room celebrating the achievements of the local soprano,
Marjorie Lawrence. More information at
The White Hat Guide to Barwon
Park. |
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11am to 4pm Wednesdays & Sundays (closed Christmas Day) |
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Winchelsea |
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Enquiries: (03) 5267 2209 or (03) 5267 2230 |
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Selected Events in Historic Houses
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Story Time at Rippon Lea
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Stories & songs for the young ones under the shady Story Tree. Spend
some time exploring the gardens at the conclusion of Story Time. Mum, dad,
grandma or grandpa might even like to bring a picnic lunch. Story Time is
available for the cost of garden entry for adults ($7) and children over 3 years
old ($3). (Note on pricing) |
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Lunching & Listening Program
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Luncheons in the Ballroom at Rippon Lea. Each luncheon has a speaker of
interest. For instance the March 2010 luncheon features Dr Michael Cathcart who
is a historian, writer and broadcaster. Bookings and payments essential one week
prior to luncheon - Call Lynette Dobson: 9555 8382 or Carol Wigham: 9584 1304.
- May 2010 Lunch. A Day in the Life of a Tennis Umpire with Jan
Dimmick.
- June 2010 Lunch. Living in Interesting Times. Sophie Maj. Sophie
recounts her experiences as one of the University of Melbourne’s first
female academics.
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12pm for a 12.30pm start, 4th Thurday of month |
Rippon Lea Estate, 192 Hotham Rd,
Elsternwick
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Lady Chatterley's Lover under the stars
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White Hat feels that the Australian Shakespeare Company have made inspired
choices of venues in choosing the grounds of the stately homes Rippon Lea and
Barwon Park. This promises to be a romantic and sensuous night set in the these
ideal surroundings. DH Lawrence’s erotically charged and
psychologically powerful depiction of adult relationships comes to life in the
foreground of the grand mansion. Join us as we follow Lady Chatterley as she
realises that her emotionally and physically stifled marriage is no match for
true equality and fulfilment with her lover Mellors. She breaks the biggest rule
of all and falls in love with a man below her class – her husband’s gamekeeper.
Lawrence’s vivid depiction of their sexual exploration of each other has made
this story a timeless classic. Adapted and directed by Glenn Elston. Full details and booking information at
Lady Chatterley's Lover. (If you want to catch up with White Hat, meet us in
the potting shed.) |
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7pm, Mon to Thur, 31st Jan to 8th March 2012 |
Rippon Lea Estate, 192 Hotham Rd,
Elsternwick
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adults $40, concession $35, group 10+ $35, under 18 $25, handling fee may apply |
Enquiries & bookings: 1300 122 344 |
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Lady Chatterley's Lover under the stars
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White Hat feels that the Australian Shakespeare Company have made inspired
choices of venues in choosing the grounds of the stately homes Rippon Lea and
Barwon Park. This promises to be a romantic and sensuous night set in the these
ideal surroundings. DH Lawrence’s erotically charged and
psychologically powerful depiction of adult relationships comes to life in the
foreground of the grand mansion. Join us as we follow Lady Chatterley as she
realises that her emotionally and physically stifled marriage is no match for
true equality and fulfilment with her lover Mellors. She breaks the biggest rule
of all and falls in love with a man below her class – her husband’s gamekeeper.
Lawrence’s vivid depiction of their sexual exploration of each other has made
this story a timeless classic. Adapted and directed by Glenn Elston. Full details and booking information at
Lady Chatterley's Lover. (If you want to catch up with White Hat, meet us in
the potting shed.) |
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7pm, 24th & 25th February 2012 |
Barwon Park, 105 Inverleigh Road, Winchelsea
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adults $40, concession $35, group 10+ $35, under 18 $25, handling fee may apply |
Enquiries & bookings: 1300 122 344 |
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Plant Fair at Cruden Farm
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Presented by the wonderful Australia's Open Garden Scheme. This day is
gardener's heaven - possibly Australia's most famous garden and the opportunity
to buy a wide selection of rare and unusual plants. Over this one special
weekend, we're once again bringing together around 40 exhibitors from Victoria
and interstate. You can talk to the expert growers of the most interesting and
unusual plants, and find something out of the ordinary. With everything from
bulbs to trees, natives to exotics, plus garden art, tools, guest speakers and
demonstrations - it's an enticing destination for garden-lovers.
This year's Fair is at Cruden
Farm, the lifetime achievement of national treasure
Dame Elisabeth Murdoch. Dame
Elisabeth designed and planted the renowned herbaceous borders, picking garden,
shrub walks, tree-shaded lawns and one of Australia's most famous avenues, all
contributing to a place of rare beauty. You can leave your purchases in our
plant creche while you take a leisurely stroll around the garden. Refreshments
will be available throughout the day.
Address: enter from Cranhaven Rd, Langwarrin. Directions: Melway 103:G5.
Information for bus groups & garden clubs:
- Please note that there is NO access to Cruden Farm for buses of over 25
seats unless they have pre-booked and pre-paid.
- Please read the important information for bus companies & groups
here about ensuring access for your bus.
Information for the public:
- The public do not need to pre-book.
- Parking, including disabled parking, is in paddocks adjoining the
garden. Most areas of the garden are accessible for wheelchairs and walking
frames.
- Public Transport Access: Train to Frankston Station & then Bus (routes
789, 790 or 791) to Veronica Street.
- Please note that OGA do not organise buses for the public to travel this
event.
All enquiries (03) 5568 1138 during business hours |
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10am-4.30pm, Saturday 3 & Sunday 4 March 2012 |
Cruden Farm (enter
via Cranhaven Rd), Langwarrin
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$15.00, no charge for children under 18 |
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Lara Food & Wine Festival
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Join us in tasting an array of produce. All from over 60 of our regions gourmet food and wine producers. Bring a rug and picnic on the lawns of the historic Pirra Homestead.
The festival features our celebrity hostess, Catriona Rowntree and celebrity chef Gabriel Gaté.
Enjoy live entertainment from Victorian Police rock/pop band, Code One. |
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25th March 2012 (tbc) |
Pirra Homestead, 108 Windermere Road,Lara (45 mins from Melb CBD)
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Free entry & free parking |
Enquiries: (03) 5282 2725 |
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The Wind in the Willows
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White Hat recommends that anyone with kids packs a picnic, packs the kids...
and joins Rat, Mole, Badger, Otter, Portly and, of course, Mr Toad, as they
bring to life Kenneth Grahame's immortal story of life on the riverbank in what
has become a deservedly well loved tradition in Melbourne. (No performance
Australia Day). Full details and booking information at
Wind in the Willows. |
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11am, Saturday 31st March 2012 |
Duneira, Officer Lane, Mt Macedon
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single tickets, $25, family of four (1 ticket admits four people) $90, handling fee may apply |
Enquiries & bookings: 1300 122 344 |
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Scandinavian Christmas Bazaar
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Discover Scandinavia in Melbourne at the annual Scandinavian Christmas Bazaar
in the beautiful gardens of the Swedish Church, Toorak. Festive atmosphere with
stalls full of gorgeous items from Sweden, Denmark and Norway, especially
imported for the Bazaar. Handicrafts, Scandinavian food, entertainment and lots
of fun activities for the kids. Full information at
Scandinavian Christmas Bazaar. |
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1st & 2nd December 2012 (tbc) |
Toorak House, 21 St Georges Road, Toorak
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Enquiries: (03) 9827 5580 |
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Christmas Eve Carols and Pageant at Cruden Farm
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(This event is to be confirmed for 2012) Bring the family to enjoy Christmas Carols with singers and band. This popular community event includes a live re-enactment of the first Christmas with a baby, stable and donkey. Children are welcome to take part as angels or shepherds.
Gate opens at 6.30pm – enter from Cranhaven Road, Langwarrin. BYO picnic, rug, insect repellent, warm clothes. NO candles or pets please. Entry by donation – net proceeds used to support the needy in the local area. |
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7.30 to 8.45 pm, 24th December 2012 (tbc) |
Cruden Farm (enter
via Cranhaven Rd), Langwarrin
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Government House Open Day
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As part of Australia Day, citizens and visitors are invited to visit
Government House,
inspect many rooms not normally open to the public and enjoy a picnic on
the lawns. Music and entertainment throughout the day.
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10am to 3pm, 26th January 2013 (tbc) |
Government House
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Free entry |
Enquiries: (03) 9655 4211 |
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White Hat works hard
to make information on these pages current and correct. However with
many thousands of entries, much of it changing daily, errors may occur.
Always verify the information by using the phone numbers supplied with
each event or venue before making a special trip or using this
information for any other purpose. If you believe some information is
incorrect, please contact us at
corrections@whitehat.com.au
and we will attempt to verify or change the information
DISCLAIMER: White Hat makes no claim as
to the accuracy of this information and takes no responsibility for
incorrect or incomplete information
or for actions based on the information in these pages, and accepts no
liability to any person or organisation for the information contained in
these pages.
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Subscribe to our
FREE Newsletter 'City Design - the White Hat guide'
Each issue contains articles and news on city planning,
heritage issues, urban transit, urban lifestyle and
architecture. As with all our newsletters it aims to be Intelligent,
Informed, Independent and (occasionally) Irreverent. |
Building by Melbourne based international
architecture firm declared on of UK's top 10 building of the decade
White Hat congratulates Denton Corker Marshall on
their
Manchester Civil Justice Centre being declared by the
prestigious Blueprint magazine as one of the UK's top then buildings
of the decade. Australian architects, along with Australia's
engineers have an impact on contemporary world architectures and
building practices which is disproportionate to this country's
population. DCM have offices in Melbourne, Indonesia and the UK and
recently won the contract to design the new Stonehenge Visitors
Centre.
To
subscribe to the White Hat City Design Newsletter
click here. |
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