With all the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, wouldn’t it be nice to take a step back, have a break from our mundane modern activities, and enjoy the fresh breeze of slow living?
Nestled in the heart of Gippsland, just a 1.5-hour drive from Melbourne CBD, lies a hidden gem that invites visitors to journey through time. Old Gippstown Heritage Park, located in Moe, Victoria, is more than just a museum but a living village that brings the stories of early European settlement in Australia to life back in the 1800s. With its charming streetscapes, authentic buildings, and community spirit, this heritage park offers a nostalgic escape for history buffs, families, and curious travelers alike.
@blair.villanueva A great day strolling at the Old Gippstown Heritage Park located in Moe Victoria, just 1.5 hours drive from Melbourne. Entry Fee: $15 per adult / $8 per kid / $12 concession #oldgippstown#gippsland#moevictoria#thisisaustralia#aroundtheworld#seeaustralia#livinginaustralia♬ Art of life - Lesfm
A Village Frozen in Time
Spread across eight acres of parkland, Old Gippstown is an open-air museum that showcases Gippsland’s rich history from the 1840s to the 1930s. As you stroll through the village, you’ll encounter 35 original relocated buildings, each meticulously restored and filled with era-specific furnishings and artefacts. From the Bushy Park homestead to Rhoden’s Halfway House, one of the last remaining Cobb & Co. inns, every structure tells a story.
The buildings are more than static displays—they’re immersive environments. Step into the schoolhouse and imagine the clatter of chalk on slate. Peek into the general store stocked with vintage goods, or admire the craftsmanship in the Tuck Family Tinsmith and Plumbing Collection, which spans three generations.
Vintage Vehicles and Artefacts
One of the park’s standout features is its impressive collection of horse-drawn vehicles, vintage cars, and fire trucks. Among the treasures is a WWI Mark VI Ambulance and a General Service Wagon, offering a glimpse into the transportation and emergency services of yesteryears.
The park also features a comprehensive military collection, including the steam whistle from the German raider SMS Emden, as well as an extensive exhibition of cameras and photography. These artefacts are thoughtfully curated to reflect the technological and cultural shifts of the time.
Narracan Mechanics’ Institute Library
For those who love literature and learning, the Narracan Mechanics’ Institute library is a must-visit. With over 2,300 books dating from the 1840s to the 1960s, this collection provides a rare glimpse into the intellectual life of Gippsland’s early settlers. The library is housed in a relocated building and retains its original charm, complete with wooden shelves and vintage reading lamps.
Old Gippstown Tea Room
No visit is complete without a stop at the Old Gippstown Tea Room, a social enterprise café that serves up Devonshire tea, all-day breakfast, and hearty lunches. The café operates from Wednesday to Sunday from 8am to 3pm, with the kitchen closing at 2pm. Enjoy fresh scones under the wide verandah or sip a latte while watching children play in the nearby park.
What makes the Tea Room special is its mission: it provides skill development and work experience for people with disabilities, fostering community inclusion and empowerment.
Editor’s Note: As of this writing, the cafe is currently closed for updates and renovations; however, it is expected to open soon.
Events and Activities
Old Gippstown isn’t just a static museum—it’s a vibrant community hub. Throughout the year, the park hosts family fun days, car shows, and several community-themed events. These events are designed to engage visitors of all ages and often feature live music, food stalls, and interactive activities.
For those interested in a deeper dive, guided tours are available on Wednesday and Friday afternoons, with a minimum of three people per booking. These tours offer fascinating insights into the provenance of the buildings and artefacts, led by passionate volunteers who bring Gippsland’s history to life.
They also host a monthly ghost tour and hear several spooky stories and its ‘residents’.
This coming yuletide season, visit Old Gippstown and celebrate Christmas & Carols in the Park. Check their Facebook page for regular updates.
Pet-Friendly and Family-Oriented
Families will appreciate the playground, BBQ facilities, and the park’s pet-friendly policy—just keep your furry friends on a lead and clean up after them. The open spaces and relaxed atmosphere make it an ideal spot for picnics, birthday parties, or simply a leisurely afternoon exploring.
Looking for a unique venue for your next event? Old Gippstown offers venue hire for weddings, wakes, and corporate functions. The heritage backdrop provides stunning photo opportunities and a memorable setting for any occasion.
Celebrating its 50th year, and onwards
The Old Gippstown Heritage Park, together with its hardworking volunteers, staff, supporters, residents, and businesses, celebrated its golden anniversary last year since its inception.
As years goes by, several heritage museums had been closed, and it is in the best interest of the community to keep Old Gippstown going and continue to tell the stories of the past to the growing present of the society.
Tips for Your Visit
* Plan for at least two hours to fully explore the park and enjoy a meal at the café.
* Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be walking on gravel paths and grassy areas.
* Bring a camera—the vintage buildings and vehicles make for fantastic photo ops.
* You can opt to dress up in your favorite Victorian-inspired outfit to fully enjoy the experience.
* Support the community by purchasing from the Tea Room or donating to the park’s preservation efforts.
* Bring sunscreen and a hat if visiting during the day. Don't forget to bring your water bottle as well.
* Payments are accepted either in cash or cashless.
* Free parking. EV Charging station is also available.
How to get here
Old Gippstown is conveniently located at 211 Lloyd Street, Moe, making it an easy day trip from Melbourne or surrounding Gippsland towns. The drive along the M1 is scenic and relaxing, with signs guiding you into Moe’s town center. Ample free parking is available on-site, including electric vehicle charging stations, making it accessible for all types of travelers.
Trading Hours:
Open to the public
Wednesday - Sunday 10am - 4pm
Open for school excursions and other group bookings
by appointment
Open 7 days per week during the School Holidays.
Entry Cost:
* Adults: $15
* Concession: $12
* Children (Under 12): $8
* Family Pass (2 x Adults 3 x Child under 12) $35
* Tours $14 per person (must be booked prior. Minimum of 10 people)
@blair.villanueva Visit the Old Gippstown Heritage Park just 1.5 hour drive from Melbourne located in Moe VIC. Bring your picnic mats and enjoy a great day with your friends and family. #living#oldtown#gippsland#australia#traveltiktok#travel#schoolholidays#fyp#museumtok♬ Ghibli-style nostalgic waltz - MaSssuguMusic
Old Gippstown Heritage Park is more than a collection of buildings—it’s a celebration of Gippsland’s pioneering spirit. Whether you’re a local revisiting childhood memories or a traveler discovering the region for the first time, the park offers a meaningful connection to Australia’s past. It’s a place where history isn’t just preserved—it’s lived, shared, and celebrated.
So next time you’re in Moe, take a detour into the past. You might just find that the stories of Old Gippstown linger long after you’ve left its charming streets.
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