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 About us

The Benalla Costume and Pioneer Museum was founded in 1967 and is accredited through the  Museum Accreditation Program (Vic). It is the only public costume museum of its kind in Victoria. It is managed entirely by volunteer members of Benalla & District Historical Society Inc. and is a splendid example of how the skills of an enthusiastic and talented group can produce excellence.The museum specializes in costumes and local history, including the Ned Kelly Story. The Historical Society also has a 'Research Room' in the Museum in which early news papers dating back to the 1800's, books, documents, and pictures are stored.
 Where and when

14 Mair Street, Benalla

Opening Hours

Daily 9:00am - 5:00pm (closed Christmas Day)

Last entry to the Museum - 4:30pm

Museum Charges:

Adults: $4.00    Concession: $3.00     Children: $0.50

 

Coaches and groups are welcome. Bookings preferred

email: visitor.info@benalla.vic.gov.au

phone: 03 5762 1749

Easy wheelchair access is available through the main entrance

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What to see

      
 
 
   
  'Bridal Beauty since 1840s'   'Height of Fashion - Race Wear'  Miniature House   Harcourt Paintings

 

 

Local history is displayed in several permanent exhibitions, depicting Benalla memorabilia, the Kelly story

and three of  Benalla's famous sons.

Two of Benalla's famous sons - surgeon and war hero Sir Edward 'Weary' Dunlop and Captain Hector Waller R.A.N are remembered in the Services Room.

The Tea Room and associated display is named after the third 'famous' son Michael Joseph Savage,

first Labour Prime Minister of New Zealand, who was born at Tatong near Benalla.

As Benalla is the heart of the Ned Kelly country, the Kelly story is given considerable emphasis.

In the museum is a transportable cell in which Ned was once imprisoned.

 The cell contains authentic memorabilia including Ned's bloodstained sash (which he wore at the seige at Glenrowan) and his bridle as well as other items.

You can also read many letters and documents about the gang and Ned's family, and see an excellent 12 minute video.

 
   

The Museum complex at 14 Mair Street also houses the

  VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE 

 with local tourist and accommodation information and 

  THE CREATORS GALLERY selling quality art, craft and souvenirs.

 You can also enjoy a tea or coffee in our self serve Tea Room.

  

 

 

Benalla is situated on the main highway and rail link between

Melbourne and Sydney, just two hours from Melbourne.

The Museum is centrally located on the bank of Lake Benalla,

opposite the Art Gallery and Botanical Gardens, and

adjacent to the Ceramic Mural.