Off the southern coast of Australia, Phillip Island is famous for its natural beauty and wildlife, but it also has a rich history to be discovered. From museums showcasing local history to tours that bring the island’s past to life, Phillip Island has a journey through time. Here’s your guide to finding the island’s hidden treasures.
Step Back in Time
Step back in time to Churchill Island, a historic farm where the early European settlers first arrived. This beautifully preserved site has heritage buildings, gardens and farm equipment. Visitors can participate in traditional farming activities like cow milking, sheep shearing, and whip cracking and get a hands-on experience of 19th-century life. The farm is a highlight of many Phillip Island day tours and Phillip Island Day trip and has endless opportunities for cultural heritage exploration. Special events and temporary exhibitions here add to the experience and bring the past to life for visitors of all ages.
Churchill Island is also famous for its views and family-friendly atmosphere, so it’s a great destination for history buffs and casual tourists alike. The well-maintained grounds and historic buildings are a credit to the island’s preservation efforts, which are funded through fundraising events and community initiatives. The farm’s archival collections are a treasure trove of information about early farming practices and the lives of settlers, so every visit is a learning opportunity.
Historical Museum
Located in Cowes, the Phillip Island Historical Museum is a storehouse of artifacts and stories that tell the island’s story. From indigenous history and early European settlement to the development of the island as a tourist destination, the museum covers it all. The museum has temporary exhibitions and special events like fundraising events to support its archival collections and ancillary exhibits.
The museum’s permanent displays feature items from Phillip Island’s maritime history, cultural heritage and local milestones. Visitors can explore stories of shipwrecks, pioneering families and the growth of the island’s community over the decades. Special exhibits highlight the island’s unique history, so every visit is something new to discover.
National Vietnam Veterans Museum
This award-winning museum honours the men and women who served during the Vietnam War. With an impressive collection of military artifacts, vehicles and multimedia exhibits, it’s a moving experience that tells the personal and national story of the war. Its first exhibition set the benchmark for an entertaining and educational journey through history.
Visitors can interact with displays and hear from veterans themselves to get a sense of what it was like during the war and its aftermath. The museum’s ancillary exhibits add to the main collection, and temporary exhibitions and special events mark significant anniversaries and milestones. It’s a must-see for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in Australia’s military history.
Heritage Walking Tours
Walk in Phillip Island’s footsteps with our guided heritage walking tours. These tours take you through historic sites, old homesteads, church buildings and sites of significance to the Bunurong people. Every step reveals a new story and connection to the past, so these tours are a must-do for anyone on Phillip Island.
Heritage walking tours offer endless opportunities for discovery as our knowledgeable guides share the island’s history. Stops at church buildings and other historic sites give you a glimpse into the island’s architectural heritage. Stories of early settlers and indigenous traditions add depth to the experience. The tours may also include visits to ancillary exhibits and temporary displays so you can get up close and personal with Phillip Island’s history.
The Nobbies and Seal Rocks Heritage
While famous for their natural beauty, the Nobbies and Seal Rocks also have a historical side. Learn about the maritime history, including shipwrecks and early explorers, that shaped Phillip Island’s coastal culture. The Nobbies Centre has informative displays, ancillary exhibits and stunning views of the Southern Ocean.
The area has a rich cultural heritage in its stories of early settlers and the indigenous Bunurong people, who have considered this region significant for thousands of years. Special events at the Nobbies Centre often highlight these historical connections, so it’s a great place to learn and explore. You can also visit temporary exhibits that explore different aspects of the island’s history and see the familiar landscape in a new light.
Island’s History
Phillip Island’s historic sites offer a wide range of experiences, from interactive farm activities to reflective museum exhibits. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious, exploring the island’s past will give you a deeper appreciation for the present. Stay at one of our nearby accommodation options and immerse yourself in the island’s cultural heritage.
From guided heritage tours to special events and inaugural exhibits, Phillip Island’s historic sites have endless opportunities for discovery and learning. The island is committed to preserving its history with well-maintained sites, engaging programs and community support. Whether you’re here on a day trip or a longer stay, the island’s combination of natural beauty and history will leave a lasting impression.
FAQ
What are the top historical attractions on Phillip Island?
Churchill Island Heritage Farm, Phillip Island Historical Museum and National Vietnam Veterans Museum.
Are there guided heritage tours on Phillip Island?
Yes, walking tours and heritage tours to significant sites and landmarks.
Can I bring my kids to Phillip Island’s historical sites?
Yes! Churchill Island Heritage Farm has family-friendly activities.
How long do I need to see Phillip Island’s history?
At least a day to see the main historical sites and do tours.
Is there an entry fee for Phillip Island’s historical sites?
Some sites, like Churchill Island Heritage Farm and the National Vietnam Veterans Museum, have an entry fee. But it’s not too expensive and often includes a guided Phillip Island day tour.