We’re throwing open the doors of significant buildings in Boroondara as part of Open House Melbourne (OHM), the annual event where Melburnians have the opportunity to go behind-the-scenes and explore iconic buildings.
Discover the architecture and heritage of the Hawthorn Arts Centre, Kew Court House, Camberwell Civic Centre and Library and more. Learn the fascinating history of these buildings from local historians, join in-person and virtual tours, sketching workshops, children’s activities and more.
It’s imperative that young people understand the past.
Tay Creggan in Hawthorn is considered one of Victoria’s best examples of a Queen Anne Revival home. Construction began on Tay Creggan, Scottish for ‘house built on a rock’, in 1893 and many famous individuals visited the house over the years, including Anna Pavlova, members of the Ballet Russes, and the late Princess Margaret (1930-2002), sister of Queen Elizabeth II. Today the building and grounds are the site of Strathcona Girls Grammar’s year-nine campus.
Karyn Murray, Head of Tay Creggan, said the year-nine students have been preparing activities for the OHM weekend. “Strathcona is running student-led tours showcasing Tay Creggan and its history. Students have also curated displays of Strathcona uniforms since the school’s inception and will work in the kitchen to provide afternoon tea to visitors for a donation to our charity, FORaMEAL, Canterbury Rotary Club’s meals program,” Karyn said.
The opening of Tay Creggan and other buildings in Boroondara is an opportunity for the community to discover and connect with local heritage. Karyn believes learning about local history through initiatives such as OHM is particularly important for young people: “It’s imperative that young people understand the past and how it impacts their life to this day,” she said.
What’s open in Boroondara
Camberwell Civic Precinct
8 Inglesby Road, Camberwell
Hawthorn Arts Centre
360 Burwood Road, Hawthorn
Hawthorn Tram Depot
Junction of Power Street and Wallen Road, Hawthorn
Kew Court House
188 High Street, Kew
Lyon Housemuseum Galleries
217-219 Cotham Road, Kew
Preshil Junior School
395 Barkers Road, Kew
Tay Creggan
30 Yarra Street, Hawthorn
Villa Alba Museum
44 Walmer Street, Kew
Willsmere
1 Wiltshire Drive, Kew
Open House Melbourne is held over the weekend of 24 and 25 July.
Learn more about Open House Melbourne and make a booking.