Locals will finally be able to get up close to the historical mansion.
Photo by
Bree Harding
People inside prison usually can’t wait to get out, but many Greater Shepparton residents have been busting to get inside Dhurringile Prison since it closed permanently on August 31, last year.
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The wait is finally over.
A long-awaited open day at the former prison grounds has been announced.
Photo by
Bree Harding
The Department of Justice and Community Safety this morning announced the former prison site would be open to the public on Saturday, February 8.
Guests will get a look at many areas of the site, including inside the heritage-listed mansion.
Photo by
Bree Harding
Appropriate footwear is advised for those attending the open day.
Photo by
Bree Harding
“Acknowledging 50 years of correctional history at the heritage location, visitors will get to tour the visitor centre, stables, prison accommodation units and the historic Dhurringile Mansion,” the department’s Philippa Settle said.
It’s a rare opportunity to get a look inside the walls of the former prison, which operated as a correctional facility for more than half a century.
Photo by
Bree Harding
“Visitors will also get to view historic information and photos of the heritage-listed mansion and wider former prison site thanks to displays from the Tatura and Murchison historical societies. Local historians will be present to provide further info on the day.”
The grounds are extensive and picturesque.
Photo by
Bree Harding
Four guided tours, each with four groups of 25 people starting in different areas of the grounds, will take place between 10am and 4pm on the day.
The tours will depart every 90 minutes and will take in the visitor centre, holding cells, heritage-listed stables, custody reception, accommodation and the historic mansion.
There is provision for a maximum of 400 guests throughout the day.
Come and see this piece of history for yourself.
Photo by
Bree Harding
Refreshments will be available for purchase at the event, as well as a Lions Club barbecue.
Admission to the open day is free, but by booking only.