Life in the City Watch House at Old Melbourne Gaol
Between 1909 and 1994 the City Watch House was Melbourne’s central holding facility for people arrested and awaiting trial.
The police charge room and cells remain almost unchanged since the 1990s when the police left, giving students a very special opportunity to be transported back in time.
About the Program
What was it like to be arrested and processed at the police lock up? In this interactive experience, students will be guided through the Old City Watch House by an acting ‘Sergeant’ who will admit them, ‘search them’ and lock them up. After this experience, students will have the opportunity to explore the male and female exercise yards, while hearing stories of some of the infamous characters who spent some time in this historic building.
This is a 30-minute tour of the Old City Watch House. If you would like to also visit the Old Melbourne Gaol, please book a Gaol Tour as well.
Program Details
Monday to Friday during school terms
30 minutes
15-30 students per session
Teacher/carer:student ratio: 1:12
Social script for parents and teachers of students on the autism spectrum.
Teachers will receive a detailed resource pack that includes suggested pre- and post-visit activities upon booking.
$10 per student
Click here to access the Task Risk Assessment.
The Watch House is fully accessible through a side door.
To book, complete the Online Booking Form. For enquiries, email [email protected] or phone (03) 9656 9889.
Former City Watch House, Old Melbourne Gaol
377 Russell Street
Melbourne VIC 3000
"Both presenters were fantastic. They were able to keep the attention of VCAL students. Treating the students as if they were arrested, with the line up, checking for contraband and putting them in cells in the dark was great. Taking photos for line up was also a fun experience for them all."
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