Open House Melbourne

Next date: Saturday, 26 July 2025 | 10:00 AM to 04:00 PM

The front facade of a large colonial-style municipal building lit up at night.

Presented by Northcote Town Hall Arts Centre

Join us as we share the long, varied, and fascinating history of Northcote Town Hall Arts Centre. This iconic building is situated on Rucker’s Hill, an area with a rich First Nations history and great cultural significance as a historic meeting place. The building’s architectural history spans its initial inception in the neo-Classical style; an art deco facelift in the 1930s; mid-century modern additions in the 1960s; and an award-winning, contemporary revitalisation in the early 2000s.

Having just re-opened after two years of renovations and upgrades, Northcote Town Hall Arts Centre has reclaimed its place as the centrepiece of Ruckers Hill and a living archive of the history of architecture and meeting places in urban Australia.

Some of its most notable elements include the civic square, which features a stunning, recently restored mural by Gunnai artist Ray Thomas; the historic Mayor’s room and roll of honour added in 1919 after World War I; the ornate art deco-style main hall with balcony, proscenium and grand chandeliers; and the original (and still functional) safe. This breadth of historical, artistic and stylistic points of interest is topped off with an incredible city view from the rooftop balcony!

Come visit Northcote Town Hall Arts Centre and join us for a pre-booked guided tour or explore at your own pace with an open access, self-guided tour. Enjoy impromptu performances and historical images around the building and take a peek into our backstage areas.

 

Book a Tour

Age Suitability

Suitable for all ages.

Venue Tours

Guided tours will run at 11am & 2pm. They will run for approximately 45mins. FREE to attend, bookings are essential.

Please meet at the reception, just inside the main entrances which is accessible via the civic square on the southern side of the building.

First release tour tickets: Wed 2 July, 12pm
Second release tour tickets: Sat 5 July, 10am

When

  • Saturday, 26 July 2025 | 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
  • Sunday, 27 July 2025 | 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Location

Northcote Town Hall Arts Centre, 189 High Street, Northcote, 3070, View Map

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