By Kate Shilling — 4th February 2023
I fondly remember family trips to Old Sydney Town back in the 1980s, with its thundering canons and horse-drawn wagons. The convincing re-enactments of pistol duels and convict rebellions provided an unforgettable experience and an authentic recreation of Sydney Cove life in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
While digital research and council records are worth their weight in gold, there’s something about true bricks-and-mortar recreations of significant historic periods that provide powerful insight into how our ancestors lived.
There are some fabulous permanent exhibitions and interactive experiences in various museums right across Australia as well as some well preserved historic sites and groups dedicated to re-enacting significant moments in history. Read on for some of the best:
Port Arthur, Tasmania
When it comes to living history, Port Arthur Historic Site on the Tasman Peninsula is hard to beat. This special place of dynamic history, rich heritage and compelling stories is one of 11 places that make up the UNESCO World Heritage listed Australian Convict Sites.
Stroll through the ruins of a huge 19th century penitentiary, solitary confinement cells and the old convict church. This open-air museum includes 30 historic buildings, an art gallery and extensive gardens. Listen to stories of life at Port Arthur and decide for yourself whether the settlement was a place of punishment, reform or both.
If you’re travelling with primary school aged children, consider signing them up for a brickmaking activity. They’ll examine some original convict bricks and discover how they were made, before creating their own quarter-size brick to take home, complete with thumb prints!
Re-Enact SA (RSA)
This Adelaide-based group brings history to life with precise re-enactments of First and Second World War events. Local enthusiasts participate in events ranging from tactical combat re-enactments, public displays, commemorative ceremonies, community events and educational programs, making use of pyrotechnics, blank firing and convincing replicas of vehicles and props. The fabulous sense of realism with authentic squad formations and language is utterly mesmerising and sure to transport you back in time. Click HERE to find out more.
Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre
The First Peoples Yulendj Group of Elders and community representatives have brought their knowledge, stories, culture, objects and images to this remarkable exhibition at Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre in Melbourne Museum. Listen to people from across Victoria share stories of connection, family, culture that have been handed down through generations and explore a poignant collection of photographs.
Almost 500 artefacts are on display, complete with a hands-on activity table for the kids and a case of children’s objects brought to life through animations. This vivid exhibition chronicles the histories of Victoria’s first peoples, with stories of ceremony, customs and resilience, before and after the arrival of Europeans.
Gympie Historical Re-Enactment Association
Passionate history buffs have been staging a classic bushranger holdup on the local historic Mary Valley Rattler train for over a decade. Passengers can interact with association members dressed in period costumes from the 1870s. When the train arrives at Imbil, a cannon and pistol shoot-out ensues, followed by an arrest and a public flogging. It’s a train ride you won’t forget in a hurry.
History Alive
Join more than 700 re-enactors as they live out 2000 years of history over two incredible days at the History Alive Festival at Rocklea Showground, Queensland. Wander between camps representing every era from Roman times through to the Vietnam War, each one adorned with dazzling displays of combat, food, craft and culture. Learn how to spin wool, forge swords, make cheese, brew mead and dip candles, and marvel at the authentic clothing and weaponry of these dedicated re-enactors.
Photo credit: Neda Lundie/History Alive
