Victorian Fire Service Museum: Step Inside Melbourne’s Historic Fire Station
On a sunny morning in East Melbourne, we wandered into the Victorian Fire Service Museum and found ourselves captivated by its charm. Housed in a grand, heritage-listed fire station on Gisborne Street, this fire museum is a treasure trove of firefighting history that’s both educational and surprisingly fun.
The moment we stepped inside, we were greeted by a friendly volunteer—himself a retired firefighter—who shared a few stories to set the tone for our visit. The passion and knowledge of the staff are evident and add an extra layer of depth to the experience.
Victoria Fire Service: Firefighting History
The Victorian Fire Service Museum’s collection is nothing short of impressive. Here you will find Australia’s largest collection of fire brigade memorabilia including a year-round display of vintage fire vehicles, helmets, 18th-century uniforms, badges, models, and much more. There are over 10,000 items on display!
One of the first things that catches our eye is the horse-drawn fire engine, its gleaming brass fittings a testament to the craftsmanship of the late 19th century. Standing next to it is a more modern motorised fire truck from the mid-1900s.
It’s fascinating to see how far firefighting technology has come in the Victorian fire service.
We spend time admiring the display of firefighter uniforms and helmets, noticing how they’ve evolved over the decades—from the heavy woollen coats and brass helmets of yesteryear to today’s high-tech, flame-resistant gear.
Each piece tells a story of courage, innovation, and adaptation.
The collection of tools and equipment is equally intriguing. From vintage fire extinguishers to intricately designed breathing apparatus, it’s clear how much thought and effort has gone into making firefighting safer and more effective.
The displays are a true testament to the dedication of the Victoria fire service over the years.
Chris’ Review
If you’re like me, then you hate seeing interesting old stuff being thrown out. Well last week, we discovered kindred spirits running a museum at the old Eastern Hill Fire Station.
When the Fire Service Museum of Victoria began in the 1970’s a group of like-minded Fireys brought forward 1,000’s of items of historic MFB material. Documents, uniforms, outdated equipment from the very early days had been stashed in garages, sheds or any spare space in the hope that it would be displayed one day. The amazing collection of fire-fighting memorabilia on show at the FSMV is the fulfilment of that dream.
On entering, we were welcomed by an old fireman, one of many that volunteer at the Museum, who was overflowing with interesting facts about the displays and history of the building. His enthusiasm was a foretaste of the quality of the display awaiting us in the many different rooms.
From the board room to the watch room displays of horse-drawn and motorized fire trucks, uniforms and a wealth of interesting equipment kept us enthralled for 2 hours, and we never saw it all. The historical displays of fire disasters and acts of heroism by fire-fighters will captivate anyone’s interest.
– Chris
Chris’ Review Cont’d
We were particularly enthralled by the watch-room. Preserved as it was when operating 24hours a day, you can almost sense the firefighters on duty waiting for a fire call or a signal when an alarm, somewhere in Melbourne, was activated.
The old manual telephone switchboard was a highlight for my wife who operated a similar one some 50 years ago. Our granddaughter was bemused by Nanna showing. ”When this light comes on, you flick this switch and answer in this mouthpiece, then pull-up a cord and plug it into one of these holes and you’ve put the call through.”
Amazing, soooo different to today.. but doesn’t seem that long ago.
Hats (or helmets) off to the band of firemen who started, and maintain, this unique part of Melbourne’s history.. FSMV.. well worth a visit.
– Chris
Fun for All Ages
One of the highlights of our visit to the Fire Services Museum is the children’s area. Here, little ones can clamber onto a vintage fire truck and pretend to be firefighters. We have our four-year-old grandchild with us and couldn’t help but smile at their excitement.
The museum also has interactive displays that explain the science of fire and fire safety tips. It’s a great way to engage both young and old visitors, making this fire engine museum a fantastic outing for families and history buffs alike.
Family History
The Fire Services Museum has many photos and some early fire personnel records. Family history enquiries can be made and should be directed to the Curator. Written requests preferred, by post, fax or email – [email protected]. A search fee of $22 inc. GST is requested to help cover costs.
Know a story? Contact the Museum and share the story of your family firefighter, your local brigade, and/or a famous fire station family.
Practical Tidbits for Visiting the Victorian Fire Service Museum
- The Fire Services Museum is very child friendly, in the old-fashioned way!
- At 10.30 am every Friday they host a Fire Safety Display;
- Opening hours:
- Thursdays and Fridays 9am to 3pm,
and Sundays 10am to 4pm.
- Thursdays and Fridays 9am to 3pm,
- Admission Fees:
- Concessions/Seniors/Children (Under 18) – $8
- Adults – $10
- Family Tickets (2 Adults, 2 Children) – $18
- Children under 5 enter FREE!
- Some very cool firey souvenirs are available to purchase;
- Speak to any of the volunteers for some unique, shocking and inspiring first-hand stories;
- Entry is affordable, and seniors receive a discount, making it an excellent option for a budget-friendly day out;
- Side Trip: It’s worth visiting the VAS Gallery located just around the corner. Also nearby is the College for Surgeons, Fitzroy Gardens, and St Patrick’s Cathedral.
Accessibility
- Though an ancient building, the museum itself is accessible, with ramps and friendly staff on hand to assist.
- One small section, the watch-room, is accessible by a small flight of stairs only.
- We notice there is no accessible bathroom onsite.
Getting there
- Located on the corner of Gisborne Street and Victoria Parade;
- It’s about 400 metres from Parliament Station on the City Loop;
- Trams 11, 12 and 109 stop on the corner of Albert Street and Gisborne Street;
- Metre parking (1 hour limit) is available along nearby streets.
- Parking is also available at the nearby Wilson Parking at 410 Albert St, East Melbourne (from $10).
So, next time you’re near East Melbourne, pop in. You’ll leave with a newfound respect for the men and women of MFB Victoria and the Victorian fire service who dedicate their lives to keeping us safe. We certainly did!
Victorian Fire Services Museum
39 Gisborne Street, East Melbourne, VIC 3002
Phone: (03) 9662 2907
Heading off on your own Melbourne adventures? Join our Facebook Group and share your stories, ask questions and connect with others for further inspiration.
