Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum

The museum is the ideal starting point for your exploration of Warrnambool and the Shipwreck Coast. This entire region is rich in maritime history, stemming from the days when passage by sea was the only form of access to the area. Over 160 ships are believed to have come to grief along the Shipwreck Coast, with much of this history recounted in detail at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum.

Flagstaff Hill's life-size recreated village reflects the atmosphere of a nineteenth century coastal port in the Warrnambool area. In addition to the original lighthouse and lighthouse keeper's cottage, there are replicas of many buildings of the time, including a sailmaker's loft, bank, town hall and chapel.

Another of Flagstaff Hill's major features are the preserved shipwreck artefacts on display throughout the museum and village. No item is more famous or beautiful than the Loch Ard Peacock: a priceless Minton statue, which was being transported from England to Melbourne aboard the Loch Ard clipper in 1878, for display at Melbourne's 1880 International Exhibition.

Tragically, the Loch Ard sank off Port Campbell, leaving only two survivors. Two days after the tragedy, the Peacock was washed ashore in its packing case: in perfect condition, save a small chip in its beak. The museum is open daily except Christmas Day at Merri Street, Warrnambool (see map).

For more information…
Phone 61 3 5564 7841
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum Website
See Also Great Ocean Road