Former prison open day date locked in

By Bree Harding

Jan 23, 2025

People inside prison usually can’t wait to get out, but many Greater Shepparton residents have been busting to get inside Dhurringile Prison since it closed permanently on August 31, last year.

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The wait is finally over.

A long-awaited open day at the former prison grounds has been announced. Photo by Bree Harding

The Department of Justice and Community Safety this morning announced the former prison site would be open to the public on Saturday, February 8.

Guests will get a look at many areas of the site, including inside the heritage-listed mansion. Photo by Bree Harding

Appropriate footwear is advised for those attending the open day. Photo by Bree Harding

“Acknowledging 50 years of correctional history at the heritage location, visitors will get to tour the visitor centre, stables, prison accommodation units and the historic Dhurringile Mansion,” the department’s Philippa Settle said.

It’s a rare opportunity to get a look inside the walls of the former prison, which operated as a correctional facility for more than half a century. Photo by Bree Harding

“Visitors will also get to view historic information and photos of the heritage-listed mansion and wider former prison site thanks to displays from the Tatura and Murchison historical societies. Local historians will be present to provide further info on the day.”

The grounds are extensive and picturesque. Photo by Bree Harding

Four guided tours, each with four groups of 25 people starting in different areas of the grounds, will take place between 10am and 4pm on the day.

The tours will depart every 90 minutes and will take in the visitor centre, holding cells, heritage-listed stables, custody reception, accommodation and the historic mansion.

There is provision for a maximum of 400 guests throughout the day.