Old Geelong Gaol

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This is the situation.

You're in Geelong for a few days of holiday and have exhausted the charms of the picturesque waterfront , the delightful Temple to Consumerism , the delectable eateries and the beautiful beaches only a short drive away. Maybe you're looking for a change of pace and searching for something a bit more solemn or you're in town for a conference and can't stray too far from the centre of town.



On the corner of Myers and Swanston street, just across the road from Geelong Hospital, is the and Museum, one of Australia's most well maintained 19th century convict prisons which was constructed to replace prison hulks moored in Stingray Bay. Built over a 15 year period from 1849 to 1864 although opened in 1853, it was formerly an army detention barracks during World War 2. Although it once had several famous prisoners, the most notable of them (at least in current pop culture) was Mark "Chopper" Read. The prison was closed in 1991 with its prisoners moved to Lara.



Visitors to the prison can glimpse vignettes of life within the prison, with its gristly history of executions, murders among inmates and difficult living conditions contributing to its reputation. Various information boards are present throughout the prison, which is now operated by the Rotary Club of Geelong. Some proclaim the site as haunted, with 90 minute Geelong Gaol Ghost Tours (starting at 8pm) a popular activity among tourists.



In Cell 47 a colourful mural is painted on an otherwise bare brick wall. I won't post it here to keep the surprise.

If you're interested in exploring a well maintained prison and learning of the harrowing vicissitudes of daily life for prisoners in Geelong, is well worth a look. Prices range from $5 for children, $8 for concession and $10 for adults.



#day_trips
#escape_the_city
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#historic_houses
#museums
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