If you’re seeking a family-friendly adventure that combines learning and fun, consider a trip to the National Wool Museum in Geelong.
With multi-award-winning exhibits and interactive elements for all ages, the National Wool Museum offers an educational experience. Head off on a woolly adventure through time, as you unravel Australia’s wool industry and its impact on our nation’s heritage.
National Wool Museum Geelong
Nestled in the heart of Geelong, the National Wool Museum stands as a testament to Australia’s thriving wool industry.
The museum is housed in a historic bluestone wool store, offering an immersive journey into the world of wool, from its origins on the sheep’s back to the luxurious garments we wear today.
Engaging Exhibits for all Ages
With three levels of engaging exhibits, the National Wool Museum caters well to visitors of all ages.
My kids are enthralled by the hands-on activities and interactive displays. From feeling the softness of raw wool to learning the intricate art of weaving, the museum’s curated galleries encourage our little ones to explore, touch and learn.
Journey Through Time
As you explore the museum you are transported through time, tracing the evolution of Australia’s wool industry.
From the sheep farming days in the 19th century to the modern innovations in wool production, the exhibits showcase the resilience and ingenuity of the Australian people.
The Wadawurrung Country exhibit weaves indigenous stories, art and language into the Australian wool story, touching on 60,000 years of history for industry in the region.
Our family is captivated by the stories of pioneers and entrepreneurs who shaped the wool industry, turning it into a vital part of the nation’s economy.
Meet the Sheep and Experience a Shearer’s Shack
The museum displays have all had a recent makeover and our kids especially love stepping back in time to experience a shearers shack. Meeting the museum’s herd of sheep is another highlight.
At one of the stations, children have the opportunity to use a stencil to write their names, mirroring the technique employed on wool bales.
A 113-year-old carpet loom acts as a magnificent centrepiece within the museum, and visitors can view regular demonstrations by skilled carpet weavers. The 1910 Axminster Jacquard Carpet Loom is enormous, and features over 1000 punch cards and over 100 bobbins of different colours of wool.
While the heritage loom is not in operation during our visit, it is still impressive to see and we could certainly imagine it in action.
Note the heritage loom is currently undergoing maintenance and is not in operation.
Learn from Passionate Experts
We speak to knowledgeable staff members who explain the weaving process, answer questions and share interesting anecdotes about Australia’s wool industry. There are several passionate volunteers during our visit, who of course were up for a good yarn (pun intended)!
Beyond its historical significance, the National Wool Museum also serves as a cultural hub for Geelong and its visitors. The museum hosts regular events, workshops, and exhibitions, showcasing the creativity of local artists and craftsmen.
As well as permanent displays, there is a regular program of visiting exhibits.
A Cultural Hub in Geelong
“We the Makers” stands as a significant biennial event in the National Wool Museum’s schedule, revolving around the prestigious Sustainable Fashion Prize. During our recent visit both the kids and adults enjoyed viewing the 20 shortlisted entries from emerging fashion designers.
For pre-school kids, the National Wool Museum hosts Museum Explorers on Wednesday mornings during school term. With two program sessions that involve sensory art play, interactive storytelling, songs, and rhymes – children can socialise, explore their imaginations and have lots of fun.
For families planning a visit to the National Wool Museum, it’s important to check their website for the latest events and exhibitions. With two pre-school-aged kids, we spent just over an hour at the museum, so I recommend planning to spend one to two hours on a family visit.
The museum offers guided tours for community and school groups, making it an excellent educational destination. Additionally, the museum’s gift shop is a treasure trove of woollen products, perfect for souvenirs or gifts.
Each museum floor is accessed via a ramp, making it very pram-friendly. There is a parent room and baby change facilities.
Make a Day of It in Geelong
Various parking options are available nearby, including on-street parking and a multi-level car park at Westfield Geelong. The Geelong Train Station is just a 10-minute walk away, while the Port Philip Ferries terminal is just a 2-minute walk.
Geelong has lots on offer for families and I highly recommend making a whole day out of your visit. Head to the nearby Eastern Beach, a family-friendly swimming spot with a vintage sea bath and playgrounds. The Geelong Waterfront also offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, a carousel, the Giant Sky Wheel, and scenic walking trails – providing a perfect setting for a leisurely family day out.
Other Geelong attractions that are great for kids include MoPA and Geelong Arts Centre. With so much to explore, it’s fun to stay a night or two with the various accommodation options including the family-friendly Holiday Inn & Suites Geelong.
HOT Tips For Visiting the National Wool Museum Geelong
- Speak to the passionate volunteers readily available to answer questions;
- Visit the gift shop for high-quality woollen garments and great gifts;
- Pre-booking is not essential;
- Check the website for the latest events and exhibitions;
- Plan to spend 1-2 hours at the museum for a family visit;
- Pram friendly;
- Parents room and baby change facilities;
- For pre-school kids, check out the Museum Explorers program;
- 10-minute walk from Geelong Station;
- 2-minute walk from Port Phillip Ferries Terminal;
- Various car parking options nearby;
Read more tips for the best places to go and things to do with kids in Geelong here.
Geelong Arts Centre: A Vibrant Heart Of Creativity
Best Things to Do in Geelong with Kids
Top 13 Things to Do in Queenscliff with Kids
We visited as guests of Tourism Greater Geelong and The Bellarine. All opinions are our own.
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