Australian Heritage Festival 2024: Jack's Magazine Tour

Join our experienced tour guide, Andy Calvert, as he breathes life into the rich history of Jack's Magazine with his in-depth knowledge and captivating personal stories. Gain insight into the operational intricacies of the site while enjoying panoramic views from the summit of the blast mounds. This walking tour covers extensive ground, so a moderate level of fitness is recommended. The 90-minute tours will explore normally restricted areas, so don't miss out!

How many people will be on the tour?

Groups are limited to 20 visitors.

How much walking will I have to do?

Quite a lot. This is a large site (around 6 hectares) and we cover a lot of the site on foot without opportunities to sit down. A basic level of fitness is required.

Where do tours meet?

Gather at the green doors on the north side of the bluestone perimeter wall. To get to the entrance walk along the bluestone wall and turn left to walk between the wall and the canal. Then you should see us! The entrance is approximately 300 metres walk from the car park.

Your guide will meet you at the entrance at the time specified on your ticket.

Are there toilets?

Yes. They are near the entrance of the site so it's is best to go when you arrive or before you leave.

Is Jack's Magazine safe?

Although there are no longer explosives at Jack's Magazine it is still very much a nineteenth-century industrial facility; visitors need to take responsibility for their safety when on site. Visitors will be briefed on safety before tours begin.

Is Jack's Magazine accessible to people with disabilities?

Jack's Magazine is a largely untouched former industrial facility and is not yet fully accessible. Please contact Working Heritage if you have specific queries about accessibility.

What should I wear?

Wear sturdy shoes and dress for the conditions on the day – most of the tour is outside.

Will tours go ahead in bad weather?

Unless extreme weather that poses a danger to visitors is forecast, tours will go ahead – rain, hail or shine.

What are my transport/parking options for getting to the event?

Visitors can park in the car park on Magazine Way, Maribyrnong – near the corner of Pelican Lane. There is a 300 metre walk from the car park to the entrance of Jack's Magazine.

Jack's Magazine is also accessible via the bike trail along the Maribyrnong River, and the trail is an easy and quick way to connect to Footscray train station. The 82 tram along Gordon Street and the 409 bus are the best public transport options.

What can/can't I bring to the event?

Supervised children and prams are welcome on the tour. Cameras are welcome and we love you to post your photos online. Bring drinking water if you like. Please leave the pets at home. There is strictly no smoking