Furneaux Museum

The Furneaux Museum is unique. It is devoted exclusively to the Furneaux Islands in the eastern Bass Strait, where some of Australia's earliest European history took place.

Shipwreck artifacts are a highlight, including an anchor from the 'Sydney Cove', wrecked on Preservation Island in 1797. There are many relics from other shipwrecks that occurred around the islands. The history of the 1840s Wybalenna settlement is recorded in the Aboriginal Room, where an exquisite collection of 100-year old traditional Aboriginal shell necklaces is displayed. The Mutton Bird Processing Hut gives an authentic glimpse into the island tradition of 'birding'. Other exhibits demonstrate the geology, fauna, shells, and early pioneering life of the islands. Over160 albums of photographs and documents cover almost all aspects of life in the Furneaux Islands from the past up to the present day.

The museum is operated by volunteers. It is open every afternoon in summer/autumn, weekends in winter/spring, and by appointment. Current opening hours can be found on the website or by phoning the museum at any time.

Admission is payable by cash or direct deposit (no cards).