History and heritage
Celebrating 2021 International Women's Day and Women's History Month
Join us to explore the rich history, cultural heritage and untold stories of women in Port Phillip, past and present.
Tom Connors and his daughter, 1945
Through childhood eyes: hidden stories of World War Two
The following pages commemorate the 75th anniversary of the end of World War Two through local living memories that document how this war impacted young people in our City.
First Peoples local history and culture
The Yaluk-ut Weelam clan of the Boon Wurrung are the first people of the Port Phillip area. Find out more about First Peoples local history and culture within the City of Port Phillip.
Ngargee held on Emerald Hill (today the site of the South Melbourne Town Hall) in 1840. A corroboree on Emerald Hill in 1840, 1875, W. F. E. Liardet. Courtesy State Library of Victoria
William Archibald Paterson, Saltwater Lagoon from Sugar Works, 1873, PPCC
Histories of Port Phillip
Explore our many histories and share our diverse local heritage.
Port Phillip Heritage Centre and Local History services
The Port Phillip Heritage Centre provides access to historic records, collections, public programs and Local History research services.
Emerald Hill Library and Port Phillip Heritage Centre, 195 Banks Street, South Melbourne.
Finals, sand castle competition, 1937, PPCC
Things to do
Art and heritage programs have moved online while the Port Phillip Heritage Centre is temporarily closed to help limit the impact of COVID-19.
We have a range of online resources to explore your family history, local cultural and built heritage and more.
Cultural Heritage Reference Committee
The Cultural Heritage Reference Committee (CHRC) provides advice and feedback about cultural heritage and local history.
Boundary Rovers, Montague Football Club Team 1946
Sign up to the mailing list
Join our What's On mailing list for art and heritage programs and events.