10–11am and 1–2pmThis guided tour provides an excellent introduction to the Museum, exploring highlights from our permanent exhibition galleries.
The First Australians gallery is located on two levels and traces the experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, their spirituality, diversity, identity and survival.
The Landmarks gallery is located on two levels and features over 1500 objects. It explores Australian history since European settlement, through stories of Australian places from across the continent.
The Journeys gallery explores the fascinating journeys of people and objects that connect Australia to the world.
Take a guided tour with one of our hosts to learn about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, their history, culture and connection to country in our largest exhibition gallery.
Based on the popular television series, Bush Mechanics: The Exhibition is more than a showcase of old cars and clever repairs. It also explores the importance of the car in the outback and provides insights into the life and culture of the Warlpiri people of Central Australia.
Travel to Antarctica using the latest 360-degree virtual reality technology and follow in the footsteps of the scientists researching this mysterious continent. Bookings essential. Select your date and time at Eventbrite (booking fees apply)
Investigate the detail in the wonderful new model Antarctic icebreaker LEGO ship created by the Brickman, Ryan McNaught, and his team. The replica RSV Nuyina is 3.2 metres long and includes 117,612 bricks. On display in the Gandel Atrium.
Join Professor Matthew Spriggs to hear about the ancient DNA ‘revolution’ and how it is rapidly changing our understanding of past human movements. Genomic work on samples from the tropical world, by teams associated with the Australian National University and the Vanuatu Cultural Centre, present the possibility of answering a long-pondered question: where did Pacific Islanders originate from? Join Friends
Join Heidi Pritchard, Head of Lifelong Learning, for a special program of dinosaur delights featuring a storytime reading of Rod Campbell's Dinosaurs, a visit to the Muttaburrasaurus in the Gandel Atrium, and dinosaur craft activities. This program is for children under 5 and all children must be accompanied by an adult. Join Friends
The Paddle Steamer Enterprise is the oldest working Museum exhibit and is moored on Lake Burley Griffin. Come and see this beautifully restored boat. Listen to stories, as told by the volunteer crew, of a bygone era. Subject to crew availability and weather permitting.
This month’s book is Ochre and Rust: Artefacts and encounters on Australian frontiers by Philip Jones. Ochre and Rust takes nine artefacts from their museum shelves and positions them at the centre of some gripping, poignant tales that offer a fresh perspective on frontier relations between Aboriginal people and European colonists. Join Friends
Join our curators for a last look at some of the Journeys gallery's most popular objects and hear about the many and varied trips people have taken to and from Australia. Followed by coffee and cake in the Friends Lounge. Bookings essential. Join Friends
The National Museum of Australia acknowledges First Australians and recognises their continuous connection to country, community and culture.