Queenscliffe museum opens to limited numbers

THE Queenscliffe Historical Museum (QHM) has reopened in limited form elsewhere as work is set to start on its future home, the Queenscliffe Hub.

Access to the buildings in Hesse Street next to the post office is restricted, as demolition of the old museum has begun and construction of the new building is scheduled to begin mid-January.

The new hub is scheduled to open in early 2022, but the QHM will offer limited services in the tavern at 18 Hesse Street in the meantime.

QHM publicity officer Eddie Loughnan said visitors would need to observe the signs indicating the maximum number of people that may be present in different parts of the building as they move between areas.

“The research area has continued its operations throughout the pandemic and two postgraduate students from Monash University recently completed their study of the effect of the pandemic on life in the borough.

“Next month, the research area will welcome two new postgraduate students.”

The museum will open a small theatre early in 2021 and show heritage films with an emphasis on early days in the Borough. One new video will show the flight of a small Japanese spy plane that was housed on a submarine which surfaced off the coast. The plane flew over a large area of the coast as well as the fort in 1942.

Visitors will also be able to use an audio-visual touchscreen telling stories of the Borough’s history.

“Displays of old photographs will record early life in the borough and those still looking for Christmas presents could examine the Museum’s wide range of publications for sale,” Mr Loughnan said.

“Unfortunately, monthly talks will remain under suspension because the hall previously used is not taking bookings for numbers over 20.

“It is hoped that meetings and monthly talks will recommence as soon as possible early in the new year.”