Our Stories: Unearthed was a free one-day event at historic Mount Martha House. Discover hidden stories, connect with the Mornington Peninsula’s heritage, and inspire future preservation.
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Hidden Histories come to light at ‘Our Stories: Unearthed’
Sunday 18 May, the Mornington Peninsula’s past came alive at the historic Mount Martha House during Our Stories: Unearthed — a free celebration of heritage, creativity, and community. The event welcomed hundreds of visitors eager to explore untold stories, connect with local history, and experience a taste of past traditions.
Held as part of the 2024 National Trust Australian Heritage Festival, the event invited locals and visitors alike to uncover the Peninsula’s rich and layered past through exhibitions, expert talks, workshops, and live performances.
The atmosphere buzzed with curiosity as attendees had their family heirlooms professionally valued, explored fascinating displays from the Mount Martha House collection, and admired exhibits curated by our local historical societies. Visitors of all ages were drawn to creative workshops, including floristry and decoupage, and enjoyed Devonshire tea in the beautifully reimagined Coffee Palace.
One of the day’s most exciting surprises came during the heirloom valuations, when a visitor’s antique coffee pot was estimated to be worth over $6,000 — a wonderful reminder that our personal histories can hold remarkable treasures.
Actor Annie Laurenson, a dynamic talent from the Mornington Peninsula Theatre Company, brought Madame Etzensberger to life with charm and flair. Her captivating performance transported guests back to the early 1900’s, sharing the vibrant stories and rich history of Mount Martha House.
Other highlights included a series of engaging talks from the National Trust, Digger Club, and other passionate presenters; plein air painting out on the lawn; and a soul-stirring jazz set from the Royal Australian Navy Band Acoustic Group, which filled the venue with music from another era.
The success of Our Stories: Unearthed is a testament to the community’s deep interest in heritage and our Shire’s commitment to preserving and sharing local stories.
Quotes from the day:
“Amazing! Grateful for the opportunity, I learnt too much! Thank you so much”
“Congratulations on the presentation and variety of all activities. The hosts were very helpful to all people looking for workshops/rooms. All signage great. THANK YOU ALL!”
“Chanced upon the event, felt it was a delightful surprise and enjoyed my afternoon here. Great use of the house.”
“I learnt so much! It was wonderful. Thank you.”
“Fabulous day. Loved the displays and the coffee house and violins.”
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Highlights:
- Have your treasured objects professionally valued.
- Browse displays from the Mount Martha House collection.
- Exhibits by local historical societies.
- Fascinating talks throughout the day.
- Join a creative decoupage or floristry workshop.
- Delight in Devonshire tea in the reimagined Coffee Palace.
- Jazz from the Royal Australian Navy Band Acoustic Group.
- Admire films from our past.
- 'Plein Air' painting out on the lawn.
Download the full program: OUR_Stories_Unearthed_May25_FullProgram.pdf(PDF, 10MB)