Step inside the historic building in Melbourne and you’ll be greeted by Australia’s largest collection of firefighting memorabilia, including CFA exhibits dating back almost two centuries.
From horse-drawn appliances used in the 1800s, brass helmets from World War One used as makeshift firefighting headwear and valour medals won in the line of duty, to the most modern firefighting clothing and equipment, the museum charts the evolution of Victoria’s fire services.
The collection houses more than 10,000 items, proudly donated by brigades and the families of firefighters over many decades, preserving the legacy of the hundreds of thousands of members who have served and protected their communities.
Once the headquarters of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade, the original fire control centre that operated until 1984 remains frozen in time. The communication nerve centre can be viewed as it was when fire alarms alerted dispatchers to emergencies around Melbourne.
An iconic landmark, the National Trust-listed building features room after room of unique memorabilia, including historic uniforms, bells, photographs, insignia, equipment, flags, medals and other collectables, each with a story to tell.
The museum building began in 1972 as the MFB Headquarters Historical Society but, because of the size of the collection that includes a vast array of CFA memorabilia, it became the Fire Services Museum Victoria.
The museum is staffed by a dedicated team of volunteers (pictured bottom right), many former firefighters themselves, who are committed to preserving the history of firefighting.
“We ensure that the history and legacy of the fire services are preserved,” Museum President Tim Hughes said. “We want people to understand the evolution of firefighting, especially in Melbourne and country Victoria.”
The original Jamie Cooper ‘Spirit of CFA’ painting adorns one of the many display rooms, alongside a CFA tunic from 1890.
Some of CFA’s heritage fleet vehicles can be viewed in the museum, including a horse-drawn pumper from Traralgon Fire Brigade and the 1939 Dodge pumper, which are popular with visitors. Other CFA heritage fleet vehicles can be viewed by appointment at the Newport site on Champion Road.
These vehicles are used for CFA events including brigade open days, community events and Santa runs. The museum will also be participating in a joint display with Eastey Fire Trucks at the upcoming firefighter State Championships in Stawell.
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