Victoria’s history right on our doorstep

Just across the river in the WTC Wharf complex is a room that holds more historical significance than almost any other in Victoria.

The Victorian Police museum has an array of historical artefacts on show, from infamous objects, weird weapons and pictorial displays.

As Victoria Police Public program curator, Kate Spinks, puts it: “Every major event in Victoria’s history had some form of police presence.”

The obvious pull of the Kelly Gang story has pride of place in the museum, but it’s not the only law and order story that will capture your attention.

Probably Southbank Local News’ favourite display is the bizarre weapons that have been confiscated which include swords, a mace and even a vampire slaying kit.

Ms Spinks says the museum gives a great insight into the history of policing and crime in Victoria.

“The exhibition highlights the diversity of police work and using real evidence from major crimes, reveal the difficult and sometimes traumatic cases police confront,” Ms Spinks said.

Ms Spinks also pointed out that the police museum was not set up in the way a normal museum would be.

“The police museum is unique because for the most part, the objects in our collection were never intended for public display,” Ms Spinks said.

“From cutting edge policing technologies to forensic evidence from major crims, many items that form our collection were for specialist use and have never been seen by the public before.”

Some of those unique displays include Kelly gang armour, a car that had a bomb exploded inside it and weapons from various crimes.

These displays are just walking distance from Southbank, and as Ms Spinks said, it is a great opportunity to catch up with Victorian history.

“We hope that visitors will be surprised and inspired by the diverse stories our museum has to tell and that they will go away with a new appreciation for the history of police crime.”