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Como House and Gardens (South Yarra)

Enjoy the calm of an urban pleasure garden and historic house. Discover the story of Melbourne with a visit to Como House.

Known by many Melburnians as ‘the white house on the hill,’ Como overlooks the Birrurung (Yarra) river and is surrounded by a pleasure garden and community parkland.

Leila Armytage called her home ‘the last remaining oasis.’

Como is an atmospheric town mansion presented as a family home. The interiors reflect the tastes and style of the Armytages, who lived at Como for 95 years. It was the first house museum in Australia acquired with its contents of furniture, domestic technology and decorative arts. Como was a home but also a place of work, and the original servants’ quarters are preserved.

Built in 1847, Como House is an unusual mix of Australian Regency and classic Italianate architecture. The garden has retained many elements of its 1850s design.

Since colonisation, Como has changed with Melbourne, reflecting the booms and busts of Victoria’s history. This is the story you will hear on your visit.

Como House is located at the Corner of Williams Rd & Lechlade Ave, South Yarra

Opportunities Available

General Interest Registration

Volunteering with the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference while connecting with our rich heritage. Whether you’re passionate about history, nature, or community, there’s a role for you. From guiding visitors through iconic properties to supporting events, being involved in our gardens and landscape spaces, conservation projects, or assisting with administration, you’ll play a vital part in preserving and celebrating our cultural legacy. Join our vibrant community of volunteers and help us protect the stories of the past for future generations.

If there is not a current Volunteer opportunity available that interests please apply and our Staff will contact you to discuss what opportunity best suits you

Knowledge and Skills required :  

  • Experience is not always necessary 
  • Positive work ethic appreciated 

Volunteer Benefits include  

  • Social and community benefits 
  • Connection to meet people with similar interests and make new friends.  
  • Joining a community of volunteers, with regular meetings and opportunities for attendance at events and outings organised by NTAV.  
  • Chance to make a positive difference to our cultural heritage 

Training and skill development in: 

  • National Trust general induction for all volunteers. 
  • Site Induction by National Trust Staff member

You will be one of a team of experienced volunteers. The National Trust is a not for profit organisation that aims to conserve Australia’s history and heritage for present and future generations. 

As part of the application process, we will ask you to agree to register as a National Trust Volunteer.  Volunteers are may be required to have a current Working with Children’s Card (free for volunteers) and police check which you can apply for as part of the application process.  

Thank you for considering volunteering with us. We believe in inclusiveness, diversity, and equality and are committed to ensuring that our workplaces are a reflection of that. We encourage talented people from all backgrounds, abilities, and identities to apply to our vacancies. 

We promote diversity and practice equity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply. 
Continue...
Fill in an application

Geelong & Bellarine

Barwon Park Mansion

Barwon Park is an authentic bluestone mansion and stables set in a sweeping rural landscape. Visitors still marvel at the magnificent entrance hall and impressive room. The restored mansion and stables are also an ideal venue for weddings, photography and group functions.

Barwon Park is located at 105 Inverleigh Road, Winchelsea

Barwon Grange

The only surviving example of the many fashionable river front residences built along the Barwon River during the 1850s and 1860s for the wealthy of Geelong. The extensive library featured a ‘Cyclopaedia of Medicine’ and Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. The cellar was stocked with wine and spirits, the conservatory filled with plants, sculptures, a collection of coral and two canaries in brass cages.

Barwon Grange is located at 25 Fernleigh Street, Newton

The Heights Heritage Home & Garden

The Heights is the largest prefabricated house in Victoria and still retain many of its mid-nineteenth century charms. The stables, water tower, groom’s cottage and dovecote are all in original condition. The beautifully maintained gardens are a centrepiece of The Heights.

The Heights is located at 140 Aphrasia Street, Newtown

Opportunities Available

General Interest Registration

Volunteering with the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference while connecting with our rich heritage. Whether you’re passionate about history, nature, or community, there’s a role for you. From guiding visitors through iconic properties to supporting events, being involved in our gardens and landscape spaces, conservation projects, or assisting with administration, you’ll play a vital part in preserving and celebrating our cultural legacy. Join our vibrant community of volunteers and help us protect the stories of the past for future generations.

If there is not a current Volunteer opportunity available that interests please apply and our Staff will contact you to discuss what opportunity best suits you

Knowledge and Skills required :  

  • Experience is not always necessary . 
  • Positive work ethic appreciated 

Volunteer Benefits include  

  • Social and community benefits 
  • Connection to meet people with similar interests and make new friends.   
  • Joining a community of volunteers, with regular meetings and opportunities for attendance at events and outings organised by NTAV.  
  • Chance to make a positive difference to our cultural heritage 

Training and skill development in: 

  • National Trust general induction for all volunteers. 
  • Site Induction by National Trust Staff member

You will be one of a team of experienced volunteers. The National Trust is a not for profit organisation that aims to conserve Australia’s history and heritage for present and future generations. 

As part of the application process, we will ask you to agree to register as a National Trust Volunteer.  Volunteers are may be required to have a current Working with Children’s Card (free for volunteers) and police check which you can apply for as part of the application process.  

Thank you for considering volunteering with us. We believe in inclusiveness, diversity, and equality and are committed to ensuring that our workplaces are a reflection of that. We encourage talented people from all backgrounds, abilities, and identities to apply to our vacancies. 

We promote diversity and practice equity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply. 
Continue...
Fill in an application

Gulf Station (Yarra Glen)

Established in the 1850s, Gulf Station was farmed for nearly 100 years by the Bell family.

Gulf Station is one of the oldest and most intact examples of a pioneer farm complex in Australia. Wander around the property’s homestead and outbuildings and be transported into the domestic life of a rural colonial family where a mother’s word was law. Guided tours take place at 11.30am on open days (other times may be available) or enjoy a self-guided tour.

Scottish settlers Agnes and William Bell were the first to lease the land where the property was established. From the 1850s to the 1950s, Gulf Station supplied produce to gold miners of the district. The National Trust acquired stewardship of the property in 1976 and restored its buildings and cottage garden.

Gulf Station is located at 1029 Melba Highway, Yarra Glen

Opportunities Available

General Interest Registration

Volunteering with the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference while connecting with our rich heritage. Whether you’re passionate about history, nature, or community, there’s a role for you. From guiding visitors through iconic properties to supporting events, being involved in our gardens and landscape spaces, conservation projects, or assisting with administration, you’ll play a vital part in preserving and celebrating our cultural legacy. Join our vibrant community of volunteers and help us protect the stories of the past for future generations.

If there is not a current Volunteer opportunity available that interests please apply and our Staff will contact you to discuss what opportunity best suits you

Knowledge and Skills required :  

  • Experience is not always necessary 
  • Some knowledge and enjoyment of routine gardening practices is desirable but not essential.  
  • Positive work ethic appreciated 

Volunteer Benefits include  

  • Social and community benefits 
  • Connection to meet people with similar interests and make new friends.   
  • Joining a community of volunteers, with regular meetings and opportunities for attendance at events and outings organised by NTAV.  
  • Chance to make a positive difference to our cultural heritage 

Training and skill development in: 

  • National Trust general induction for all volunteers. 
  • Site Induction by National Trust Staff member

You will be one of a team of experienced volunteers. The National Trust is a not for profit organisation that aims to conserve Australia’s history and heritage for present and future generations. 

As part of the application process, we will ask you to agree to register as a National Trust Volunteer.  Volunteers are may be required to have a current Working with Children’s Card (free for volunteers) and police check which you can apply for as part of the application process.  

Thank you for considering volunteering with us. We believe in inclusiveness, diversity, and equality and are committed to ensuring that our workplaces are a reflection of that. We encourage talented people from all backgrounds, abilities, and identities to apply to our vacancies. 

We promote diversity and practice equity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply. 
Continue...
Fill in an application

Labassa Mansion (Caulfield)

From mansion to tenement, Labassa is a rare survival of nineteenth century splendour

Labassa is an exuberantly decorated high Victorian mansion.

Its vibrant history continued well into the twentieth century as home to a silent movie star, artists and bohemians. 

The interiors are a treasure of ornamental decoration with lavish Japanese wallpapers, ornate stained glass and a rare trompe l’oeil ceiling.  

Redeveloped in the French Second Empire style by German-born architect, John A. B. Koch, for owner Alexander William Robertson, the house was remodelled in 1889 into a thirty-five roomed mansion with views across Port Philip Bay.  The tower is open to small tour groups on open days. 

Converted into flats in the 1920s, it functioned as a tenement until 1980. From housing post-war European immigrant families in the 1950s to the psychedelic haze of the 60s and 70s counterculture, Labassa’s diverse history is ready for you to discover. 

Labassa Mansion is located at 2 Manor Grove, Caulfield North

Opportunities Available

General Interest Registration

Volunteering with the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference while connecting with our rich heritage. Whether you’re passionate about history, nature, or community, there’s a role for you. From guiding visitors through iconic properties to supporting events, being involved in our gardens and landscape spaces, conservation projects, or assisting with administration, you’ll play a vital part in preserving and celebrating our cultural legacy. Join our vibrant community of volunteers and help us protect the stories of the past for future generations.

If there is not a current Volunteer opportunity available that interests please apply and our Staff will contact you to discuss what opportunity best suits you

Knowledge and Skills required :  

  • Experience is not always necessary 
  • Positive work ethic appreciated 

Volunteer Benefits include  

  • Social and community benefits 
  • Connection to meet people with similar interests and make new friends.    
  • Joining a community of volunteers, with regular meetings and opportunities for attendance at events and outings organised by NTAV.  
  • Chance to make a positive difference to our cultural heritage 

Training and skill development in: 

  • National Trust general induction for all volunteers. 
  • Site Induction by National Trust Staff member

You will be one of a team of experienced volunteers. The National Trust is a not for profit organisation that aims to conserve Australia’s history and heritage for present and future generations. 

As part of the application process, we will ask you to agree to register as a National Trust Volunteer.  Volunteers are may be required to have a current Working with Children’s Card (free for volunteers) and police check which you can apply for as part of the application process.  

Thank you for considering volunteering with us. We believe in inclusiveness, diversity, and equality and are committed to ensuring that our workplaces are a reflection of that. We encourage talented people from all backgrounds, abilities, and identities to apply to our vacancies. 

We promote diversity and practice equity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply. 
Continue...
Fill in an application

Mornington Peninsula

The National Trust of Australia (Victoria) proudly manages several remarkable properties that allow visitors to step back in time and explore our shared heritage.  

 

Mulberry Hill

 

Nestled amidst the serene landscapes of Langwarrin, Mulberry Hill stands as a testament to the creative legacy of artist Sir Daryl Lindsay and author Lady Joan Lindsay. This charming property was their home for over four decades and served as an inspiring backdrop for their artistic pursuits. From Sir Daryl’s captivating artworks to Lady Joan’s iconic novel, “Picnic at Hanging Rock,” the house and gardens of Mulberry Hill echo with the enchanting spirit of Australian art and literature. 

 

Mulberry Hill is located at 385 Golf Links Road, Langwarrin South. 

 

McCrae Homestead

 

Step into the pages of history at McCrae Homestead, one of the oldest surviving houses in Victoria. Built by Andrew and Georgiana McCrae in the mid-19th century, this charming cottage reflects the challenges and triumphs of early settlers. Explore the period rooms, and discover the intriguing stories of the McCrae family, whose legacy endures in this historic gem. 

The Visitor’s Centre, located on the property, features galleries which showcase the McCrae’s art, memorabilia and the photography, artefacts and objects from the families who live at the homestead. 

 

McCrae Homestead is located at 11 Beverley Road, McCrae

 

Endeavour Fern Gully

 

For those seeking a deeper connection with nature and history, Endeavour Fern Gully is a must-visit. Wander around serene creeks, towering trees, and an abundance of flora and fauna unique to this part of the Mornington Peninsular. Here, history and nature intertwine to create a serene and educational experience. 

 

The 2 km loop walking track takes around 30 – 40 minutes, with interpretive signage to explore along the path. 

 

Endeavour Fern Gully is located at 195 Arthurs Seat Road

General Interests

General Interest Registration Mulberry Hill

Volunteering with the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference while connecting with our rich heritage. Whether you’re passionate about history, nature, or community, there’s a role for you. From guiding visitors through iconic properties to supporting events, being involved in our gardens and landscape spaces, conservation projects, or assisting with administration, you’ll play a vital part in preserving and celebrating our cultural legacy. Join our vibrant community of volunteers and help us protect the stories of the past for future generations.

If there is not a current Volunteer opportunity available that interests please apply and our Staff will contact you to discuss what opportunity best suits you

Knowledge and Skills required :  

  • Experience is not always necessary  
  • Positive work ethic appreciated 

Volunteer Benefits include  

  • Social and community benefits 
  • Connection to meet people with similar interests and make new friends.   
  • Joining a community of volunteers, with regular meetings and opportunities for attendance at events and outings organised by NTAV.  
  • Chance to make a positive difference to our cultural heritage 

Training and skill development in: 

  • National Trust general induction for all volunteers. 
  • Site Induction by National Trust Staff member

You will be one of a team of experienced volunteers. The National Trust is a not for profit organisation that aims to conserve Australia’s history and heritage for present and future generations. 

As part of the application process, we will ask you to agree to register as a National Trust Volunteer.  Volunteers are may be required to have a current Working with Children’s Card (free for volunteers) and police check which you can apply for as part of the application process.  

Thank you for considering volunteering with us. We believe in inclusiveness, diversity, and equality and are committed to ensuring that our workplaces are a reflection of that. We encourage talented people from all backgrounds, abilities, and identities to apply to our vacancies. 

We promote diversity and practice equity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply. 
Continue...

General Interest Registration McCrae

Volunteering with the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference while connecting with our rich heritage. Whether you’re passionate about history, nature, or community, there’s a role for you. From guiding visitors through iconic properties to supporting events, being involved in our gardens and landscape spaces, conservation projects, or assisting with administration, you’ll play a vital part in preserving and celebrating our cultural legacy. Join our vibrant community of volunteers and help us protect the stories of the past for future generations.

If there is not a current Volunteer opportunity available that interests please apply and our Staff will contact you to discuss what opportunity best suits you

Knowledge and Skills required :  

  • Experience is not always necessary 
  • Positive work ethic appreciated 

Volunteer Benefits include  

  • Social and community benefits 
  • Connection to meet people with similar interests and make new friends.    
  • Joining a community of volunteers, with regular meetings and opportunities for attendance at events and outings organised by NTAV.  
  • Chance to make a positive difference to our cultural heritage 

Training and skill development in: 

  • National Trust general induction for all volunteers. 
  • Site Induction by National Trust Staff member

You will be one of a team of experienced volunteers. The National Trust is a not for profit organisation that aims to conserve Australia’s history and heritage for present and future generations. 

As part of the application process, we will ask you to agree to register as a National Trust Volunteer.  Volunteers are may be required to have a current Working with Children’s Card (free for volunteers) and police check which you can apply for as part of the application process.  

Thank you for considering volunteering with us. We believe in inclusiveness, diversity, and equality and are committed to ensuring that our workplaces are a reflection of that. We encourage talented people from all backgrounds, abilities, and identities to apply to our vacancies. 

We promote diversity and practice equity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply. 
Continue...
Fill in an application

National Trust Head Office (East Melbourne)

The head office of the National Trust of Australia (Victoria)

One of the finest examples of a nineteenth-century three-storey terrace house in Australia, Tasma Terrace was built in 1879 for wealthy grain merchant George Nipper as a stylish guest house and family home. Facing demolition and replacement with hi-rise towers in 1970, this beautiful and unique building was saved through the advocacy of the National Trust.

Tasma Terrace now houses the head office of the National Trust of Australia (Victoria), a gallery space, and a number of period decorated meeting and function rooms.

The National Trust Head Office is located at 6 Parliament Place, East Melbourne

Opportunities Available

General Interest Registration

Volunteering with the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference while connecting with our rich heritage. Whether you’re passionate about history, nature, or community, there’s a role for you. From guiding visitors through iconic properties to supporting events, being involved in our gardens and landscape spaces, conservation projects, or assisting with administration, you’ll play a vital part in preserving and celebrating our cultural legacy. Join our vibrant community of volunteers and help us protect the stories of the past for future generations.

If there is not a current Volunteer opportunity available that interests please apply and our Staff will contact you to discuss what opportunity best suits you

Knowledge and Skills required :  

  • Experience is not always necessary  
  • Positive work ethic appreciated 

Volunteer Benefits include  

  • Social and community benefits 
  • Connection to meet people with similar interests and make new friends.  .  
  • Joining a community of volunteers, with regular meetings and opportunities for attendance at events and outings organised by NTAV.  
  • Chance to make a positive difference to our cultural heritage 

Training and skill development in: 

  • National Trust general induction for all volunteers. 
  • Site Induction by National Trust Staff member

You will be one of a team of experienced volunteers. The National Trust is a not for profit organisation that aims to conserve Australia’s history and heritage for present and future generations. 

As part of the application process, we will ask you to agree to register as a National Trust Volunteer.  Volunteers are may be required to have a current Working with Children’s Card (free for volunteers) and police check which you can apply for as part of the application process.  

Thank you for considering volunteering with us. We believe in inclusiveness, diversity, and equality and are committed to ensuring that our workplaces are a reflection of that. We encourage talented people from all backgrounds, abilities, and identities to apply to our vacancies. 

We promote diversity and practice equity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply. 
Continue...

General Interest YOUTH Registration

Are you aged between 13  to under 18 and looking for a way to get involved, give back, and gain new skills? Volunteering with the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) is a great way for young people to connect with history, the environment, and the community—while having fun and making a real impact.

Whether you're interested in heritage, gardens, storytelling, events, or behind-the-scenes support, there are age-appropriate opportunities for you to get involved. You might help at open days, assist with tours or activities, support gardening teams, or lend a hand with creative projects and administration.

Youth volunteering is a chance to:

  • Learn valuable skills and build confidence

  • Meet new people and be part of a welcoming team

  • Gain experience that looks great on job or uni applications

  • Help preserve our shared stories for future generations

We welcome young volunteers and work with schools, community groups, and families to create meaningful, roles that inspire a love for heritage and volunteering. The National Trust is a child safe organisation with all our staff and volunteers having the appropriate up to date compliance checks in place. 

Join us and become a young custodian of the past—shaping a better future.

Knowledge and Skills required :  

  • Experience is not always necessary  
  • Positive work ethic appreciated 

Volunteer Benefits include  

  • Social and community benefits 
  • Connection to meet people with similar interests and make new friends.  .  
  • Joining a community of volunteers, with regular meetings and opportunities for attendance at events and outings organised by NTAV.  
  • Chance to make a positive difference to our cultural heritage 

Training and skill development in: 

  • National Trust general induction for all volunteers. 
  • Site Induction by National Trust Staff member

To qualify as a Youth Volunteer with the NTAV you must be under 18 years of age.  
Individuals who are 12 years of age or younger must be accompanied by a carer whilst volunteering, who is also a registered NTAV volunteer and provide written consent from their guardian.  Individuals who are aged between 13-17 years of age are eligible to volunteer having provided written guardian consent.  

Thank you for considering volunteering with us. We believe in inclusiveness, diversity, and equality and are committed to ensuring that our workplaces are a reflection of that. We encourage talented people from all backgrounds, abilities, and identities to apply to our vacancies. 

We promote diversity and practice equity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply. 

 

Continue...

2025 Vintage Clothing Sale Support Volunteers

Love Vintage? Join us and help at the iconic Vintage Clothing Sale being held at Abbotsford Convent this March! The National Trust of Australia (Victoria) are seeking a Volunteers to support our core Volunteering Team  in the lead up to and across the sale 22nd and 23rd march 2025.   

Volunteer activities could include: 

  • Attend weekly working bees at Rippon Lea as clothing and items are prepared for the Sale. 
  • Attend at the Convent in the immediate weekdays in the lead up to the Sale Weekend. 
  • Assist with Front of House, Clothing redistribution, Dressing Room, Cashier duties, and many more practical and helpful roles. 
  • Be supported and work co-operatively with other volunteers and immerse ourself in one in an important NTAV fundraiser
  • Tasks can vary depending on the day,

Knowledge and Skills required :  

  • Experience is not always necessary 
  • Positive work ethic appreciated 

Volunteer Benefits include  

  • Social and community benefits 
  • Connection to meet people with similar interests and make new friends.  
  • Joining a community of volunteers, with regular meetings and opportunities for attendance at events and outings organised by NTAV.  
  • Chance to make a positive difference to our cultural heritage 

You will be one of a team of experienced volunteers. The National Trust is a not for profit organisation that aims to conserve Australia’s history and heritage for present and future generations. 

As part of the application process, we will ask you to agree to register as a National Trust Volunteer. 
Volunteers for the Vintage Sale ARE NOT required to have a current Working with Children’s Card or a police check. 

If this sounds like you (or someone you know), please get in touch for more information volunteers@nattrust.com.au and please share this with your networks. 

Thank you for considering volunteering with us. We believe in inclusiveness, diversity, and equality and are committed to ensuring that our workplaces are a reflection of that. We encourage talented people from all backgrounds, abilities, and identities to apply to our vacancies. 

We promote diversity and practice equity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply. 

 

Continue...

2025-2026 Vintage Sale Essential Volunteers

 

Volunteer Opportunity: Help Continue Our Iconic Vintage Clothing Sale!

For 15 years, a dedicated and inspiring group of women have collected, mended, and sold vintage apparel, accessories, and objects—raising invaluable funds for the National Trust of Australia (Victoria).This admired team is now retiring, and we are seeking expressions of interest from passionate volunteers who would love to carry forward this cherished tradition. If you have an knowledge of  fashion brands, vintage fashion, sustainable fashion, retail, or community fundraising, we’d love to hear from you!

Join us in ensuring this Iconic Vintage Clothing Sale continues for another 15 years.

 Volunteer activities could include : 

  • Actively interact with NTAV staff to ensure constant flow of donated items 
  • Attend weekly working bees at Rippon Lea as clothing and items are prepared for the Sale. 
  • Possibly attend donation pickups to curate our items 
  • Attend Abbotsford Convent in the immediate weekdays in the lead up to the Sale Weekend. 
  • Be supported and work co-operatively with other volunteers and immerse ourself in an important NTAV fundraiser
  • Tasks can vary depending on the day, week and season
  • And many more practical, essential roles,  and helpful roles. 

Knowledge and Skills required :  

  • Experience is not always necessary 
  • An interest in fashion, clothing, antiques and sustainable clothing practice is desirable
  • Positive work ethic appreciated 

Volunteer Benefits include  

  • Social and community benefits 
  • Connection to meet people with similar interests and make new friends.  
  • Joining a community of volunteers, with regular meetings and opportunities for attendance at events and outings organised by NTAV.  
  • Chance to make a positive difference to our cultural heritage 

You will be one of a team of experienced volunteers.
The National Trust is a not for profit organisation that aims to conserve Australia’s history and heritage for present and future generations. 

As part of the application process, we will ask you to agree to register as a National Trust Volunteer. 
Volunteers for the Core Vintage Sale Team ARE required to have a current Working with Children’s Card (Free for Volunteers) or a police check ( discounted with our community code). 

If this sounds like you (or someone you know), please get in touch by filling in an application or contacting volunteers@nattrust.com.au and please share this with your networks. 

Thank you for considering volunteering with us. We believe in inclusiveness, diversity, and equality and are committed to ensuring that our workplaces are a reflection of that. We encourage talented people from all backgrounds, abilities, and identities to apply to our vacancies. 

We promote diversity and practice equity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply. 

 

Continue...
Fill in an application

Rippon Lea Estate

Rippon Lea is a large 19th century mansion surrounded by 7 hectares of Victorian pleasure gardens. It is listed on the National Heritage Register as one of the finest examples of original suburban estate in Australia.

The house was completed in 1868. It was built for Frederick Sargood. Sargood made his money selling soft-goods on the goldfields. The house is named after his mother’s maiden-name, Rippon. Lea is an English word for meadow. The property was a large, self-sufficient farm, about twice the size it is now. The mansion was originally 15 rooms; it currently has 33 rooms. Sargood moved in with his first wife, Marian, and their 9 surviving children. There were 7 maids, a butler, 7 gardeners, a coachman and a groom.

Sargood was a typical man of the Victorian Age – visionary and practical. This resulted in an elaborate underground watering system and the house having its own electricity supply. Unusually for its time, the house had internal toilets. Sargood was a keen gardener who was particularly interested in orchids and ferns. A large number of plants were imported.

The garden is complex and covers almost 14 acres, which includes a large lake, extensive shrubberies and flower gardens, an orchard of historically significant fruit varieties, a fernery, rose gardens and many other features of historical, landscape and architectural interest, all forming the setting for the polychrome brick mansion completed in 1868.

Rippon Lea Estate is located at 192 Hotham Street, Elsternwick 

Opportunities Available

General Interest Registration

Volunteering with the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference while connecting with our rich heritage. Whether you’re passionate about history, nature, or community, there’s a role for you. From guiding visitors through iconic properties to supporting events, being involved in our gardens and landscape spaces, conservation projects, or assisting with administration, you’ll play a vital part in preserving and celebrating our cultural legacy. Join our vibrant community of volunteers and help us protect the stories of the past for future generations.

If there is not a current Volunteer opportunity available that interests please apply and our Staff will contact you to discuss what opportunity best suits you

Knowledge and Skills required :  

  • Experience is not always necessary 
  • Positive work ethic appreciated 

Volunteer Benefits include  

  • Social and community benefits 
  • Connection to meet people with similar interests and make new friends.   
  • Joining a community of volunteers, with regular meetings and opportunities for attendance at events and outings organised by NTAV.  
  • Chance to make a positive difference to our cultural heritage 

Training and skill development in: 

  • National Trust general induction for all volunteers. 
  • Site Induction by National Trust Staff member

You will be one of a team of experienced volunteers. The National Trust is a not for profit organisation that aims to conserve Australia’s history and heritage for present and future generations. 

As part of the application process, we will ask you to agree to register as a National Trust Volunteer.  Volunteers are may be required to have a current Working with Children’s Card (free for volunteers) and police check which you can apply for as part of the application process.  

Thank you for considering volunteering with us. We believe in inclusiveness, diversity, and equality and are committed to ensuring that our workplaces are a reflection of that. We encourage talented people from all backgrounds, abilities, and identities to apply to our vacancies. 

We promote diversity and practice equity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply. 
Continue...

AUSLAN Guide Support

Be part of something special at this year’s Botanica Festival , a sustainability festival being held at Rippon Lea Estate. You can help make our garden tours more accessible and inclusive for everyone. The National Trust of Australia (Victoria) is seeking volunteers to support our Volunteer garden tour guides by providing AUSLAN interpretation during guided walks. This is a meaningful opportunity to connect with community, support accessibility, and spend a day immersed in the beauty of one of Victoria’s treasured heritage gardens. The National Trust is a not for profit organisation that aims to conserve Australia’s history and heritage for present and future generations. We operate with a volunteer board, small team of paid staff and a large cohort of volunteers. 

 

Volunteer activities could include: 

Assisting with garden tours during the Botanica Festival
Supporting the delivery of  the tour with AUSLAN
Working as part of a friendly, inclusive festival team

Knowledge and Skills required :  

  • Familiarity with AUSLAN is necessary  
  • Some knowledge and enjoyment of gardens is desirable but not essential.  
  • Ability to support public facing events 
  • Willingness to work outdoors and be active walking on your feet for minimum of 1 -2 hours 
  • Positive work ethic appreciated 

Volunteer Benefits include  

  • Contribution to a more inclusive and accessible public event

  • Be part of a beautiful heritage garden event

  • Meet like-minded people who care about community, accessibility, and culture

  • Gain experience supporting public programming and events

  • Joining a community of volunteers, with regular meetings and opportunities for attendance at events and outings organised by NTAV.  

  • Chance to make a positive difference to our cultural heritage 

Training and skill development in: 

  • National Trust general induction for all volunteers. 
  • Site Induction by Event Coordinator. 

You will be one of a team of  volunteers. 

As part of the application process, we will ask you to agree to register as a National Trust Volunteer by filling in an application here. 
Volunteers are required to have a current Working with Children’s Card (free for volunteers) and police check which you can apply for as part of the application process.  

Thank you for considering volunteering with us.
We believe in inclusiveness, diversity, and equality and are committed to ensuring that our workplaces are a reflection of that. We encourage talented people from all backgrounds, abilities, and identities to apply to our vacancies. 
We promote diversity and practice equity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply. 

 

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