Learn with us

School holiday programs

We host hands-on, low cost and fun activities during the school holidays.

Our next school holiday program is on Wednesday 30 September 2026 see details below.

Fintastic Fun

School Holiday Art Workshop

10.30–11.30am
Wednesday 30 September 2026

Join Arts Educator Jennifer Latch for a fun, hands-on workshop inspired by Robert Liston’s fish sculptures. Create your own marine creature from all sorts of materials to take home.  

Suitable for children 6–12 years of age.
Discover the joy of making things.
Cost: $5 per child.

Limited places – please book online using the button below or call the Gallery on 5461 6600.

Children must be accompanied by a carer (you will enjoy it too!).
 
Bookings required, as places are limited.

BOOK ONLINE BELOW

Public programs

Art Talks

We regularly host Art Talks in conjunction with U3A Maryborough Inc.

ART TALK: Marvellous Melbourne and Marvellous Maryborough

An Illustrated Talk by Kenneth W. Park

1:30pm on Saturday 31 October 2026

There would be no "Marvellous Melbourne" without the Victorian gold rush – and no gold rush without towns like Maryborough.

Gold was discovered in the Maryborough district in 1854, triggering a rush that transformed the region almost overnight. Thousands flocked to the goldfields and, within a few years, Maryborough had become one of Victoria's most prosperous inland centres. The wealth extracted from the district's rich alluvial and quartz goldfields flowed into Melbourne, helping to finance the rapid growth of the colony's capital.

As gold wealth accumulated, Melbourne was transformed from a modest colonial settlement into one of the world's most admired cities. By the 1880s, it was celebrated internationally for its grand public buildings, elegant boulevards, cultural institutions and architectural ambition. British journalist George Augustus Sala famously dubbed it "Marvellous Melbourne" in 1885, capturing the confidence and prosperity of a city built on gold.

Yet the story of Melbourne's success can also be read in the streets of Maryborough. The prosperity generated by the goldfields funded not only Melbourne's development, but also the construction of impressive architecture in Maryborough such as the magnificent railway station, grand courthouse, post office and other heritage buildings.

In this richly illustrated presentation, Kenneth W. Park explores the art, architecture and cultural legacy of both Marvellous Melbourne and Marvellous Maryborough.

Kenneth is uniquely placed to tell this story. A respected curator, presenter, writer and tour leader he has lectured at every state art gallery in Australia. Renowned for his engaging presentation style and ability to bring history to life through images and storytelling, Kenneth combines scholarship with enthusiasm, making complex historical themes accessible, entertaining and memorable.

Join us for a fascinating journey through a golden age that changed Victoria forever, and discover why the story of Marvellous Melbourne begins in places like Marvellous Maryborough.

Presented as part of the Victorian Seniors Festival.

Cost: $10 General Admission, $8 for Concession & Seniors Card holders. Refreshments provided.

Bookings essential: Book online here
or call the Gallery on 03 5461 6600

Guided tours and talks

The Gallery welcome groups for guided tours and talks. These sessions may be offered outside of opening hours if required.

Education

We offer education programs for early years, primary school, secondary and tertiary students and community groups. The programs are linked to the Victorian Government Early Year’s Development and Education Framework for kindergarten children and our school-based program is linked to school curriculum.