Jack’s Magazine

Hidden behind earth-covered blast mounds on the banks of the Maribyrnong River, Jack’s Magazine is one of Victoria’s most atmospheric industrial heritage sites. Once used for the storage of gunpowder and explosives, this extraordinary 19th-century precinct now provides a unique backdrop for events, festivals, design markets and, from 2026, public open days and mid-week group tours.

Jack’s Magazine offers a rare combination of character, scale and flexibility. With expansive outdoor spaces, dramatic bluestone magazine chambers and secluded grounds, the site is ideally suited to:

• Festivals and large-scale events, such as indoor food and wine festivals, sustainable clothing markets, fashion runways and comedy festivals, can be hosted at Jack’s Magazine, which provides a one-of-a-kind setting unlike anywhere else in Victoria.

• Small functions and performances are ideal, including product launches, exhibitions, private functions, team-building sessions, panel discussions, intimate concerts and artistic performances, all supported by both indoor and outdoor vistas.

• Filming and photography for commercials, music videos and fashion shoots are enhanced by Jack’s Magazine’s dramatic interiors, long tunnels, stone-lined embankments and secluded setting, making it a sought-after location.

Venue hire and events brochure.

In 2026, Jack’s Magazine will open its doors more widely than ever before.

Experience the site’s extraordinary history up close as we welcome the public on select open days throughout the year. Visitors will be able to explore the magazines, tunnels and grounds at their own pace, guided by interpretive signage and staff.

Tickets are now available for our upcoming open day, “Unlock the Change at Jack’s”, taking place on 2 May 2026 as part of the Australian Heritage Festival. Please book tickets via Humanitix.

We will also offer pre-booked group tours, perfect for:

• Probus clubs
• Community and interest groups
• Historical societies
• Education and special-interest groups
• Membership organisations

Tours will provide an engaging look at the site’s origins, architecture and stories, revealing parts of Jack’s Magazine rarely seen by the public. Group tours and open days will be advertised on our website and social media.

Whether you're a young adult or retired, we’re looking for volunteers to help run Jack’s Magazine open days, tours and events in 2026. No experience needed just enthusiasm! Training is provided, and you can volunteer as much or as little as you like.

Interested in becoming a volunteer, venue hire or upcoming tour or open day dates? Contact Jo Beshara on [email protected].

Working Heritage acknowledges that the Jack’s Magazine site sits on the land traditionally owned by the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung peoples.