Warracknabeal Court House

Working Heritage acknowledges that the Warracknabeal Court House played a role in the enforcement of the colonial expansion of Victoria which resulted in the dispossession and alienation of Country from its traditional owners from the Wotjobaluk Nations (now represented by the Barengi Gadjin Land Council). It is our intent to confront this reality and make genuine steps towards reconciliation.

The Warracknabeal Court House was constructed in 1890 after a population boom in the northwest of Victoria throughout the 1870s and 1880s. The building began life as a court of petty sessions and continued to function as a courthouse until 1989. At various times it also hosted the Lands and Survey Department, and, unusually, an Infant Welfare Service. More recently the Warracknabeal Historical Society used the building as a meeting space.

Working Heritage was appointed manager of the property in 2011 and has since partnered with Monash Art Design & Architecture, and Yarriamibiack Shire Council to creatively adapt the building to provide an artistic space for community use and enjoyment.

The building is being adapted to accommodate a range of uses including: 

• an Artist in Residence Program where selected artists are able to immerse themselves within the local community and create enduring artworks that respond to the distinctive environment and landscapes of Victoria’s Wimmera-Mallee country;
• commercial accommodation for the public visiting Warracknabeal and the region; and
• community uses primarily with an arts/creative focus.

• Follow us on social media for updates on events, exhibitions, and open days. Links are available at the bottom of the page.
• We currently have an EOI application open for the artist residency program, register your interest here.
• Warracknabeal Court House will soon be available for accommodation. Booking information will be shared on our social media channels.