J Ward Heritage Tour 2026
Location
Ararat Railway Station
Hosted by
About
Join us for a guided tour of J Ward, one of Australia’s most significant mental health heritage sites.
Built in the late 1860’s J Ward at the former Ararat Lunatic Asylum is a place of rich history and powerful stories. Your guide will share the experiences of those who lived, died and worked here, and explain how treatment and care have changed over time.
Explore the heritage buildings, learn about the asylum’s dark history the role in the community and hear stories that honour the resilience and contributions of so many.
The tour includes time to enjoy the beautiful gardens and grounds.
TOUR ITINERARY -------------------------------------------------------------------
TRAVELLING BY V/LINE TRAIN
Participants travelling from Melbourne can access the Victorian
Seniors Festival free travel offer and catch the following services:
7:53am Depart Melbourne Southern Cross Station
10:22am Arrive Ararat Railway Station
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J WARD HERITAGE TOUR
10:30am Board the bus at the Ararat Railway Station
11:00am – 12:30pm Guided tour of J Ward
12:45pm - Drop off at the Ararat Town Hall
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FREE TIME IN ARARAT
Enjoy free time to explore the town centre, visit local shops,
stroll through Alexandra Gardens, or purchase lunch at one
of Ararat’s cafes and eateries (lunch at own expense)
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RETURN JOURNEY
2:00pm - Pick up at Ararat Town Hall
2:10pm - Drop off at Ararat Railway Station
Participants returning to Melbourne can catch the following V/Line service:
2:28pm Depart Ararat Railway Station
5.17pm Arrive Melbourne Southern Cross Station
Don't forget to bring your Seniors Card!
This event is run by the Ararat & Grampians Visitor Information Centre
1800 657 158
tourinfo@ararat.vic.gov.au
Free to all Victorian Seniors Card Holders