Step Back in Time: National Trust Open Day at Tuggeranong Homestead

Posted on 29 April, 2025

Hidden historical gems, vintage tea sets, and a dash of military history — here’s why you won’t want to miss this year’s National Trust Open Day at Tuggeranong Homestead.

Each year, the National Trust (ACT) opens the doors to one of Canberra’s lesser-known heritage treasures, and on Saturday 3 May, Tuggeranong Homestead will take centre stage during the Heritage Festival.

Dating back to the 1800s, this beautifully preserved property isn’t just a relic of European settlement – it’s a site of significant Aboriginal heritage with over 25,000 years of history. Today, it functions as a working farm with climate-adapted cattle, free-range eggs and busy bees, while also serving as a sought-after wedding and events venue.

For just a gold coin donation, visitors can explore this ACT Heritage Register-listed property from 10 am to 2:30 pm. To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve rounded up our top five must-see highlights.

What Not to Miss

1. Royal Tea Experience

Perhaps the most exciting discovery at the Homestead is the recently unearthed Queen’s tea set — crockery specially made for Queen Elizabeth II’s 1954 visit when she officially opened the Australian War Memorial. Treat yourself to high tea in the Drawing Room using this historic royal china for a truly special cuppa!

2. Meet Award-Winning Journalist Ross Coulthart

Literary enthusiasts won’t want to miss Walkley Award-winning journalist Ross Coulthart discussing his Prime Minister’s History Literary Award-winning biography of Charles Bean at 11 am. Bean himself resided at the Homestead from 1919 to 1925 while writing the official history of World War I. Coulthart will share fascinating insights into Bean’s public narratives versus his private frontline diary records.

3. Vintage Fun for the Little Ones

Children will be delighted by MollyCoddle’s old-fashioned games including egg and spoon races, three-legged races, sack races and musical statues. Face painting, balloon artistry from Giggly Wiggly Balloons, and badge-making activities ensure the younger visitors will be thoroughly entertained.

4. WWI Military Re-enactors

History buffs should head straight for the military re-enactors in full World War I gear, commemorating Charles Bean’s connection to the property. Their authentic uniforms and equipment offer a tangible link to the era Bean documented in his famous wartime histories.

5. Forgotten Stories of the Limestone Plains

Don’t miss Rohan Goyne’s compelling presentation at 12 pm, where he shares the story of his great-great-grandfather Martin Pike, who was transported from Ireland to Australia 180 years ago and eventually became a shepherd at Tuggeranong. This remarkable journey from Irish rebellion to the Limestone Plains provides a personal connection to our region’s convict history.

But wait…there’s more!

Visitors can also enjoy demonstrations of historical engines and traditional lace-making, browse stalls from various heritage groups including the Canberra & District Historical Society and Family History ACT, or simply relax with a picnic on the grounds (BYO food, but no alcohol).

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, looking for a family-friendly day out, or simply curious about Canberra’s hidden heritage gems, the National Trust Open Day offers a perfect opportunity to connect with our region’s rich past.