Churchill Island Heritage Farm, Phillip Island

Churchill Island was established as a European settlement over 200 years ago. It was Victoria's first "farm" and the first European building was erected here, although the exact location of the building has been lost in time.

Rogers Cottage, Churchill Island Heritage Farm, Phillip Island

Today Churchill Island is a historic working farm with it's restored 19th century homesteads, cottages and outbuildings. Set amongst beautiful gardens and with a well stocked vegetable garden at the back the property it is listed by the National Trust appears on the National Estate and Victorian Heritage Register.

The Stables, Churchill Island Heritage Farm, Phillip Island

Visitors can wander around the grounds that are set on the high point of the 57 hectare island. There are working stables where you can, if your timing is right, see the majestic Clydesdales being groomed and shod. They also have demonstrations of their sheep being shorn, the cow being milked a whip cracking exhibition, the blacksmith at work, and more.

The highlight is wandering though the buildings that have been fully restored to their original condition. See how our original settlers, albeit those from the more well to do end of town, would have lived. If you're lucky, you'll run into Hildegard who will be more than happy to describe the history of the various rooms and features. Her enthusiasm and knowledge bring the homestead alive.

A Clydesdale Being Shod, Churchill Island Heritage Farm, Phillip Island