Royal Exhibition Building

Built in 1880, the Royal Exhibition Building is beautiful inside and out—a true landmark of Melbourne.

Wartime stories from the Royal Exhibition Building

During World War II, the building was occupied by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), as a barracks and training base.

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Celebrating 140 years of a Melbourne Icon

The World Heritage listed Royal Exhibition Building has been a leading character in the story of Melbourne for 140 years.

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Royal Exhibition Building and protection project

Opening in 2021, the REB is undergoing conservation works. Read about the project here.

Royal Exhibition Building respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Country on which we stand, and we pay our respects to First Peoples across Victoria and Australia.

Language – Boon Wurrung and Woi Wurrung

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Stories

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Uncovering the Exhibition Building's secret WWII stories

Untold war stories revealed.

Dutch oil painting - 'Roses', Still Life, by Geraldine Jacoba Van De Sande Bakhuyzen, circa 1880.

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Visions of Colonial Grandeur

Explore the history of Melbourne's International Exhibitions through the stunning art collection of 19th-century businessman John Twycross.

A water colour painting and artist impression of the Royal Exhibition Building from 1880

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Royal Exhibition Building Collection

The Collection of more than 5,000 objects reflects all aspects of the building's history.

George, June & Brian Foster at the Migrant Reception Centre, Royal Exhibition Building, June 1955.

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Lecture: If These Walls Could Talk

Senior Curator Michelle Stevenson tells some lesser-known stories from Royal Exhibition Building.

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Wartime stories from the Royal Exhibition Building

During World War II, the building was occupied by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), as a barracks and training base.

Photograph - Federation Celebrations, 'Landing of Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and York', Melbourne 6th May 1901

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Federation Celebrations in May 1901

Celebrations focused on Melbourne, where the first Federal Parliament was opened in the (Royal) Exhibition Building.

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A girl posing amongst illustrations of spaceships and stars.

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