HISTORICAL SYMBOLISM WITH MODERN TECHNIQUES

Honouring Ned Kelly’s legacy through architecture and creating a hub for a proud community, Glenrowan Ned Kelly is a monument to present and future growth.

GLENROWAN’S STORIED PAST

Glenrowan is forever tied to the story of Ned Kelly, one of Australia’s most infamous outlaws. The siege of June 1880 marked the culmination of Kelly’s defiance against colonial authority, a dramatic showdown that ended with his capture and the deaths of his gang. Despite its historical significance, many of the physical remnants of the siege—the railway station, Glenrowan Inn, and even Kelly’s iconic armour—have disappeared over time.

For years, visitors to the town encountered only dated reconstructions and scattered parklands amidst residential development.

Recognising the need for a fitting tribute, the Rural City of Wangaratta commissioned Content Studio to design a cultural heritage centre. Our goal was clear: to create a compelling reason for travellers to stop in Glenrowan, reconnect with its history, and explore the story of Kelly’s last stand.

DESIGN ROOTED IN HISTORY AND INNOVATION

Content Studio’s design for the Glenrowan Cultural Heritage Centre blends historical symbolism with modern architectural techniques. The centre’s defining feature is a circular lookout platform, its shape inspired by Ned Kelly’s iconic homemade helmet. A series of helices crafted from steel add a dynamic, twisting form to the structure. Steel was chosen for its strength, flexibility, and ability to handle the complex geometric design, while also referencing the gang’s armour.

Charred timber cladding wraps the building, evoking the burning of the Glenrowan Hotel during the siege. The charred surface not only resonates symbolically but also ensures sustainability by reducing maintenance needs over time. Stainless steel web mesh encloses the lookout, providing uninterrupted views of culturally significant sites while maintaining the structure’s openness.

AN IMMERSIVE HISTORICAL EXPERIENCE

The circular layout of the centre guides visitors through an interpretive journey developed by Convergence Design. At its heart is a bronze map highlighting key locations of the siege, offering context and insight into the events of 1880. Surrounding the structure, landscape design by Murphy Sinatra recreates the semi-cleared woodland that once characterized the railway paddocks. These elements work together to transport visitors back to the dramatic moments of Ned Kelly’s last stand.

A CATALYST FOR COMMUNITY AND TOURISM

The Glenrowan Cultural Heritage Centre is more than a nod to the past—it is a driver of present and future growth. Since its grand opening in August 2023, the centre has averaged 150 visitors daily, drawing travelers off the Hume Highway and into Glenrowan. The influx of tourists has bolstered local businesses, extended visitor stays, and reinvigorated the town’s economy.

Through thoughtful design and historical sensitivity, the Glenrowan Cultural Heritage Centre preserves the legacy of Ned Kelly while giving the local community a powerful new way to share their story.

By blending history, architecture, and tourism, the project ensures that Glenrowan remains a vital destination for generations to come.

View the Glenrowan Ned Kelly Project page >