History Centre

Every Thursday 10am-4pm. Walk-in or by appointment.

Our collection of more than 40,000 photographs and objects has grown from the generous donations of the Holdfast Bay Community and our extensive Civic Collections from the former Glenelg and Brighton Councils. You will discover objects, textiles, paintings, and photographs that reflect Holdfast Bay's unique history.

Follow the link below and use the search instructions to begin.

The City of Holdfast Bay’s History Collection provides access to a range of research materials including its vast catalogue. Volunteers can help you with general research, including; family, war-related research, property, or house history.

Submit the relevant form to begin your research journey.
Please note, the estimated turnaround time for requests can be up to one month, depending on backlog.

For the past twenty years, the Centre has been collecting and preserving material relating to the Holdfast Bay area with a strong focus on the people, buildings, and events of the area. Items from the collection including objects, photographs, and documents are regularly on display at the Bay Discovery Centre Museum.

Small school or group tours, talks, and information sessions are available upon request.

Copies of high resolution images from our catalogue can be purchased at a cost of $15.00 per image. A processing time of up to ten working days can apply. Contact the History Centre for further information.

The majority of the Centre’s objects, photographs and documents have been donated by people who wished to see their precious items preserved for future generations to enjoy. The Centre will consider donations of material that increase the depth and range of our collections. We only accept donations that relate to the City of Holdfast Bay. Contact the History Centre for further information.

Location: Garden between Ringwood House and the Brighton Library - 20 Jetty Road, Brighton.

The City of Holdfast Bay commissioned sculptor Meliesa Judge to create the bronze bust of Susan Grace Benny as a lasting tribute to the first Australian woman to enter into Local Government. Susan became a member of Brighton Council (now City of Holdfast Bay) in 1919.

An unsung hero of the women's movement, Susan was reported to be a cheerful, energetic, and courageous woman.

For more information on Susan Grace Benny visit the Australian Dictionary of Biography or contact the Holdfast Bay History Centre.

Founded in 1983 the Society aims to enthuse people about the history of Brighton; to record the changing character of Brighton and to work closely with the Holdfast Bay History Centre.

For further information or to become a member, please contact Jill Golley at the Holdfast Bay History Centre.

The Society meets at 7pm in the Kingston Room, City of Holdfast Bay Civic Centre, 24 Jetty Road Brighton:

June/July - Winter Break
August 4 - Lunch, venue TBA
September 1- Catherine Manning, Glenelg Migrant Hostel
October 6 - Gill Rogers, Aviator Jimmy Melrose
November 3 - Josephine Allen, Glenelg Air Raid Shelter