aradale day tours

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Accessibility, discovery centre, lunatic asylum.

Take a guided tour through the cavernous wall and halls of the institution that treated and housed Victoria's mentally ill for over 126 years.

Aradale Asylum was an Australian psychiatric hospital, located in Ararat, a rural city in Victoria, Australia. Now a ghost "town", Aradale was once known as the Ararat Lunatic Asylum.

Aradale and its two sister asylums at Kew and Beechworth were commissioned to accommodate the growing number of "lunatics" in the colony of Victoria. Construction began in 1865 and was opened for patients in 1867. It was closed as an asylum in 1993. At its height, Aradale had up to 1000 patients and is a large complex with up to 70 interesting historic abandoned buildings.

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Discovery Centre

Asylum for the criminally insane.

The best way to see and understand J Ward is to join one of the regularly conducted guided tours. Bookings can be made online.

Adults $17, concession $15, under 16 $5, under 5 free. Concession applies to Aged Pensioners, Seniors Card holders and pre-booked groups of ten or more. Tickets can be purchased online (below) or by cash or card on the day.

A normal tour will take 1-1.5 hours . Most of our guides will spend much longer than this with anybody who wants to hear more stories or who has questions to ask. It should be noted that the guides do not have access to records or have knowledge of former patients or medical procedures.

There is so much to see that no two tours are exactly the same. Each of the guides is knowledgable in the history of J Ward but each has a wealth of favourite true stories to tell.

You will see the place where murderers breathed their last. You will see where their bodies are buried in unconsecrated ground, supposedly in unmarked graves. You might hear the story of the notorious Garry Webb or of Bill Wallace who lived here for over sixty years and died in his 108th year. You might hear how the Chapel was built due to the efforts of William Watson Carr. You might hear of escapes or suicides or of twelve year olds incarcerated here.

You might hear none of these. There are so many stories in J Ward that people have been back four and even five times. Hours can be spent in the Museum reading early case histories and gazing in wonder at the equipment of the early days of the hospital and the arts and crafts of the patients.

Monday - Friday

10am and 1pm

Due to limited availability of the volunteer staff admission may not be possible after the tour has started.

Please ensure you bring a hat, some water and some sunscreen!

Saturday, Sunday and Victorian public and school holidays

10am, 11am, 1pm, 2pm (except Christmas Day)

Group bookings

Bookings for groups of ten or more can be accommodated at practically any time. Bus tours, schools and clubs etc are all most welcome at J Ward. Although macabre in places the history of J Ward is generally not disturbing because of its simple truth. Many schools come here with each year's new class.

Accessibility

J Ward was built between 1859 and 1861 and disabled access was not considered. There are three main sets of stairs in the buildings.

The first is at the front door. An alternative entrance is available. Speak to the guide or phone the front desk on 5352 2703 for assistance.

There is a stairway to the upper level of the main cell block. Stairways lead to and from the underground kitchen and there are no alternative ways to get to these areas.

J Ward is a Tour Only site, so guides will do their best to give all visitors an interesting experience, keeping in mind these unavoidable restrictions.

A disabled toilet is available at J Ward.

Certified assistance dogs are welcome at J Ward.

There are no refunds for change of mind . You can change the date of your tour with a minimum of 24 hours notice. A new date must be chosen at the time of re-schedule. Your order is voided by non-attendance and late cancellation.

Book a J Ward tour online

Please note: the discovery centre does not include a tour of j ward. the discovery centre includes entry to j ward for the purpose of accessing archived records..

If you book into the Discovery Centre and intend to do a tour, you will be charged the difference in admission price upon arrival.

Adults $5, under 16 free. Tickets can be purchased online (below) or by cash or card on the day.

Unable to make it into the Discovery Centre? Email [email protected] with what you are looking for, and one of our friendly volunteers will be more than happy to assist you.

Saturdays and Sundays

11am - 2pm (except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day)

Due to limited availability of the volunteer staff admission may not be possible after 11am.

J Ward was built between 1859 and 1861 and disabled access was not considered. There are two main sets of stairs in the buildings.

There is a stairway to the Discovery Centre. An alternative accessibility option is able to be provided to ensure access to digitised and physical records is accessible to all.

Our volunteers will do their best to give all visitors an interesting experience, keeping in mind these unavoidable restrictions.

There are no refunds for change of mind . You can change the date of your visit with a minimum of 24 hours notice. A new date must be chosen at the time of re-schedule. Your order is voided by non-attendance and late cancellation.

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Activities & Tours

Location : Entrances at Grano and Heath Streets, Ararat

About : Aradale and its two sister asylums at Kew and Beechworth were commissioned to accommodate the growing number of "lunatics" in the colony of Victoria. Construction began in 1865 and was opened for patients in 1867. It was closed as an asylum in 1993. At its height, Aradale had up to 1000 patients and is a large complex with up to 70 interesting historic abandoned buildings.  

Aradale Day Tours Phone:  0400 977 575   Email:  [email protected] Click here to view website or make a booking  

Aradale Ghost Tour Phone: 1300 856 668 Email: [email protected] Click here to view website or make a booking  

The Ararat Dirt Riders are a group of passionate mountain bikers from the Ararat and Grampians Regions. They formed late in 2013 to help maintain and construct trails for their local community with the help of Parks Victoria. They are a diverse group of people from different backgrounds, abilities, ages and walks of life, all who share a common cause (their love of cycling) on any spare moment they can find. 

Click here to view the Ararat Dirt Riders website , or click here to view the Mountain Bike Trails in the area.

Location : 250 Barkly Street, Ararat Phone :  5352 2616

Click here to view website

A map for the Historic Driving tour and a booklet for both the Historic Driving and Walking tours are located at the bottom of the page.  

1 - Railway Precinct Stroll towards the Railway Museum from the Railway station. Just past it on the left is the signal box, and at the foot of the steps, note a piece of rusty equipment once vital to any train. It is a sand-drying box. Sand was used to help brake the trains.   1a - Sand Dryer   This sand dryer was originally located in the Ararat Locomotive Depot. A fire was lit to dry the sand it contained. The dried sand was collected and placed in the sand box on board for train brakes to function efficiently. When the brakes were required, a lever on board the train allowed dry sand to be delivered in front of the driving wheels. The dry sand caused friction and minimised wheel slippage in wet conditions and on steep grades.   1b - Ararat Railway Station    Ararat Railway Station opened in 1875 to link Melbourne to the gold centre of Ararat. Later it became a part of the Melbourne-Adelaide line. A branch line to Portland in 1877 and another to Avoca-Maryborough in 1890 made Ararat the key junction of an interstate and port-hinterland system. It was also the controlling point for the Maroona-Geelong line, established in 1913. At the height of the steam era up to 88 locomotives were at the Ararat Depot and by the 1950s the railways employed around 600 people.  

Return to your car and drive along the laneway nearest the tracks. On your left is   

1c - Commercial House Built for Mr. Walter Augustus Claringbold in 1905, “Claringbold’s Commercial House” represented the latest in boarding houses and was designed by local architect James Irwin. Mr. Claringbold had earlier managed the Railway Refreshment Rooms and in 1900 had built a commodious Coffee Palace. 1922 saw the building leased by David McAdie, a member of one of Ararat’s pioneering families, who also ran it as a boarding house until after the Second World War.  It continues to operate as a boarding house today.  

To your right is the once busy  

1d - Railway yards   The depot was constructed to maintain large numbers of rolling stock when the Ararat yards were the busiest in rural Victoria. In 1928 an electronically operated turntable was built in Alfred St. which was the first and the longest in Victoria. An engine shed built at the same time was originally a 24 road round house with a 15 tonne crane and 3 work pits. The turn-table itself still exists, but most of the shed has been demolished and engine pits filled in.

Straight ahead is the 

1e - Terminus Hotel   The original building was erected in 1877, and then rebuilt in 1911 by Alexander McDonald, who ran it until the early years of the Second World War.  As Ararat was a key centre for Victoria’s interstate and port-hinterland rail system, with large numbers of shunting engines moving back and forwards 24 hours a day, the Terminus bar became the bar that never closed, and was a favourite meeting place of many railway workers. The Terminus is currently a private residence housing an art gallery & art supplies store.

  Turn left here, then turn right onto High Street, passing the     

2 - Lyceum Theatre site and the Common School   Ararat's first permanent school building in Collegiate Gothic style, the Common School served the public from 1867 until 1875.  It later became public baths and in 1952 the building was leased to the YMCA as club rooms. The indoor heated swimming pool was originally the site of a Protestant Hall and later became the Lyceum Theatre.  In 1913 a fire broke out, but the building was not destroyed.  Later still, it became Ararat General Electric’s store which was totally gutted in 1980 by one of Ararat's most memorable fires.  

On your left is the site of      

3 - Ararat’s power generating station now the Senior Citizens Club Rooms Gaslight was used in Ararat from 1887 to 14th June 1913, when electricity from the Power Generating System was switched on. The site is now the Senior Citizens Club. It was centrally located in order to reduce power loss and long cable runs. When running costs and fuel became too expensive the supply was bought out by the State Electricity Commission (SEC) in 1969. There were 8 Ruston Hornsby Diesel Engines providing power to the turbines, one of which is displayed at the Langi Morgala Museum.  

Continue to the lights and turn right. Drive straight ahead to    

4 - Alexandra Gardens on the left   In 1859 land was allocated for botanical gardens and early plants were supplied by Baron Ferdinand Von Meuller of the Melbourne Botanical Gardens. Work was undertaken by prisoners of Ararat Goal; however the bulk of development work began in 1901 with Hugh Linaker as curator.  In 1907 the Ararat Traders Association raised sufficient funds to pay for wrought iron gates at the entrance (later removed). Mayor R Hargreaves officially opened the botanical gardens named in honour of Princess Alexandra. A walk through the garden will reveal a fountain presented by William McCulloch, a well known pioneer of the district. A rockery and drinking fountain was erected by the Rechabites, along with the fernery and adjacent native garden, the Orchid House and many of the original planting trees.  

After the gardens, continue to the T-junction with Girdlestone Street and turn left to see   

5 - J Ward   Completed in 1861, this infamous bluestone building was originally a goldfields prison.  In 1886 the buildings became a temporary housing for the Criminally Insane. They then became a ward of the Ararat Lunatic Asylum where the most dangerous men in Victoria were housed. The Ward was closed in 1991 and is now one of Ararat’s major tourist attractions.  Information regarding tours can be obtained from the Visitor Information Centre.

Return along Girdlestone Street, passing      

6 - Pyrenees House    Completed in 1886 as a general hospital to replace its 1860 predecessor. The architect, A G Legge, was directed to erect a Queen Anne style structure fashionable in the 1880s. It operated until 1937 when it was converted to a nurses’ home.  From 1953-1986 it became John Pickford House, Geriatric Centre. Since 1988 it has been used as administration offices and with recent refurbishment in 2011 continues to operate as a Conference Centre and Nurse Education Centre.    

To your right is the home of   

7 - Donald Chisholm Residence   Designed by Michael Ryan and built in 1902 for the successful local draper, Mr. Donald Chisholm, this was for several decades the Chisholm’s family home.  It represents the move by shopkeepers from living above their businesses to living in suburban residences early in the 20th century. At the beginning of the Second World War it was let to Robert Shea, a local farmer, who then purchased it in 1947. His purchase illustrated another trend, that of successful farming families retiring into Ararat.

Continue until you reach a T-junction then turn left onto Campbell Street. Drive 1.4 km to reach the   

8 - Ararat Cemetery   The cemetery was set up on this site on 1st July 1861, following the closure of the old Cemetery Hill site (in Lowe St., behind the hospital).   Seven pioneer headstones were transferred from the old cemetery and the first burial on this new site was conducted in 1862.  The robing room at the entrance was built in the early 1930’s.  A short drive around the cemetery will reveal Chinese headstones and the graves of many of our pioneer settlers.  

Return along Campbell Street, turning left at Baird Street. When you reach the roundabout, take the second exit and go under the railway overpass. Turn right then take the next street left. On this corner is    

9 - Donisthorpe   English-born James Donisthorpe Smith, engineer, came to Ararat and set up a store in Barkly Street, which he later sold to George Grano. He built Donisthorpe in 1872 as a wine and spirits store to attract the custom of railwaymen and asylum workers as they made their way home but he was unable to obtain the beer licence he wanted. The corner door you see led to the bar area. It was de-licensed when he died. It has only had five owners in 131 years.  

Proceed to the next corner and turn left. Drive to the roundabout, then follow the Western Highway towards Melbourne, noting on your left    10 - Aradale Mental Hospital   Aradale was constructed between 1864 and 1867 as the Ararat Lunatic Asylum. It had its own market gardens, orchard, vineyards and piggery.  At its height it employed over 500 staff. Today the complex has 63 buildings, including a forensic unit built two years before the facility closed in 1993. Despite being closed, the facility housed female prisoners until 2001 when it became a campus of the North Melbourne Institute of TAFE (NMIT). Information about tours can be obtained at the Visitor Information Centre.

Past this view of Aradale is a left turn entrance to   

11 - Green Hill Lake   Green Hill Lake was originally called the Warrayatkin swamp. Many attempts were made to develop this area into a recreational reserve. In the 1980s work began to deepen it and with the help of prisoners from the local gaol, volunteers and the Municipal Council, the embankment was erected and the lake deepened. On 22nd March 1987, a plaque to commemorate the upgrade was unveiled by Prime Minister R. J. Hawke.   

3000 people attended the occasion. Today the lake is used for boating, swimming and camping.

Return to Ararat, taking the left road at the roundabout into Barkly Street. Follow the road, turning left into King Street next to the Catholic Church. Take the first turn right to pass the first State Primary School   

12 - Ararat Primary School 800 State School   

This attractive building marked the arrival of free, compulsory and secular education in 1872.  The foundation stone was laid with great festivities on 6th April 1875, the day the railway also came to Ararat. Built from polychrome brick, popular for school buildings at that time, it was opened on 1st November 1875. Additions and alterations have been made over the years, notably larger windows in the early part of the 20th century.  A central tower was removed in 1915 when wooden offices were added to the facade.

On the next corner note the elegant   

13 - Radley Residence   Built in 1916 by William Radley, a plasterer and contractor, this house may be one of architect Michael Ryan’s designs. It is unusual, being symmetrical about a diagonal axis. The entrance is on a corner under a heavily ornamented portico. The bay windows are richly decorated with broken pediments in the Mannerist style. The decorations distinguish the house from other Federation houses and may reflect the relationship between the owner and architect.

Drive on, crossing King Street and Vincent Street into Banksia Street At the T-junction, turn right into View Point Street Cross Barkly Street and continue, noting on your right the

14 - Holy Trinity Church    The Church is of local significance historically.  It is a great example of the work of church architect Leonard Terry [1825-1884].  Its English Anglican Gothic style, simple forms and use of blue stone was typical of Terry’s church work. It could not be consecrated until it was free of debt in 1882.The church was gutted by fire in 1940. The diocesan architect, Louis Williams was responsible for the new design. The condition of the building is excellent. The Rectory at 49 High Street is worthy of an inspection.

Continue, turn left at the junction with Lambert Street (Western Highway). Note on your left    

15 - Mt Romnya House   This very impressive home was built in 1893 by local builder Daniel Beer. He lived in it briefly but for many years it had a succession of middle-class tenants. The house was eventually sold to Dr de Crespigny for use as a private hospital which functioned for many years. It is supported by a terraced garden which includes several mature palms, a popular choice at that time. Architecturally it is early use of the Federation/Queen Anne style. It remains in good condition and is now used as a private dwelling.

Continue a short distance to    

16 - Gum San Museum (Canton Lead) The world-class Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre tells the story of the arduous journey made from Southern China to the Victorian goldfields during the 1850’s. As they made their great trek on foot from Robe in South Australia to Bendigo, these men discovered one of the world’s richest shallow alluvial goldfields at the Canton Lead, Ararat. Designed in the traditional Southern Chinese style and incorporating the principles of Feng Shui, the dramatic two-storey building with its authentic Chinese tiled roof houses a fascinating selection of interactive audio-visuals and static displays.

Continue along the Highway, turning left at Golf Links Road, pass Chalambar Golf Course on your right. Turn right at the T-junction and follow the sealed road up the hill to   

17 - One Tree Hill Lookout   This is named for a tree which stood on the crest of the range forming Ararat’s western boundary, also marking the boundary of three large properties, Burrumbeep, Allanvale and Lexington. It offers unparalleled views over the surrounding landscape. The first interstate television signal between Melbourne and Adelaide passed through here in December 1962. Signals now transmit television and telephone data between Queensland and Perth. The monument on the hill was erected by the Rotary Club of Ararat in memory of the pioneers of the district. A popular car rally is conducted here.  

A booklet for both the Historic Driving and Walking tours is located at the bottom of the page.

1. View Point - Corner of Barkly Street and View Point Street

This site is also known as The Edith Cavell Reserve where a memorial was erected to the English-born nurse executed in 1915 for assisting the escape of Allied prisoners from the Germans.  Each Anzac Day a nurse lays a wreath in her memory. The monument was dedicated in 1931 with money raised by Ararat 800 Primary School Mother’s Club. The site is the oldest and most historic part of Ararat, as being on high and dry land it was the natural focus for the observations of the Police and Gold Warden.

2. Court House Hotel - 84 Barkly Street

The Court House Hotel was one of Ararat’s first hotels - built approximately 1858/9- and by 1862 had 5 rooms. It was constructed of wood and iron and once boasted a spacious ballroom and supper room which doubled as a billiard room.  It is one of the oldest surviving hotels, named for its direct association with the police camp/station opposite. The hotel has suffered the usual changes for a building of its type. However, it remains in good condition with a good degree of integrity.

3.Cannons Store - 88 Barkly Street 

In 1857 John E. Dobson had a stationer/newsagent’s shop and circulating library here in a one storey wood and canvas shed. From 1859 John Cannon continued the business for nearly 50 years, first in a 2 storied wood building and then in the present building, erected in 1877. The building has served a variety of purposes, including a steam laundry and the local registrar of births, deaths and marriages. The building is conventional with ground floor store and residential accommodation above and is of Renaissance Revival Style. 

4. 94 Barkly Street 

The original owner of this building was Dr James Galbraith, who erected the building in 1864. This building served continuously as a surgery and home for a succession of medical practitioners until 1906. Subsequently it was adapted to a number of purposes. The building is simple but refined, an example of the Renaissance Revival style. It is one of the oldest permanent buildings in Ararat. 

5. Vine Tree Store - 104-106 Barkly Street 

A commemorative plaque records the origin of the Black Hambro grape vine growing in front of the store. The Council gave the first owner of the dwelling, Mr G. Grano, permission to plant it in September 1874. The vine cutting is thought to have been given to Mr Grano by the Henty family of Portland. The business of groceries, hardware & spirits traded under various owners. The vine still thrives today. Cuttings have been taken and these now grow along the verandas in the business centre of the city. 

6. Bull and Mouth Stables - South Right of Way 

This significant bluestone building in the South Right of Way (Banksia Street) was renowned for its form, use of bluestone and quality construction.  It was erected in 1866 as stabling for one of Ararat's most prominent early hotels and was described at the time as "one of the finest in the country".  Partially destroyed by fire in 1867, the stables were rebuilt within the existing bluestone walls. Cobb and Co coaches used the stables as their staging post and when horse based transport declined it became a wool store. 

7. Tuson’s Camp Hotel (Ararat Hotel) - 130 Barkly Street 

The Ararat Hotel started its life in 1857 as Gower’s Camp Hotel. It then became Tuson’s Camp Hotel and later Tuson’s Ararat Hotel. It has remained an imposing building throughout its existence, undergoing periodic improvements to move with the times. The two-storied complex is large with bars, foyer and staircases, kitchen and dining room and several shops. Accommodation and lounges are on the first floor. The size and scale of the porch and the hotel make it one of the most important landmarks in Ararat. 

8. 32 Barkly Street

These premises were probably built in the late 1870s or early 1880s by James Tuson, the owner of the Ararat hotel. From the early 1880s until after World War II it functioned continuously as the shop and home of a succession of bakers, including the McCubbin family who owned it for decades. This building has an unusually fine first floor with tall pediment window surrounds with rare surviving timber blind hoods for external venetian blinds and unusual details on the parapet. 

9. 156-158 Barkly Street 

This striking building was designed by James Irwin and built in 1914-15 for R. Edwards, the boot maker, who owned several shops in Barkly Street. It is two storied and, typically for the period, uses red brick with cement render bands and details. The stepped gable is unusual and may have Dutch or South African origins, an echo of the Boer War. There is a dramatic blind arch motif.  The first floor windows have alternate square and arched tops. The shop front is intact but the original verandah has been removed. 

10. R Edwards Boot Emporium - 174 Barkly Street 

In 1918 boot-maker Robert Edwards, moved into the existing premises on this site. In May 1919 he invited tenders for the erection of a new double fronted brick shop with parapet in the Art Nouveau style. The architect was James Irwin, who was Mayor of Ararat at the time. Mayor Irwin also designed the Mechanics Institute building opposite.

11.  178 Barkly Street   

This shop was built in 1897 and designed by architect Michael Ryan for printers FJ & M Murphy who established the Ararat Chronicle, rival of the Ararat Advertiser. The building is of regional historical significance as the office of the defunct Ararat Chronicle and for its association with Patricia Grano, third generation of the important pioneering family and Ararat’s first female barrister and solicitor. It is noteworthy architecturally for its use of the Renaissance Revival style.    

12.  210 Barkly Street

Although these premises were not built until 1913 the undertakers’ business formerly conducted here was established by Thomas Lymer in 1857. The business was passed to the Dunn family though marriage in 1890. The premises were modernized in 1940  and the façade and entrance were redesigned but they represent an unbroken link with the past. The building is a sober but well detailed example of the Art Deco style more usually associated with glamorous buildings such as cinemas.   

13. State Savings Bank  - 224 Barkly Street

Designed by P. S. Stephens and built by J. S Stephenson of Ararat, the Bank operated from these premises from 1912 until 1962 when it moved to a new building at 110 Barkly Street. The building continued to be used as the manager’s residence until 1969. Architecturally, it represents a mixture of styles. The oriel window owes its inclusion to the Queen Anne style and the large semi-circular window to the Romanesque Revival.  

14. Shire Hall Hotel  - 240-242 Barkly Street

The hotel began life in 1860 as a grocery and was used by the owner, Samuel Laundry, as his home and workplace until 1875. It was then converted into a hotel by his brother Henry in order to take advantage of its close proximity to the Shire Hall and the advent of the railway. It was completely rebuilt in 1925 by the then licensee, Larry Cashin and remains much the same, apart from the loss of its verandah.   

15. Carroll’s Saddlery & Produce - 244 Barkly Street

This building with its separated interior was once stables for the Shire Hall Hotel and later became a foundry.  It also housed Deans Cordial Manufacturers and with the advent of motor vehicles became a garage.  Note the original façade above the verandah.  

16. Midland Theatre (Astor Cinema)  - 250 Barkly Street

Completed in 1938, the cinema was one of the largest purpose-built cinemas in rural Victoria. It was designed by architect Rhys Hopkins in the Moderne style to hold 1000 patrons and built by Otto Spehr and J. Friedman.  A stage for theatrical productions was included, but was little used. Internal decoration is minimal, in keeping with the Moderne style. The cinema was closed after the advent of television, but reopened in 1959. It has since been remodelled internally to accommodate an additional two cinemas within the former dress circle and upper foyer.  

17. Catholic Church precinct  - 302 Barkly Street (Brigidine Convent of the Sacred Heart)  

Marian College was founded in 1888 by the Brigidine Sisters from Ireland. The first part of the convent was built in 1899 in the Collegiate Gothic style by Michael Ryan. The completion of the second part, including the façade, was celebrated in 1900. By that time the convent housed 22 nuns who conducted classes from early primary to matriculation standard. The Brigidine convent is typical of the convents and schools built in metropolitan Melbourne and rural Victoria at the end of the 19th and early 20th century. 

304 Barkly Street (Immaculate Conception RC Church)   

The Catholic community held services in a temporary chapel/school building from 1857 on this site. The first bluestone church was completed in 1864, extended and improved over time until being demolished to make way for the present building which was designed by A.A. Fritsch. The Romanesque Revival style may be a conscious return to the style of the early Christian basilicas. The church is deliberately simple and traditional in form and plan. Its use of bluestone is also traditional and probably marks the last period it would be used.   

304A Barkly Street (Catholic Presbytery)  

The building has served as a presbytery since the first catholic priest took up residence in Ararat. For a short period of time the presbytery housed the newly arrived Brigidine Nuns before the convent was opened in 1889. 

18. Dominica House - 291 Barkly Street

Dominica was the first two-story building in Ararat erected for purely residential purposes. It was built in 1899 for Theo Grano, son of the founder of the Vine Tree Store. He had two families. The names of his thirteen children were incised into the quoins flanking the two entrances, where they can still be seen. It is supported by an intact Interwar garden surrounded by a magnificent cypress hedge. It remains in excellent condition and stayed in the Grano family until a few years ago. It remains a private residence.  

19. George Hotel (Blue Duck) - 257 Barkly Street

The earliest licensee discovered so far was Augustus Peoppel who ran the hotel from 1877. The licensee during the First World War referred to it as “a blue duck.” The term originates from mining when a gold mine which had run out of gold was known as “a blue duck.”  During the First World War when men deserted the area to join up, the hotel was understandably short of patrons and income, and was therefore referred to as, “a blue duck.”   

20. Langi Morgala Museum - 48 Queen Street

Aboriginal name meaning “Home of Yesterday”  

This was built in 1874 for Michael Byrne Carroll as a wheat and wool store. Later, Dodd & Hargreaves took over the building as wool brokers and agents. During the Second World War it was used by the army to manufacture parachutes and store emergency canned food.   

In April 1962 the Ararat & District Historical Society acquired the building.It houses displays depicting the history of Ararat with aboriginal artefacts donated by the family of Mr L.J. Mooney in 1956 and by Mr H.C Best amongst others from the district.   

21. Ararat Civic Precinct  

a. Shire Hall   The Shire Hall was built in 1871 by Architect & Shire Engineer, Alexander White.  White produced a building of excellence and quality that expresses the Shire’s pride in itself and confidence it had in the future. It stands as arguably one of Ararat’s most distinguished buildings.  The fence and brick wall were added in 1872, with the casting coming from William Blomely’s foundry in Ballarat. The building houses the WW1 Honour Board and a beautiful stained glass window honours the fallen.

b. Cenotaph   The architects deliberately modeled this structure on Sir Edward Lutyens’ Cenotaph in Whitehall, London. The monument was dedicated in 1930 to those who served Australia in various conflicts and in memory of those who died.   

Two circular seats in Grampians stone have bronze panels commemorating events in World War II. Reliefs show Simpson and his donkey, the work of the Army Medical Corps, the Light Horse and troops going up to the line.  The bronze plaques were sculpted by Wallace Anderson and cast in Melbourne.  

c. Town Hall   Converted Market sheds served Ararat as a Town Hall in the late 1860s and were later demolished to make way for the new Town Hall.This was designed by Molloy and Smith of Ballarat and built in 1899 by James Irwin, who later became mayor on three occasions and gave civic leadership for thirty years. The Clock tower and other external features are largely unaltered but internal alterations have been made to accommodate an Art Gallery. The building is a typical example of Municipal architecture and uses the Roman Revival style.  

d. Ararat Boer War Memorial Fountain   The fountain was planned to mark Queen Victoria's diamond jubilee, but it was suggested that it should also commemorate those of Ararat's volunteers who fought in the Boer War. Ararat had sent twenty-one volunteers and survivors received gold medals from fellow citizens. When the mayor interrupted the opening ceremony for the new Town Hall in 1899 to read a telegram giving news of a British victory in the war, the audience broke into 'Rule Brittania.' The fountain was apparently obtained readymade from a Melbourne firm for between 100 and 125 pounds.   

e. Memorial Drinking Fountain    It was decided at a public meeting in 1936 to erect a memorial drinking fountain dedicated to the late King George V in the town hall square.   

The tender was given to G H Robson of Stawell at £144.15 and the fountain was erected in July 1937.  

22. Leopold Hotel - 191 Barkly Street

This site has been continually occupied by a hotel since 1858.  By 1868 there was a structure of 13 rooms. The tenders for the current building were called in 1874 and although soon in use it was not completed until 1903. The Leopold family owned the hotel for over half a century and in the 1920s it was briefly owned by W.A Claringbold of Commercial House. It once had a magnificent cast iron lace verandah, removed in the 1960s.  In its heyday the hotel boasted Vice Regal patronage.

23. Mechanics’ Institute  

What was once the site of the Great Eastern Hotel, is now the two storey Mechanics Institute rebuilt in 1908.  Designed by James Irwin this building is of particular interest as one of the last to be built and one of the few in the style current in the Federation period.  Typical of such buildings it has rooms either side of the central entrance, leading to a large hall and reading room at the rear.  It currently houses a lending library as is required for a Mechanics Institute.

24. McGibbony Building - 161 Barkly Street

Bought by John McGibbony at the first government land sale in 1858 this site was where he established his watchmaker and jewellery business in a calico and wooden building.  In 1865 he replaced this with a two storey red brick building, including a residence for his family, displaying details typical of the Federation period.  Restored in 1870 after a fire and remodelled about 1910, the clock face can still be seen on the parapet and bears the name of his son Henry McGibbony.

25. Turf Hotel - 157-159 Barkly Street  

The site appears to have functioned as a hotel in the 1800s, but the present building dates from 1911 when it was graced by a cast iron and timber verandah. In 1921 it was one of the first hotels to replace its stables with garaging for cars. At three storeys, it was the tallest building in Ararat prior to World War II. Remodelling occurred in the 1930s. The building incorporates Art Deco and Modern styling. 

26. 129-131 Barkly Street  

Originally the site of the Manchester Hotel built in 1858 and destroyed by fire in 1870, the owner Robert Scott and his neighbours united to rebuild after the fire, giving four premises a similar Renaissance Revival design.  The present facade dates from 1954 and is a post war interpretation of classical architecture with a Moderne  twist. The rear of the building has not seen as many alterations and is closer to the early periods of its development.

27. Shamrock Hotel - 119-121 Barkly Street

The hotel once stood next door to the Rex Hotel on the site now occupied by a pharmacy. The building was destroyed by the fire of 1870 and rebuilt by the draper James Chadwick as three separate shops with rooms above. The first floor is considered unusual, with very tall windows and an “attic” storey incorporating roundel windows. The site has been occupied by a number of pharmacies, including T.A. Wild, who invented the preserving sauce known as Ezy-Sauce.

28. London Charted Bank (ANZ)  - 107 Barkly Street

One of the first banks on the Ararat goldfield, the present building was not built until 1868, eleven years after the start of the gold rush. It was designed by the leading Melbourne architect Leonard Terry, who designed many banks in Victoria.  The premises contained a spacious and well appointed residence upstairs with the latest amenities for the manager.  

The building uses the conservative Renaissance Revival style that evoked the stability and security sought by the bank’s clients. The most serious change is the painting of the exterior brickwork.

29. Bank of New South Wales - 95 Barkly Street

This was the first bank on the goldfields in 1857, when Mr. W. J. M. Larnach, was Manager.  His bank was a tent and his equipment consisted of dogs, a gun, and strong boxes.  

The Bank of New South Wales next banking site is now currently the site of the Westpac Bank at 95 Barkly Street.  Many of the internal glass panels inside the Bank have been etched with text and images reflecting our history. One such door panel depicts a Chinese image utilising the Westpac symbol.   

30. The Old Fire Station (Post Office) - 93 Barkly Street  

The old Fire Station stood on the corner of Barkly Street and Stawell Road, now Ingor Street, from 1875/76 - 1970. The observation platform was originally built with six levels, but was reduced in height as the bell's vibration was found to be weakening the brick structure. The site is now the home of Ararat’s current Post Office.

31. Vindell House (Post Office & Sub-Treasury)  - 90-93 Barkly Street  

Vindell House was constructed in two separate parts. The Sub-Treasury and Assay office was the first section and was constructed in 1858. The Post Office was not attached until 1862, replacing an earlier portable wooden building near the town square.  

The simple Italianate design of the Post Office with its Palladian influence reflects the sophistication of leading English architect, William Wardell. This building, the third major bluestone building in Ararat, is still in excellent condition although it has undergone significant interior alterations in the twentieth century.

32. Police Station - 77-89 Barkly Street

The previous Police Station used the Georgian Revival style to domesticate the function of the building. This is in contrast to other contemporary police stations which adopted more Moderne and adventurous styles. It was compared with the Stripped Classicism of the former Commonwealth Bank at 113 Barkly Street. The building was stripped of detail, which reflected the austerity of the time of its construction during World War II.  

The current Police Station was finished in 2010.

33. Court House  - Corner of Barkly and Ligar Street  

Ararat Court House is historically significant as a Court of Mines, established in 1857. It operated from a temporary wooden building until 1859, when Ararat was declared a General Sessions District and a basalt court house was erected. Completed in 1866-67, Ararat Court House was a small, symmetrical brick building designed by architect Gustav Joachimi in the Victorian Free Classical style with a recessed entry and gabled roof. This court house was succeeded by the present building which reflects Ararat’s status as a site for Supreme Court sittings until 1909.

34. Ararat Advertiser - 3 Ligar Street

The Ararat Advertiser was founded by Jabez Walter Banfield with partner J. Nuthall in August 1857 soon after the discovery of gold and was first published in a tent. The building is said to be the first brick building in Ararat and as such has regional significance, but it has been altered over the years. Next to it are two houses: 5 Ligar Street, built in 1873 for the proprietor, and 7 Ligar Street, built for Miss Lorna Banfield, author of “Green Pastures and Gold”, the history of early Ararat.

Location : Girdlestone Street, Ararat

About : J Ward started its life as a goldfields prison in 1859. When the gold ran out in the mid 1880s the prison buildings were acquired by the Lunacy Department as a temporary housing for the Criminally Insane. The County Gaol then became a ward (J Ward) of the Ararat Lunatic Asylum where the most depraved and most dangerous men in Victoria were housed in horrific conditions under the highest security.

The Ward was closed in 1991. J Ward is now a museum complex within the original prison structure dedicated to recording and preserving the history of the criminals imprisoned and hanged here during the life of the goldfields gaol and later as the infamous maximum security housing for Victoria's Criminally Insane men in a ward (J Ward) of the Ararat Mental Hospital.

J Ward Day Tours Phone : 0400 977 575 Email: [email protected] Click here to view website or make a booking  

J Ward Ghost Tours Phone: 1300 390 119 Click here to view website or make a booking

Alexandra Gardens Lake Alexandra Avenue, Ararat - Bank fishing only, ideal for children  

Green Hill Lake Green Hill Lake Road, Ararat - 2.5km east of Ararat - Fishing, watersports and camping Click here to view website  

Lake Bolac Glenelg Hwy/Ararat-Mortlake Road, Lake Bolac - Fishing, watersports and camping Click here to view website  

Lake Fyans   650 Mokepilly Road, Halls Gap - Fishing, watersports and camping Click here to view website

Ararat Skate Park Cnr. Alexandra Avenue & Queen Street 

Dog Park Cnr. Alexandra Avenue & Queen Street - Fully fenced featuring a ramp, tunnels and poles arranged in a course 

Click here for more information on Swimming Pools within the Ararat Rural City Council Municipality.

Document Historic Ararat driving trail map.pdf 8.15 MB

Document Historic Ararat Walking and Driving trails.pdf 144.6 MB

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Aradale Asylum Day Tour

• Duration: 2 Hours
• Location : Ararat, VIC

Meet at Aradale Asylum, Grano Street Entrance, Ararat

Take a guided tour of the institution that housed Victoria's mentally ill for over 140 years. Aradale Asylum was an Australian psychiatric hospital, located in Ararat, a rural city in Victoria, Australia.

Now a ghost "town", Aradale was once known as the Ararat Lunatic Asylum. Aradale and its two sister asylums at Kew and Beechworth were commissioned to accommodate the growing number of "lunatics" in the colony of Victoria. Construction began in 1860 and was opened for patients in 1865. It was closed as an asylum in 1998. At its height, Aradale had up to 900 patients yearly and is a large complex with up to 70 interesting historic abandoned buildings.

• Walk through the cavernous wards and halls of the institution that treated and housed the mentally ill of Victoria for over 140 years.
• Tours each Sunday and Wednesday, 11am and 2pm, 90-120 minutes duration
• Group bookings can be arranged for other times.
• Limited to 25 people per group
• Tours are conducted by the Friends of J Ward volunteers
• Age limits – parental discretion advised
• Accessibility – stairs, no wheelchairs
• Toilets – available during the tour
• Photos – yes
• Participants will gain a greater understanding of the history of Victorian Mental Health System.

Approximate Duration:  2 hours 

Venue: Indoors  and Outdoors

Terrain: Moderate walking, some steps

No refunds. Change of date permitted with a minimum of 48 hours notice  BEFORE your scheduled experience for a fee of $5 per order. New date must be chosen at time of reschedule. Non-attendance and late cancellation voids your order.

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Our Aradale Asylum Ghost Tour Experience

This historic institution nestled in the heart of Victoria, Australia, holds a dark and haunting history that has captivated thrill-seekers and paranormal enthusiasts alike. Step into the eerie world of Aradale Asylum where the walls whisper secrets of the past and the spirits of the departed still linger. Join us on an unforgettable journey as we delve into the depths of Aradale’s chilling past, unravelling tales of madness, despair, and the supernatural.

Our ghost tour guide told us right at the beginning of the tour that an estimated 10,000 to 13,000 people died within the Asylums walls during it’s 130 years of operation. That’s a lot – if any place is going to be haunted then this is it. From its construction in the 1860s to its closure in the 1990s, Aradale Asylum served as a sanctuary for the mentally ill, housing thousands of patients throughout its tumultuous existence. Today, brave souls can explore its halls on a spine-tingling ghost tour, where they will encounter the residual energy of tortured souls and witness unexplained phenomena that defy rational explanation. Are you ready to confront the ghosts of Aradale Asylum? Brace yourself for a hauntingly unforgettable experience that will leave you questioning the boundaries between life and death.

Aradale Lunatic Asylum Front Gates

History Of Aradale Asylum

The history of Aradale Asylum unfolds as a haunting and captivating narrative spanning well over a century. Built during the 1860s, the asylum emerged with the noble intention of providing compassionate care and treatment to Victoria’s mentally ill population. At the pinnacle of its existence, Aradale stood as Australia’s largest mental health facility, boasting an impressive expanse of over 60 buildings and offering shelter to thousands of patients. Despite its initial goal of humane psychiatric care, the passage of time saw the institution falter under the burden of overcrowding, inadequate staffing, and contentious treatment practices.

Within the walls of Aradale Asylum, the conditions proved unforgiving, and unfortunate patients often endured neglect and mistreatment. Tales of abuse and the implementation of unorthodox experimental procedures became eerie legends associated with the institution. Tragically, many individuals spent their entire lives confined within these asylum walls, abandoned and forgotten by a society that failed to provide them with the understanding and support they needed. Even today, the echoes of their anguish reverberate through the corridors, beckoning visitors from across the globe eager to unearth the enigmatic secrets held by this haunted place.

History in the Abandoned Aradale Asylum Australia

Once known as the Ararat Lunatic Asylum, the Aradale Asylum was a psychiatric hospital located in the rural city of Ararat, Victoria, Australia. Today, this vast campus, consisting of over 70 abandoned buildings, stands as a ghost town that was once home to more than 1,500 patients. Aradale, along with its sister asylums at Kew and Beechworth, was constructed to accommodate the growing number of individuals in need of psychiatric care in Victoria.

The History of Aradale Mental Hospital

In 1864, construction of the asylum began, and a few years later, in 1866, the guardhouse was added, even though patient admissions had already commenced in 1865. Designed by G.W. Vivian and his assistant, John James Clark, Aradale was modeled after the asylums at Kew and Beechworth and became the first of the three to be completed.

The asylum’s layout resembled a small village, complete with gardens, orchards, a piggery, a market, and vineyards. Like many asylums of the time, it aimed to be self-sufficient and utilized patient labor as a part of their treatment, following the principles of the Kirkbride Plan, which influenced numerous asylums.

During its peak, Aradale had over 500 staff members and housed nearly 70 buildings, with the earliest ones constructed in the 1860s and the most modern in 1991. Although the asylum ceased functioning in 1993, it temporarily served as a facility for female prisoners during the renovation of the Dame Phyllis Frost Centre.

One intriguing feature of the asylum was the use of ‘ha-ha walls,’ designed as trenches on the hospital’s side and a flat plane on the other. From inside, the walls seemed tall and secure, preventing escapes, while from the outside, they appeared low to avoid giving the impression of a prison.

The decommissioning of Aradale began in the early 1990s, starting with the transfer of patients to other facilities. By the end of 1993, only the Ararat Forensic Psychiatry Center remained operational. In 1997, the remaining patients were relocated to Rosanna until the completion of a new asylum named the Thomas Embling Hospital.

Night Photo Aradale Asylum Ghost Tour

Present-Day Use of the Site

In the present day, the Aradale Asylum site is used as an olive processing facility, wineries, and training facilities for Melbourne Polytechnic.

Aradale’s Diverse Patients

During its operational years, Aradale accommodated not only the criminally insane, who were previously kept in regular prisons without the specialized care they required, but also individuals suffering from various mental illnesses, including postnatal depression, autism, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and Down Syndrome. This mix of patients created conflicts and incidents of violence within the asylum.

Aradale Lunatic Asylum Ararat Ghost Tour

Ghosts of Aradale

With a history spanning 130 years and over 13,000 deaths among inmates, patients, and staff members, the Aradale Asylum carries an eerie emotional residue that lingers to this day. Many locals firmly believe that it is the most haunted location in all of Australia.

Among the reported ghostly encounters are apparitions, phantom sounds, and visitors experiencing nausea, fainting, and unexplained pain. Some of the notable ghosts from Aradale’s past have made themselves known to the living:

• The Ghostly Governor : George Fiddimont, the last Governor of the gaol, suffered a fatal heart attack while leading a group of people down a stairwell in 1886. Today, heavy footsteps and banging can still be heard in the same area, though no one is present when investigated.
• A Ghost Named Gary : Gary Webb, a career criminal, was imprisoned at Aradale after attempting to shoot a police officer during a robbery. Due to his dangerous tendencies, a special law was passed to keep him confined at Aradale for life. He is said to haunt his former room, screaming at visitors and pushing them out the door.
• The Haunted Office : Visitors passing by the former Superintendent’s office report a sudden bitter taste in their mouths. This office was where Dr. William L. Mullen, the Superintendent, took his life by swallowing cyanide in 1912.
• The Ghost of the Women’s Ward : Nurse Kerry, a ghost from the women’s ward, is said to watch over tour guides. Apparitions of her and other nurses in old-time uniforms have been spotted, mysteriously disappearing into stone walls. Some visitors also experience tingling sensations in their heads when entering the former shock therapy room.

The Aradale Asylum stands as a chilling testament to the past, where the echoes of history continue to resonate through the abandoned halls and buildings, leaving visitors with an unforgettable experience of Australia’s haunted past.

Aradale Asylum Ararat VIC

Haunting Stories And Ghostly Encounters At Aradale Asylum

Aradale Asylum has earned notoriety as a hotbed of paranormal activity, drawing innumerable reports of eerie ghostly encounters and inexplicable phenomena. Both visitors and staff share tales of encountering shadowy figures, hearing strange unexplained sounds, and witnessing objects move on their own without any logical explanation. The lingering echoes of the asylum’s troubled past imbue the atmosphere with an unsettling mix of unease and suspense.

Among the myriad spirits said to wander the halls of Aradale, one figure stands out as a particularly renowned apparition – the ghost of a former patient named Martha. Her spectral presence often roams the corridors, leaving behind a chilling sensation and an overwhelming aura of sorrow. Martha’s tragic tale has been passed down as a legendary account cherished by ghost enthusiasts, further enhancing the allure of Aradale Asylum as a magnetic destination for those fascinated by the paranormal.

Inside The Mortuary At Aradale Asylum

The Spooky Atmosphere Of Aradale Asylum

Upon crossing the threshold into the decaying expanse of Aradale Asylum, an overwhelming sense of foreboding washes over you. The dilapidated buildings, with their peeling paint and crumbling infrastructure, present a hauntingly beautiful yet eerie backdrop, setting the stage for the ghostly encounters that lie ahead. The atmosphere bears the weight of the past, as if the very air itself carries the emotions and memories of those who once called this place their home.

Within the asylum’s haunting silence, occasional sounds of creaking floorboards or distant whispers permeate the air, sending shivers down your spine. The narrow hallways stretch onward, dimly lit by flickering lights, inviting you to explore the enigmatic secrets they safeguard. With each step taken, a palpable sense of anticipation accompanies you, for you know not what paranormal phenomena might reveal themselves around the next corner. Aradale Asylum holds its mysteries close, and as you delve deeper, the anticipation only grows, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey into the unknown.

Dances Were Held At Ararat Lunatic Asylum

Ghost Tour Experiences At Aradale Asylum

we did our ghost tour of Aradale Asylum with Eerie Tours from Ballarat . They were absolutely excellent in all ways. The tour guide we had was extremely knowledgeable with regards to the asylum and it’s history as well as a good bloke. He was also quite funny and quick with a joke.

For the intrepid souls willing to embark on a ghost tour at Aradale Asylum, a truly unforgettable experience awaits. These tours present a unique opportunity to delve into the depths of the asylum’s haunted history, guided by knowledgeable experts who share chilling tales and first hand accounts of paranormal activity.

As you navigate the intricate labyrinth of corridors, you may feel an inexplicable draw towards certain areas that seem to resonate with a particularly strong energy. In these moments, the tour guides will enthral you with stories of past patients, their struggles, and the tragic events that unfolded within these very walls. The ambiance becomes charged with the weight of history and the lingering presence of those who once resided here.

Moreover, these ghost tours may grant you the extraordinary chance to employ paranormal investigation equipment, such as EMF detectors and spirit boxes. With these tools at your disposal, you can venture further into the realm of the supernatural, potentially communicating with entities from the other side. The opportunity to participate in such investigations adds an extra layer of excitement and curiosity to this spine-tingling journey through Aradale Asylum’s haunted past.

Aradale Mental Asylum Gates

Booking A Ghost Tour At Aradale Asylum

To secure a ghost tour at Aradale Asylum, you can make a reservation through their official website or by contacting their visitor centre. Due to the popularity of these tours, particularly during peak paranormal tourism seasons, it is highly advisable to book in advance, as spots tend to fill up quickly. Make sure to explore the various options available, as prices may vary depending on the tour’s duration and type.

As you get ready for your ghost tour, it’s crucial to dress appropriately for the prevailing weather conditions and wear comfortable shoes, considering you might be walking for extended periods during the excursion. Additionally, bringing a flashlight is recommended, as the lighting inside the asylum can be dim, helping you navigate through the eerie surroundings.

Most importantly, approach the experience with an open mind and a willingness to embrace the mysteries of the unknown. This attitude can enrich your encounter with the haunting history of Aradale Asylum and make the ghost tour an unforgettable and spine-chilling adventure.

An Escaped Lunatic At Ararat Asylum Maybe

Tips For A Memorable And Safe Ghost Tour Experience

While ghost tours can offer thrilling experiences, it is of utmost importance to prioritise safety for yourself and others. Here are some tips to ensure a memorable and secure visit to Aradale Asylum:

• Always follow the instructions of your tour guide. They are trained and experienced in navigating the haunted grounds, and their guidance is essential for a safe tour.
• Show respect for the spirits and the asylum’s history. Avoid provoking or disrespecting any potential entities, as this can lead to unpredictable outcomes.
• Stay with the group throughout the tour and avoid wandering off alone, especially in the darkness. The layout of the asylum can be disorienting, and staying together enhances safety.
• Keep an open mind and be prepared for unexplained phenomena. Ghost tours can bring about eerie sensations like sudden drops in temperature or faint whispers. Embrace these experiences with curiosity and without fear.
• If you ever feel uncomfortable or overwhelmed during the tour don’t hesitate to inform your guide. They are there to ensure your safety and well-being, and they can provide assistance if needed.
• Wear warm clothing during the winter months as quite a bit of your time is spent outdoors and it’s a lot time since they last had a heater running inside!
• Wear good solid walking shoes. There are a lot of stairays to negotiate and a lot of the floors are uneven.
• Bring a small torch with you. There is no lighting inside the Asylum except for in the very front office section.
• Get there early as the tour will start without you – they won’t wait.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can have a spine-tingling and safe experience during your ghost tour at Aradale Asylum, allowing you to fully embrace the haunted history while staying protected throughout the journey.

The Slab Aradale Lunatic Asylum Morgue

Other Haunted Locations In The Area

If you have a fascination for haunted places, Victoria offers an abundance of spooky sites just waiting to be explored. A short drive from Aradale Asylum leads you to the infamous J Ward, once a gaol and now a psychiatric ward, steeped in a dark history and inhabited by ghostly residents. Additionally, the Old Castlemaine Gaol is another eerie destination believed to be haunted by the lingering spirits of former prisoners.

Aradale Asylum At Night

For those seeking a supernatural adventure, the coastal town of Port Fairy houses the historic Merrijig Inn, where chilling tales of ghostly apparitions and paranormal encounters abound. Meanwhile, the Geelong Gaol stands as another must-visit haunted hotspot, carrying a long history of violence and tragedy that continues to pique the curiosity of ghost enthusiasts. Victoria promises a hauntingly intriguing journey for all those who dare to explore these otherworldly locations.

Front Doors From Inside Aradale Lunatic Asylum

The Significance Of Preserving Historical Sites Like Aradale Asylum

As we delve into the chilling history of Aradale Asylum, we must acknowledge the significance of preserving these historical sites. These institutions stand as poignant reminders of our past, offering insights into the treatment of the mentally ill and the progression of mental health care.

Through the preservation of places like Aradale Asylum, we pay tribute to the stories of those who once inhabited and endured within its confines. These sites present valuable educational resources, granting us the opportunity to learn from the past’s missteps and work toward fostering a more compassionate and empathetic approach to mental health care. As we protect and cherish these haunted locations, we honour the memory of those who suffered, and we pave the way for a more enlightened and understanding future.

Aussie Ghosthunters Or Inmates Lunatic Asylum Aradale VIC

Conclusion: Embracing The Haunting History Of Aradale Asylum

Aradale Asylum serves as an enduring testament to the intricacies of human nature and the enigmatic presence of the supernatural. Its haunting history weaves a mesmerising tapestry of tragedy, despair, and unexplained occurrences. Regardless of whether you’re a sceptic or a believer, a ghost tour at Aradale promises an indelible experience that will challenge your perception of the boundaries between the living and the dead.

Are you prepared to confront the spectral inhabitants of Aradale Asylum? Ready yourself to be immersed in a realm where echoes of the past reverberate through the corridors, and the spirits of the departed continue to beguile and fascinate. Brace yourself for a hair-raising adventure that will leave an unforgettable impression long after you’ve departed from the asylum’s chilling embrace.

Remember, within the walls of Aradale Asylum lie untold secrets, awaiting those brave enough to venture into its shadowy depths. Will you heed the call to explore the mysteries concealed within?

A Ghost Is Said To Appear In This Window Dance Hall Aradale Asylum

Getting To Aradale Asylum

Aradale Asylum is located at Ararat. Use the Heath Street entrance don’t try to access the asylum via Grano Street. Ararat is in the Grampians region in western Victoria. It’s easy to get to. We visited while we were staying at Clunes about an hour and a bit away.

Location Map

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Aradale Ghost Tours

• Most Popular
• Extended 4-Hour Tour Available

Aradale Ghost Tour

Experience the bizarre history, personal stories, and brutal events that happened in the 130 years of operation at the Aradale Lunatic Asylum. Explore every section of the facilities for ghosts.

• Hour Glass 2 hrs , 4 hrs
• Clock 7 pm & 8 pm

Other Popular Tours

• Extended 6-Hour Tour Available
• Hour Glass 3 hrs , 6 hrs
• Clock 7:30 pm & 8 pm

Paranormal Investigations at the Aradale Lunatic Asylum

Experience premier paranormal discoveries using a wide range of state-of-the-art ghost hunting equipment and get a chance to find some evidence of the most haunted locations in Australia.

• SPECIAL EVENT
• Hour Glass 5 hours
• Clock 8:30 pm - 1:30 am

Friday the 13th Tour

Wanna be REALLY creeped out on October 28th?!

Eerie Tours offers ghost tours of Aradale and Ballarat, as well as paranormal investigations at the largest abandoned lunatic asylum in Australia. Join us for a spine-tingling experience you won’t forget!

Eerie tours.

Eerie Tours began in 2008 and is now a popular provider of dark tourism and ghost tours in Australia. They’ve won the Victorian Tourism Award and are the only ghost tour company in the country with professional historians. They’re known for giving an accurate and eerie experience, covering places like the Aradale Lunatic Asylum and the hardships of the Gold Rush.

Learn What to Expect on our 5-Star Ballarat Ghost Tours

"Did the 10pm tour last night with “The Matron” she was amazing. Great knowledge of the place. And her theatrics were amazing. "

"horoughly enjoyed this tour through Ballarat history. We weaved our way around the city and heard amazing stories, many of which were very graphic. Our guide was a character and very entertaining."

"The ghost tours are fun and exciting as was the 6 hour paranormal investigation which offers an in-depth Paranormal exploration of many areas of the building. The activity is high and the building is beautiful. Many people who attend do so regularly and I look forward to visiting again."

"Highly recommend the Paranormal investigation. Our guide Morgan was absolutely fantastic! I look forward to coming again."

"Awesome, amazing we did a 4 hour tour and had a great night there. Our host was knowledgeable and a lof of fun. Learned a lot about the history of Aradale and definitely will be going back again for the 6 hour paranormal tour. I really can't recommend this place highly enough should be on your must do list. 10/10 highly recommended."

"Mr Keating was very engaging and the 90 minutes flew by. If you are a skeptic its still worthwhile learning the history in a fun way. The large tour group were engaged with Mr Keating projecting his voice and his professional acting."

  J WARD LUNATIC ASYLUM

  Ararat's Premier Tourist Attraction

About Aradale

Take a guided tour of the institution that housed Victoria's mentally ill for over 140 years.

Aradale Asylum was an Australian psychiatric hospital, located in Ararat, a rural city in Victoria, Australia.Now a ghost "town", Aradale was once known as the Ararat Lunatic Asylum. Aradale and its two sister asylums at Kew and Beechworth were commissioned to accommodate the growing number of "lunatics" in the colony of Victoria. Construction began in 1860 and was opened for patients in 1865. It was closed as an asylum in 1998. At its height, Aradale had up to 900 patients yearly and is a large complex with up to 70 interesting historic abandoned buildings.

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Moscow Vibes – Three Day City Escape

Duration 3 days

Price from USD $730 ? Currency Conversion Converted from USD based on the latest exchange rate. Final amount and payment will be in USD. Final conversion rate is determined by your bank.

Trip Style Sightseeing

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Home / Moscow Tours / Moscow Vibes – Three Day City Escape

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This short Moscow tour will give you a true taste of the history, culture and incomparable urban vibe that define one of the world’s largest metropolises. In just three days, this Moscow itinerary takes in all the most iconic sights of this attraction-packed destination. After two and half days getting acquainted with the city, we’ve set time aside for you to explore Moscow your way and discover your own favourite hang-outs in a city overflowing with hidden treasures

3-Day Moscow Tour Highlights:

• Panoramic Tour of Moscow: See Moscow beyond the postcard images on a private excursion by car through the city streets including a drive along the banks of the Moskva River. Visit the famous Bolshoi Theatre, pass by Gorky Park and the Novodevichy Convent, and admire the city from on high at the Sparrow Hill observation platform.
• Moscow Historical City Centre Guided Walking Tour : Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of one of the world’s biggest metropolises and discover local haunts on foot, including the Red Square, the Kremlin and the multi-coloured domes of St Basil’s Cathedral.
• Armory Chamber tour: Explore the endless treasures of this unique museum, displaying the wealth accumulated by Russian rulers from the 12th century until the October Revolution of 1917. Walking through the exhibition halls is a journey through the centuries.
• Moscow Metro Tour : Go deep underground on a subway tour of the famous Moscow metro. The world’s deepest metro system is renowned for its palatial, art-adorned stations, complete with marble columns and chandeliers.

On your first day, you’ll be treated to a panoramic, drive-by tour of Moscow to get a feel for the immense scale of one of the world’s most rapidly developing urban centres. The city’s history unfolds in real-time as you pass lavish imperial mansions, solemn Soviet structures and luxurious modern shopping centres.

Day two kicks off exploring Moscow’s historic centre on foot, followed by a tour of the Kremlin, the seat of Russian power and political intrigue for centuries. Stand in the Red Square, surrounded by the stunning architecture as you hear stories of the people and events behind many of Moscow’s most iconic landmarks.

On your final day, we’ll head beneath the city for a tour of the Moscow Metro and its famously ornate underground stations. Art lovers should hit up one of Moscow’s many world-class galleries such as the Tretyakov State Gallery, the Pushkin Museum or Garage, Moscow’s cutting-edge contemporary art museum. History fans can follow a Soviet trail through the city including Stalin’s Bunker, while those seeking a more indulgent experience can browse trendy neighbourhoods like Kitay Gorod or shop for everything from fashion to kitsch souvenirs at the enchanting Izmaylovo Flea Market. Foodies can head to one of the countless speciality stores sampling vodka, caviar and chocolate.

If you only have a few days to spend in Moscow, this tour will ensure you make the most of your time in the city. Let the experts navigate you through this complex and occasionally overwhelming capital, giving you plenty of time to soak up the city’s most unmissable attractions.

Accomodation

Not Included

Sightseeing

Action rating ?

Type of tour

3 days / 2 nights

Private - Any Date

Day 1 Panoramic city tour

Welcome to the glorious capital of Russia, Moscow! You’ll be met by your driver at the airport and taken to your centrally located hotel.

After check-in and rest, meet your private guide at the hotel lobby for a comprehensive tour of Moscow by car. Visit the starkly contrasting Theatre Square to see the stunning Bolshoi Theatre, pass Tverskaya Street, the city’s main boulevard and home to the landmark Yeleseyevskiy Grocery Store.

You’ll enjoy a panoramic drive along the Moskva River, where a huge, controversial state of Peter the Great was erected. Pass by the legendary Gorky Park and the White House before a stop at the architecturally stunning Novodevichy Convent, and the observation platform at Sparrow Hills, for a bird’s eye view over this staggering megalopolis.

Day 2 Red Square and Kremlin

After breakfast at the hotel, your guide will take you on a walking tour of the historical city centre. Stroll through the Red Square, the hub of cultural life in Moscow, with its elaborate ‘stone flower’ fountain and fantasy-like St Basil’s Cathedral – a postcard-perfect symbol of the nation. Admire the grandiose façade of GUM, the city’s most luxurious shopping centre, and visit Alexander’s Garden, with its eternal flame and the chance to watch a changing of the guards.

Break for lunch before continuing on a tour of the Kremlin and Armoury Chamber, famous of its collection of tsarist fashion, with regalia such as jewel-encrusted crowns, orbs and sceptres as well as arms and armour, exotic gifts from the leaders of faraway lands, and an illustrious case of Imperial Faberge eggs.

As an option* spend an evening on a sumptuous dinner cruise, taking in the stunning sights and city lights of this mesmerising metropolis by night.

Day 3 Metro and Arbat Street

Start a day with a tour of Metro, stopping on the way to marvel at some of the most elaborately decorated stations of the world-famous Moscow subway system. Take a stroll along Old Arbat street - the most famous street in Moscow. Through the centuries Arbat used to be one of the most bohemian places in Moscow. Today Arbat is a promenade full of small cozy cafes and street life.

The afternoon is free for you to either enjoy the rest of the day on your own or choose among optional excursions to explore more of Moscow. Visit the Tretyakov Gallery or Pushkin State Museum to admire Russian art. Join locals for a stroll at the Gorky or VDNH park.

Visit beautiful Kolomeskoye Estate or Izmailovo Kremlin, or spend a day exploring the beautiful city of the Golden Ring (Russian province) - Sergiev Posad. In the evening you will be transferred to the airport for your departure to your next destination.

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Group airport/train-station arrival and departure transfers

All transportation according to the itinerary with a private driver

4* hotel accommodation in the historical city center (twin/double)

Local licensed English-speaking guide

All activities, indicated in the itinerary, except optional

Entry fees according to the itinerary (skip-the-lines policy)

Russian visa support document

Travel insurance

Russian visa and visa fees. Russian visa can be arranged by 56th Parallel for an additional cost (for Australian citizens only). Apply for concierge visa service here .

Optional excursions/activities

*Private tour. Price is per person, based on min 2 people

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Why travel to Russia with 56th Parallel?

Destination Specialists

Our team offers over 18 years of experience travelling and planning travel in Russia. Delivering outstanding travel experiences in Russia’s capitals and in some of the most stunning & remote locations takes experience, special access and the right connections. We make sure that all the fine details are handled perfectly so you can enjoy your Russia travel experience.

Group & Private Tours

The choice to join a small group on a guaranteed departure or chose to travel on your own dates with your own mates. Each destination we travel to in Russia offers an option between private tours and small group tours. Please note: on our adventure tours in remote destinations, we mostly run group tours to keep the cost down.

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From USD $730

Day 1: Panoramic city tour

Day 2: red square and kremlin, day 3: metro and arbat street, not included, start planning your tour.

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Around Town: In honor of Earth Day, a cleanup is planned at the Santa Ana-Delhi Channel

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To mark this year’s Earth Day, a two-hour cleanup will be held Saturday, April 20, at the Santa Ana-Delhi Channel entrance at the corner of Mesa Drive and Irvine Avenue in Costa Mesa. Volunteers are encouraged to help out.

The event organized by OC Coastkeeper and Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris will take place from 9 to 11 a.m. Parking will be available on Mesa Drive or Anniversary Lane behind the channel.

Newport Beach Women’s Democratic Club to meet April 25

The OASIS Senior Center in Corona del Mar will be the venue on Thursday, April 25, when the Newport Beach Women’s Democratic Club will hold its monthly in-person meeting. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for networking; the speakers’ program starts at 6 p.m.

This month’s program will focus on the trends of racism and freedom of speech restrictions as a nation and in local communities. Featured guest speakers are Don Schwartz, retired professor of history at CSU Long Beach and Huntington Beach City Councilwoman Natalie Moser.

Although admission is free, registration is required. Visit NBWDC.org to register.

Dragon Kim Foundation offers 2 CdM students fellowship

Newport Beach students Preston Kousoulas, 17, and Evan Razmjoo, 16, both of whom attend Corona Del Mar High School, have been welcomed as members of the 2024 Fellowship Class of the Orange County-based Dragon Kim Foundation.

The nonprofit is a social entrepreneurship incubator for high school youth. Kousoulas and Razmjoo will be given three weekends of leadership training and up to $5,000 from the foundation to implement a social service project in the community this summer.

The duo plan to launch “CodeQuest Kids,” a project driven by their passion for coding that aims to equip underserved children with an introduction to coding skills. By conducting coding boot camps they will introduce students in grades six through eight to the world of programming and teach them to craft their own 2D video games.

The fellowship was founded in 2015 in honor of the late Dragon Kim, a talented young musician, athlete and scholar who wanted to help others through positive change. To learn more, visit dragonkimfoundation.org .

Citywide Spring Sidewalk Sale in Laguna Beach April 27

The organization Think Laguna First announced via a Chamber of Commerce news blast this week that several merchants will participate in its Spring Sidewalk Sale on Saturday, April 27, during their regular business hours.

As of Friday afternoon, 27 retailers were listed on the nonprofit’s website as those who will welcome sidewalk shoppers that day.

To learn more, or to register to be a participating merchant, visit thinklagunafirst.com/springsale .

New GM for Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach

The Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa announced Thursday the appointment of Jon Benson as its new general manager.

Benson, who once served as the property’s director of food and beverage, is returning to oversee operations of the 519-room resort. He has been with Hyatt for more than 35 years, most recently as general manger of its Hana-Maui Resort.

“I could not be more thrilled to rejoin the team at Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach,” Benson stated in a news release announcing his appointment. “This property has always held a very significant personal and professional importance to me and my family, and I am honored to have been selected to usher in a new era of success for this beloved hotel.”

Spring Garden Art Fair on tap for day before Mother’s Day

Sherman Library & Gardens’ Volunteer Assn. is hosting the Spring Garden Art Faire on Saturday, May 11.

The event, which will feature the sounds of harp music performed by members of the Orange County Harp Troupe, showcases not only the garden in its spring glory but themed artwork in a wide variety of media.

The Sherman’s volunteer group that’s known as the Sowers will present one-of-a-kind spring items for people and pets, with 100% of proceeds benefiting Sherman Library & Gardens. Children can create a birdhouse at the craft table and make a Mother’s Day card to take home.

Instructor-led classes will feature spring-themed projects throughout the day, and the horticulture staff will help interested guests create a bouquet for purchase.

The event is free with garden admission, which is free for members and $5 for nonmembers.

Sherman Library & Gardens is located at 2647 E. Coast Hwy. in Corona del Mar.

20th annual Spring Garden and Outdoor Living Tour set for May 19

Tickets are on sale now for the Rossmoor Woman’s Club’s 20th annual Spring Garden and Outdoor Living Tour, which will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, May 19.

The fundraiser will feature six Rossmoor homes, two elementary schools, floral demonstrations, a plant sale, raffle and more.

One of the featured gardens, a National Wildlife Federation Certified Wildlife Habitat, is inspired by the owner’s antiques collections as well as her pilgrimage to the famous Camino de Santiago in Europe. Another home employs murals, plants and statuary in homage to its owner’s late spouse and in appreciation of friends and family who have helped her through her grief.

Other gardens on the tour feature amenities such as pools, bars and barbecue areas for family-oriented entertainers, a putting green and a hot tub for retirees seeking low-maintenance. The tour this year also includes vegetable and herb gardens tended by pupils at Richard Henry Lee and Rossmoor elementary schools under the auspices of the Orange County Master Gardeners Program.

The self-guided tour includes an outdoor marketplace at Arbor Village. Tickets, which contain addresses and a map to all the homes, are $20 per person. They may be purchased in advance from any club member, from a selection of local merchants or on the club website, rossmoorwomansclub.org .

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What Taylor Swift's new album means for her $1 billion fortune

• Taylor Swift's new album, " The Tortured Poets Department ," is almost guaranteed to be a bestseller. 
• But no matter how well it does, it won't be the way Swift earns most of her money this year.
• The remaining leg of her Eras Tour is expected to add much more to Swift's billion-dollar fortune.

Taylor Swift released her new album, " The Tortured Poets Department ," at midnight, and, in what should be no surprise to anyone on this planet in the year 2024, it caused a scene.

Her album garnered millions of streams within hours. There's almost no doubt it'll top the Billboard chart like the 13 Swift albums before it.

But no matter how many platinum certifications it collects or streams it racks up on Spotify, "The Tortured Poets Department" won't be Swift's biggest money-maker this year.

The remaining leg of her Eras Tour — kicking off in Paris next month and running through December — is instead expected to be what contributes most to her fortune, which Bloomberg estimated to be $1.1 billion last year.

"Live music is the engine of the global music business," Clayton Durant, an adjunct professor at NYU Steinhardt's Music Business Program who's the founder of CAD Management, told Business Insider. "Her tour is probably going to earn 10 to 15 times more than her streaming."

Swift's Eras Tour brought in more than $1 billion in ticket sales last year over its 66 dates. By the end of this year, she's set to have played another 86. Swift's cut is unknown, but based on industry standards, she'll surely earn nine figures in 2024 from ticket sales.

Concerts don't only bring in money from ticket sales.

Pollstar estimates that Swifties spend an average of $40 a head on merch at her concerts — that adds up to about $175 million in gross merch sales last year. Swift's camp keeps the majority of that.

Bloomberg estimated that between box office and merchandise, Swift pocketed $225 million, pre-tax, from her first 57 Eras Tour dates. Career earnings from ticket sales and merchandise account for 34% of her total net worth, while earnings from music streaming and sales account for 18%, Bloomberg estimates.

Related stories

Swift isn't alone in making money on the road.

In 2021, the last year Billboard made a list of music's top earners, seven out of the 10 top money makers earned more than half of their income from touring.

But the music industry didn't always function this way. Before the advent of streaming, musicians made most of their fortune selling CDs, cassette tapes, and vinyl records .

"Physical music sales made up the bulk of artists' revenue pre-streaming, and that revenue was what enabled artists to tour. These days, the equation has flipped," Tatiana Cirisano, a senior music-industry analyst at MIDiA, told BI over email.

Streaming made listening to recorded music much cheaper. For less than the price of one CD — or for free, illegally or with ads — people could get all the songs they wanted.

"The moment Napster hit, it changed the paradigm, and it really honestly diluted the value of music," Durant said.

To be sure, Swift is still making tens of millions, if not more, on streaming and record sales each year — more than almost any other artist on the planet.

Streaming services such as Spotify pay out artists on a pro-rata model: There's a pot, made up of subscription and ad revenue, paid out to artists each year. Those with the biggest share of the platform's total streams get the biggest piece of it.

But "if you're an individual artist, you have to have a pretty massive audience to be able to earn a meaningful share of that revenue — which is paid out to you after your label gets its cut," Cirisano said.

Last year, Swift was the most streamed artist on both Apple and Spotify. One of every 78 songs streamed in the US last year was a Swift song, according to the music-data firm Luminate. She'll probably rank at or near the top again, between " The Tortured Poets Department " and a streaming lift from the second leg of her Eras Tour.

Swift is also set to earn more than most artists from physical music sales. Last year, she was responsible for one out of every 15 vinyl records sold, according to Luminate. Cirisano said Swift's rabid followers saw physical records as "a symbol of fandom" and a way to support Swift.

That said, without Eras, Swift would just be a poor centimillionaire.

Watch: Artsy CMO, Everette Taylor, tells Insider that the online art marketplace is more inclusive, and lucrative

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RBC Heritage

Harbour Town Golf Links

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina • USA

Apr 18 - 21, 2024

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Scottie. scheffler. oh, and much more from saturday at the rbc heritage 2024, share this article.

Stop me if you’ve heard this before: Scottie Scheffler is atop the leaderboard after 54 holes.This time, it’s at the 2024 RBC Heritage, a PGA Tour signature event, at Harbour Town Golf Links in Hilton Head, South Carolina, where Scheffler posted masterful 8-under 63.

The world No. 1 gained over three shots on the field with his approach play Saturday, and poured in a few lengthy birdie attempts, including a near 40-footer at the short par-4 ninth.

Sepp Straka is Scheffler’s closest competitor, sitting just one shot back at 15 under thanks to a beautiful birdie on the iconic par-4 18th. The Austrian’s last win came at the John Deere Classic – the “fifth major” – in 2023.

Big names are scattered all over the leaderboard: Collin Morikawa (14 under, two back), Ludvig Aberg (13 under, three back), Sahith Theegala (13 under, three back), Patrick Cantlay (12 under, four back), Rory McIlroy (10 under, six back) and Xander Schauffele (10 under, six back).

Scheffler will have his hands full holding off that charging pack.

If you missed any of Saturday’s action, no worries, we have you covered. Here’s everything you need to know from the third round of the RBC Heritage at Harbour Town Golf Links.

Scottie Scheffler — that's all we gotta say

Scottie Scheffler looks on while playing the 10th hole during the third round of the RBC Heritage at Harbour Town Golf Links on April 20, 2024 in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)

So we’re really doing this again, huh?

Scheffler has won three of his last four starts, including last week’s Masters where he slipped on the Green Jacket for the second time in three years.

What may be most impressive about his performance in South Carolina is how much different Augusta National and Harbour Town are. Augusta is a big ballpark that requires patience. Harbour Town prioritizes accuracy over everything and chasing birdies on almost every hole is a necessity. No matter what the course calls for, Scheffler can deliver the goods.

On Saturday, the world No.1 made eight birdies and no bogeys for a stellar 63. It’s his 39th consecutive round under par, second-most since 1983 and second only to Tiger Woods, who had 52 from in 2000-2001.

“Going into tomorrow, I should be close to the lead if not in the lead. We’ll see where everything shakes out. The guys behind me still have some holes to play, but we’ll see, either way I’ll be in a decent position going into tomorrow,” Scheffler said after his round.

“Just looking to go out and get off to a good start. This golf course, you can shoot some low scores if you’re hitting it well and placing the ball in the right air with a, so that’s what I’m going to try and do tomorrow.”

With a win, Scheffler would become the second player to ever win the Masters and RBC Heritage in back-to-back weeks (Bernhard Langer, 1985).

He leads by one shot with 18 holes to play.

Collin Morikawa is back. Officially

Collin Morikawa walks to the first tee during the third round of the RBC Heritage golf tournament. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

On Friday, I wrote that Collin Morikawa might be back after a few tough years on the golf course. Well, it sure looks like he’s returned.

After a 65 and 66 to open his week, Morikawa posted a 3-under 68 on Moving Day and is two shots back of Scheffler heading into the final round.

The Cal product played consistent golf all day long, pouring in birdies on Nos. 5, 9 and 12 before trading a birdie for a bogey on Nos. 15 and 16.

“This is how I feel like I used to play,” Morikawa told the media after signing his card. “That’s what’s great is that you just find a way to score and you find a way to keep yourself near the lead. Webb Simpson told me early on in my career, ‘if you just have a chance with nine holes to go or 18 holes on a Sunday, you’ve done a lot of the work needed.’ Tomorrow is just all about committing to your shots and just remembering that, staying in your own head, not trying to play anyone else’s golf.”

Thanks to Sepp Straka’s birdie on 18, Morikawa will tee off in the penultimate group Sunday.

The kid is special

Ludvig Aberg of Sweden reacts after making a birdie on the fifth hole during the third round of the RBC Heritage at Harbour Town Golf Links on April 20, 2024 in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. (Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images)

Ludvig Aberg is a stud.

Since making his professional debut at the RBC Canadian Open in June of last year, he’s finished inside the top 25 an amazing 15 times. He won the RSM Classic in November. He represented Europe in the Ryder Cup in Rome. He finished solo second at the Masters in his first major championship start.

And now, the Swede is in position to earn his first victory at a signature event.

Aberg made four birdies and a bogey on Saturday, signing for a 3-under 68 and enters the final round of the RBC Heritage three back of Scheffler.

“I think we’re all expecting (Scheffler) to be there with the way that he’s been playing,” Aberg said. “I think we all expect him to play well, and there’s nothing I can do about it. All I try to do is focus on myself and make sure that I hit the shots the way I want to and then see where that takes me.”

The 24-year-old wasn’t able to chase down the world’s best player at Augusta, but maybe he can at Harbour Town.

Is Rory McIlroy finding his swing?

Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland hits a tee shot on the sixth hole during the third round of the RBC Heritage at Harbour Town Golf Links on April 20, 2024 in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. (Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images)

It’s no secret that this season hasn’t gone to plan for Rory McIlroy, the second-ranked golfer in the world. He has just one top-10 finish which came a few weeks ago at the Valero Texas Open. After a disappointing week at Augusta National, it was hard to predict what we would see from the four-time major champion in Hilton Head.

Well, it seems like he’s finding a groove.

After a quick visit with Butch Harmon, McIlroy looks to have found a few swing feels and was passing through the golf ball beautifully – for the most part – on Saturday.

He opened with rounds of 67-68, and on Day 3 posted another 3-under 68 thanks to six birdies and three bogeys.

How does this not drop?! 😲 @McIlroyRory narrowly misses a hole-out eagle @RBC_Heritage . pic.twitter.com/aUtlQTe21N — PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) April 20, 2024

He’ll enter the final round six shots back of the lead.

Top 10 and odds to win

Odds: DraftKings

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Teachers in Oregon have found a solution for burnout: stand up comedy

Natalie Pate

Some teachers have found a way to combat classroom burnout: stand up comedy. In Oregon, the Teacher Show features professors, preschool teachers and everyone in between joking about their day jobs.

SCOTT SIMON, HOST:

You know, teachers are the ideal stand-up comedians. I mean, think about it - constantly working on material for the toughest audiences - bored kids. And all the time, they bomb.

DON GAVITTE: We bomb first period, third period, fifth period sometimes.

SIMON: High school history teacher Don Gavitte is the creative force behind "The Teacher Show," a comedy showcase in Oregon and Washington that gives audiences a taste of the classroom from the stage.

GAVITTE: If you haven't seen a freshman boy in a while, they're about 3'11. They got that backpack-to-body ratio that's just not working out for them. They're always falling over. They're like little turtles.

SIMON: Oregon Public Broadcasting's Natalie Pate was in the audience for a recent show.

TINA HOGSTROM: Make some noise if you're a teacher in the audience.

HOGSTROM: Make some noise if you are a partner of someone who is a teacher.

HOGSTROM: Now, those are the real heroes (laughter).

NATALIE PATE, BYLINE: It's Saturday in Salem, Ore. Tina Hogstrom has been working with preschoolers all week, but tonight, she's in front of a packed room of grown-ups.

HOGSTROM: Recently, a child said to me, your teeth are too loud. My mouth was closed.

HOGSTROM: And I've not thought about anything else.

PATE: Welcome to "The Teacher Show: Comedy From The Classroom."

HOGSTROM: I can always tell what kind of day I'm going to have based on what kind of outdoor playground equipment a child tells me I'm going to break if I try to use. A kid recently did tell me not to sit down on a stainless steel bench made for an adult. They said, (impersonating child) whoa, teacher Tina, you're going to break that.

PATE: By day, these educators work with students of all ages, teaching everything from the ABCs to college robotics. But after the bell rings, they head to the clubs.

TODD BASIL: I can't work with adults who say crisscross applesauce. I just can't do it. I can't do it.

PATE: Todd Basil is a college calculus instructor in Portland and is a regular with the local crew. "The Teacher Show" has been playing at venues throughout the Pacific Northwest, with another batch coming this semester. The lineup may change, but the theme stays the same. It's part of a growing movement in comedy, where often beleaguered working professionals like nurses and teachers poke fun at their day jobs.

BASIL: I instituted a new binary grading system in my classroom last year. Students either pass or they try and get me fired.

PATE: From viral videos on social media to themed cruises and international comedy tours, educators are in on the joke.

BASIL: I dropped 69 in my class the other day. I was like, 69 - our favorite number. And anyone know why? The second row blushed. I'm like, 'cause that's right on the border of a passing grade. Round it up to 70 - you're good.

PATE: The show's it factor is that anyone can relate or, as the showrunners put it, if you've ever worked in, gone to or even driven by a school, this show is for you. Just take it from high school Spanish teacher Katie Nguyen.

KATIE NGUYEN: And I'm always thinking about the advice we give to kids. For example, when a kid is being made fun of, when a kid is being bullied, all we say to them is I am rubber and you are glue, whatever you say bounces off of me and sticks to you.

PATE: She also teaches stand-up to aspiring comedians.

NGUYEN: And in my experience, it's been a lot more like, I am Tupperware, and you are a tomato sauce.

NGUYEN: Whatever you say becomes a part of me and ruins me forever.

GAVITTE: One of the shows we did, somebody wrote online that the show was restorative.

PATE: Speaking with the comedians backstage after one of their gigs, show creator Don Gavitte said part of the show's power is the catharsis it gives fellow educators in the audience.

GAVITTE: I think that was the best review we ever got. They felt better. They felt restored when they left the show.

PATE: Gavitte got his start in comedy at his father's funeral, of all places. Overwhelmed by emotion while delivering the eulogy, he cracked a joke. That's when he realized his comedy could help people, including his students and himself.

GAVITTE: You're tired when you walk in after a night of a show, but if you killed, you're walking on air - right? - and you could walk into that school, walk in tall - right? - because you killed last night, and that's a great feeling.

GAVITTE: I know what we need to do with the educational jargon. We need to use collective terms like they have in zoology. Right? Like, a group of middle school boys is an awkward. A group of soon-to-retire elementary school teachers - that's a sauvignon blanc.

PATE: At the end of the day, the comedians say the magic goes both ways. Teaching informs their comedy, and the comedy informs their teaching.

HOGSTROM: I've been Tina. You have been fabulous.

BASIL: Hey, my name is Todd Basil.

GAVITTE: I'm Don Gavitte. Thanks for your time. See you later.

PATE: For NPR News, I'm Natalie Pate in Salem, Ore.

(SOUNDBITE OF NATE SMITH'S SONG "WHAT IT DO")

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2024 RBC Heritage leaderboard, scores: Scottie Scheffler leads with eye on fourth win in last five starts

Scheffler continues to dominate his peers as he inches closer to adding $3.6 million to his bank account.

Another week, another chance for Scottie Scheffler to add a tournament trophy to his sterling résumé. Despite entering with what most believe would be an automatic Masters hangover, the world No. 1 is No. 1 on the leaderboard at the 2024 RBC Heritage with 18 holes to play. This despite just nine holes of practice and an early misstep.

Scheffler was flawless Saturday, utilizing an 8-under 63 to climb to 16 under for the tournament, one clear of Sepp Straka. Scheffler's 54-hole lead marks his eighth lead or co-lead in his last 17 rounds as he searches for his fourth victory in his last five starts, potentially the 10th of his PGA Tour career.

Scheffler's 63 not only saw him pull away from the field but pull closer to Tiger Woods for most consecutive rounds at par or better since 1983. Scheffler's Saturday matched Fred Funk at 38 straight, putting him 14 off the pace of Woods' record 52.Scheffler will also look to join Woods in 2006 as the latest golfer to win a tournament one week immediately after winning a major championship.

It is likely Scheffler will need to extend this under-par streak if he expects to add another jacket to his closet. While a bevy of stars lurk, final rounds have proven to be no sweat for the best player in the world this year. Scheffler has raced away from the field at the Arnold Palmer Invitational and the Masters, and he chased down the leaders at The Players Championship. No matter the situation, Scheffler and his game areup for it.

"I think tomorrow is going to be challenging," Scheffler said. "We're going to get a different wind tomorrow, so the golf course will play pretty different. It's something that we'll adjust to tonight, kind of get in the right headspace. Go out tomorrow and try our best to stay patient and execute."  

1. Scottie Scheffler (-16):  He has been perfect since his double bogey on No. 3 in Round 1 as Scheffler has neither put a five on his scorecard this week nor dropped a shot in his last 51 holes. During this stretch, he has tacked on 17 birdies, eight of which came in Round 3. Scheffler had everything in sequence on Moving Day as he hit 10 fairways and 15 greens, going 5 for 5 getting up-and-down. 

Of his eight birdies, seven came from inside 10 feet; the lone outside effort came on the short par-4 ninth. Scheffler was able to connect from 36 feet, turn in 5-under 31 and keep the momentum rolling into the inward half where he ultimately grabbed the lead for himself.

"No. 8 was really only the bad swing I made today, and it was nice to get that ball up-and-down," Scheffler said. "Then No. 9, it's two days in a row where I've hit decent drives and ended up in a weird spot. Yesterday, I had the plugged lie, and today, instead of staying on the upslope or going in the bunker, it stays on the downslope. Seemed like there was more grass underneath it but wasn't able to get underneath it to hit the flop, but it was nice to see that ball go in for sure."

Other contenders

2. Sepp Straka (-15) 3. Collin Morikawa (-14) T4. Ludvig Åberg, Patrick Rodgers, Sahith Theegala (-13) T7. Tom Hoge, Seamus Power, Patrick Cantlay, J.T. Poston (-12)

For most of Saturday, it appeared Åberg would be the one to challenge Scheffler much like he did at the Masters. The young Swede was automatic on the front nine, giving himself chance after chance from inside 10 feet, but he was unable to convert with much consistency. Despite a smidge of trouble on the greens, last week's runner up turned in 3 under and added another birdie on the 11th to tie Scheffler at 14 under.

Åberg played his last seven holes in 1 over, while Scheffler played his last four holes in 2 under to build a three-stroke edge over the man who came closest to him at Augusta National. Åberg will need to be perfect tomorrow, but he has proven already in his young career that he is capable of such a performance.

"I think we're all expecting [Scheffler] to be there with the way that he's been playing," Åberg said. "I think we all expect him to play well, and there's nothing I can do about it. All I try to do is focus on myself and make sure that I hit the shots the way I want to and then see where that takes me."

2024 RBC Heritage updated odds and picks

Odds via SportsLine consensus

• Scottie Scheffler: 2/3
• Sepp Straka: 11/2
• Collin Morikawa: 7-1
• Ludvig Åberg: 11-1
• Sahith Theegala: 18-1
• Patrick Cantlay: 28-1

Straka is going to be frisky -- he's capable of winning and has a ton of game -- but let's not reinvent the wheel now. Scheffler has been stellar from the pole position in recent memory (including last week) and shows no signs of slowing down. After an iffy start to his week, the world No. 1 has settled in and should settle into a new tartan jacket on the 18th green tomorrow.

Morikawa climbs within one

A birdie on 15 has Collin Morikawa in the inside lane on joining Scottie Scheffler in the final group tomorrow. It would be the same final two as the Masters just a week ago with Morikawa looking to be the one to exact revenge. He stands at 15 under and one behind Scheffler with three to go.

Scheffler gets in at 16 under

The world No. 1 started the day at 8 under, shot 8 under and is in the house at 16 under. Scheffler was brilliant on Saturday as he had everything going for him. He was stellar off the tee, on approach and a perfect 5/5 getting up and down. Outside a double bogey on No. 3 on Thursday, Scheffler has not dropped a shot. 

Rory posts 68

There was some good and some bad for Rory today, and it all adds up to a 3-under 68. He was even par on his final 13 holes after getting off to a dream start. He stands at 10 under and five behind Scottie Scheffler who is on the surface on 17 with a 12-foot birdie look.

Scheffler goes two clear

Just like that a share of the lead has turned into a two-stroke lead. With Scottie Scheffler making birdie on the par-5 15th and Ludvig Aberg dropping a shot on the par-4 12th, Scheffler is two clear at 15 under.

Ludvig leaps into a share

The young Swede grabs a birdie on the 11th to get to 14 under alongside Scottie Scheffler. They are one clear of Collin Morikawa and Tom Hoge on the back nine at Harbour Town, but Ludvig just hammered a tree off the tee on the 12th. Meanwhile, Scheffler is in the fairway on 15 hoping to get on in two.

Morikawa tacks on a birdie at the turn

Choosing to lay up, Collin Morikawa stuffs his wedge from 100 yards on the short par-4 9th to get within one of Scottie Scheffler. Morikawa's iron play has been a hot topic this season and while it has flashed, it has been somewhat inconsistent. Let's see if he can keep this going and keep the pace on the back nine.

Scheffler eyes go-ahead birdie

He knocks it to 5 feet on the par-4 12th, and Scheffler will have that to reach 14 under and grab the lead by himself. He is currently tied at 13 under with Ludvig Aberg who steps to the short par-4 9th hoping to add a birdie of his own. These two are battling again.

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