National Vietnam Veterans Museum (Newhaven)

The National Vietnam Veterans Museum on Phillip Island is Australia's only museum dedicated specifically to preserving and sharing the experiences of Vietnam War veterans and the lasting impact of the conflict on Australian society.

Founded by Vietnam veterans, the museum began as a travelling collection of war memorabilia in the 1990s and has grown into an important cultural and historical attraction. Its extensive collection includes thousands of artefacts, photographs, documents, military vehicles and personal items donated by veterans and their families.

National Vietnam Veterans Museum (Newhaven)

National Vietnam Veterans Museum (Newhaven)

The exhibitions tell the story of Australia's involvement in the Vietnam War, exploring military service, conscription, anti-war protests and the experiences of those who returned home. Personal accounts and memorabilia provide insight into the lives of Australian service personnel and the families affected by the war.

The museum is also an important place of remembrance and reflection for veterans and their families.

National Vietnam Veterans Museum (Newhaven)

Sound and Light Show
A 20-minute holographic sound-and-light presentation provides an overview of the Vietnam War and Australia's involvement in the conflict. It introduces visitors to the historical background of the war and the experiences of Australian service personnel.

Exhibits and Wartime Memorabilia

Aircraft - Displays include a Bell AH-1 Cobra attack helicopter, Bell UH-1 Huey utility helicopter and the nosecone of a Lockheed C-130 Hercules aircraft. A Canberra bomber is undergoing restoration.
Military Vehicles - A Centurion tank and an M113 Armoured Personnel Carrier are among the major exhibits.
Artillery and Weapons - Military equipment includes a 105mm L5 Pack Howitzer, a 105mm L2A2 Howitzer and a collection of weapons used during the Vietnam War.
Dioramas - Detailed displays recreate aspects of military operations and conditions experienced during the conflict.
Conscription - Exhibits explore Australia's controversial National Service system, including the birthday ballot used to select young men for military service.
Ship and Aircraft Models - More than 100 detailed scale models represent military vehicles, ships and aircraft. These include models of HMAS Sydney, nicknamed the "Vung Tau Ferry", which transported Australian troops to and from Vietnam.
Photographs - An extensive photographic collection documents the experiences of Australian service personnel, including images taken during the war by soldiers and military photographers.
Uniforms and Personal Memorabilia - Displays include military uniforms, medals, dog tags, cigarette lighters, letters, souvenirs and other personal possessions.
Documents - Call-up notices, newspaper articles, official reports and personal correspondence illustrate the experiences of those who served and the divisions within Australian society.
Life During and After the War - Exhibitions explore the contributions of nurses, entertainers, Red Cross and Salvation Army personnel, anti-war protests and the lasting effects of the conflict, including exposure to chemical defoliants.

Research Library
The museum has a research library containing historical documents, photographs, newspapers and other material relating to Australia's involvement in the Vietnam War. Its collection supports historical research and educational activities.

The museum also offers educational programs for school groups, including guided tours, demonstrations and activities exploring conscription and military service.

National Vietnam Veterans Museum (Newhaven)

Merchandise Shop
The museum shop sells books, badges, clothing, souvenirs and memorabilia relating to the Vietnam War and Australian military history.

Nui Dat Cafe
Named after the Australian Task Force base at Nui Dat in Vietnam, the cafe provides a place for visitors to relax and reflect. It offers coffee, cold drinks, sandwiches, salads, light refreshments and a selection of more substantial meals.

Opening Hours:

Opening Hours

Cost:

Admission Prices
For a discount check out Small Ideas

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