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A photo from an old 1930s newspaper of a person working on a machine.
An original architectural drawing (side elevation) of the incinerator building from 1929.
South facing view of the Essendon incinerator building today showing a yellow building, an accessible ramp, outdoor furniture and a tree on a cloudy day.
North facing view of the Essendon incinerator building today showing a yellow building with long sloped roof and chimney on a sunny day.
A photo from an old 1930s newspaper of a person working on a machine.

Essendon Incinerator: A Modern Engineering and Design Marvel

Studio of Walter Burley Griffin 1929

Description

Designed by the studio of Walter Burley Griffin and local engineer John Boadle, the Essendon Incinerator marked a radical departure from the conventional approach of incinerating municipal waste within an unsightly, foul-smelling, smoky industrial structure. Instead, it utilised a new type of furnace design, which improved working conditions for workers, minimised environmental pollution in neighbouring communities and reduced garbage disposal costs—all while boasting an architectural style more reminiscent of a community hall than an industrial facility. The building and incinerators stand as a pioneering and intact example of the successful integration of advanced engineering and innovative design.

What's On

Between 11am to 1pm, come view the building's recently restored exterior and speak with knowledgeable guides. 

At 1pm, there will be a presentation and walk-through with historian and retired metallurgical engineer Jim Happ who will provide information about the mechanics and operations of the incinerators.

Images: (1) Worker operating oil burners at Essendon Incinerator. Photo: Courtesy of Essendon Gazette 1930. (2) Essendon Incinerator architectural drawing, 1929. Photo: courtesy of Office of Walter Burley Griffin. (3) Essendon incinerator, south-facing view, 2023. Photo: courtesy of Incinerator Gallery. (4) Essendon Incinerator, north facing view, 2023. (5) Worker operating oil burners at Essendon Incinerator. Photo: Courtesy of Essendon Gazette 1930. Photo: courtesy of Incinerator Gallery.

Important Details

Time & Date

Sunday 28 July
Open access 11am-4pm
Tours run 11am + 12pm
Running for 30 minutes in groups of 50

Presentation and tour at 1pm
Running for 60 minutes in group of 25

ACCESSIBILITY

Fully wheelchair accessible, Accessible bathroom, Accessible parking nearby, Elevator access

Location

180 Holmes Rd, Aberfeldie VIC 3040

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