Three retired paramedics and first responders standing in front of several vintage ambulance vehicles parked inside a garage.

Ambulance Victoria Chas Martin OAM Museum

Explore the history of Victoria's ambulance services.

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Explore the museum

The museum has more than 3,000 items. This includes an amazing car, bike and skidoo collection, with up to 30 vehicles on display.

Step back in time with this gallery of the museum's collections.

  • An old-fashioned ambulance parked inside a garage, showcasing its vintage design and classic features.
  • A vintage ambulance parked inside a garage, showcasing its classic design and historical significance.
  • A classic vintage ambulance resting in a garage, highlighting its unique features and nostalgic charm.
  • A vintage grey and white ambulance parked inside a garage.
  • The cover of a book named 'Family Medical Guide' featuring essential health information for family care.
  • A folder with a typewriten report and several black and white photos of a train crash accident.
  • A booklet featuring an illustration of a horse and carriage on its cover and an old logo of the ambulance service.
  • A vintage magazine illustrating two first responders driving an old ambulance.
  • An old medical equipment featuring a hose connected to it.
  • A medical device featuring two large holes for hand insertion.
  • A metal tube accompanied by a piece of paper and a bottle.
  • A triangle sheet of paper with illistrations on how to administer bandage to a patient.
  • An old hat featuring the words 'Victorian Civil Ambulance Service' prominently displayed on the front.
  • A blue coat featuring gold-red buttons and and a name tag above the front pocket.

  • AV Chas Martin OAM Museum

  • AV Chas Martin OAM Museum

  • AV Chas Martin OAM Museum

  • AV Chas Martin OAM Museum

  • AV Chas Martin OAM Museum

  • AV Chas Martin OAM Museum

  • AV Chas Martin OAM Museum

  • AV Chas Martin OAM Museum

  • AV Chas Martin OAM Museum

  • AV Chas Martin OAM Museum

  • AV Chas Martin OAM Museum

  • AV Chas Martin OAM Museum

  • AV Chas Martin OAM Museum

  • AV Chas Martin OAM Museum

Arrange a visit

The Ambulance Victoria Chas Martin OAM Museum has a large collection of old medical tools, vehicles, uniforms, radios and other historical objects. Visitors can explore the interesting history and stories behind these items. The museum is a great place for history lovers and families to visit.

The museum is looked after by retired ambulance officers and experienced volunteers who donate their time. To arrange a visit, contact us by phone or email.

Group Tours include a 25-minute video presentation with one or two of our volunteer presenters, tea and coffee with a refreshment and a walking around with explanations and photographs at the end. Usually, the tour lasts around one and a half to two hours depending on numbers. The maximum number per visit is around 25 people.

Phone: 0419 619 430

Email: ambulance.historical@outlook.com

Location

The museum is located at 1/55 Barry Street, Bayswater, Victoria 3153.

Opening hours are by appointment only.

Ever since man, woman, or child became sick or injured there has always been a mode of transport no matter how basic to convey them to hospital - from man carrying man, push, horse or motor vehicles through disasters, wars, plagues, sickness and accidents.

PKD 2012

About the museum

The museum was started in 1916 by retired ambulance officers. They started the Ambulance Historic Society of Victoria Inc (AHVS). They started collecting old ambulances and objects, including six ambulances.

In 2006, the AHVS, with help from Ambulance Victoria (AV), found a location in Thomastown. Many ambulance stations and staff across Victoria donated old equipment and photographs.

In 2015, the museum moved to Bayswater, where more than 3,000 items are currently catalogued in conjunction with Museum Victoria.

Today, the museum has 30 ambulances. The oldest ambulance is the Ashford Litter ambulance from 1887. The museum is non-profit and is run by retired ambulance staff and experienced volunteers who keep our history alive.

History of Ambulance Victoria

Support the museum

The museum is looked after by retired ambulance officers and volunteers. We seek support from community partners to assist with managing our operating expenses.

Community partnerships

Community partnerships are available from $250 to $500. Major sponsorship opportunities are also available. We also accept donations of products and/or services, which will be used as prizes for raffles.

Memberships

General memberships can be purchased for $30 for three years.

Membership includes:

  • A quarterly newsletter.
  • Unlimited free family/friends visit to the museum.
  • Discounted museum merchandise, and more.

Events, television, and film services

If you are planning a television show, documentary, or film and need ambulances or equipment from a specific time period, we can assist with your production. Our vehicles have been featured in shows like Gallipoli and Dr Blake. Our vehicles are also available for displays and parades at city and regional, public, and commercial events.

Contact us by phone or email.

Phone: 0419 619 430

Email: ambulance.historical@outlook.com

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