Natimuk is a small town roughly thirty kilometres west of Horsham, supporting an eclectic mix of grain and sheep farmers, creative artists and passionate rock climbers; all drawn to the peaceful landscape from which to pursue their passions.
The history of the region is carefully collected and archived by volunteers from the Arapiles Historical Society who maintain three sites in the town; the Court House, the former Natimuk Garage and the former Natimuk Masonic Hall.
The Arapiles Climbing Museum, located in Natimuk’s former Masonic Hall on Main Street, is Australia’s first museum dedicated to rock climbing, reflecting the rich and diverse climbing culture of Mount Arapiles.
The museum showcases the history, development, and evolution of rock climbing at Arapiles (Dyuritte), capturing its influence on the sport both in Australia and internationally. Inside you will find climbing gear and memorabilia sourced from the climbing community, offering visitors a glimpse into the unique world of Arapiles climbing.
The Arapiles Courthouse, built in 1891, served as the local courthouse until the mid-1960s when its functions were moved to Horsham. The building was then granted to the Arapiles Historical Society and became a museum in 1968. On our visit the court house contained a fascinating collection of instruments and other related items from the Natimuk Brass Band which has been in operation for more than 120 years.
The old Natimuk Motor Garage is the third site and here visitors can explore relics from the farming community that have toiled this land for hundreds of years. Under the metal shed structure visitors will find horse buggies, washing drums, door stops and other interesting paraphernalia from the turn of the century. The collection includes items from farm machinery and equipment manufacturer Beard and Sisson, who were a major supply to the farmers of the Wimmera region.
