Australia's oldest Holden museum is closing its doors

The National Holden Motor Museum in Echuca, Victoria is shutting down.

The museum, which has been in Echuca since 1993, will close on April 14, 2024.

Having opened in 1984 in Bayswater, the National Holden Motor Museum says it’s the longest continuously running single make museum in Australia.

“Being a tourist town and open every day has taken it’s [sic] toll on our personal lives, and wanting to keep the museum in Echuca we decided to offer it for sale,” said owners Tony and Mark Galea on the museum’s Facebook page.

“Unfortunately, no serious buyers came forward, so we will close on 14th April and auction the contents which belong to us on 18th May 2024. Most of the vehicles on display are loaned to us and will be leaving.”

“Thank you to all display vehicle owners, current and past, our loyal social media followers, local businesses, visitors, friends and families for supporting us over the years.

“If you haven’t been to the museum before or lately, make sure to visit before we close.”

Burns and Co. will conduct the auction.

The museum contains a wide range of vehicles from Holden’s first car, the 48-215, all the way to the last of its Australian-built models, as well as a selection of prototypes.

It also has on display engines, promotional material, and historical memorabilia.

After April, Holden enthusiasts looking to take in the history of the brand will instead need to head to one of the few other Holden museums in Australia.

These include the Trafalgar Holden Museum and the Mildura Holden Museum in Victoria.