Sale Water Tower Museum

Each floor of the Water Tower has been restored and displays a range of story boards associated with the history of Sale including the discovery of the artesian basin.

Designed by John Grainger (father of the celebrated pianist and song writer, Percy Grainger), it is only when you climb up the fourth flight of stairs that you experience a full appreciation of the engineering achievement of the Tower.

Each window of the Tower takes in a different view of the town of Sale and as you proceed up the Tower the views become more expansive.

Followed by lunch at the Criterion Hotel (in the Library Room) where the food and service match the impeccably restored building built in 1865.

An optional river cruise on the historic Rubeena with host Alan Lewis, former City of Sale Engineer and another person passionate about the local history.

The cruise will take us to the historical Swing Bridge, also designed by John Grainger, which is possibly the oldest bridge of its type in Australia and the only bridge of its type in Victoria. See the bridge open!

10:30am – Arrive at train station (taxi available)
11 – 12:15pm – Sale Water Tour Museum
12:30 – 1:30pm – Lunch at Criterion Hotel
1:45 – 3:30pm – Historic cruise to Grainger’s swing bridge

Getting There

VLine trains to Sale leave Southern Cross station at 7:25am and the return journey leaves Sale at 5.27pm.

The museum is located 1.9km (24min walk) from the Sale Railway Station. Taxis are available by calling 13CABS or using the app.

Accessibility

There are only stairs within the Tower and no lift available. If unable to climb stairs you can still view the ground floor story boards and history, listen to the talk by Peter Synan, and enjoy the local park.