A pulsing celebration of ritual, reflection and renewal.
Guided by the Wurundjeri seasonal calendar, these energetic gatherings span story, light, movement and sound.
Presented by Stephanie Lake Company, in association with Abbotsford Convent, ESCALATOR showcases the humour, depth, provocations, and sophistication of some of the city’s most interesting and diverse dance voices. Be taken on a wild journey to unexpected places, via the brains and bodies of our commissioned artists, in the stunning spaces of Abbotsford Convent.
6 — 9 August
Magdalen Laundry and Industrial School
At Abbotsford Convent, we believe in the quiet power of place and communities that nurture with care and creativity.
Places like the Convent don’t thrive by chance. They endure through thoughtful stewardship, shared purpose, and a willingness to evolve. Your generosity helps bring these moments to life and sustains Abbotsford Convent as a thriving platform for curiosity, collaboration, and connection.
Concerns with plans to redevelop Mercy Health nursing home buildings.
For the first time, the full plans and application for permits to demolish and redevelop the low-rise Mercy Health nursing home buildings have been made available to public.
The plans submitted to Heritage Victoria outline a new four-story (plus basement) private residential premises on the front west corner of our Heritage Listed Abbotsford Convent precinct.
From its days as a Kulin Nation meeting point, to a closed monastic site, to an inspiring community campaign resulting in today’s arts and cultural precinct —discover the Convent your way through our self-guided tours:
Ngulu-nganjin (Our Voice)
Hear the Traditional Owner history and heritage through Indigenous voices and storytelling.
Social History Tour
Uncover memories collected from former residents and caretakers of the land, from monastic site to community campaign.
Makers Map
Find out who’s here, explore the Heritage listed studios and find gifts and artworks all created on-site by the tenant community.
