The No. 2 Goods Shed: Australia’s Longest Shed!
Nestled in the heart of Melbourne city lies a historic landmark that has stood the test of time. The No. 2 Goods Shed, at 733 Bourke Street, Docklands, also known as the Old Goods Shed, is a 19th-century building, built in 1889, that was once used as a railway goods shed to provide additional storage during the victorian railway’s boom. It is a testament to the rich railway heritage of the city and continues to be an integral part of the local community.
The No. 2 Goods Shed was built in the late 19th century and was used to store and distribute goods that arrived by train. At the time it was built, the No.02 goods shed was the longest shed in Australia, measuring 385m from the north end to the south end. It was one of the busiest goods sheds in the city, handling a large volume of goods, from food and drinks to industrial materials. Over the years, the shed saw a decline in use as more modern facilities were built, and eventually, it was left abandoned and forgotten.
However, the local community did not let the shed fall into disrepair, and in the late 20th century, a group of volunteers came together to restore the building. Today, the No. 2 Goods Shed is a thriving hub of activity, and is home to a variety of businesses, from restaurants and cafes to art studios and cultural events. Between 2000 and 2013 the goods shed was divided into 2 separate structures, the “north end” and “south end”. Both ends now enrich Melbourne city and add an innovative and ecologically sustainable environment as part of the ‘Docklands Precinct’.
The main highlight of the No. 2 Goods Shed is its vibrant cultural scene. The shed plays host to a range of events throughout the year, from art exhibitions and live music performances to food and drink festivals. It is a true celebration of the city’s diverse community, and a place where visitors can experience the best of local culture.
If historical sheds is something your interested in, check out our blog post about stick sheds!
The No. 2 Goods Shed is not only a historic landmark but also a vibrant cultural hub that brings the local community together. It is a place to enjoy great food and drink, to admire beautiful architecture, and to experience the rich cultural heritage of the city. Whether you are a local resident or just visiting for the day, the No. 2 Goods Shed is a must-visit destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
How to find the No.2 Goods Shed
The No.2 Goods Shed, also known as the Goods Shed North or Goods Shed South, is located in the Docklands area of Melbourne, Australia. The address of the Goods Shed is 733 Bourke Street, Docklands.
To get to the No.2 Goods Shed, you can travel by car, but public transport might be easier. There are several tram and train options. The closest train station is Southern Cross Station, which is just a short walk away from the Goods Shed. You can take any train that stops at Southern Cross Station and walk along Bourke Street to reach the Goods Shed.
You can take tram routes 30 or 35, which stop directly outside the Goods Shed. Tram route 86 also stops nearby on Docklands Drive.
If you’re walking from the city center, the No.2 Goods Shed is just a 15-20 minute walk from Federation Square. Head west along Flinders Street, cross the Yarra River, and continue along Bourke Street until you reach the Goods Shed.
Once you arrive at the Goods Shed, you’ll see a large red brick building with a sawtooth roof and arched windows.
