As part of the 1881 Bequest Society’s calendar events, activities and ongoing engagement with its members and the wider Caulfield Grammar School community Andrew Cole Executive Director of Philanthropy and Debra Stiebel the Bequest Manager recently organised a special tour to Pentridge’s Infamous H Division.
Our members and guests went on a fascinating and sobering journey into Melbourne’s criminal past. The highlight of the tour was the notorious H Division, once home to some of Australia’s most hardened criminals.
H Division, known for its brutal conditions and strict discipline, was a place feared even by the toughest inmates. The Society’s visit provided a rare glimpse into the harsh realities of prison life, with our wonderful, experienced guide Sean sharing chilling stories of infamous figures who served time there. From tales of escape attempts to accounts of the division’s extreme punishment methods, the experience was both educational and thought-provoking.
The visit offered a stark reminder of the darker side of our penal history and left attendees with a deeper appreciation of justice and reform in the prison system. It was an unforgettable experience that added a new dimension to their understanding of Melbourne’s past.
This was followed up by a delicious lunch at a nearby café where our members and guests enjoyed some comic light relief and catching up with fellow grammarians.
Testimonial:
“On the 5th of March, the Caulfield Grammar School Foundation and the 1881 Bequest Society hosted a tour of the Pentridge Prison Precinct. Our sincere thanks go to Andrew Cole Executive Director and Debra Stiebel Bequest Manager for arranging this most interesting tour especially of the famous H Division. It was remarkable to see what has been transformed and to learn of the history of this prison.
A masterful mix of the Old and the New made for outstanding viewing for all attendees. This was followed by a very enjoyable lunch at the Boot Factory Café.
On behalf of all attendees, once again we offer our sincere thanks to Andrew, Debra and the CGS Foundation and Society for providing us with this opportunity, which was very much enjoyed by all”.
Bill White Grammarian (1967)
If you would like to learn more about the 1881 Bequest Society and how to leave a gift in your will to the school, please contact Andrew Cole or Debra Stiebel in the Philanthropy team.
