During my Melbourne visit, I happened to stumble across this Society as I attempted to know more about my ancestor’s visit to Melbourne in the mid-1850s. It took some detective work as I sat having lunch and pondered my next step to know more. Everyone knows their friend “Google.”
During my Internet search, I came across this society and that offices weren’t too far from where I was at.
Their website address is as follows: https://www.gsv.org.au/
NOTE: Always check on opening days and times before you start your adventure.
Their physical address is Level 1, 10 Queen Street, Melbourne.
Reception.
I wasn’t sure if I get anywhere but it was a matter of going in head first and seeing what happens. I was greeted at the reception by a pleasant lady. I explained what I wanted to do. I apologised as I did not have my Queensland Family History membership card with me. (Note to self – always carry the QFHS card whenever I am doing research.) I did have my local Family History Society membership card but it was not recognized by this society.
Volunteers.
Long story short, I was able to enter the rooms. I was greeted by one of the volunteers. I explained my dilemma to see if they could provide any clues. The other assistant volunteer also provided possible solutions. I explained I’d been to PROV but didn’t get any real results. Maps seem to come up often as well as the State Library. We went through various possible solutions but nothing concrete was found. In saying that, I was also told about the exhibitions happening at the Old Treasury Building Museum.
No major result but more positive with the other similar suggestions.
Victoria Barracks.
I did head over to the Victoria Barracks on St. Kilda Road, as suggested. As it’s a working Army base, there were strict entry requirements. I was told not to take photos of the outside of the property. I had already done this and as I told the security person, all the outside had been photographed and was online!
I was directed to a plaque on the outside of the building which did confirm was built after my ancestor left Melbourne. Whether it was one of the sites where his unit camped, I have no idea.
At least I was following my motto – go…
Explore & Discover.
Ancestor Family 
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