Running Rabbits Military Museum

The Running Rabbits Military Museum is an important attraction in the Dandenong Ranges and houses a huge range of historic artefacts and photographs from the Boer War, WWI and WWII.

The Museum opened on ANZAC Day in 2009 and was named in dedication to those who fought on the Kokoda Track during WWII.

The name “Running Rabbits” comes from an insult that was said to Australian soldiers by their commander who said that they had been beaten in battle and ‘the rabbit that ran away is the rabbit that got shot‘. The men were indignant at this comment by their superior officer and so the museum is so named to throw their bravery back in his face.

The items on display include weaponry and arms used during these wars, documents used during this period as well as an array of antique equipment preserved for posterity. There are over 2,500 items on display in the Running Rabbits Military Museum and visitors are welcome to come and learn about Australia’s important role in these wars.

Visitors will be able to view photographs that chronicle the events as they happened, alongside a library of books for those who would like to dig a little deeper.

The Running Rabbits Military Museum is located at the Upwey–Belgrave RSL which has a bar and bistro where you can enjoy lunch or a drink after your museum visit.

School groups are welcome and volunteer guides are available to take groups around the museum by prior arrangement. Entry to the museum is via gold coin donation.