For one magical evening, the clocks turn back for a Victorian Ball at Duneira Estate in the Macedon Ranges.
Lanterns glow along garden paths. Silk skirts swish across polished floors. Gloves, waistcoats and top hats return to fashion. Music drifts through open windows into the cool mountain air.
And on the slopes of historic Mount Macedon, this heritage mansion comes alive, and it’s ready to party like it’s 1875!
The Duneira Estate Victorian Ball is more than a night of dance — it’s a celebration of golden-era history, held this year as a special one-off birthday event marking Duneira’s remarkable legacy.
If you’ve ever wanted to step inside a real Victorian mansion and experience the glamour of another era, this is your invitation.
And short of creating a time machine, this is as close as you might ever get to seeing your very own Bridgerton experience come to a gorgeous reality.
Photos of what visitors to the Victorian Ball can expect to experience at Duneira Estate, Mount Macedon
Celebrating Duneira’s birthday: a grand estate with a grand story
Built in the 1870s in the aftermath of Victoria’s gold rush boom, Duneira Estate was an elegant summer retreat for Melbourne’s wealthy families seeking cooler mountain air.
Inspired by Scottish baronial architecture and surrounded by sweeping gardens, the mansion quickly became one of Mount Macedon’s most admired properties — a place for gatherings, music, celebration and refined country living.
Duneira was established by the Officer family in 1875 and has experienced seven owners. The last owner, Stuart Stoneman bequeathed the property and his outstanding art collection to the S.R Stoneman Foundation in 2002 to be enjoyed by the community.
Today, Duneira stands proudly as:
One of the Macedon Ranges’ most significant heritage homes
A beautifully restored historic mansion and garden
A venue for garden tours, workshops and cultural events
This year’s Victorian Ball honours the era in which Duneira was born and recreates the kind of grand social occasion that would have regularly filled its halls.
It’s a fitting tribute — and a truly special, one-night-only experience.
What to expect on the night of Duneira’s Victorian Ball From the moment you arrive through the gates, the modern world gently fades away.
Inside, the mansion is set to glow with candlelight and conversation as guests gather for an evening of:
Live period music and traditional Scottish dancing
Waltzes, quadrilles and group dances (with guidance for beginners)
Elegant supper and refreshments
Costumed hosts and immersive storytelling
Access to the grand interiors and gardens
Countless photo-worthy moments
Kilts welcomed!
No dance experience is necessary — just a willingness to join the fun.
Dressing for the occasion: Victorian style tips Half the fun is planning your outfit.
What was in fashion for women back in the day?
Full skirts or crinolines
Lace blouses, high necklines, corseted silhouettes
Gloves, shawls or decorative brooches
Elegant boots or button-style shoes
And for the blokes, also factoring in Duneira’ Scottish heritage?
Waistcoats, frock coats or tailcoats
Cravats or bow ties
Pocket watches, braces, and top hats
Traditional Scottish kilts (especially encouraged)
Need more Victorian-era fashion tips? Perhaps consider:
Rich jewel tones and velvet look stunning in candlelight
Antique jewellery or heirloom accessories add authenticity
Bring a shawl or cloak — Mount Macedon evenings can be cool
Vintage shops or costume stores offer great finds
How to purchase tickets to Duneira’s 150th Anniversary Victorian Ball 14 March 2026
Tickets are limited and this special anniversary edition is expected to book out quickly.
Early bookings are highly recommended, and accommodation is available on the Mount.
Why not build on this one magical evening and create a completely memorable country weekend getaway Create a long weekend by staying locally and wake to fresh Mount Macedon air, misty gardens and cosy village cafés.
The 2026 Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival delivers something truly special across nine charming villages 1- 30 April. From buttery pastries to local gins, and seasonal cocktails, this isn’t a single destination or one-day event. It’s a thirty-day self-guided tasting journey. And every stop along the way could lead to something extraordinary - the chance to win a 3 night luxury stay at Thule Country Estate, Mount Macedon valued at $5,500!
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