HIRE A TRAM

Cuthbert’s 939, formerly Melbourne’s Colonial Tramcar Restaurant Tram No. 3, has been beautifully adapted for private functions in Ballarat. This unique, air-conditioned heritage tram provides an intimate and memorable setting for celebrations, corporate events and special gatherings.

You may arrange your own food, beverages and wait staff, or engage an accredited caterer to create a tailored dining experience. The Museum provides an experienced driver and crew, along with a barista and waiter to help ensure your event runs smoothly. Flexible operating hours and running options allow you to customise the experience to suit your occasion.

Cuthbert’s can glide gently along Wendouree Parade through the magnificent Ballarat Botanical Gardens and beside Lake Wendouree, offering a moving backdrop unlike any other venue — or the tram can remain stationary at a location of your choice. However you choose to host your event, Cuthbert’s 939 offers a distinctive and unforgettable setting.

Cuthberts function

WHAT

PERFECT FOR SPECIAL OCCASSIONS

Cuthbert’s 939 features a spacious saloon with four booths seating four guests each, along with four intimate two-seat booths — comfortably accommodating up to 24 guests.

This distinctive heritage venue is ideal for:

  • Weddings
  • Anniversaries
  • Afternoon teas
  • Lunches
  • Dinners
  • Cocktail parties
  • Group outings
  • Birthdays
  • Social functions
  • Corporate promotions
  • Wine tastings
  • Tour groups

Whether you’re planning an elegant celebration or a unique corporate event, Cuthbert’s offers an unforgettable setting with character, charm and timeless appeal.

Download Details

Kitchen & Bar Facilities

Cuthbert’s 939 is equipped to support a wide range of catering arrangements, including:

  • Commercial coffee machine
  • Drinks refrigerator
  • Bar fridge
  • Small dishwasher
  • Crockery, cutlery and glassware
  • Microwave / convection oven
  • Handwashing and dishwashing facilities

These amenities allow flexibility for self-catering or accredited caterers, depending on your event requirements.

Important Information

  • Please note that the tram is not fitted with onboard toilet facilities. However, two public toilet blocks are located along the tram route.
  • At present, disabled access is not available on Cuthbert’s 939.
  • The tram is not suitable for children’s parties; however, the Museum can suggest alternative venue options for these types of events.

Hire Fees

  • $500 for the first two hours
  • $150 per additional hour

The hire fee includes all hot drinks, as well as our Motorman (driver), Barista and Waiter. All prices include GST.

Final pricing will be discussed and confirmed at the time of booking, depending on the duration and specific requirements of your event.

Booking & Conditions

A deposit of 50% is required to secure your booking.

All hires are subject to our Terms and Conditions, which cover catering arrangements, food handling requirements, and the condition of the tram at the conclusion of the event. These details will be discussed with you during the booking process to ensure everything runs smoothly on the day.

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WHO

Sir Henry Cuthbert

1829-1907

Sir Henry Cuthbert was born in Boyle, Ireland, on 29 July 1829.

He studied law and was admitted to the Bar in 1852. Arriving in Australia in 1854, he began practising in Melbourne before moving to Ballarat the following year. In 1874 he was elected to the Victorian Legislative Council, where he took a keen interest in legislation that enabled Ballarat to establish a municipal tramway system.

When the Ballaarat Tramway Company was formed in 1887, Cuthbert was appointed its first Chairman. Throughout his career he held several senior roles in the Victorian Government, including Postmaster-General, Minister for Justice, Solicitor-General and Minister for Health.

Sir Henry Cuthbert died on 5 April 1907. His former residence, Beaufort House in Alfredton, still stands today and is now used as student accommodation for Federation University. Cuthberts Road in Alfredton was named in his honour.

Henry Cuthbert (1829–1907)