Hamilton Institute of Rural Learning

Hamilton Institute of Rural Learning (HIRL) is a mud-brick function centre, consisting of a main function hall, meeting rooms with attached kitchens, as well as having art studios with an art room and separate ceramics studio.

HIRL is the gateway to the eastern barred bandicoot and native grasslands/bush enclosure.

Stroll through the beautiful grounds, past the children’s native play garden, look at the red gum bandicoot carvings and stroll past the indigenous food garden on your way through the beautiful native bushland to the bandicoot enclosure. Stroll around the reservoir, taking in the 12 informative signs displaying magnificent paintings of local native fauna and flora.

Bring a picnic and stopover at the bandicoot site, situated in the magnificent gardens. They now have a new shelter with seating, shortly to have a public access barbeque.

A beautiful place for a wedding, the main hall with inlaid bandicoots and rustic features is ideal, and the paved courtyard and gardens lend themselves to a perfect wedding venue.

HIRL is the home of Hamilton’s monthly farmers’ and craft market on the last Saturday of each month. Please visit the website for more information.

HIRL also has a Creative Arts Centre where people meet every Wednesday evening to enjoy the social atmosphere and do their own art.