About the Move Museum

 

Our History

Known as a “car” city, Shepparton has long been home to remarkable examples of motoring history, both on its roads and stored in farm sheds and on orchards throughout the region. In the 1990s, local enthusiasm for automotive heritage grew, fuelled by community members and collectors who recognised the need for a dedicated space to celebrate this legacy. An article in the Shepparton News about local car enthusiast Jim Andreadis and his dream of a 150-car museum sparked widespread interest, bringing together like-minded individuals.

Connecting with many others who shared the vision, including the late Dick Clayton, whose collection of radios, telephones, and memorabilia added depth to the project, Ian Barker, who stored historic vehicles across the region, and Lloyd Mawson, the owner of Emerald Bank, who envisioned the site as a tourism hub. Together, they laid the foundation for what would eventually become MOVE.

OUR BEGINNINGS: THE SHEPPARTON MOTOR MUSEUM AND COLLECTIBLES

The dream of establishing a museum became a reality through the combined determination of local enthusiasts, who could see the vision and set about turning the concept into reality. Community passion for automotive and trucking history, combined with the ongoing commitment to developing Emerald Bank, was instrumental in shaping the museum. With support from several local philanthropists, local government and state funding, the Shepparton Motor Museum and Collectibles officially opened its doors in 2011.

The Andreadis family kindly donated the foundation buildings to the project and in more recent years the land on which MOVE proudly stands. Local builder Moretto’s and the team at Telford’s worked tirelessly to construct the museum going above and beyond with the help of local companies and trades who were all keen to support the project. The Museum Initially housed 50-60 cars alongside the Clayton Collection underscoring the vital role of the community right from the very beginning.

The museum quickly became a regional icon. Local connections helped secure additional treasures, such as the Furphy family’s collection, Garth Wallace’s Harley Davidson Collection, Paul and Charlie Farren’s pre-1900 bicycle collection and the nationally renowned Loel Thomson Costume Collection. These contributions enriched the museum’s offerings, establishing it as a must-visit destination in Shepparton and the Goulburn Valley.

WHERE WE ARE TODAY:
THE CREATION OF MOVE

Throughout its revolution, witnessing what MOVE had developed into and the potential if held for the future, a group of local trucking owners and families sought to create a space that celebrated Shepparton’s role as a transport hub and the pioneers who helped shape the region. Their vision aligned with MOVE’s mission, and together with transport companies and community support, a collaborative effort led to the creation of the current Kenworth Truck Pavillion. The extensive fundraising and collective vision resulted in what has become a world-class museum that truly reflects the spirit of the region.

With plans well underway, MOVE is set for further growth and development in the coming years with the enclosing of the current outdoor area to provide even more museum display and event spaces.

THE SCOPE OF OUR COLLECTION

MOVE’s collection showcases the history and evolution of transportation, offering a window into cultural and technological milestones. Key highlights include:

  • Kenworth Dealer Truck Pavilion

  • Garth Wallace Harley Davidson Collection

  • Farren Bicycle Collection

  • Loel Thomson Costume Collection

  • Clayton Gramophones, Telephones, and Radios

  • The Furphy Museum

  • Classic Bus Collection

Each collection is presented with detailed narratives, celebrating the creativity, innovation, and craftsmanship that have shaped our world. MOVE continues to evolve, driven by a shared commitment to preserving and showcasing the region’s rich history.