Cultural Heritage & History

Step into Magnetic Island’s colourful past

Stop off and visit the Magnetic Island History and Craft Centre and Magnetic Museum and step into the island’s colourful past.

Set in the heritage listed Picnic Bay School and historic Butler Hut, the centre operates a museum and sells locally made craft and historical publications. The museum shows island history through permanent displays and varying annual exhibitions.

Visitors are invited to use the ‘Hayles Room for Research’ located in Butler Hut, to seek information on local family history and the island’s past.

Highly recommended!

Opening Hours:
10am to 2pm everyday (except Tuesdays), from Easter to Australia Day. Closed Australia Day to Easter (26 Jan - 2 April)

Magnetic Island History and Craft Centre, and Magnetic Museum
11-15 Granite Street, Picnic Bay.
Contact: Zanita Davies (President)
Magnetic Island History and Craft Centre Inc
Phone: 07 4778 5606
Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Magnetic Island Publications and Reference Books
There are many books published about Magnetic Island:
• Early history of the Island
• Pictorial publications, both historical and contemporary  
• Recipe books
• Histories of heritage sites including the Fort and Picnic Bay School
• Personal histories including that of the pioneer Hayles family
• Natural history
and much more.

To find out where you can buy or access these publications, simply download the 'Magnetic Island Publications' PDF.