Decommissioning Coburg Prison Complex

This brochure was produced in 1997 to mark the decommissioning of the Coburg Prisons Complex, incorporating HM Prison Pentridge and HM Metropolitan Reception Prison. Issued by the Department of Justice, it served both as a historical overview and as a formal farewell to staff at the time of closure.

The front of the document presents a brief history of the site from 1850 to 1997, tracing its evolution from early bluestone construction through periods of expansion, reform, disturbance and modernisation. It highlights key developments in prison management, changing correctional philosophies, and the role of Pentridge within Victoria’s penal system.

The reverse outlines the government’s 1993 decision to close the complex and replace it with new correctional facilities. A detailed timeline records the staged transition between 1995 and 1997, including the transfer of prisoners, administrative restructuring, and the final cessation of operations.

Of particular interest is the section titled “To All Coburg Staff”, which acknowledges the contribution of officers and civilian employees during the final years of operation. Photographs of staff members accompany messages of appreciation, underscoring the human dimension of the institution’s closure.

This brochure captures a pivotal moment in Victorian history: the end of 147 years of continuous prison operation at the Pentridge site. Beyond administrative facts, it preserves the "lived reality" of the transition through staff quotes, ranging from those who felt it was "time for this prison to close" to those who would "miss the bluestone character of the place".

The document includes formal addresses from high-ranking officials within the Victorian correctional system, identifying the key organisational bodies involved in its release:

The Department of Justice: The brochure was issued under the umbrella of the

Department of Justice, which oversaw the state's prison system during the

decommissioning period.

CORE (Public Correctional Enterprise): Congratulatory messages were

provided by John Griffin, the Chief Executive of CORE, and Paul Delphine, the

Director of Prison Services.

Coburg Prisons Complex Management: The production and management of

the decommissioning were led by Brian Greaves, the General Manager of the

complex, and his local management team.

Donated to the Pentridge Prison Online Museum by Greg Howden.