About the Historical Society: The Lake Macquarie and District Historical Society Inc. was formed on the 13th November 1962 to research the early pioneers of the district. The Society’s principle aim is to record, collect, protect and promote the local history of Lake Macquarie and its surrounds. The Society has an extensive photograph collection, which can be seen during opening hours or at other times as requested. Some of these date back to the 19th Century. The photographs show the development of the area from then to now.
In 1992 The Lake Macquarie and District Historical Society converted the disused and run down Toronto Railway Station into the Lake Macquarie Heritage Centre. The Centre is open to the public and features themed displays, a research library, archive room and other facilities. The Centre is also used for community based fundraising events while the well maintained building and its picturesque setting on the foreshore of Lake Macquarie provide a spectacular backdrop for wedding photographers (fees apply). The adaptive reuse of the railway station has created a wonderful tourist and community heritage asset from what was once a dilapidated ruin. Though the Centre is situated in Toronto, the Historical Society gathers historical information from the whole of Lake Macquarie. Therefore, this increases the significance of the Centre beyond its immediate locality.
Location: THE HERITAGE CENTRE Old Toronto Railway Station Victory Parade/Row, TORONTO. On the waterfront, set into a hillside, which slopes down to Lake Macquarie the old station itself receives much public interest and the location is noted for its superb views over Lake Macquarie. Parking  in Victory Parade, or take a walk or bicycle ride along the Greenway 1	Hours: Sundays: 1pm to 4pm Wednesdays: 1pm to 4pm Public Holidays: 1pm to 4pm (Except Christmas Day, New Year’s Day and Good Friday) Special Local Events: 10am to 4pm Admission by Gold coin donation OTHER TIMES BY APPOINTMENT The Lake Macquarie & District Historical Society is a not-for-profit non-government organization that relies on donations and member contributions.
Collections: Themed memorabilia, artefacts and photographic displays. Publications of local history interests. Local Studies Research assistance. Newspaper articles on all suburbs. Morisset Hospital History Sub-committee Rathmines – Former Flying Boat base Toronto’s Railway Heritage	Book the Heritage Centre for your function.   Photographers / Tours / Weddings / Meetings / Groups / Common Interest.   Fresh Devonshire Tea can be arranged for groups of 12 or more, outdoor tables & chairs, toilets, electricity etc.     The Society can also arrange one-off talks and presentations on Local History, your venue or ours.