Julie Payne, a former Prison Officer of Pentridge Prison, offers first-hand accounts of life working behind the bluestones. 

The tour offers unique and rare insights into the history and workings of Pentridge, with stories that reveal the complex relationships between prisoners and prison officers and the blurred lines that sometimes existed between them. Hear stories from the other side of the bars, and from Julie’s unique vantage point as one of only a handful of women who served as a prison officer at Pentridge Prison. 

The 90-minute journey includes time inside the maximum security unit H-Division, with a 30-minute Q&A session with Julie offering deeper insights and untold stories.  

Narrated by an experienced National Trust Guide who shares the sites complex history, coupled with Peter’s personal narratives, this tour brings Pentridge’s history to life, providing a unique and engaging perspective on the prison’s past. 

About Julie Payne

Julie Payne served as a Prison Officer at Pentridge Prison from 1987, until its closure in 1997. As female guard she saw first hand the complexities and challenging nature of Pentridge, with the nuances which existed between Prisoners and Prison officers.  

Julie worked in various areas, mostly in B-Annex as well as A-Division. Later in her career, she would become part of the emergency response groups. When Pentridge closed, Julie went on to become a paramedic.  

Julie offers gripping tales of her time at Pentridge, from the vantage point of a woman who was tasked with administering justice within the prison.