LABASSA mansion has been home to more than 700 people over 144 years.

And for the first time in more than 30 years history buffs will also be able to set foot inside the National Trust mansion’s tower, which offers panoramic views over Melbourne.

The public can also hear about the private lives of some of its former inhabitants, at a special upcoming talk and tour at the heritage Caulfield North property.

media_camera Jenny Gibson lived at Labassa from 1965-66 with her now-husband of 46 years, Peter.

media_camera A view of Port Phillip Bay from the tower.

Attendees at the January 19 event will hear the personal stories of six families who once called Labassa home, including millionaire Alexander Robertson and his socialite daughters, WWII fundraisers Maie and Margaret Brown; post-war migrants the Apfelbaums; and hippie pop star Hans Poulsen and his band.

Conservation works done last year mean the tower can now be safely accessed by visitors again.

Works, completed by Ivy Constructions under the supervision of the National Trust, included plaster repairs, exterior parapet rendering and roof repairs.

media_camera The public will be able to access the tower for the first time in 30 years.

The talk, Private Lives at Labassa Mansion, will be followed by a tour of the rooms that once housed the families, including the tower.

The event runs from 7pm to 9pm.

Tickets cost $30, or $27 for National Trust members.

Pre-talk refreshments included in the entry fee.

Details: nationaltrust.org.au/event/private-lives-at-labassa-mansion/