Monday 13 January 2025
The Allan Labor Government is helping revive and restore some of Victoria’s most treasured heritage landmarks after they were damaged by natural disasters through a new grants program.
Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes announced funding through the Disaster Recovery Heritage Grants which will support the restoration of 8 heritage sites across Northern Victoria that were damaged by floods, storms, and bushfires.
This includes the historic grandstand at Benalla Showgrounds, which will receive $142,000 to restore flood damage, $300,000 to the owner of Gregory’s Bridge Hotel in Murchison to undertake heritage conservation works, $95,000 to St Joseph’s Parish in Benalla to carry out conservation works, $75,000 to Parks Victoria for conservation works to the Barmah Muster Yards and $40,000 to Parks Victoria for disaster risk management planning and conservation management for Masters House at Gunbower on the Murray River. Swan Hill Rural City Council will receive $65,000 for disaster risk management works to the Lake Boga Flying Boat Museum and the Lower Murray Urban Rural Water Corporation will receive $136,000 for remediation works to the Billabong Pumping Station at Nichols Point, Mildura.
Grants will also breathe new life into beloved landmarks, including the Bael Beal Homestead near Kerang, which will receive $300,000 for storm damage repairs.
The Disaster Recovery Heritage Grants program was launched last year to help repair heritage sites impacted by extreme weather events, particularly to help small community organisations that needed more support after their insurance and damages were assessed following the October 2022 floods and other natural disasters.
Victoria’s heritage sites contribute approximately $2.4 billion each year towards the state’s tourism industry and support around 185,000 jobs.
For a full list of successful projects visit: https://www.heritage.vic.gov.au/heritage-grants
Quote attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
The historic Grandstand at Benalla Showgrounds and others are vital parts of our community's identity, and this funding will ensure it’s not only restored to its former glory but also safeguarded for future generations to enjoy."
“By investing in heritage sites like these, we’re protecting a piece of Northern Victoria’s history and ensuring it can continue to be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny
“We’re not just restoring heritage landmarks – we’re ensuring these sites are better equipped to withstand future floods and natural disasters that come their way.”
“By supporting the recovery of these much-loved landmarks, we’re making sure they remain a source of pride, identity, and connection for their communities while keeping them alive as part of our state’s rich history.”
