The Andrews Labor Government is repairing the landmark Silver Ball water tower and nearby buildings at the Fletcher Jones Factory and Gardens at Warrnambool.
Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney announced urgent conservation works to the corroded Silver Ball, as well as roof repairs to the nearby Quonset Hut, Round Room and main office building.
The repairs are possible thanks to a $70,000 Living Heritage Grants Program grant.
David Fletcher Jones was an Australian clothing manufacturer and retailer – and a pioneer in workforce participation.
Born in Bendigo, he spent some time as a hawker before purchasing a store in Warrnambool, which would later become the nationally-renowned brand based locally.
Jones was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in 1959, and was made a knight bachelor in 1974 for his services to decentralisation and the community.
The project is one of 20 at Heritage sites across Victoria receiving funding under the Living Victoria Heritage Grants Program.
The Living Heritage Grants Program supports the repair and conservation of ‘at risk’ heritage places and objects included in the Victorian Heritage Register.
The program provides opportunities for community and not-for-profit organisations, committees of management and local councils to obtain funding for heritage works.
Applications for the second round of the community heritage grants program are now open, and will close on 1 June 2017. For more information on these grants, please visit: http://www.dtpli.vic.gov.au/heritage/about-heritage-in-victoria/living-heritage-program
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney
“We’re taking action to ensure the future of this iconic Warrnambool attraction. Our heritage means so much to so many locals – it’s a reminder of our significant history.”
“This work will protect this site from further deterioration for many years to come.”
“I am very pleased that the Andrews Labor Government is funding the preservation of a piece of country Victorian history.”
“The Living Heritage grants are an investment in both the past and future and I look forward to seeing the Silver Ball water tower preserved for generations to enjoy.”