The Andrews Labor Government is repairing two iconic Portland landmarks.
Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney announced interior and exterior conservation works at the Curator’s Cottage at the Portland Botanical Gardens and an engineering assessment of the Portland Battery and Gun.
The repairs are possible thanks to the Labor Government’s Living Heritage Grants Program.
A $70,000 grant for the Curator’s Cottage will include masonry repairs, roof and defective flashing and drainage repairs. Remediation of internal water damage and reinstatement of original internal wall finishes and trim is also planned.
A $30,000 grant for Portland Battery will fund an engineering report, including a geotechnical investigation, to determine the extent of damage caused by water ingress.
The Portland Battery Site is closed to the public because of its poor condition, but the investigation will guide urgent conservation works which will allow the site to be reopened to the public.
The projects in Portland are two of 20 projects at Heritage sites across Victoria receiving funding under the Living 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 these iconic sites. Our heritage means so much to so many locals – it’s a reminder of our significant history and contributes to our sense of identity.”
“This work will protect these sites from further deterioration for 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 these two Portland attractions preserved for generations to enjoy.”