The Andrews Labor Government is taking action to protect and restore one of Port Fairy’s most cherished heritage assets, Port Fairy Battery.
Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney today announced a $200,000 grant to support specialist conservation works to four cannons, carriages and two timber slides at the Battery Hill site, protecting the treasured site for generations to come.
Built in 1886 in anticipation of an imminent Russian invasion, Battery Hill comprises bluestone and concrete fortifications, joining the nearby defence sites – the Lifeboat Station, Powder Magazine and Griffith’s Island Lighthouse. Four cannons and associated carriages and slides remain in situ telling the story of this important defence site.
The grant is part of the Labor Government’s $36.5 million Living Heritage Program. It is the single biggest boost to heritage assets in Victorian history.
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.
More than 1.9 million people visited Victoria’s heritage buildings, sites or monuments last year – and more than half were international visitors.
Applications for the next round of Living Heritage Program grants will open in February.
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney MP
“The Port Fairy Battery Hill site is one of our community’s most cherished assets. It’s a tribute to our significant history and gives us all a great sense of pride.”
“We invest in our heritage because we want it to remain intact for generations to come. That’s exactly what these works will ensure.”
“Heritage sites are a big boost to tourism – and more visitors mean more opportunities for hard-working Port Fairy businesses.”
“The Living Heritage grants are an investment in both the past and future and I look forward to seeing the historic Port Fairy Battery preserved for generations to enjoy.”