Goods shed restored to former glory

Published on 06 October 2023

External conservation works on Port Fairy’s railway goods shed are complete with the Heritage listed building returned to its former glory.

A painstaking restoration has been underway since mid-year – replacing wall cladding, spouting and repairing original roller doors, painting and repairs to the timber platform.

Where possible, materials have been repaired like for like, with some fixtures specially made in Queensland and specially milled timber.

Mayor Cr Karen Foster said the process had been long, but worth it.

“We’ve gone from a run-down dilapidated shed secured behind a cyclone fence to a beautifully restored piece of railway history in the heart of town,” Cr Foster said.

“We’ve worked closely with Heritage Victoria to ensure we maintain the shed’s history and our contractors BDH Constructions have done an incredible job. It looks amazing.”

Cr Foster said the next step was activation of the area, followed by internal works to make it a useable space.

“What that is used for we don’t know yet – we will determine that with the community and of course in line with the strict Heritage guidelines, but I’m exited to see this first stage of works completed,” she said.

The $443,000 project was funded with $220,000 from Council’s third phase allocation of the Federal Government Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Fund and a contribution from Council’s budget.

Cr Foster officially unveiled the works with Federal Labor Senator Raff Ciccone on Friday.

Senator Ciccone said that the restoration of Port Fairy’s railway goods shed is a great example of the Commonwealth Government working with local councils to deliver benefits to regional communities.

“The restored shed is a fantastic outcome for Port Fairy, and I am glad the Commonwealth Government could support the project through a $220,000 contribution from the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.”

“Programs like the LRCI are important to fund priority local projects, particularly in regional communities like Port Fairy.”

“The Australian Government is committed to working with local governments like Moyne Shire Council to support important projects in the regions like the Port Fairy railway goods shed restoration.”