Myrtleford Museum has received a $48,000 grant for building repairs, the Member for Benalla Bill Sykes announced this week.
Dr Sykes said the project would enable the continuing operation of the former State School building by the Myrtleford and District Historical Society as a Museum.
It would also ensure the protection and development of the museum collection which is housed in six rooms.
Dr Sykes said the State School building was constructed in 1870, with additions made in 1875 and 1886.
John Taylor, President of the Myrtleford and District Historical Society Inc said, “To be one of a number of community projects funded across Victoria is very encouraging for our group of volunteers.
“It endorses the heritage value of the Old School and its collection and will help ensure long term protection of our artefacts for the community.”
While the original shingle roof remained in place under the existing iron roof in three of the rooms, the iron roof had deteriorated and would be replaced. Other works would include the replacement of downpipes and the reinstatement of finials.
Minister for Planning Matthew Guy said the grant was one of 13 community projects around Victoria being funded to preserve and protect significant heritage places and objects.
He said Victoria’s Heritage Grants supported local communities to care for and manage the state’s rich and diverse heritage, with this year’s program totalling $1.13 million.
Mr Guy said the grants recognised and supported the enthusiasm and commitment of many dedicated volunteer organisations which worked to preserve and safeguard our shared history.
Victoria’s heritage grants support the repair and restoration of publicly accessible and important heritage places and objects managed by local government and community not-for-profit organisations and are provided for places in the Victorian Heritage Register or included in a Heritage Overlay. Funding for heritage place grants totalling $500,000 was provided by the Victorian Property Fund.