Gallery facade getting refresh

THE Art Gallery of Ballarat’s iconic one-hundred and thirty-two-year-old facade will soon be back to its best following cleaning and restoration works.

City of Ballarat facilities management staff have been overseeing the freshen-up by contractor Confix, which includes detailed cleaning to remove mould which has arisen between the heritage wash coat and render.

A wash coat will be reapplied to enhance and restore the building’s heritage colour, and repairs will also be done on the front windows and veranda.

City of Ballarat deputy-mayor Cr Amy Johnson said the works will not only enhance the gallery, but the whole historic streetscape.

“The Art Gallery of Ballarat is one of our most precious assets so it’s important we keep the oldest and largest art gallery in regional Australia looking it’s best,” she said.

“Our heritage buildings and streetscapes are one of the things that make Ballarat such a wonderful place, and this program of renewals is all about ensuring these buildings are cared for and last another 130-plus years.”

Cleaning and restoration of the facade began in late June, is expected be completed within the next six weeks, and has been funded with $140,000 from the municipal Facilities Capital Renewal Program.

Scaffolding and fencing has been put up, however the main entry to the gallery remains accessible, and pedestrians will still be able to walk along that section of Lydiard Street.