Works to remember, renew orphanage

MORE than four thousand children passed through the doors of the former Ballarat Orphanage over its one-hundred-and-seventeen year history and now a special project aims to sensitively remember that past.

The City of Ballarat has confirmed that heritage interpretation works are soon to start at the former Ballarat Orphanage following the appointment of North Geelong-based Challis Design to deliver the project.

A total of $647,000 has been committed, including $500,000 from the City of Ballarat, developer contributions and donated funds.

Located at 200 Victoria Street in Ballarat East, the site has also been known as the Ballarat Children’s Home and Ballarat District Orphan Asylum.

It was established in the mid-1860s, and operated from a two-storey building but following the demolition of the original orphanage building in the 1960s, the site now only retains buildings from last century including the orphanage school (1918) and the toddler’s block (1929).

“This project ensures that the stories of the past are not forgotten, but shared in a way that invites understanding and compassion,” City of Ballarat mayor Cr Tracey Hargreaves said.

A council spokesperson confirmed that the slated heritage interpretation works will begin over coming months with “remembrance and renewal front and centre” in the project.

The former orphanage is recognised as one of Ballarat’s most historically significant sites, with the heritage interpretation project a community-led initiative developed by the City with a group of its former residents.

It has involved consulting historians and interpretation designers, and “will honour the stories and experiences of more than 4000 children who passed through the former orphanage’s doors over its 117-year history,” the council spokesperson said.

Works will feature an entrance arch, signage, sculptures, outdoor seating and a shelter with an interpretive table while landscape improvements will include new pathways, plantings and furniture.

Interpretive elements will be installed in areas that retain significant heritage features, including the Elm Reserve (Toddlers Park), Magnolia Reserve, entrance to the toddlers block (now an early learning centre), and adjacent to the schoolhouse (now part of the next door shopping centre).

Cr Hargreaves said the project is a meaningful step in acknowledging the site’s complex past.

“This is not just about preserving history, it’s about honouring the lived experiences of thousands of children, including members of the Stolen Generations, who spent part of their lives at this site,” she said.

“We are proud to support a project that places the voices of former residents at its heart and creates a space for reflection and education.

“I’d like to thank all project partners, including former residents, Cafs Ballarat, site developers and contractors for their contributions to this initiative.”

Detailed design and fabrication works have already begun, with installation and landscape works expected to be completed early next year.