A brighter future for Point Lonsdale Lighthouse Reserve

THE highly anticipated stage two works on the Point Lonsdale Lighthouse Reserve are expected to begin in the new year, with a revised plan for the project now complete and design work underway.

The project’s final plan includes the restoration of an increased number of heritage defence structures, the upgrade of trails, fencing and landscaping around the lighthouse and defence structures, mains power connection and new interpretive signage to tell both the European and Wadawurrung cultural history of the area.

An all-abilities pathway to the pier and disabled car parking will no longer be delivered as part of the project.

The change in the scope of the works was motivated by the condition of the defence structures and the advice that works need to be completed as soon as possible to prevent them from further deterioration.

“We are working through all the complex issues at the site and continue to develop a deeper understanding about the heritage values we want to protect and present to our community,” the borough’s chief executive officer Martin Gill said.

“The updated plan helps tell the story of defence and the uses that shaped the story of the site during the 20th century.”

The Victorian government has provided $1 million in funding toward the project, a budget that has remain stationary despite these changes in the project’s scope.

Bellarine MP Alison Marchant celebrated the project’s progress.

“I know the reserve is a place that the Point Lonsdale locals are passionate about, and we appreciate their patience as the PCG did the work to get the plans right,” she said.

“The reserve sees thousands of visitors every year and has an important historical and cultural story to tell, so we’re protecting it for future generations to enjoy.”

To ensure local input, a Project Control Group (PCG) was established to oversee the stage two of the restoration project.

The group is comprised of representatives from the Borough of Queenscliffe, Traditional Owners, the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) and community members.

PCG member Andrew Sutherland said the restoration project will play a crucial role in preserving historic WWI and II buildings and emplacements, ensuring their legacy for future generations.

“This project marks an exciting and positive step toward the vision of transforming the precinct into a must-see destination for both locals and Bellarine visitors,” he said.

“The revitalised site, including the adaptive re-use of several iconic buildings by community groups, will not only celebrate the area’s rich history but also create new opportunities for cultural understanding and tourism, further enhancing the region’s appeal.”

Fellow PCG member Max Lazarus said care had been taken to get the best outcome for the community and highlighted the impact the connection of power to the site’s engine shed will have.

“Power to the engine shed further activates the space for community use and supports community groups like the Boardriders to develop their club and junior program,” he said.

Approval from Heritage Victoria and Marine and Coastal Act consent are still required before works can begin. This process is underway.

Works to the reserve are a continuation of the Point Lonsdale Lighthouse restoration works which commenced in late October 2022.

For more information about the restoration project, head to the Borough of Queenscliffe website.