Heritage sites restored through disaster recovery grants

A PROGRAM to revive Victoria’s heritage landmarks damaged by natural disasters has delivered its first grants, helping repair sites across the state.

Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny announced the recipients of the Disaster Recovery Heritage Grants at Waller House in Ivanhoe, which will receive more than $30,000 to restore its storm-damaged roof and improve resilience against future weather events.

“We’re not just restoring heritage landmarks – we’re ensuring these sites are better equipped to withstand future floods and natural disasters that come their way,” Ms Kilkenny said.

“By supporting the recovery of these much-loved landmarks, we’re making sure they remain a source of pride, identity, and connection for their communities while keeping them alive as part of our state’s rich history.”

The program was launched following widespread damage caused by the devastating floods of October 2022, which affected dozens of municipalities across the state.

It is supporting 16 heritage sites, including Bendigo Pottery, which will receive $300,000 for flood repairs, and Benalla Showgrounds’ historic grandstand, which has been allocated $142,000 for flood restoration.

Victoria’s heritage sites contribute $2.4 billion annually to the state’s tourism industry and support 185,000 jobs.