History grants for heritage projects

BENDIGO Heritage Attractions and Golden Square Fire Brigade have been provided with funding in the latest round of the State Government’s Local History Grants Program.

Just over $10,000 has been given to Bendigo Heritage Attractions for an oral histories project that tells the story of Bendigo Tramways and Central Deborah Gold Mine – both of which have been previously inducted into the Victorian Tourism Awards Hall of Fame for excellence in Cultural Tourism.

Meanwhile, Golden Square Fire Brigade received $12,100 for a planned pioneers refurbishment project.

“Both Bendigo Heritage Attractions and Golden Square Fire Brigade do incredible work in our local community, and this funding will ensure they can continue their contribution and that their stories are told and celebrated,” said Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards.

Bendigo Tramways, which has been operating since 1890, was named Australia’s 2016 Cultural Tourism Attraction of the Year at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards.

The Fire Brigade in High Street, Golden Square is a volunteer-run fire and rescue service with about 20 active members. The original fire house was built in 1909.

A grand total of $350,000 has been distributed as part of this round to 42 organisations around Victoria, with projects including newspaper and photograph digitisation works, memorial websites, digital histories, oral histories and archiving projects.

A detailed list of all the projects funded through the Local History Grants Program can be found at prov.vic.gov.au, with applications for the next round to open later this year.