Geelong’s history celebrated at awards

THE annual Heritage Awards has again celebrated local efforts to restore, retain and interpret heritage places across the region.

Held on May 12, the awards were hosted in collaboration with Geelong and Region Members Branch of the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) and the City of Greater Geelong.

The Heritage Awards have become a prominent accolade taking place each year since its inception in 2009, while recognising efforts in the categories of restoration, creative reuse, new work or development, sustainability, public access and conservation of a heritage place.

City of Greater Geelong’s heritage advisor, Dr David Rowe, gave a presentation on the night about the 10 award-winning conservation works being recognised across the region.

Under the guidelines, recognition for the restoration, reuse and the appropriate new work in a heritage area includes buildings, gardens and objects in public and private areas.

Geelong mayor Stephanie Asher said the awards encapsulated the community’s efforts to preserve Geelong’s history.

“Heritage places are an integral part of the Greater Geelong community and the awards are part of the National Trust and council’s commitment to celebrate and promote our heritage,” she said.

“We are blessed to have some really beautiful heritage buildings and places in our region and we owe a huge thank you to everyone nominated for a Heritage Award for helping to ensure our local history isn’t lost.

“Congratulations to the winners of this year’s awards, we are so grateful for all your hard work and dedication.”

Heritage Awards winners included:

Wadawurrung artwork, tennis court, Wrathall Reserve, Indented Head

‘Lanberris’, 30 Western Beach Road, Geelong

Western Beach Boat Yards

Bow Villa, 38 Preston Street, Geelong West

Reformed Presbyterian Church, 10 Fenwick Street, Geelong

Former Scott Hamilton & Co. Building, 126-128 Ryrie Street, Geelong

26 Weller Street, Geelong West

105 Autumn Street, Geelong West

‘Montana’, 53 The Esplanade, Drumcondra

3 The Avenue, Ocean Grove.