New lease on life for old explosives storage

MEMBERS of the Heathcote McIvor Historical Society met with representatives from Parks Victoria last week to discuss plans to halt damage to the powder magazine on Forest Drive at Heathcote.

Australian Native Plant Society Heathcote branch members also attended to explore the possibility of utilising the surrounding area for a native botanical garden.

“After vandals graffitied the walls, earlier this year, the building has been locked with no public access,” said Liz Murfitt, research officer and museum curator with the Historical Society.

“In the past the interior walls were painted with acrylic paint which is causing a lot of damage to the sandstone walls.

“We would welcome the opportunity to take on the building as Custodians and assist with repairs with a view to conducting public tours in the future.”

The Heathcote powder magazine was constructed in 1864 by the by a government public works department.

It was built to store explosives used in gold mining, quarrying, and road making.

Only minutes from the town centre, it sits adjacent to the walking track to Devil’s Cave and Viewing Rock.

Ms Murfitt is also a member of the plant society.

“We have been working towards securing a suitable site for Native Botanical Gardens to feature local indigenous species,” she said.

“We are very pleased with the assistance provided by Parks Victoria and look forward to further consultation with them, the Taungurung community and other interested parties.

“The opportunity to ensure a legacy for future generations would be wonderful.”