Historic collaboration leads to new society look

A LORNE project has laid the foundations for how locals can work together to strengthen a community asset.

Lorne Historical Society will update the façade of its Mountjoy Parade building in a joint effort between the society, Lorne Men’s Shed and Surf Coast Shire Council.

The façade makeover will see the installation of architecturally-designed timber panels fixed to the existing building. The panels will be constructed by Lorne Men’s Shed members who have generously volunteered their time. There will also be a new entry and feature bay window.

Lorne Historical Society Vice-President Peter Spring said community reaction to the project had been positive.

“The project is clearly a demonstration of what can be achieved when agencies and community groups work together,” he said.

“This has been a project with real synergy.” Mr Spring was excited for the fresh look for the historical society – a key community group.

“The Lorne Historical Society is very important to our community as the repository of documents, images and artefacts which tell the stories of our rich history and development,” he said.

“As we approach the centenary of the Great Ocean Road project, the society is demonstrating the quality of the material it holds.”

The project is made up of a Council contribution of up to $50,000 and a $50,000 community contribution. The latter includes fundraising, sourcing of materials, architecture services and the fabrication of exterior panels.

Councillor Clive Goldsworthy praised the community ownership of the project. He said the building would provide a striking entrance to Lorne’s main street.

“Lorne Historical Society has grown its profile in recent years by creating an inviting space inside, and we’re now going to see a great external look as people come around the bend into Lorne,” Cr Goldsworthy said.

“Hopefully it encourages more people to visit the society, so they can discover more about our history.”