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<\/p>\n
Mr Sinclair said the members of the shed took to the project with eagerness, as they helped build the timber panels that were central to the designs.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe secured some timber, which was donated by Barwon Timber, and then we were able to set about constructing the prefabricated panels that now form part of the new fa\u00e7ade.<\/p>\n
\u201cAll those \u2018shedders\u2019 committed themselves to it and were so energetic and passionate about building the panels.\u201d<\/p>\n
The fa\u00e7ade is not only more appealing architecturally, but also helps make the historical society more visible.<\/p>\n
Mr Sinclair said this was central to the plans he and Mr Wood devised.<\/p>\n
\u201cA very important part of the first stage design concept was to open the historic club up to the street with the big new window that we have located more or less in the middle. It opens the building up so that people will be able to see into it. And of course when you\u2019re in the building it\u2019s a marvellous view out of the building.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s really opened the building up. The old building was introverted and very oppressive to be in.\u201d<\/p>\n
Mr Allen said both the shire and the local community showed great support for the project.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe got an agreement with the Surf Coast Shire for a dollar to dollar contribution.<\/p>\n
\u201cApart from fundraising we\u2019ve had individual people donate funds as well.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe money we raised along with the work in kind and the materials we donated (by Barwon Timber) equalled about $50,000, and then the shire matched that.\u201d<\/p>\n
Mr Allen said early feedback showed the community were delighted with the buildings new look.<\/p>\n
\u201cPeople are saying it looks terrific, so it\u2019s giving the society a very good profile in the community.\u201d<\/p>\n
Mr Sinclair said he was hopeful there would be further improvements on the building to follow.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe second stage will include a new entrance and canopy, new steps and a continuation of the screened wall to cover the rest of the building in a similar manner.\u201d<\/p>\n
He also said the men\u2019s shed members who helped with the first phase are \u201cchamping at the bit\u201d to get to work on the second phase.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
LORNE Historical Society\u2019s home recently enjoyed a major redevelopment thanks to the community\u2019s generosity. The society inhabits part of Lorne Community House, which sits in a prominent position across from the Visitor Information Centre on the corner of Mountjoy Parade and Otway Street. Society presidents Gary Allen said the building\u2019s location made its improvement particularly […]<\/p>\n