By Tina Seirlis<\/p>\n
As development infill further proliferates towards the historic landmark that is the chicory kiln on Taverner Street in Maddingley Bacchus Marsh, celebrations recognising the conclusion of hundreds of hours of restoration work have taken place throughout the week at the iconic location. <\/p>\n
The privately-owned building was recently thrown a lifeline with thanks to a collaborative local effort and the Victorian Government\u2019s Living Heritage Program. <\/p>\n
Originally built in 1885 by the Pearce Brothers, the kiln was constructed to dry local chicory crops which were used as a coffee alternative and additive. The majority of Victoria\u2019s historic chicory industry was focused around Phillip Island and French Island, as such the much-loved Maddingley monolith is particularly unique and significant,and holds a place as the oldest remaining intact example of a chicory kiln in the state.<\/p>\n
It is further notable due to the large painted advertising sign on the south fa\u00e7ade promoting \u2018Dr Morse\u2019s Indian Root Pills\u2019, a popular subject for local photographers. <\/p>\n
Spokesperson for the project, and long-term volunteer with Bacchus Marsh Lions, Russ Hendry said they saw a need to restore the kiln as the structure was unsafe.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe also believed that this historical building built in 1885, was important as an icon in Bacchus Marsh. It is the largest standing chicory kiln in Victoria and we believe many in our community are unaware of its existence,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
In order to qualify for the State Government grant, the amount sought had to be matched on a one to one basis with total project funding amounting to $66,000. <\/p>\n
Mr Hendry said the funding partners were Bacchus Marsh Community Bank, Bacchus Marsh Rotary Club, Bacchus Marsh Lions Club and the Farmelo family. <\/p>\n
\u201cThe project has taken over two years. There were 550 unfunded manhours by the Bacchus Lions and Rotary Clubs. Local contractors were used for the major works,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Following the conclusion of works, the site was this week visited by Minister for Planning, The Honourable Sonya Kilkenny MP, along with local MP Michaela Settle. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
By Tina Seirlis As development infill further proliferates towards the historic landmark that is the chicory kiln on Taverner Street in Maddingley Bacchus Marsh, celebrations recognising the conclusion of hundreds of hours of restoration work have taken place throughout the week at the iconic location. The privately-owned building was recently thrown a lifeline with thanks […]<\/p>\n