The Mildura Rural City Council and the Psyche Bend Historical Reserve Committee have each received heritage grants, sharing in more than $2 million worth of new grants to preserve and protect heritage across the State, the Member for Northern Victoria Region, Candy Broad announced today.
Mildura Rural City Council has received $9,300 to install interpretation signage at nine sites on its heritage Chaffey Trail.
A Chaffey Trail Reference Group consisting of historical societies and council staff was formed to prepare the Chaffey Trail Strategic Plan 2009-12. Other related recommendations from the Plan include a website to promote the trail, and constructing shelters.
Mildura Rural City Council has appointed a dedicated project officer to coordinate the project and has allocated $100,000 towards road infrastructure works and promotional materials for the trail.
The Psyche Bend Historical Reserve Committee has received $12,000 to repair the windows and paint the outside of the Psyche Bend Pumping Station.
The various pumping stations in Mildura were constructed by the Chaffey Brothers as part of their vast irrigation scheme built after 1887 and Psyche Bend was the first. The pumping stations are considered to be of national significance for their historical associations and as examples of industrial architecture.
The pump house at Psyche Bend is the only original building remaining on site, as the original boiler house was demolished soon after 1959 when the pump station was decommissioned. The pump house contains the rare and highly significant original pump and engine, which has been restored by local volunteers.
“The Brumby Labor Government is taking action to preserve and protect Victoria’s history,’’ Ms Broad said.
Planning Minister, Justin Madden said these two projects were among more than 71 community projects to share in $2 million in grants to preserve and protect Victoria’s heritage.
‘’The Brumby Labor Government’s heritage grants empower local communities to care for, manage and interpret Victoria’s diverse heritage,” Mr Madden said.
“These people and organisations are today receiving recognition and support for their passionate commitment to the State’s heritage,” Minister Madden said.
“Heritage places remind us of our past and provide us with a shared sense of identity.”