Media Release

Ben Hardman MP – Member for Seymour

21 October 2010

SHIRE RECEIVES HERITAGE BOOST

MURRINDINDI Shire Council will be able to continue working to preserve local heritage thanks to
a State Government heritage grant of $30,000.

The Member for Seymour, Ben Hardman, said the grant would enable the shire to complete state
2 of the Murrindindi Shire Council Heritage Study.

Mr Hardman said the shire received State Government grants of $40,000 in 2007 and $35,000 in
2004 for the study which is aimed at gaining a better understanding of local heritage assets and
helping with the development of conservation plans for the future.

“The study is a critical step in preserving historically important places in the municipality.”

Mr Hardman said potential heritage sites had been identified under stage 1 of the study. Stage 2
involved assessing and documenting the selected sites and the third stage involves applying
appropriate planning controls to protect those sites.

“Councils play a vital role in the protection of heritage sites and it is important they are supported
in this work in an ongoing manner,” Mr Hardman said.

Planning Minister Justin Madden said the project was one of 70 across Victoria to share in more
than $1.8 million worth of new grants to preserve and protect heritage

“The grants include funding for 15 large scale community projects to repair and interpret
significant heritage places and objects, and projects ranging from restoration works to libraries
and town halls,” Mr Madden said.

“There are also five heritage studies which are being funded and 50 councils across Victoria have
received grants for their heritage advisory services.”

Victoria’s heritage grants support the repair and interpretation of publicly accessible and important
heritage places and objects managed by local government and community not-for-profit
organisations.

The program also helps councils identify and manage heritage at a local level through the funding
of studies and advisory service grants.

“The Brumby Labor Government’s heritage grants empower local communities to manage and
interpret Victoria’s diverse heritage,” Mr Madden said.

“The successful projects reflect the complexity and richness of the State’s heritage. These people
and organisations are today receiving recognition and support for their passionate commitment to
our shared history.”