Works to begin on Port Fairy’s Goods Shed

Published on 06 February 2023

The first stage of works to revive Port Fairy’s historic Railway Goods Shed are about to begin to restore the beloved community asset.

The external site works will commence on Tuesday 7 February, following the completion of a Conservation Management Plan and permit approval from Heritage Victoria.

Mayor Cr Karen Foster said the renewal works of the Railway Goods Shed is an important step towards extending the life of the historic asset and preserving the building’s unique heritage characteristics.

“The Railway Goods Shed is an iconic building of architectural significance, as the terminus of the historic railway that previously ran from Melbourne to Port Fairy, via Koroit and Warrnambool from 1890 until 1977,” Cr Foster said.

 “The goods shed played an important role in the development of our region and these renewal works will help to not only revitalise the historic link to our region’s railway heritage, but also enhance the visual appeal of the space.”

The first stage of renewal works will include fence removal, roofing and door repairs, re-painting and replacement of the timber platform and are expected to be completed in July, weather and building conditions permitting.

“A local contractor who specifically works on heritage restoration projects has been engaged to undertake the exterior works,” Cr Foster said.

“In parallel to these works getting underway, we are also about to embark on a consultation process to determine future uses of the Goods Shed and look at activation options for the site.”

 “We want to preserve the heritage of the goods shed, while breathing new life into the space and making the Railway Place precinct a place locals can be really proud of.”

The Railway Goods Shed renewal project is funded by Moyne Shire Council and the Federal Government, through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) program.