The historic Lethbridge Station building is set to be transformed into a new space for locals to enjoy, thanks to a major restoration taking place as part of the Andrews Labor Government’s Community Use of Vacant Rail Buildings Program.

Member for Buninyong Michaela Settle was at the station today with the Mayor of Golden Plains Shire, Cr Helena Kirby, and representatives from the Lethbridge Community Group, who will be the building’s tenants and manage the community space.

The bluestone Lethbridge Station building was built in 1862 and served passengers travelling on the Geelong-Ballarat line. After being disused for many years – the works will fully restore the structure and the interior of the building so it can be opened up to the community as a multi-purpose community arts and cultural hub.

The works include carrying out structural repairs and refurbishment, as well as installing a kitchenette and accessible toilet so the building can be used for community events and meetings.

Planning works for the project will continue throughout the rest of this year, with construction to take place in 2022.

The works will be delivered by VicTrack in conjunction with an expert heritage architect, to ensure the restoration is sympathetic to the heritage values of the building.

The Government’s Community Use of Vacant Rail Buildings Program restores disused historic railway buildings and opens them up to the local community to share and enjoy.

Previously 21 buildings in regional areas were restored through the program, and now 10 more buildings are being brought back to their former glory during 2021 and 2022 thorough a $9 million package of works.

For more information on the program, please visit victrack.com.au

Quotes attributable to Michaela Settle Member for Buninyong

“The Lethbridge Station building is of great historical significance to the area and the restoration of this beautiful bluestone building will turn it into a real asset for the community.”

“I look forward to seeing the building restored to its former glory and brought back to life after many years of being vacant.”

Quotes attributable to Cr Helena Kirby Mayor Golden Plains Shire

“Council welcomes this funding commitment from the Victorian Government to restore the historic Lethbridge Station building and transform it into a space for the local community.”

“This project has been a number of years in the making, and Council is pleased to be able to partner with the Lethbridge Community Group to lease the building for community use.”