MEMBERS of the public will have the chance to get a close up look at one of Port Fairy’s most historic buildings this weekend.
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As part of the Australian Heritage Festival, Mills Cottage will be open to the public on Sunday.
Tours of the Gipps Street property will take place at 11am, 1pm and 3pm. The National Trust Port Fairy branch will lead the guided tours.
A grant of $200,000 from the state government’s Living Heritage Grants Program is funding urgent conservation works to the interior and exterior of the building, including specialist wallpaper, timberwork and plaster conservation.
One of the oldest buildings in Victoria, the timber cottage was constructed in stages between 1841 and 1856. Bluestone stables on the property were built in 1858. The property is now only infrequently opened to the public. It is hoped the conservation works will allow increased public access, including the use of rooms for low-rent leases and community hire. The aim is to have the conservation works completed by June.
CEO of National Trust Victoria Simon Ambrose said the project has created much interest.
“We are extremely excited by the detailed conservation works currently being undertaken at Mills Cottage and the value that they will add not only to the visitor experience but to the historical interpretation and the story of the cottage itself,” Mr Ambrose said.
“We look forward to welcoming National Trust members and the general public on Sunday 27 May for tours of the conservation works, and to learn more about this fascinating property.”
The conservation works are being closely scrutinised with Digital Heritage Australia photographically documenting the progress of the works from start to finish.
President of the National Trust Port Fairy Branch Marten Syme is providing local assistance as site coordinator throughout the duration of the works.
Pre-bookings are essential to Sunday’s tours. To book, visit the Australian Heritage Festival website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.au/ahf_event/mills-cottage-conservation-tours/