The funding, facilitated jointly by the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage and Murrumbidgee Council, aims to safeguard the rich cultural legacy of these iconic landmarks.
Selected through a meticulous evaluation process, the successful recipients were:
• St Joseph’s Catholic Church, Jerilderie – Repair damage caused by rising damp ($5,000).
• Punt Hotel, Darlington Point – Repair and paint the balcony ($4,000).
• The Homestead and Barracks, Darlington Point – Repair the roof and repair/restore original features ($5,000).
• The former Presbyterian Church, Darlington Point – Replace fascia timber and paint ($4,000).
• Toganmain Woolshed, Darlington Point - Restump the cook’s quarters ($4,750).
• Darlington Point Post Office - Repaint the front of the post office ($1,000).
Included in the funding allocation were consultation fees for the local heritage advisor.
Anna Ryan from ‘The Homestead’ said the grant would be a great opportunity to “help restore and maintain our local heritage”.
“It’s important to preserve the history of our area for future generations,” she said.
The Homestead and Barracks at Darlington Point date back to the 1880s and are recognised on the National Trust of Australia register for their historical significance.
Formerly known as Kerarbury Station, the site is a significant station of its era, reflecting the rich agricultural and architectural heritage of the region.
Murrumbidgee Council Mayor Ruth McRae said the funding stream is vital in preserving our area’s rich heritage and ensuring the longevity and integrity of these cherished buildings and sites for generations to come.
Cr McRae said the restoration works, enabled by this funding, will encompass a spectrum of essential activities aimed at breathing new life into the various sites and conserving their structural integrity and visual appeal.
As part of the funding agreement, recipients will match the funding on a dollar-for-dollar basis and complete the projects by the end of 2024.
A second round of funding will open in July 2024.
