The heritage significance of dozens of sites throughout the region is being explored as part of a major study led by Mildura Rural City Council.
The Mildura Heritage Study (Part B, Stage 2) focuses on 136 individual sites located in the former Shire of Mildura and City of Mildura areas. These include residential, commercial, community and industrial buildings, schools, churches and trees, which were identified in an earlier stage of the project.
Council-appointed expert heritage advisors will review all sites this month, visiting many in-person to gain a greater insight in to their historic and cultural significance. They will also work closely with a Community Reference Group to explore the historic themes and activities important to shaping our municipality.
Arts, Culture and Heritage Portfolio Councillor Helen Healy said this important piece of work would provide greater insights into the Post-Contact heritage of our region and help us to understand what places are important and why.
"The aim of a Heritage Study is to ensure that as our region grows and develops, places of colonial historic and cultural value are retained, protected and celebrated," Cr Healy said.
Among the 136 sites being reviewed as part of the Mildura Heritage Study (Part B, Stage 2) are Red Cliffs' King George Memorial Baths (swimming pool), the Yelta saleyards, Werrimull Hotel and Merbein's avenue of palm trees on Third Street.
"This is an eclectic mix of sites, monuments and buildings which reflect our region's unique Post-Contact history and form part of the story of our community," Cr Healy said.
Findings from this Study may potentially trigger future recommendations to introduce heritage overlays in the Mildura Planning Scheme.
"The term 'heritage-listing' can sometimes be misunderstood, but it doesn't necessarily mean an overly cumbersome burden for property-owners," Cr Healy said.
The Mildura Planning Scheme currently includes more than 350 places of local heritage significance, all of which are protected by a heritage overlay.
Council also provides a free heritage advice service for anyone whose property is covered by a heritage overlay or considering purchasing such a property.
