One of Ballarat's most well‑known and beloved heritage buildings is set to undergo a major facelift.
Conservation and repair works are about to begin on the external façade of The Mining Exchange Building, restoring the grand Lydiard Street landmark to its original beauty.
Scaffolding has been erected on the 137‑year‑old building, with the project planned to be completed before the Ballarat Heritage Festival in late May.
The works will restore the upper facade of the Mining Exchange, including a revised external colour scheme based on the building's original palette. The project will also address areas in poor condition to prevent further deterioration.
While the brown brickwork will remain unchanged, the rendered surfaces will be transformed from their current grey colour to a sandy tone, enhancing the building's authenticity and historic appearance.
The current acrylic paint will be completely removed after an investigation showed it was trapping water and causing decay of the render. The new mineral paint is breathable, enhancing the long-term survival of the render.
The verandah, arched canopy with decorative artwork, and ground‑floor façade will remain untouched.
Facade works were last completed in 2007.
All elements of the project have been approved by Heritage Victoria, with works being undertaken using best‑practice heritage methods and materials.
City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves said the $230,000 project would further enhance the cherished Lydiard Street streetscape.
"The Mining Exchange is one of Ballarat's most recognisable and treasured heritage buildings, and this project is about protecting and celebrating that legacy for future generations," she said.
"This building is a true landmark and restoring it to its original colour scheme further establishes Ballarat as one of Australia's leading heritage cities.
"I can't wait to see the end result, which will make the historic streetscape even more stunning."
There will be no disruption to internal use of The Mining Exchange or the adjacent footpath throughout the project. Minor, temporary disruptions to parking may occur while scaffolding is erected.
History of The Ballarat Mining Exchange
The Ballarat Mining Exchange was constructed between 1887 and 1889 during the height of Ballarat's mining boom, serving as a centre for the trading of mining shares.
It replaced an earlier stock exchange and reflects the city's rapid growth and economic confidence in the late nineteenth century.
The building was designed by prominent local architect C.D. Figgis and is an important example of classical "boom‑style" architecture, featuring a grand symmetrical facade and a prominent central entrance.
Internally, the building contains a large exchange hall flanked by arcaded brokers' booths - a layout that is rare and highly distinctive.
The former Mining Exchange demonstrates Ballarat's historic role as a major centre of mining investment and commerce. It is of architectural and historical significance to the State of Victoria and is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register.
