Lilydale's 112-year-old heritage train station has been refurbished and reopened as the home of Lilydale Community House, thanks to a partnership between VicTrack, Council and the Victorian Government.
Representatives from the Lilydale Community House, VicTrack, Victorian Railways Institute and Council formally reopened the heritage-listed building in October, as the new location for the community house.
The building has been extensively updated by VicTrack, with new kitchen and toilets, a multi-use activity room and interior refurbishments.
Council has leased the building from VicTrack, and is sub-leasing to the Lilydale Community House, who will manage the space with the Victorian Railways Institute.
Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Richard Higgins, said it was heartening to see the heritage building updated and open to the community.
"This station is a key part of Lilydale's history. Many of us will remember catching trains from the old station, and some of us may even remember stopping in at the refreshments room, which operated for about 60 years," Cr Higgins said.
"I'm pleased to see the station brought back to life and used by our community again.
"The Lilydale Community House is a fantastic organisation helping to bring residents together to learn new skills, make new friends and engage with the wider community.
"They've had great success operating out of their former premises near the Civic Centre, but it's great to see them have their own dedicated space, here in the heart of town.
"Keeping the station building in use is a fantastic way to keep the history of Lilydale alive. I'm extremely proud of Council's support of this project, and the partnership that has helped bring this about."
Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing MP, said that the Victorian Government was proud to support the protection and enhancement of the station.
"The Lilydale Heritage Station building has such a wonderful history and the level crossing removal project gave us a wonderful opportunity to upgrade the facility and connect locals with new spaces to learn and socialise."
Lilydale Community House runs classes, activities, fitness sessions, events and more, for people of all ages and abilities.
Read about their Term 4 Program and sign up at lilydalech.org.au
