This is a joint statement from Indigo Shire CEO Trevor Ierino and National Trust Executive Manager, Collections & Cultural Projects, Dr Annette Shiell
Indigo Shire and the National Trust are aware of growing community concern about the future of the historic carriages collection which is soon to be moved from storage at Billson's Brewery in Beechworth.
Last week, Council and the Trust were pleased to announce that a suitable temporary location had been found and that the carriages would be relocated in the coming weeks.
The Trust together with the Old Cranks and Council's Cultural Heritage Manager have inspected the site, which is on private property close to Beechworth, deeming it suitable as a temporary location for the collection.
Council CEO Trevor Ierino said this is a positive step towards ensuring the carriages are safe and secure and that the required conservation works and research can commence once on site.
Dr Shiell said the Trust can now turn its attention to research and conservation works required to ensure the long-term future of the carriages is secure. This step will be an exciting process that will involve community volunteers and heritage experts.
Both the Trust and Council have previously ruled out the Beechworth Goods Shed as a suitable location for the following reasons:
- The shed is not big enough to house all the carriages, especially given the split level design
- There wouldn't be enough room to undertake the required restoration works
- There are no amenities (toilets etc) for either visitors or those working on the carriages
- There is no capacity for a workshop
- There would be no room or opportunity for public access
Dr Shiell said the new temporary location means the trust can implement its three-stage plan for the carriages, which involves
- Conservation and research – find a clean, dry and safe storage space for the carriages and spend 18-24 months repairing, cleaning and researching the carriages as they are currently not fit or safe for public access. This could be done in collaboration with community and education groups, but not open to the public on a broader scale.
- Small-scale activation – bring one or two carriages out at a time and activate them in the town. This could include Golden Horseshoes, other festivals, short-term displays, school visits etc. 1-2 years.
- Explore the long-term home for the carriages.
Council and the Trust this week signed a Memorandum of Understanding outlining Council's support to work with the Trust to ensure this valuable collection is protected and that a long-term solution to restore and display the carriages can be achieved.
Mr Ierino said Council recognises the significant value of the collection not only to Beechworth but the entire Shire and the rest of Victoria.
"We are confident that the MoU and the temporary relocation of the carriages to allow for cataloguing and conservation are important steps to ensuring that the collection is preserved and that its link to Beechworth's rich heritage is retained for future generations to enjoy."
