The intricacies of conservation works

CEO Message - YOUR INDIGO 22 August 2025

As a heritage Shire, we're custodians of many historic buildings and artefacts that require ongoing maintenance and preservation. Unlike modern construction, heritage restoration projects require unique skills and a degree of patience.

The Chiltern Athenaeum project is a good example of the complexities. When we started, we discovered among many things, moisture damage from a deteriorated damp course, requiring a lengthy process to dry out the walls using specialised techniques before we could reinstate proper protection. We also found that flooring installed in the 1980s wasn't authentic to the building's heritage and had created building issues that needed to be addressed.

Heritage work demands traditional building techniques that few tradespeople still practice such as skilled artisans for stone masonry, lime plastering, and timber joinery. These specialist tradespeople are in short supply. We can't use many modern materials either; with most needing to be sourced or specially manufactured to match original construction, like replicating historical mortar compositions. This all needs to be managed and coordinated with Heritage Victoria to ensure we don't compromise the building's historic character.

With the Athenaeum nearing completion, we're now preparing for the Beechworth Town Hall roof restoration project, which has received $400,000 through the Australian Heritage Grants program with Council contributing another $225,000. Additionally, we have the $180,000 project for the renewal of the Burke Museum roof. These projects will face similar complexities, from specialist slate roofing, treating plaster and brick moisture damage, timber repairs, and ensuring the building meets current drainage standards while retaining historic elements.

We’re currently out to market to secure a heritage architect who will partner with us to detail and document the required works.

While we would all like to see these beloved buildings restored quickly, heritage conservation simply cannot be rushed. While the athenaeum restoration has been a long time in the making, we’re confident it has been worth it, and similarly the Town Hall and Burke Museum restorations will ensure these significant assets continue serving our community while maintaining their historic integrity.

We look forward to celebrating their successful completion.

Trevor Ierino
CEO