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This article was published on Monday, 24 July, 2023. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate. News articles and media releases older than 60 days are archived for future reference.

Council’s Heritage Conservation Grants Program now open

The Heritage Conservation Grants Program aims to promote good conservation practice through works that improve the physical integrity or appearance of a place, while being respectful of the place’s significance.

This will be Council’s seventh round of the grant program, following hugely successful rounds over the last six years. The program is a key element of Council’s commitment to recognising and protecting Greater Shepparton’s diverse cultural heritage for present and future generations to interpret and appreciate.

The 2022/2023 program saw more than $86,000 awarded to heritage conservation projects across the municipality. This money was used for a range of works, including restoration of headstones, verandah repairs, cellar restorations and external painting.

Mayor, Cr Shane Sali said the Heritage Grants Program was an important one for Greater Shepparton as it allowed for the continued support of the conservation of places that have shaped the unique character and identity of the region.

“It is great to see the community’s interest in ensuring good conservation practice across Greater Shepparton. I encourage those eligible to apply for a Heritage Conservation Grant to help preserve our region’s diverse cultural history,” he said.

Grants of up to $15,000 are available, on a $1 for $1 basis, which can include financial or in-kind contributions. Owners of properties within the Heritage Overlay, both individually significant and contributory to a heritage precinct, are eligible to apply.

Eligible projects will assist in the repair or conservation of the heritage fabric, or enable documentation such as specialist assessments or conservation management plans. Works must be undertaken and completed between late 2023 and 31 May 2024. Full eligibility requirements are outlined in the Heritage Grants Guidelines 2019, which is available on Council’s website.

Grant applications can be lodged with Council from today until Friday 8 September 2023. Applicants are strongly encouraged to engage with Council’s free Heritage Advisory Service to discuss the proposed works. To make an appointment with a Heritage Advisor, please contact Council’s Building, Planning and Compliance Department on (03) 5832 9700.

For more information on the 2023/2024 Heritage Conservation Grants Program, visit our Grants Program page