Omeo Justice Precinct funding welcomed

East Gippsland Shire Council has welcomed $200,000 in funding to restore the Omeo Justice Precinct.

Cr Natalie O’Connell was on hand today for the funding announcement under the Victorian Government’s Living Heritage Grants program made by Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Harriet Shing.

The grant will enable the structural stabilisation of the old court house (1859) and priority works to the new court house (1893) including stormwater system upgrade, roof works, subfloor repairs, brickwork and render repair.

Cr O’Connell said the precinct is a much-loved part of the High Country and one of East Gippsland’s most prominent buildings.

“As locals are well aware, the alpine climate can be a bit harsh on buildings, and any structures reaching the grand old age of our old court house and new court house need a bit of TLC,” Cr O’Connell said.

“The old court house is nearly 160 years old. It is critical for historical buildings of such significance to be maintained. The court house precinct is part of Omeo’s identity.

“Council understands the importance of preserving our heritage buildings. There is no second chance to renovate or save an historic site once it’s gone.

“The heritage of the Omeo Justice Precinct is about more than just the building. There is also an intangible heritage – the stories and people associated with these buildings over the decades.

“As a community, we are all responsible for identifying and respecting what is important, and preserving spaces such as the Omeo Justice Precinct for future generations.

“I am so pleased to see today’s funding announcement, which will be used to undertake important conservation works.”

Both Cr O’Connell and Ms Shing paid tribute to the ongoing tireless work of volunteers from the Omeo Historical Society in keeping the precinct operating for the public with such little resource.