Not only has former Rotary exchange student Teresa Manzanares returned to Benalla to visit the site for research on a dissertation she is writing as part of her degree at Barcelona University, Benalla Rural City Council has also secured $195,000 in funding from the Victorian Government to conserve and repair three of its huts.
“Teresa came to Benalla as a Rotary Exchange student and has now returned to catch up with her host families before heading off to Brisbane where she is completing a semester of study abroad,” Migrant Camp exhibition curator Sabine Smyth said.
“After her year in Australia, Teresa began studying international relations at the University of Barcelona and is now in her final year.
“She has chosen to do a dissertation on the Evolution of Australian Immigration Policies, and as part of her research she wanted to have another look at our exhibition.
“Whilst showing Teresa around I was very pleased to find this sign on the window of Hut 65, showing that it will be restored shortly.”
The state government’s Heritage Victoria website confirms the funding has been secured by Benalla Rural City Council:
A grant of $195,000 has been awarded to Benalla Rural City Council for conservation and repair works to Huts 61, 62 and 65 at the Former Benalla Migrant Camp.
The Camp was opened in 1949 to provide housing for people migrating to Australia after an international promotion campaign.
The project will provide new and improved community facilities and support the interpretation and education of the migrant camp history.
Benalla Rural City Mayor Bernie Hearn said council had been awarded the grant for the conservation and repair of Huts 61, 62, and 65 at the former Benalla migrant camp.
“This grant will enable council to engage contractors to restore the former chapel to be reflective of its original condition and return the toilet blocks to a usable condition with accessible access,” Cr Hearn said.
“Other repair works will focus on fixing the windows, floors, cladding, and ceilings of the huts, which will result in improved community facilities.
“This project is a crucial step towards preserving the cultural heritage values of the camp for future generations, and we look forward to starting the conservation works soon.”
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