News

Daniel Andrews keeps a Grand Old Dame waiting

Friday 17 May 2019

Nationals Member for Ovens Valley Tim McCurdy has renewed his calls on the Andrews Government for $2 million to fund the next phase of the Mount Buffalo Chalet.

The Chalet is listed in the Victorian Heritage Register for its architectural, historical and social significance and is often referred to as The Grand Old Dame of Victoria's Alpine region.

Mr McCurdy said the Chalet had been pulled back from the brink of demolition and is waiting for the next funding stream to take the iconic building forward.

“I visited the Chalet again last week with Shadow Minister for the Environment, David Morris,” Mr McCurdy said.

“I was pleased to see Parks Victoria’s enthusiasm and maintenance is on track but future funding needs to be secured to take the next step.”

Mr McCurdy said the next investment of $2 million would open up the building’s café and give visitors the “Chalet experience” – the surrounding view, and the structure and ambience of a grand building.

“We are still years away from the building being used for accommodation again, but opening the café would certainly bring more visitors to the Chalet and offer a more well-rounded experience,” he said.

Mr McCurdy said Daniel Andrews had the opportunity to show that he cared about significant Victorian architecture and history by providing necessary funding in the upcoming budget.