THE Ararat memorial fountain will be restored to its former glory.
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The federal government has granted $67,000 towards the restoration project.
The restoration works will comprise of repairing damaged and missing surfaces, upgrading the water reticulation system and adding feature lighting.
Ararat Rural City Council mayor Gwenda Allgood said the fountain’s restoration was the “final piece of the puzzle” in the arts precinct redevelopment project.
Having the fountain restored to its former glory will the icing on the cake for our magnificent and new town hall and art gallery
- Gwenda Allgood
The $7.735 million arts precinct redevelopment has involved works to the Ararat Town Hall, which intend to increase the town’s ability to attract major exhibitions and nationally recognised performers to the region.
“Having the fountain restored to its former glory will the icing on the cake for our magnificent and new town hall and art gallery,” said Cr Allgood.
"The fountain is an iconic part of the Ararat civic precinct along Barkly Street, along with the shire hall, war memorial, library and extensive gardens that are managed by Ararat Rural City.”
Cr Allgood said creating a maintenance plan during this project was vital to ensure that the fountain will be maintained once works are completed.
“One of the most important aspects to this project will be the delivery of a maintenance plan,” she said.
“It will ensure the required upkeep is scheduled and budgeted for in future years to ensure the fountain remains operational and well presented.”
This project will not only protect our local heritage but also bring amenity and beautification to the area
- Dan Tehan
Cr Allgood said community members and Ararat Community Enterprise were huge advocates in restoring the iconic monument.
Member for Wannon Dan Tehan said the restoration project would not only protect Ararat’s heritage, but will also beautify the space.
“Ararat is steeped in history and culture and this project will not only protect our local heritage but also bring amenity and beautification to the area,” he said.
“Projects like this bring social and economic benefits by improving the visitor experience and making the region a more attractive place to live.”
The money was provided under the federal government’s building better regions fund.