Montreal Goldfield heritage centre opened

The rain cleared away in good time and held off for the whole afternoon. Chris Franks caught everyone’s attention before president Malcolm Halliday welcomed everyone including State Minister for Age and Disabilities and local MP Andrew Constance, Bega Valley Shire Mayor Tony Allen and Councillor Liz Seckold.

He expressed his disappointment that the Hon. Gary Nairn was unable to join the celebration as he cut the ribbon to mark the start of the guided tours, nearly seven years ago.

Malcolm mentioned the work done by all the tradesmen, including Geoff Hall and the Old Codgers Construction Company, who were able to get the building built professionally and on budget.

He also mentioned the generous donations to the project by overseas members and patrons Gillian and Dave Cockings, who were married at the Montreal Goldfield two years ago.

Mayor Tony Allen said the Centre was a great example of a community working together to achieve something special.

Starting with a basic grant of $40,000 the volunteers had done well to bring this building about.

It had been an ongoing project for a long time and he offered his congratulations and wished the volunteers good luck for the future.

Andrew Constance described the centre as a wonderful achievement and that a truly remarkable contribution in kind has gone into a cultural heritage aspect which has enabled it to be recognised as part of the Coastal Wilderness and National Landscapes attractions for overseas visitors.

He then unveiled the sign for the Montreal Goldfield Heritage Centre at the entrance to the site.

Everyone enjoyed the drinks and nibbles that were out on tables on the back verandah and were able to spend a bit of time looking at the historical display and artefacts set up inside the Centre.