The Henry Lawson Museum in Gulgong will be in pristine condition for centenary celebrations in 2022, with funding secured to complete restoration work at the historic building.
Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders announced $16,000 has been secured for the museum committee to do the necessary work.
“The Henry Lawson Museum is one of a number of amazing buildings in Gulgong that tell the tales of yesteryear, and it is one of the last remaining timber citadels in Australia,” Mr Saunders said.
“There is an extensive amount of memorabilia and artefacts inside that outline Henry Lawson and his contribution to the region, but the committee identified some remedial work that needed to be done to the outside of the building.
“While it’s important to do this work, it’s also important to ensure the building retains its historic feel.”
Henry Lawson Society of NSW secretary-treasurer Gordon McDonnell said the funding has been welcomed by the organisation, and will ensure there is plenty of time to get the necessary works completed before the 2022 Henry Lawson Festival.
“We hope to have the outside of the Centre looking its best for the 100-year celebration of its construction during the Henry Lawson Festival on the June Long-Weekend in 2022,” he said.
“The building was originally constructed for the Salvation Army and the interior is in excellent condition and has not changed since its construction. The original altar section and pews are still in use but there is some work that needs to be done to the exterior.
“We can do that work now and we’re very thankful to Dugald Saunders and the NSW Government for the support they have shown to us.”