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Council breaks ground for Donnybrook heritage hub

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Nicolette BarbasSouth Western Times
Perkins business development manager Mark Parish, Donnybrook-Balingup shire president Brian Piesse, Collie-Preston MLA Mick Murray, and Shire CEO Ben Rose broke ground on the Donnybrook heritage project.
Camera IconPerkins business development manager Mark Parish, Donnybrook-Balingup shire president Brian Piesse, Collie-Preston MLA Mick Murray, and Shire CEO Ben Rose broke ground on the Donnybrook heritage project.

Ground was officially broken yesterday on the site of the iconic heritage project in Donnybrook yesterday.

Collie-Preston MLA Mick Murray joined Perkins Builders business development manager Mark Parish, the Donnybrook-Balingup Shire president Brian Piesse and CEO Ben Rose to mark the momentous occasion.

“I think it is particularly important this historic Donnybrook Good Shed is being rejuvenated so it can be a focal point in the re-vitalisation of the town centre,” Collie-Preston MLA Mick Murray said.

“Having places and spaces which celebrate our past while looking to embrace new opportunities is vital because it provides a tangible link between generations.

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I can’t wait to come back once this whole project has been completed to see how it is being utilised by the community.

In 2019, funding of $2 million was secured through the Royalties for Regions program.

The council announced Perkins Builders as the successful contractor for the delivery of the project back in July and site preparations commenced in September.

Operations are under way to restore components of the Goods Shed and develop the site.

Shire president Brian Piesse said this was an exciting project that will be enjoyed by visitors and locals alike.

“The key to the project is the renewal and adaption of the heritage-listed Goods Shed to showcase the region’s heritage in an interpretive and interactive way,” Cr Piesse said.

“This project along with the recent expansion of the Wellington National Park will enhance the connection between the Collie and Donnybrook and create a tourist drive via the Preston Valley region.”

It is anticipated the project will be completed by March 2021, ahead of the region’s Donnybrook Apple Festival and Balingup Small Farm Field Day events.

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