Published on 01 June 2020
Campaspe Shire Council has finalised the last step in transferring the land, which includes the heritage listed Echuca Loco on Sturt Street, to Echuca Loco Shed Inc.
CEO Declan Moore said the land at 95 Sturt Street, Echuca, was owned by Council and the building owned by an incorporated community group, Loco Shed Echuca Inc. Council approved the transfer of the land to the group in late 2018 with the legal processes recently concluded.
“The transfer consolidates the land and building into one single ownership,” Mr Moore said.
“It gives the group full control of the site, clarity of ownership and will support the building’s future seeing it re-purposed for community use.”
Loco Shed Echuca Inc President, Dick Phillips said, “the development of the site for community use has been a passion for our group for more than 30 years, and with Council’s vision and support we’re keen build on the refurbishment work already undertaken. The consolidation simplifies funding and development processes.”
“A community day is proposed, which will be an opportunity for everyone interested in the shed’s history to explore the site and also discuss concepts for its future use. In the meantime funding is being sought for works to maintain the building and prepare for future development.”
In 1986 the Echuca River Development Society, now known as Loco Shed Echuca, bought the loco shed from V/Line to ensure the preservation of the building.
In 1992, the former City of Echuca bought the land from the Public Transport Corporation.
In 1998, the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) revised the historical status of the building to one of State Significance.
In 2014 Council commissioned a Conservation Management Plan for the shed which investigated three elements including the aesthetic, historical, scientific and social significance of the site and an interpretation strategy to celebrate the heritage of the building. The plan identified potential future uses for the building including function centre, railway interpretation centre and tourist attraction.
“We congratulate the members of the Echuca Loco Shed for their passion and drive in getting to this stage and now look forward to the community supporting the group and seeing the site reach its full potential,” Mr Moore said.
