The Shamrock Clock Tower which began life in 1854. Photo: Bendigo Tourism
Australia is to push for World Heritage status for Victoria’s Goldfields.
The Goldfields have been put on Australia’s World Heritage Tentative List submission, the first step towards formal recognition.
The Goldfields cover more than 20 per cent of the state’s area and were home to hundreds of thousands of migrants who took part in gold rushes from 1851 onwards.
The state government says the region generates more than $1.8 billion to Victoria’s regional economy every year; World Heritage status could attract an extra 2.2 million visitors in 10 years.
IDENTIFIED SITES
The six sites earmarked for inclusion on the Tentative List (so far):
- Historic Bendigo;
- Castlemaine Goldfields and historic townships;
- Creswick and the Deep Lead Landscape;
- Great Nuggets Historic Landscape (Tarnagulla, Moliagul, and Dunolly);
- Lalgambuk (Mt Franklin);
- Walhalla Alpine Mining Landscape.
Victorian Premier and MP for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan describes the Goldfields “as a living testament to those who came to Victoria, seeking a better life and how they transformed the state”.
“World Heritage sites are on bucket lists of tourists worldwide. Our historic Goldfields are on their way to be right there among them – helping to draw in more visitors from all corners of the globe and inject millions into our regional economies.”
Federal Environment and Water Minister Tanya Plibersek says the Goldfields “deserve to be celebrated and protected”.
“Australia is home to some of the most spectacular places in the world. These places tell our unique story,” she says.
“We want to better protect those places so they can be enjoyed by our kids and grandkids. International recognition protects our heritage and attracts visitors from all over the world.”
Federal MP for Bendigo Lisa Chesters says such status will encourage more visitors to stay in the region.
“A successful World Heritage bid will be great for many local businesses in our diverse and dynamic hospitality and tourism industry.”
Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny says such a listing is a chance to share its stories with the world.
“As we progress toward a World Heritage nomination, we are honouring every part of the Goldfields history, the triumphs, the struggles, and the profound impacts on all communities – including our settlers, migrants, and First Nations people.”
MP for Bendigo West Maree Edwards says the announcement is recognition of the significance of the Goldfields.
“There are thousands of individual stories to tell from this historic region, and international protection will help ensure these stories continue to be told for generations to come.”
According to Heritage Victoria, the Goldfields must remain on the Tentative List for at least a year before it can be nominated for World Heritage listing.
