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Melina Bath urges Allan government to save Leongatha historic railway station from ongoing vandalism and neglect
Vandalism is destroying Leongatha historic railway station. Melina Bath urges the Allan government to act before irreversible damage and loss of this community asset occur.
Senseless vandalism is turning Leongatha's heritage railway station into a derelict eyesore. Speaking in state parliament, The Nationals' Melina Bath has called on the Allan government to act and save the building before it is destroyed beyond repair.
In parliament, Melina Bath urged the Allan government to save the century-old heritage building from vandalism and irreversible damage
Heritage site vandalised
Ms Bath said, "It is distressing to see this treasured community asset intrinsically linked to the town's history fall victim to wilful damage. Built over a century ago, this historic building should be maintained and repurposed for the local and visitor economy."
"Instead, the property is now covered in graffiti, doors are ripped off hinges and there is extensive damage to hardwood flooring, walls, and the pressed plaster ceiling. The new rotunda and toilets at the Railway Precinct have also been trashed by hoodlums. Local frustration is justified, and the South Gippsland Shire Council is footing the bill for the clean-up of these senseless acts," said Ms Bath.
Railway heritage neglected
Ms Bath said the state owned VicTrack is responsible for railway buildings. "Police are patrolling as often as possible, but their resources are thinly stretched. Meanwhile, vandals act with impunity destroying the heritage building that could be leased, repurposed, and brought back to life through commercial investment."
"Leongatha is not an isolated case, Labor is neglecting its responsibilities and potential in relation to Mirboo North and Korumburra stations, to name a few. It would be a tragedy if the Allan government fails to stop the destruction, and our railway stations are lost forever," said Ms Bath. The Minister for Transport Infrastructure response is due 11 June 2025.
Pictures from Melina Bath MP Facebook page.
Source: http://gippsland.com/
Published by: news@gippsland.com
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