Doubts over rescue

Costly mansion mission

THE historic Osborne House will remain in public hands following a divisive council meeting on Tuesday night.

Councillors voted in favour of developing a master plan to reinvigorate the precinct, with an ambitious deadline set for December this year.

The North Geelong mansion, built in 1858, has sat vacant for more than a year after community groups were forced to move out due to mould concerns.

Several of those groups, including the Vietnam Veterans Association, were at Tuesday’s meeting and gave rousing applause when the motion passed.

But the decision to commit to redeveloping Osborne House came amid concerns about City Hall’s ability to splash millions of dollars on the project.

Despite voting in favour of the motion to preserve the building, Mayor Bruce Harwood said it was an “interesting path” that council was choosing to follow.

He said services might need to be cut to fund the works, given no money was allocated in the 2018-19 council budget.

“Its protection can’t be at an unlimited cost,” Cr Harwood said. “If millions are to be spent, there has to be a return back to the community.”

Deputy Mayor Peter Murrihy — the only councillor to vote against the motion — was also critical of the move.

He questioned whether the commitment was fiscally responsible, and said a December deadline for the master plan could result in it being “rushed”. But councillor Eddy Kontelj — who initiated the motion — said the timeline was achievable.

He also said $1 million previously budgeted for Osborne House’s maintenance could be redirected towards the project.

In putting forward the motion, Cr Kontelj said the building was at risk of becoming derelict.

However, he said a revamp could see it capable of hosting exhibitions, businesses and retail outlets.

“Osborne House has the potential to symbolise Geelong,” Cr Kontelj said.

“We have an opportunity and the ability to be both community-minded and commercially astute.

“It’s imperative we promptly commence restoration works to allow the building’s full potential to be realised.”

The master plan process will involve consultation with relevant stakeholders, including Osborne Park Association, Vietnam Veterans, Maritime Museum and North Geelong Football, Netball and Cricket Club.

“Osborne House has the potential to symbolise Geelong.” CR EDDY KONTELJ