Heritage overlay sought to protect 1910 farm house
A heritage overlay to protect an old Drouin farming property has been proposed by Baw Baw Shire.
Council will seek permission to prepare a planning scheme amendment to apply a heritage overlay to The Gables property.
The Gables is an old farming property, currently in the Drouin Precinct Structure Plan (PSP) area that is identified for future residential development.
Planning officers said the property owners were active in the community in relation to protecting Drouin’s heritage and significant vegetation.
A report to council said the farming property in Lardner Rd was created in 1880 and the farm house was built around 1910 and remains in a well preserved condition.
“Although the dwelling had some minor additions and alterations, it is still one of the most distinctive and substantial Federation period farmhouses surviving within the shire,” the report said.
A number of substantial plantings also are evident in the residential garden and surrounding paddocks including a Magnolia tree and two substantial mature English elms.
Council engaged heritage consultants Plan Heritage to assess the property’s heritage significance.
Plan Heritage said The Gables represented an historical period in the pastoral history of the municipality where dairy farming on small acreage was a viable financial proposition capable of supporting a family farm.
The house, constructed around 1910 for lawyer Edward James Hamilton, was originally on a small holding of 30 acres immediately outside the Drouin township.
“Although the external form of the dwelling has experienced minor alterations and additions... the overall form and arrangement of the building is clearly visible and intact.
“The dwelling exhibits key features common to the Federation period including exaggerated high-pitched hip roof forms, an asymmetrical arrangement and plan and projecting gables,” the heritage report states.
It is proposed the overlay will not affect the entire property but a designated area surrounding the house and two additional areas to protect the trees.
Planning officers said a heritage overlay provide recognition and statutory protection of site.
“A well protected heritage building in its original setting may have a positive impact on the new neighbourhood in the PSP area and is likely to improve the future amenity of the area,” officers said.
Cr Tricia Jones said the house and garden had historical significance that represented the pastoral history of the shire.
However, she said the significance of the Gables went unnoticed when Drouin was undergoing its long term plan and therefore was missed for heritage protection.
Cr Annemarie McCabe said it was importance for council to value buildings and ensure their longevity in history.
She said The Gables was one of the most substantial Federation style homes in the shire.
“The property has been well cared for and as such should be protected for its heritage significance for others for years to come,” she said.
Cr Ben Lucas said after visiting the property it was obvious “they don’t build them like they used to.”
He said the house boasted grand ceilings and was a lovely home that should be protected for generations to come.
Community consultation will be undertaken as part of the planning scheme amendment process.