New roof for historic jail
The Seymour Log Gaol has been given a new lease on life with a new roof to help preserve the historic building.
The jail was relocated behind Seymour’s original courthouse which is home to the first judges’ podium, jurors’ gallery and prisoners’ dais.
The new corrugated iron roof will help protect the jail building from weather damage.
The roof will age and discolour over time to blend in with the historic building. The materials chosen are based on a similar treatment that was used on the building previously.
The Old Courthouse Committee of Management, Seymour Historical Society, Council’s Heritage Advisory Committee and Council’s Heritage Advisor helped choose the roof after exhausting options to source wooden shingles or suitable aged corrugated iron.
In recent years, the jail’s roof had been deteriorating at a rapid rate and was causing damage to the floor and sides of the building. Plans to replace the roof have been discussed for many years.
Mitchell Shire Mayor Bill Chisholm said protecting historical sites was important.
‘‘The community has been patient as we worked with them to explore options to protect the building and keep the original look,’’ he said.
‘‘The new roof will provide some much-needed protection to the building.
‘‘I am pleased this iconic feature will remain in Seymour.’’