The biggest facelift to the historic Mildura and ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾stead wharves since they were established well over 100 years ago has been completed.
Works started in June this year on a major overhaul and facelift of both structures after thorough inspections revealed a raft of structural and aesthetic works were needed to bring them back to their former glory.
The two-month project included replacing balustrades, hand rails and decking boards, and extensive painting and finishing works.
Councillor for Economic Development and Tourism Mark Eckel said with the project completed, residents and visitors could enjoy these historic landmarks for decades to come.
“The Mildura Wharf and ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾stead Wharf are iconic landmarks for our region. They’re lasting reminders of the formative years of our municipality when the riverfront trade was critical to Mildura’s growth and survival,” Cr Eckel said.
“These magnificent structures still serve a vital role in our region today, not only as popular tourist attractions, but in the case of the Mildura Wharf, as a vital piece of infrastructure for our paddleboat industry.
“The Mildura Wharf is also one of the centrepieces of our thriving, redeveloped riverfront precinct, and with these works completed, now complements the significant upgrades that have taken place throughout this precinct, which attracts thousands of locals and visitors each year.”
Cr Eckel, who is Chairman of the Chaffey Trail Reference Group, thanked the community for its patience while the works were conducted.
“We timed these works to occur at one of the quietest times of the year for our paddleboat industry in an effort to reduce any disruption,” he said.
“We also staged these works to ensure at least one section of the Mildura Wharf was available for departures/arrivals at all times, and our paddleboat industry representatives and the community were very understanding and great to work with throughout this process.”
Cr Eckel said that throughout the projects there was a strong focus on bringing the wharves back to their original condition and appearance to ensure they remain historically accurate.
