Yarrawonga’s old railway station is getting a new lease on life.
One of Yarrawonga’s most loved buildings, the Yarrawonga Railway Station will remain functional with a new lessee, Community Accessibility, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to empowering individuals through inclusive services, taking over the lease.
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Thanks to the Yarrawonga Mulwala Development Inc (YMD), who leased the rail land from VicTrack (the owners of Victoria’s rail land, buildings and infrastructure) in 2015, the historically significant building went from near demolition to complete refurbishment and returned to the community a decade ago.
However, earlier this year YMD decided to not resign the lease with Community Accessibility engaging with VicTrack to establish how the station can be preserved and kept open for community use.
Community Accessibility Disability Services Manager Nigel Byron said the local not-for-profit entity’s tenancy commenced on June 1 for three years with a further term option of two years available.
“In addition to group and one-on-one support services provided by Community Accessibility, the venue will be open for general community use,” Mr Byron said.
“Already, a local sewing group and a dance group make use of the space after hours, with more groups encouraged to get involved.”
Over the past decade, community groups Yarrawonga Mulwala Artists Association, Lake Mulwala Quilters, Yarrawonga Urban Landcare Group, Yarrawonga Mulwala Historical Society, Save Our Station, Community Accessibility, Days for Girls and the Yarrawonga Community Garden have been regular users of the community hub.
Now the facility will host a diverse array of programs delivered by Community Accessibility, including arts and crafts, music and dance, cooking classes, literacy support, exercise programs, and even bike-riding adventures.
A range of activities will take place in the new centre.
The train station will also serve as a launching point for day trips to popular destinations.
“The support doesn’t stop there — NDIS Support Coordination will also be offered from the venue, helping participants make the most of their NDIS plans and access the services they need,” Mr Byron said.
“Due to the buildings inclusion on the Victorian Heritage Register and National Trust heritage list, major modifications to the station building are restricted,” Mr Byron said.
“However, we hope to work collaboratively with VicTrack to enhance the building surrounds through the addition of gardens and lawn areas, helping to beautify the space for community use.”
The community will have a chance to check out all that Community Accessibility has to offer and how they can get involved with an open day next week.
“An open day will be held on Thursday, July 10 to welcome the community, giving visitors a chance to meet the staff and participants of Community Accessibility, learn about available services, job opportunities and tour the facilities,” Mr Byron said.
“This is a great chance to connect, ask questions and celebrate together.
“The event will feature a free sausage sizzle, music, and hands-on arts and crafts activities — all set against the backdrop of this beautifully preserved historic site.”
More on the open day will appear in next week’s Chronicle.
