15 August 2024

Future of Gundagai’s historic Old Mill in your hands: Council seeks public's input

| Shri Gayathirie Rajen
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Old flour mill

The Old Mill is historically and culturally important for Gundagai. While a masterplan and business case are being developed, the community is invited to have its say on the future of the grand building. Photo: Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council.

The Gundagai community is invited to shape the future of its historic landmark, the Old Mill.

The Old Mill was the first flour mill in Gundagai. Built in 1848 by J Morley for Flood and Hanley, the mill withstood all the floods, including the fierce ones of 1852, 1853, 1870 and 1925. The floodwaters created holes through the building’s walls, and the patches can still be seen today.

The mill is the only surviving representative of the original Gundagai township on the river flat.

Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council is developing a masterplan and business case for the oldest building in Gundagai, which is a significant historical and cultural asset to the local community.

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In a statement, the council said it was seeking input from the community to understand its views surrounding any future development of the Old Mill and its potential uses. The council plan and business case will be used to apply for grant funding for its future development.

The council’s manager of business Linda Wiles said the community had an opportunity to have a say on the masterplan and business case development of the Old Mill.

“The masterplan and business case are needed to demonstrate to funding bodies that the community have a clear vision and a pathway forward to ensure the successful development and future of this historical building,” Ms Wiles said.

“The council is urging community members to participate in the survey and/or come to the drop-in session.”

flour mill engulfed in flood waters in 1900

The Gundagai flour mill engulfed by water during a flood in 1900. Photo: National Museum of Australia.

The Gundagai community can voice its thoughts either in person at the drop-in session on Wednesday, 28 August, from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm at the council chambers, or by filling out the survey on the council website or Facebook page.

Any redevelopment of the site will consider its potential community use as well as any commercially focused projects.

It will also allow for the recovery of ongoing maintenance and operating costs and the opportunity to attract visitors to the area. Any redevelopment option will require significant funds, which the council will secure through grants and external sources.

For more information, contact Ms Wiles on 1300 459 689 and click here to contribute to the survey.

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