Media Releases

It is time the dilapidated Murtoa Stick Shed was demolished according to Member for Swan Hill, Peter Walsh.
Speaking in Parliament, Mr Walsh detailed the major safety issues surrounding the historic grain storage shed and the failed efforts to preserve the structure.
“GrainCorp, on whose land the building is sited, the overwhelming majority of the community and the local historical society all believe that the stick shed is beyond repair,” Mr Walsh said.
“Large sections of the roof have fallen and the entire roof area is covered in wire mesh in an effort to stop roofing iron from blowing around the neighbouring community.
“Despite funding from the State Government through Heritage Victoria to try and conserve the building, Worksafe Victoria suspended works almost as soon as they had begun last year because of fears for worker’s safety.
“The situation has obviously not improved with the adjacent school even having to resort on occasion to not allowing children out onto the school’s playground areas because of the danger of flying roof iron,” Mr Walsh said.
With GrainCorp seriously considering its options in regard to the future of the Murtoa grain receival facility, Mr Walsh has called on Premier Brumby to intervene and assist GrainCorp in their proposal to establish an historical interpretive centre which recognises the history of grain handling and storage in the district.
“Such a resource would ensure the history of the industry is recognised and maintained while improving the safety of all in the community,” Mr Walsh said.
“It would also allow GrainCorp the opportunity to develop its receival facility at the site and thus the future of grain handling in the district,” he said.