Southland
The Lumsden railway precinct is set to be future-proofed after a major funding win for the Lumsden Heritage Trust.
The Trust has been granted $62,252 by the Lottery Grants Board for the restoration and
preservation of the town’s heritage carriage.
The funding application prepared by Venture Southland, alongside John Titter and Rob Scott of the Lumsden Heritage Trust, will allow the development of a purpose-built canopy to protect the town’s A class 1896 railway carriage.
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Venture Southland community development planner Susan Mackenzie said the heritage
carriage has the potential to become an iconic feature for the township.
“The purpose-built canopy will ensure that the heritage carriage is protected for future
generations and those visiting the area,” Mackenzie said.
The railway precinct project will contribute to the preservation of the Lumsden town centre, which is a hub for local communities and visiting tourists in Northern Southland.
Mackenzie said the project adds to the heritage attraction of the town for locals, rail
enthusiasts and visiting tourists.
Two stages of the restoration project are already complete – relocating the carriage from
Wairio to Lumsden and restoration of the passenger carriage.
The construction of the purpose-built canopy is the third stage of the project with the
installation of fire prevention equipment and the creation of information boards to follow.
John Titter and Rob Scott, of the Lumsden Heritage Trust said they were appreciative of
Venture Southland’s support of the project.
“We would like to personally thank Venture Southland for their invaluable support, they really do enable organisations like ours to succeed,” Titter said.
Venture Southland is able to assist local community groups with funding advice, planning,
and wider project support.