Benalla’s historic grandstand to receive $150k flood recovery boost

One of those is the Benalla Showgrounds grandstand, which will receive $142,000.

It is located in one of the Rose City’s lower lying areas and as such has been damaged repeatedly by flood events.

The most recent was in October 2022.

Victorian Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny recently announced the recipients of the first round of Disaster Recovery Heritage Grants.

These are specifically targeted at structures damaged by floods, storms and bushfires.

“We’re not just restoring heritage landmarks — we’re ensuring these sites are better equipped to withstand future floods and natural disasters that come their way,” Ms Kilkenny said.

“By supporting the recovery of these much-loved landmarks, we’re making sure they remain a source of pride, identity and connection for their communities while keeping them alive as part of our state’s rich history.”

Benalla’s grandstand is one of sixteen sites that will receive recovery funding.

The Disaster Recovery Heritage Grants program was launched in 2024 to help repair heritage sites impacted by extreme weather events, particularly to help small community organisations that needed more support after their insurance and damages were assessed following the October 2022 floods.

Victoria's heritage sites contribute about $2.4 billion each year towards the state's tourism industry and support about 185,000 jobs.