RHSV CONDEMNS DECISION TO DEMOLISH EDWARDIAN COTTAGE LINKED TO BALLARAT’S CHINESE HISTORY

The RHSV joins the Chinese Community of Ballarat, local historical societies and the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) in calling urgently for the Ballarat Council to reverse the decision to demolish a historic cottage that played a central role in the town’s history. This 1906 classic Edwardian cottage was home to the family of Chinese goldmine manager James Wong Chung continuously until 2008. It played a role in Chinese life and stands as a witness to the participation of Chinese Australians in the Goldfields. The success of the Chung family makes this home all the more important. The Chinese community is strongly supportive of retention of the home. The historical consultant favoured retention, and this was also a council officer’s recommendation. However, this recommendation was defeated 4 to 3 by Ballarat councillors. The RHSV have sent the Council a strong letter, drafted by committee member Peter Hiscock, AM, FCPA, FRHSV calling for the reversal of this terrible decision. Read more in this article from the ABC.