Llew O’Brien announces funding for Cherbourg’s Ration Shed Museum

20/10/2016

Llew O’Brien announces funding for Cherbourg’s Ration Shed Museum

Federal Member for Wide Bay, Llew O’Brien today announced that Cherbourg’s historic Ration Shed Museum will receive $237,000 from the Liberal Nationals Government.

The funding will be used to develop and deliver education programs, repair and refurbish buildings, and build capacity to strengthen the organisation.

 

“Cherbourg’s interesting history is both happy and sad and I am pleased this funding will enable the story of its people continue to be told,” Mr O’Brien said.

The Ration Shed Museum is a valuable regional asset and forms part of Cherbourg’s Historical Precinct.  It opened in 2004 and its interpretive displays convey the history of Cherbourg and its people.

“The Ration Shed houses art, photographic displays, and documents, and is an iconic tourist attraction that helps to sustain the local community.  A range of education, artistic and cultural courses are delivered at the Ration Shed. 

“Events and exhibitions also engage both the community and visitors to Cherbourg, giving them an authentic experience as to how life in Cherbourg was – and how the community has grown and developed over the years.

“In 2016 approximately 1,800 people visited the Ration Shed to learn more about local Aboriginal history and I trust the funding I am announcing today will enable the Ration Shed to attract more visitors.

“The Ration Shed Museum is well integrated into the Cherbourg community.  It provides jobs for 11 people and there are opportunities to create more local jobs through this project,” Mr O’Brien said.

The funding will be used to improve the buildings in the Historical Precinct so they can safely accommodate visitors. 

The grant will also strengthen the organisation by supporting governance, leadership and the development of strategies to improve its long term sustainability.

Funding will also provide new education opportunities for preschool children, youth, women, artists, people with disabilities, and assist with the rehabilitation of offenders, through workshops and activities.

“I look forward to visiting the Ration Shed on Tuesday and I congratulate Sandra Morgan and her committee on the success of their application.”

A video of Mr O’Brien’s announcement in the Federation Chamber is available at www.facebook.com/llewobrienLNP