Without an urgent injection of funds, some of Tasmania's iconic National Trust properties may close.
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Capital funding of almost $4 million is needed over the next four years to pay for urgent restoration and conservation works, with $3.2 million required urgently, National Trust of Australia (Tasmania) managing director Matthew Smithies said in a funding submission to both federal and state governments.
"In the absence of a significant investment, some properties may need to be closed on work health and safety grounds, impacting staff and volunteers, local communities and visitors," Mr Smithies said.
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The organisation owns and operates 10 heritage-listed properties in Tasmania, including Clarendon, Franklin House, Runnymede and Home Hill, along with heritage collections and gardens.
"The NTT portfolio includes both built and moveable heritage assets of local, state and national importance. While NTT properties are intrinsically connected to local community identity, they also significantly contribute to the historical narrative of Tasmania and its unique position within the cultural and built heritage of Australia," Mr Smithies said.
Clarendon is one of seven properties in need of attention, with more than $1.5 million sought to cover drainage, foundation and footing treatment, wall repairs, consultancy and more.
Franklin House's bill is $321,600 to cover wall rebuilding, roof repairs and consultancy fees.
Rising damp, water damage, sinking floors and roof repairs are needed at The Old Umbrella Shop at a projected cost of $193,300.
Oak Lodge, Penghana, Penitentiary Chapel and Runnymede also need urgent work totalling $1.1 million.
Work outlined for conservation and restoration is "heavily weighted" towards employing skilled tradespeople, Mr Smithies said.
"The provision of $4 million, assuming 80 per cent is allocated to employment costs, could support up to 40 FTEs over [four years] assuming an average employment cost of $80,000."
"The National Trust has a long list of 'shovel ready' projects prioritised as ready for immediate implementation in Tasmania or for implementation over the next four years," he said.
Some consultancy work has already been completed, so these projects could begin at short notice.
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