Tarneit’s historic Doherty’s House could be revived as a cafe if a proposal from Wyndham council receives enough support.
Community feedback is now being sought on the proposed concept plans for Doherty’s House Cafe which would seat 50 patrons.
Considered an important example of Wyndham’s European heritage, the bluestone cottage in Sapling Boulevard, Tarneit was originally built in the 1870’s.
However, bushfires in 1969 destroyed much of its structure, including wooden rafters, windows and outbuildings.
For more than half a century Doherty’s House lay in ruins until preservation works were completed last year.
Under the Doherty’s House Cafe proposal, the cottage’s original bluestone walls and chimney would be retained, with a pitched roof, commercial kitchen and coffee counter, toilets, cool room and outdoor garden and dining area added.
Wyndham mayor Susan McIntyre said turning Doherty’s House into a cafe would preserve the building while creating a functional space for local families and visitors.
“By incorporating the bluestone walls into a café, we’re able to retell the pastoral
history of the area to new generations keeping alive this important aspect of our past
while creating a lovely new space to enjoy with family and friends,” Cr McIntyre said.
Wyndham councillor Josh Gilligan said the proposal would maintain a vital link to Wyndham’s past.
“Preserving our heritage is important. I’m proud of the work done to date to transform
this bluestone ruin into an iconic place in Tarneit,” Cr Gilligan said.
“This place will thrive and become a central hub for families and kids that want to
enjoy a meal or a coffee and experience what neighbourhood living should look and
feel like.”
Community feedback is open until 18 September.
For more information and to have your say: www.theloop.wyndham.vic.gov.au
