Frankston’s historical jewel shines thanks to support from Council

Published on 21 March 2022

Frankston’s historical jewel – the much loved Ballam Park Homestead – is back to its best thanks to support from Frankston City Council.

Council funded approximately $250,000 maintenance works, which were initiated following a significant electrical fault.

The recently completed works included painting, rewiring, a CCTV camera system, new external LED lighting around all buildings, replacement of rotting timber, restumping and more.

Frankston Historical Society President Glenda Viner said: “The works are absolutely wonderful and have transformed our historical jewel in the crown.”

Ms Viner said Historical Society volunteers are excitedly looking forward to reopening the Homestead and will make an announcement soon, adding: “As soon as we can we want to reopen.”

Mayor Nathan Conroy said Ballam Park Homestead provides an important connection to Frankston’s rich history, noting it is the oldest house in Frankston and was built for one of Victoria's early pioneering families, the Liardets, in 1855.

The Mayor said the historic homestead has remained practically unchanged in appearance since it was first constructed using bricks made on site. The Homestead has long been a favourite with residents and visitors thanks to its historic charm and museum, cafe and resource centre.

Mayor Conroy said Council is proud to support the works, adding: “The past informs the present and an understanding of Frankston’s history has important lessons.”

Once described by a leading architect as being “perfectly proportioned”, Ballam Park is fine example of a French style farmhouse and is listed on the Historic Buildings Council Register in Victoria and only one of two sites in the Municipality classified by the National Trust and on the register of the National Estate.

Ms Viner’s remarkable contribution to preserving our history was recognised when she was awarded Frankston’s 2015 Citizen of the Year. She has been a member of Frankston Historical Society for 35 years and President for 22 years.

Ms Viner previously contributed to a history curriculum project – supported by Council – that provides extensive information enabling local students to have a deeper understanding of Frankston’s history.

Material in the package, which has been made available digitally to local schools, includes indigenous history and beliefs, European settlement and significant milestones in Frankston’s history.

For more information about Frankston Historical Society, please click here and for details about Ballam Park Homestead, please click here.