Railway Complex - Ballarat
Lydiard Street North,, BALLARAT CENTRAL VIC 3350 - Property No B0276
Statement of Significance
This early railway complex is important as the terminus of one of the Government's first two country railway termini, comparing with Bendigo, opened in 1862. Unlike Bendigo, however, the entire complex is substantially intact and retains a number of important late nineteenth century elements. Ballarat station recalls the perceived importance of the Government's first railway venture in its architectural form and style whilst the entire complex not only reflects on Victoria's great railway age but also on the importance of Ballarat as a commercial centre within the Central Goldfields. The train hall is unique at the National level as a large neo-Classical design with eliptical arched entrances and is further enhanced by the footbridge and additions with clock tower and Grecian portico of 1888. Other elements include the additions of 1891 at the east end, the former locomotive depot of 1862, goods shed of 1862, water tower base, freight forwarding agents' offices operated by Broadbent Bros and Co, and others, remnant chaired bull head rail in the former locomotive depot and the signal box with partially rebuilt type 5A rocker frame and sector gates manufactured by MacKenzie and Holland and the Victorian Railways respectively. The signal box frame is unique in the country area and compares only with the Spencer Street (South end) box in the metropolitan area (soon to be removed). The former locomotive depot, although part demolished, terminates the main approach courtyard to the station building and compares only with the similar brick structures at Bendigo and Echuca. The goods shed is the largest of its type and compares with the Ballarat East shed nearby.
The Ballarat complex, formerly known as Ballarat West, recalls the former rivalry with the adjoining centre of Ballarat East, whose station was largely demolished during the 1960s.
Ballarat station is essential to the interpretation of the buildings in Lydiard Street North from Sturt Street to the railway crossing and was the catalyst for their reconstruction during the late nineteenth century.
Classified: 11/12/1958
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FORMER POLICE STATION, BALLARAT
Victorian Heritage Register H1544 -
BALLARAT TRADES HALL
Victorian Heritage Register H0657
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PRIMARY SCHOOL NO.33
Victorian Heritage Register H1714
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