Case Studies

Background

‘John Kelly’s Former House’ (Kelly House) is located in Beveridge, Mitchell Shire and was home to Ned Kelly in his early childhood years. Constructed in 1860 with locally sourced materials, the building is a simple vernacular timber cottage with a corrugated iron roof. The dwelling is considered significant due to its similarity to traditional Irish cottages, while other elements such as bush poles, shingles, guttering, roof detailing, and a lack of eaves makes it unique.  

In 2021, Heritage Victoria restored Kelly House at a cost of $1 million, making it structurally safe and visitor friendly. The land surrounding Kelly House is a designated heritage reserve with the intent to service the local community while preserving and honouring local history.  

The Mitchell Shire local government area (LGA) is forecast to undergo significant population growth over the next 20 years. This is particularly relevant for Beveridge which is currently home to 4,300 residents and projected to grow to 29,000 by 2030 with an estimated additional 8,100 homes. Kelly House and the surrounding heritage reserve present a place-making opportunity for Mitchell Shire Council. 

Project Goals

The Kelly House Activation Master Plan is a strategic initiative to enhance the engagement of the Beveridge community with the local heritage asset. The Master Plan aims to create a place-making parkland that reflects Beveridge’s cultural and heritage significance while supporting community use and tourism. This business case assessed the recommendations for future use and development of the Precinct outlined in the Master Plan. Three development options were assessed: 

• Option 1: Transform the surrounding area into an open parkland setting. 

• Option 2: Develop a high-quality local park with regional recognition. 

• Option 3: Include managed access to Kelly House, with infrastructure for larger events and guided tours.

REMPLAN’s Involvement

REMPLAN supports Mitchell Shire Council by undertaking this business case to assess a set of recommendations (Options) for future use and development of the Precinct. REMPLAN will conduct desktop analysis, use its inhouse software suite, develop a Cost Benefit Analysis, and align strategic policy documents to determine the preferred Option for the Master Plan. 

Results

After REMPLAN’s analysis, Option 2 is the preferred option. By adopting Option 2, Mitchell Shire Council can create a vibrant community space that honours local heritage, supports population growth, and fosters community engagement. This initiative not only preserves an important historical site but also enhances the liveability and cultural richness of Beveridge, contributing to its identity as a growing and dynamic community.