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    TRANSFER: Yarriambiack Mayor Andrew McLean, second from left, shakes hands with Lorraine Inkster, president of Warracknabeal and District Historical Society, as members look on at Wheatlands Agricultural Museum.

Wheatland museum site gifted

Ownership of Wheatlands Agricultural Museum’s site has been transferred from Yarriambiack Shire Council to Warracknabeal and District Historical Society.

The transfer of 34 Henty Highway, Warracknabeal marks a years-long process and recognises the society’s longstanding stewardship of one of the region’s most significant heritage and tourism assets. 

Since assuming responsibility for the museum in 1981, which was established in the early 1970s, the society’s volunteers have managed, maintained and developed the site. 

The transfer of the 15.9 hectares of land was formally endorsed by the council following community consultation and has now been completed, with the titles transferred to the Historical Society on August 21. 



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As part of the transfer, a Section 173 Agreement, in accordance with the Planning and Environment Act 1987, has been registered on the title of the three parcels to ensure the land continues to be used for its intended purpose as an agricultural museum and to protect the community’s long-term interests. 

Mayor Andrew McLean said the transfer was a well-deserved recognition of the society’s dedication and commitment over many decades. 

“This decision recognises the extraordinary contribution made by the Warracknabeal and District Historical Society and its volunteers, who have proudly cared for and developed the Wheatlands site for more than 40 years,” he said. 

“The museum is much more than a collection of agricultural machinery. 

“It is a significant part of our region’s story and a key tourism attraction that showcases the innovation, resilience and heritage of our farming communities.

“Council’s decision to gift the land acknowledges the historical society’s longstanding custodianship of the site while providing certainty for its future management and development.

“Importantly, safeguards have been put in place through the Section 173 Agreement to ensure the land continues to serve the community and remains dedicated to its historical and educational purpose.

“We thank the many volunteers, past and present, whose passion and hard work have helped make Wheatlands the valued community asset it is today.” 

The entire September 2, 2026 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!