Community invited to contribute to Castlemaine’s Heritage Study

Published on 17 August 2026

Residents are invited to help tell Castlemaine’s story by sharing memories, photographs and local knowledge as part of the Castlemaine Heritage Study.

The study will develop a History of Place, bringing together community stories and historical research to build a deeper understanding of Castlemaine’s heritage and character.

Mayor Toby Heydon said community input was essential to ensuring the study reflected the breadth of Castlemaine’s history.

"The stories, memories and connections people have to this place are what make our community unique," Cr Heydon said.

"We're inviting residents to share their knowledge, photos and stories so we can build a richer understanding of Castlemaine's past and help protect what is important for future generations."

The project is the first comprehensive review of Castlemaine’s heritage in more than 40 years. While the existing study identified many significant places, it does not provide enough information to support contemporary planning decisions and does not adequately recognise many places from the 20th century.

The updated study will be completed in stages, and will review existing heritage information, reassess places already protected and identify additional places or precincts that may have heritage significance.

Cr Heydon said the study would help ensure heritage protections reflect both Castlemaine’s history and its evolving identity.

"This project is about understanding the full story of Castlemaine and ensuring our heritage protections reflect the community we are today, as well as the legacy we want to pass on," he said.

The project supports Mount Alexander Shire Council’s commitment to recognising and protecting Indigenous and European heritage.

Community members are invited to an information session on Tuesday 25 August, from 5.00pm to 7.00pm, at the Ray Bradfield Rooms.

The session will provide an overview of the project, explain next steps and offer an opportunity for residents to ask questions and share their knowledge. Project consultants Extent Heritage will present information about the study, followed by a Q&A and community discussion.

Residents who cannot attend, or who would like to contribute additional information, can complete a short online survey. The survey takes about 10 minutes and includes prompts to help people share memories and local knowledge that may contribute to the History of Place.

For more information, to register for the information session or complete the survey, visit www.shape.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/castlemaine-heritage-study.