General News
7 November, 2025
Historic: Murtoa Stick Shed pole 12 replaced after 84 years
It was a moment of history and pride at the Stick Shed last week as Pole 12, being one of the original timber giants that has supported the heritage-listed structure for 84 years, was safely lowered and replaced by a new Black Butt pole.
The replacement takes place on Friday, October 31, marking the first time in the building’s history that another wooden pole has replaced a central wooden pole.
Committee of Management member Dave Lennon described the moment as historic.
“A big milestone for us, as the Pole 12 had been a bit of a star because we always showed people the work that needed to be done, and now we’ve got a brand-new Pole 12 standing proud,” he said.
The work was carried out by BARPA, Australia’s largest Indigenous building company, assisted by an arborist and supported through Victorian Government funding via the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA).
Lennon praised the team’s craftsmanship and respect for heritage.
“They really came to love the Stick Shed the way we do,” he said.
“It was a pleasure to see them go about the job with such care and skill while preserving the shed’s history.”
Pole 12 had developed a split but had been safely braced for several years while funding and expertise were sought.
“It was perfectly safe, but we knew it was time,” Mr Lennon said.
“Getting the right people and the right support took a while, but BARPA were just fantastic from start to finish.”
All pieces of the original pole are being preserved for future display.
“That’s absolutely the plan,” Mr Lennon confirmed.
“BARPA has taken the split section to turn it into a display piece that will come back here.
“It’ll be a wonderful monument, a symbol of both the shed’s past and the great partnership we’ve built with BARPA.”
For Mr Lennon, the replacement represents more than maintenance.
“Let’s be brutally honest, this was a building meant to last ten years, and it’s still standing strong after 84, and that’s incredible,” he said.
“It’s a bit like the Sydney Harbour Bridge, by the time you finish one end, you start again at the other.
“This is ongoing care for something truly unique.”
The crew completed their work on Tuesday, November 4, and the Stick Shed is now fully open to visitors.
“If you haven’t been for a while, now’s the time,” he said.
“Come and see the new pole, the artifacts we’ve uncovered, and the exhibits BARPA helped us restore, including pieces from the top elevator and conveyor belt.
“There’s plenty of new history to explore.”
Before leaving, Committee of Management secretary-treasurer David Grigg presented BARPA’s crew with thank-you mementos in recognition of their contribution to preserving one of Australia’s most iconic heritage structures.
