By Belinda Nolan
TAYLORS Hill’s historic Morton Homestead will be put to good use more than 100 years after it was built.
The historic property has been transformed into a community hub, catering to the elderly and disabled, along with volunteers and community groups.
Originally owned by the Morton family, the homestead was given to Melton Council as a developer contribution.
The council received $500,000 in funding from the State Government to help pay for the redevelopment, which included refurbishment of the existing farmhouse, an extension to the building, new car park and landscaping.
Melton mayor Justin Mammarella officially opened the new facility on Wednesday, along with members of the Morton family.
Cr Mammarella said the redevelopment would provide extra support for council services in the area.
“The redevelopment of Morton Homestead is a fine example of the council’s commitment to the conservation and preservation of heritage places and to improving the health and wellbeing of our residents,” Cr Mammarella said.
“It is fantastic that the property has been restored to its former glory and enhanced with a modern extension and I look forward to seeing the facility used by the local community well into the future.”
Morton family member Lyn Daglish said she was thrilled to see her former home preserved and put to community use.
“I was born and bred there,” Ms Daglish said.
“But I’m so glad it has been protected when so many of the old homes in the area get knocked down.”
