How river icon was restored to former glory

An incredible makeover for one of the Sunshine Coast’s beloved boathouses has sparked a trip down memory lane.

The heritage listed Maroochy River ‘Wheel House’ has been lovingly restored thanks to specialist heritage advice and the handy work of volunteers from the Buderim Men’s Shed.

Sunshine Coast Council Division 8 Councillor Jason O’Pray said the project fittingly captured the nostalgia of a simple life focused on enjoying the outdoors.

“These quaint Maroochy River boathouses are culturally significant,’’ Cr O’Pray said.

“They remind us to enjoy life’s simple pleasures – fishing by the river fanned by a summer breeze or basking in the winter sun.

“The original Wheel House is one of just five privately owned boathouses on Bradman Avenue constructed between 1940 and 1970.

“They capture the essence of our coastal roots, are well loved, and highly visible on the river when entering Maroochydore.

“I’m very pleased to see the Wheel House returned to its former glory and preserved for future generations to visually enjoy”.

President of the Buderim Men’s Shed Barry Cheales said the project took approximately 300 hours for their talented crew to complete using traditional restorations methods.

“When the owners of the 1965 Wheel House approached us, the structure had been badly damaged by weather events and vandalism, and was in desperate need of restoration”, said Mr Cheales.

“Specialist advice was sought from heritage building reports, structural engineers, and expert character builders.

“It was a challenging project, subject to tides and the availability of specific materials and trades.

“We’re lucky to have some incredible expertise among the 12 members of the Buderim Men’s Shed who completed the project led by Don Kitson, and we’re really proud of the outcome.

“It’s a wonderful example of community collaboration to preserve our region's history."

The Wheel House restoration project was developed with support of Sunshine Coast Council’s Arts and Heritage Levy, its owners, and the Buderim Men’s Shed in accordance with the Department of Environment and Science approvals.

The Sunshine Coast Arts and Heritage Levy, which is charged to every rateable property, is used to document, research, conserve, protect, promote and provide access to those tangible and intangible items, places, facilities and events that define the stories, history and values of the people, communities and culture of the Sunshine Coast.