As part of the workshop redevelopment, we opted for state of the art sandblasting bay and spray painting booth suitable to fit two trams. Confined by the existing Heritage Building, the new facility provides versatility for the operators to grow their business into areas they have previously outsourced. This ensures more time and cost efficient operations, and provides an internationally recognised facility to complete their specialised restoration work.

An issue arose with the Power Authority regarding the height of a Canopy over the Tram Café to be constructed on site below existing powerlines. We conducted a site visit and met with the Authorities’ offices to review and determine the most appropriate way forward. A number of options were explored, with the final solution to construct in the original location and modify the height of the cafe canopy by 220mm. Other adjustments and trimming of nearby trees provided an amenable outcome for all clients.

There were multiple stakeholders at all phases of the project, with multiple funding partners including Victrack, Regional Development Victoria, City of Greater Bendigo and Bendigo Heritage Attractions, and other key parties including Heritage Victoria and other State Authorities and State Planning bodies such as Powercor, Coliban Water, North Central Catchment Management Authority, FRV, Vicroads and DELWP. Throughout the master plan process, many workshops and meetings were conducted with all stakeholders with reporting being critical to ensure all voices heard and needs were met.

The new Tram Café provides a fantastic addition to the Tramways site. A tourist destination in itself, the tram has been carefully restored and converted to showcase the capabilities and talents of BHA, as well as serve coffee and sell tickets to the visitors. Its strategic location on a previously open piece of Tramways site, forms an active and welcoming signboard