BY DYLAN DE JONG 

Steady visitor numbers on the first day of Murtoa Stick Shed’s reopening was a promising sign for tourism operators in Yarriambiack Shire.  

The Stick Shed’s committee of management made the decision to reopen the shed for public viewing last week and is cautioning visitors to adhere to strict COVID-19 physical-distancing measures. 

Committee of management secretary David Grigg is encouraging people to ‘safely’ visit Murtoa’s key historical tourist attraction.

“Stay safe to ensure we have no further lockdowns, but keep coming out,” he said. 

“Tours have to be by application and are restricted to 20 people. But what we’re doing is allowing individuals to go through and self-tour. 

“The towns in these rural places need the support of tourists. It’s an important part of our local economy.”

Mr Grigg said he noticed the shed was gaining more interest online during the pandemic.  

“It’s getting a lot of hits on Google and on our Facebook page,” he said. 

“It’s becoming more and more well-known and people want to come and see it.”

Mr Grigg said the historical significance of the building was its biggest drawcard. 

“It’s a really iconic building and really complements the Silo Art Trail,” he said. 

“It’s just cathedral like. It is inspiring when you go inside it – the grain history related to Victoria and Australia is also very relevant as well.” 

Mr Grigg said to ensure staff, volunteers and visitors remained safe, hygiene and social-distancing rules would be strictly applied for all visitors, and in accordance with State Government regulations, all visitors would be required to provide their contact details. 

Opening hours are Monday to Saturday between 10am and 12.30pm and Sunday from 10am to 2pm.

To remain up-to-date with the current restrictions, people can visit www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/victorias-restriction-levels-covid-19 prior to visiting. 

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