Heritage enthusiasts from around the region attended Carruthers Hall in Strathalbyn on Thursday 26 May for the annual Alexandrina Council Heritage Awards. 

Organised by the council’s Heritage Advisory Committee, the awards recognise and celebrate the work undertaken by residents, businesses and community groups on some of the region’s most iconic heritage properties.

They also recognise those who contribute to recognising and researching the region’s history and heritage. 

Guest speaker Ron Kandelaars engaged with the audience in an interview style presentation, speaking on a number of topics including ‘what makes news’ and ‘how do you get heritage stories into a Seven News bulletin’. 

Ron also displayed and provided commentary on a number of videos from some of his favourite heritage stories. 

Award categories and winners included: 

·  Heritage Gardens and Fencing – Rob and Helen Fairweather for 5 Ashbourne Road, Strathalbyn.

·  Conservation Practice – Evan and Denise Higgins at 31 North Parade, Strathalbyn.

·  Historic Research – Eastern Fleurieu School, Milang.

·  Heritage Tourism – Strathalbyn Players Inc. (Youth Theatre). 

Commendations were awarded in the categories of Heritage Tourism, Conservation Practice and Historic Research.

Commendation recipients are recognised for their significant contributions made in preserving and promoting local heritage: 

·  Heritage Tourism – Woodburn Homestead and Glenbarr Estate.

·  Conservation Practice – Strathalbyn RSL.

·  Historic Research – Hope Forest Residents Association and Friends of the Strathalbyn Cemetery. 

The Alexandrina Council Mayoral Award went to Evan and Denise Higgins for the restoration of the Dollar Cottage at 31 North Parade, Strathalbyn, who were selected by Mayor Keith Parkes from across the six categories and award recipients. 

The Dollar Cottage and former Butchers Shop is a State Heritage listed property and was constructed by James Close in the 1860s. 

The shop and adjoining residence were constructed of stone rubble walling with brick quoining and originally had slate roofing. 

The complex of shop, residence and associated walled yard are an outstanding representation of early commercial premises within South Australia's rural settlements of the 1860s. 

More information about the Alexandrina Council Heritage Awards can be found online.