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One of Tasmania’s most recognisable landmarks,
the Penitentiary at Port Arthur, is being conserved in an engineering
project costing more than $7million. The works, which are expected to
take around ten months, are required to ensure that the ruin, once the
largest building in Tasmania, endures for generations to come.
The works are being carried out by Tasmanian contractor Hansen & Yunken, which won a competitive tender process.
Chair of the Port Arthur Historic Site Management Authority (PAHSMA)
Board, Professor Sharon Sullivan AO said the Historic Site would remain
open and operate as normal while the works are carried out.
“For visitors, it will be an exciting time to come to Port Arthur.
Displays and talks by heritage staff will explain what is being done and
why,” said Professor Sullivan.
Professor Sullivan said that finding the right mix of skills to
manage and carry out the work needed has itself been a major
undertaking.
“Opportunities for Tasmanian firms have been maximised by the
appointment of a Tasmanian Managing Contractor, who will, in
consultation with the heritage professionals at Port Arthur, engage
highly skilled and qualified subcontractors to undertake much of the
delicate, conservation work.”
“I am confident that an excellent choice of managing contractor has
been made to be entrusted with this precious and unique project.”
More information on the Penitentiary Conservation Project is available at www.portarthur.org.au/penitentiaryprecinct  Chair
of the PAHSMA Board, Professor Sharon Sullivan, AO, with members of
PAHSMA's conservation team and representatives of contractors Hansen and
Yunken after the signing of the contracts  The project will ensure that the ruin, once the largest building in Tasmania, endures for generations to come. |