Flyer for a Public Meeting organised by the Bendigo Historical Society Inc. titled 'Save Fortuna Villa'. Held at the Bendigo Town Hall Reception Room on Tuesday 2nd May 2006 at 7 pm.bendigo, clubs, save fortuna villa, bendigo town hall, bendigo historical society inc

Colour photograph: image shows float with people holding banners bearing names - John Hooper, Bedelia Lansell and Susan Budds. Float says 'Save Fortuna' and was part of the campaign to keep Fortuna Villa in public hands. Bendigo Easter Fair 2009.cottage, miners, fortuna, bendigo historical society

Originally designed in 1857 and extended to the further designs by Bendigo Architects Vahland and Getzschmann, Emil Mauermann and William Beebe the original two story house expanded over time as Lansell's fortune increased and the subsequent mansion was built adjacent to the New Chum Reef and mine from which most of his wealth was yielded. Fortuna remained in the Lansell family for twenty nine years after George died and was sold by auction for demolition in 1934 only to be saved to become a reception house. In 1942 the Army acquired a lease for wartime mapping and occupied the site until 2008. It is now in private hands with the surrounding land being divided for housing. George Lansell was commonly known as 'Australia's Quartz-King' and director of thirty-eight mines with some link with almost every mine in Bendigo.A4 size tour booklet outlining the history, use and architectural features of Fortuna Villa which was purchased by George Lansell in 1860. mayor william beebe, george lansell

Villa Fortuna is described as having unprecedented local historical importance and whimsical architecture, making it a cultural asset for Bendigo. Saving the villa requires a bold and visionary individual or group willing to take on the challenges of restoration, including significant financial and logistical commitments. If restored, the villa could become a major attraction, hosting events, tours, and community activities that would benefit the local economy and tourism sector. The main obstacle is not whether the villa should be saved, but what sacrifices—financial and otherwise—are necessary to achieve this goal. The Villa Fortuna Action Group has developed a plan for the site, but more stakeholders may become involved. The Department of Defence, current owner, is proceeding cautiously with no urgency to sell. The upcoming public opening is seen as a potential turning point, with the document stressing that Bendigo cannot afford to lose this historic property, regardless of the cost. Mayor Kevin Gibbins opposes transforming Fortuna Villa into an arts and cultural precinct, as proposed by the Villa Fortuna Action Group. He believes the property should address local needs such as aged care, dementia, disabilities, and respite for carers. Gibbins emphasizes these are his personal views, not official council policy. Gibbins is concerned about the council's ability to finance the maintenance of the large property, even if acquired at no cost. He questions the justification for using ratepayers' money for new arts projects when there is already a masterplan for the existing art gallery that requires significant funding and staged development. The Villa Fortuna Action Group is the only organization with a public proposal for the site, aiming to create an arts and cultural precinct similar to Melbourne's Abbotsford Convent.The group plans to present its vision to newly elected councillors. The Department of Defence is preparing Fortuna Villa in Bendigo for sale, likely early next year. A tentative timeline suggests most site assessments will be drafted by Christmas, with finalization expected in the new year. Thorough assessments are underway to understand the site's characteristics, including heritage and environmental aspects.These assessments are detailed and time-consuming to ensure accuracy and completeness. An open day for the public and media is part of the ongoing community consultation process. Additional consultation activities are planned but not yet finalized. The City of Greater Bendigo is a key stakeholder in the disposal process and will receive relevant site information.The property has not yet been valued.Fortuna Article - "Great Bravery is now required for villa" - The Bendigo Advertiser Friday Dec 05 2008 by Nino Bucci This item contains the following: 11217.24a Colour Photo of the stained glass window on the staircase 11217.24b Colour Photo of David French outside the villa 11217.24c Colour Photo of the Grand conservatory 11217.24d Part of page 14 - Article "Great Bravery is now required for villa" 11217.24e Part of page 14 - Article "Mayor defends his view for the site" 11217.24f Part of page 14 - Article "Fortuna's future is one step closer"non-fictionbendigo, fortuna, george lansell, villa fortuna action group, myor of bendigo kevin gibbins