Historical information

This document highlights the preservation and restoration of Fortuna Villa in Bendigo, focusing on the contributions of Tony Spurling within the Australian Defence Force: Tony Spurling received a Chief of the Defence Force - Secretary Environment and Heritage Award in 2006 for his heritage conservation work at Fortuna Villa.

Fortuna Villa, built in 1861 and expanded by George Lansell, has a rich history and is now on the Commonwealth Heritage List. The property changed hands several times, narrowly escaping demolition in 1938, and was acquired by the Army in 1942.

Tony Spurling led restoration and preservation efforts for over 30 years, balancing operational Defence needs with heritage conservation.Projects included building restoration, reversing unsympathetic modifications, security upgrades, and sustainable garden improvements.Tony conducted heritage tours, produced educational materials, and collaborated with the local historical community, including securing art loans from the Bendigo Regional Gallery.

His leadership ensured the villa’s heritage is preserved for future generations while maintaining its role as an operational Defence facility.

Physical description

Fortuna Article - Heritage jewell preserved for future generations - The "Defence" magazine page 14 - written by Susan Elekessy

This item contains the following documents:

11217.79a Colour photo of Fortuna

11217.79b The article complete - page 14 - three copies

Publication type

non-fiction