Funds from the Living Heritage Grants Program were announced for the two assets on Wednesday by Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards.

Buda Historic Home and Garden received $50,000 to replace its irrigation system, resurface historic paths and conduct tree works.

The Theatre Royal will use its $75,000 grant to undertake repairs to the building’s facade and floors.

Ms Edwards said heritage enriches our experiences, reflects the community’s sense of cultural identity and creates a great sense of pride.

“Castlemaine is renowned for its heritage buildings and landscape,” she said. “We want to make sure it’s protected and maintained.”

“These repairs and upgrades will ensure these treasured icons will remain part of Castlemaine’s identity for many decades to come.

“Buda House and Garden will benefit from this much needed funding and it will help to preserve this historic icon for future generations.

“The work on the façade of the Theatre Royal will be a great improvement to Castlemaine’s Iconic streetscape to our much loved theatre.”

The Living Heritage program gives communities the chance to use funds to protect well-loved and treasured heritage.

Since launching in 2016, it has provided $36.5 million over four years.

It is the biggest boost to heritage assets in Victorian history and has funded repair and restoration for iconic venues all over the state including the Mortuary Chapel at Bendigo Cemetery.

Bendigo Cemetery received $200,000 in 2017 to renovate and repair the 1873 chapel including completing underpinning, roof patching and replacing worn or stolen architectural features.

Bendigo’s 1896 Trades Hall will also received $25,000 to help undertake urgent works. 

Applications for the next round of Living Heritage Program grants will open early 2019.