Museum Site Gifted 2026
Published on 28 August 2026
Wheatlands Agricultural Museum Site Gifted to Historical Society
Yarriambiack Shire Council is pleased to announce the successful transfer of ownership of the Wheatlands Agricultural Museum site at 34 Henty Highway, Warracknabeal, to the Warracknabeal and District Historical Society Incorporated.
The transfer marks the culmination of a process that has been several years in the making and recognises the Historical Society's longstanding stewardship of one of the region's most significant heritage and tourism assets.
The Wheatlands Agricultural Museum was established in the early 1970s through the vision, commitment and financial support of the local community. Since assuming responsibility for the museum in 1981, the Historical Society and its volunteers have managed, maintained and developed the site, preserving an important part of the region's agricultural history for future generations.
The transfer of the land was formally endorsed by Council following community consultation and has now been completed, with the titles transferred to the Historical Society on 21 August 2026.
As part of the transfer, a Section 173 Agreement (in accordance with the Planning and Environment Act 1987) has been registered on title of the three parcels to ensure the land continues to be used for its intended purpose as an agricultural museum and to protect the community's long-term interests.
Mayor Cr Andrew McLean said the transfer was a well-deserved recognition of the Historical Society's dedication and commitment over many decades.
"This decision recognises the extraordinary contribution made by the Warracknabeal and District Historical Society and its volunteers, who have proudly cared for and developed the Wheatlands site for more than 40 years," Cr McLean said.
"The museum is much more than a collection of agricultural machinery. It is a significant part of our region's story and a key tourism attraction that showcases the innovation, resilience and heritage of our farming communities."
"Council's decision to gift the land acknowledges the Historical Society's long-standing custodianship of the site while providing certainty for its future management and development."
"Importantly, safeguards have been put in place through the Section 173 Agreement to ensure the land continues to serve the community and remains dedicated to its historical and educational purpose."
"We thank the many volunteers, past and present, whose passion and hard work have helped make Wheatlands the valued community asset it is today."
The gifted land comprises approximately 15.9 hectares and includes the museum buildings and associated land parcels.
The transfer has also been supported through the successful granting of stamp duty and GST exemptions, recognising the Historical Society's charitable status.
Council looks forward to continuing its positive relationship with the Historical Society and supporting the ongoing preservation and promotion of the region's rich agricultural heritage.
Mayor
Cr Andrew McLean
Yarriambiack Shire Council