Bass Coast Council spends $1 million on 114-year-old Wonthaggi post office
The shire has awarded a contract to refurbish the heritage listed building.
Jacob Wallace
October 20, 2025
Is Wonthaggi’s 114-year-old heritage-listed post office worth a million dollars? Bass Coast Shire Council certainly thinks so.
What happened? Last week, the Bass Coast Shire council awarded a $1.01 million contract for the refurbishment of Wonthaggi’s Old Post Office to local builder TS Constructions.
The project is fully funded by Bass Coast Shire Council.
It aims to restore and preserve one of Wonthaggi’s significant heritage landmarks.
🎤 Mayor Rochelle Halstead told the Monitor: “It’s about ensuring the building remains safe, accessible and structurally sound.”
The history: Originally built in 1911, the building once served as the town’s communications hub.
Telegrams were sent across Australia from the building and messages arrived by Morse code, connecting Wonthaggi residents to the rest of the country.
🗣️ Councillor Jon Temby told the Monitor: “There is significant interest and desire on behalf of the councillors to see it go ahead.”
Local significance worth protecting: Following the announcement of the project, Bass Coast Shire Mayor Rochelle Halstead said in a statement the refurbishment would “protect its heritage and character while restoring its structure and integrity for future generations to enjoy”.
What are the specific repairs? The refurbishment will include roof repairs, a new staircase, stormwater drainage upgrades, landscaping, paving, and internal works such as new flooring, ceiling, toilets, and upgraded building services.
Works are expected to begin in November 2025 and aim to be completed by September 2026.
“This project will not only preserve a much-loved landmark but also celebrate the craftsmanship and stories embedded in its walls,” said Halstead in a statement.
