Members of the Yea and District Historical Society are at odds over the future of Carters Milk Bar, which the Society is aiming to purchase for a Museum.

Late last week, Society President John Bett phoned the newspaper office and gave an interview to The Local Paper, in which he said the Society would bulldoze the iconic building at the earliest opportunity.

Mr Bett gave his express permission for his comments to be published immediately at The Local Paper’s website on Friday (Mar. 8), on social media, and in the print edition of the newspaper on Wednesday (Mar. 13).

Mr Bett had previously given a confidential background briefing to The Local Paper outlining the demolition plans, after a building report confirmed termite and asbestos problem. The Local Paper honoured an agreement not to publish the report until Mr Bett gave the go-ahead, which he did on Friday.

On Sunday night (Mar. 10), Society Secretary-Treasurer Elaine White issued a statement which claimed the newspaper report was wrong. The Local Paper rejects this attempt to deflect . It is an insult, and a defamatory slur against the newspaper’s professionalism.

“A slightly exaggerated and premature report released in a local media outlet has caused severe embarrassment to members of the Yea & District Historical Society and we would like to take this opportunity to correct the facts,” Mrs White said.

“A Building Inspection Report has revealed much more extensive damage to the Carter’s premises than termite damage. The extent of the faults is extensive and damning.

“We would like to make it clear we do not own the building – although we hope to – and as such are in no position as yet to make any plans for the building.

“We are fully aware that the building has a heritage listing on the façade. We are also aware that any alterations/renovations need local council permit applications and approvals. If we are successful in procuring the site, the historical society would fully consult with Murrindindi Shire Council department officers.

“The society members held an emergency meeting after the building report was received and decided to go ahead with our efforts to purchase this prime site for a Yea Heritage Centre and we are also fully committed to preserving the heritage of “Carters”,” Mrs White said.

The Local Paper Editor Ash Long said: “The Society seems to have a major problem on its hands. In one breath, it was asking me to raise major funds on its behalf. I was happy to do so. In the next breath, it sends me an insulting email that slurs our newspaper’s professionalism.”

“Mr Bett’s comments are on the record. Now another branch of the Society is asking us to re-write history. Hopes for this project in succeeding must surely be now in doubt.”

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