The historic Worsley Cottage has undergone extensive renovation work throughout 2023, and will be open again to the public in February 2024.

Originally built in 1894 by Arthur Worsley for himself and his wife Agnes, the stone building included the two front rooms and a kitchen at the rear of the house. Arthur was one of the contractors for Maryborough’s Main Drain and the stone was quarried locally. Another two rooms were added in the early years of the 20th century.

Arthur and Agnes raised their family in the cottage, which was eventually sold in the 1930s and was home to a number of families before being purchased by the Midlands Historical Society in 1976 to use as their headquarters and museum.

Historical Society president Barb Nielsen said they are looking forward to welcoming visitors back to the cottage once volunteers have conserved and returned the furniture, objects and art work, as well as re-established the cottage gardens that were damaged throughout the renovation.

“Although the Cottage itself will remain closed until 2024, our Society volunteers will return to work in the Research and Display Centre at the rear of the property at 3 Palmerston Street from Thursday 9 November,” Barb said.

“Visitors will be welcome at the usual times: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am to 12 midday and Sunday afternoons from 2pm to 4pm.”