The Flinders Ranges Council is expanding commercial business opportunities in Quorn with the purchase of the historic Buckaringa.

Following six months of deliberation, the Flinders Ranges Council is revitalising Quorn’s CBD with the $100,000 purchase of Buckaringa – formerly the H. Matthews General Merchandise Store.

Flinders Ranges Mayor Greg Flint said many councillors have considered Buckaringa’s potential over the years and the council is excited about the possibilities that come with the acquisition of the building.

The council has undertaken building inspections, earmarked grant funding and established renovation plans to match the development of the adjoining town square and encourage businesses to move into the area.

“We will start with removing the old sheds and fences and clearing the backyard to link the building with the upcoming town square,” Flint said of the council’s plan.

“We are currently obtaining quotes for painting the outside of the building which will be completed by the end of 2022.

“Next step is to have work undertaken inside to create rentable spaces for commercial businesses.”

The internal works are expected to be dependent on the needs of potential lessors.

Once renovations are complete, the council hopes to support businesses or locals looking to start a new venture in Quorn.

This business opportunity comes at a convenient time as the council recently released finalised designs for the community space project in the town centre.

Key design features will include paved areas for pedestrians between Railway Terrace and First Street and a public square offering open space for day-to-day community use.

Member for Grey Rowan Ramsey said, “Securing extra funding for very necessary but lower profile programs like road repairs and footpaths will make an enormous difference.”

The Flinders Ranges community has responded to Buckaringa’s renovation news with surprise and delight, excited to see the historic building restored.

Online support from locals ranges from well wishes to the classic Aussie phrase, “Bonza!”

Feedback so far from the community has been positive as well which is great as the building has been vacant for some time so the community is excited as much as we are to see this come to fruition,” Flint said.

Alongside heritage buildings like the Former Bank of Adelaide, Transcontinental Hotel and Grand Junction Hotel, the restoration of Buckaringa will add to the charm of Quorn and reinforce its title of South Australia’s best Tiny Tourism Town.

It’s predicted the building will be available for expressions of interest within the first half of 2023.

Words  : Alison Hall

Seniors Card is a Program Partner of the 2022 Regional Showcase program.