North Wharf crane restored

Developer Riverlee has completed its restoration of a heritage-listed crane at North Wharf.

Recognised in 2002 for its historical significance to Victoria, the crane was built in 1948 by Malcolm Moore Limited and is acknowledged to be part of Melbourne’s most intact cargo berth from the pre-containerisation era, also known as Berth No 5.

A collaborative process between Riverlee, consultants Lovell Chen, the City of Melbourne, Department of Planning, Department of Treasury and Finance and Heritage Victoria, the crane restoration will form part of Riverlee’s $450 million mixed-use development, Seafarers Place.

Originally located at the western end of the historic Shed 5 Riverlee opted to relocate the restored crane to the eastern end to make it more publicly accessible, and to integrate it with Seafarers Rest Park.

Riverlee’s development director David Lee said it was important the mixed-use development was sympathetic to the wharf’s industrial past.

“We are excited to bring the rich history of the site back to life as much as possible and in particular, the restoration of the crane was so important to both Riverlee and the various partners involved,” Mr Lee said.

The wharf, which dates back to the post-war era, has also undergone refurbishment.

“The crane demonstrates what a lively area the wharf once was in the mid-1900s, and alludes to a similar atmosphere that is about to come to the new Northbank precinct,” Mr Lee said.

“We look forward to continuing to tell the story of the site’s historical relevance and reference its history throughout our project.”

Designed by architect Fender Katsalidis and landscape designer Oculus, Seafarers Place will comprise 145 apartments, a 5-star hotel, a 1000-seat function centre, which will occupy part of Shed 5 and a 3500 sqm park.

Construction is set to start next year.