A Benalla store where Ned Kelly battled with police has hit the market for the first time in 35 years.
The renowned Bootmaker’s Shop, in North East Victoria, is located on Arundel St and played a significant role in the tumultuous events of 1877, when the bushranger was charged with riding his horse on a footpath and subsequently detained in a cell behind the courthouse.
Kelly’s daring escape from custody during a police escort to the courthouse led to a dramatic confrontation at the Bootmaker’s Shop across the street, culminating in his capture, according to The Border Mail.
This historic property, widely regarded as one of Benalla’s oldest wooden buildings, was acquired at auction in 1988, when it was in a state of severe disrepair.
The dedicated efforts of its current owners have transformed the property, with a strong emphasis on preserving its historical charm.
Meticulous restoration work included crafting windows to replicate the style of the originals, ensuring the building retained its timeless character.
The Bootmaker’s Shop is divided into two spacious rooms, one featuring a charming fireplace.
A bathroom is conveniently located at the rear of one room for customers, while an adjacent storage area completes the structure.
An additional unit, with a separate entrance from Arundel St, comprises two bedrooms, a lounge, kitchen area, separate bathroom, and a laundry.
Completing the property is a sizeable garage and carport situated at the rear of the block, accessible from a separate entrance on Thomas St.
Shayne McKean, the selling agent representing Ray White Benalla, expressed his admiration for the unique property.
“It’s something that I haven’t seen in my time, and hopefully it engages the market a bit,” he said.
“It was last on the market in 1988. It was due for demolition, and the current owners fought to have it preserved and restored.”
Inside the shop, visitors can discover plaques and original bootmaker items, adding to its historical allure.
Mr McKean acknowledged the emotional attachment of the current owners but emphasised the opportunity for a new proprietor.
“We presume that there’ll be a lot of Ned Kelly enthusiasts that will want to come and have a look through it and maybe try and purchase it,” he said.
“We’d be expecting a good response from it, given the historical significance of the building.”
The Bootmaker’s Shop most recently operated as a cafe, and Mr. McKean believes it holds strong potential for future commercial ventures.
“They were going to have it set up for Ned Kelly tours around the area, culminating in luncheons and trading on the weekend, so there’s certainly the option for someone to come in and restart that,” he said.
The property will be offered through an expressions of interest campaign commencing on December 11, with the campaign expected to run through to January 26.
This unique opportunity to own a piece of Australian history is sure to attract attention from history enthusiasts and investors alike.
