Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards MP today announced $500,000 in the 2025/26 Victorian State Budget to support the next stage of restoration at Castlemaine’s beloved Buda Historic Home & Garden.
The Allan Labor Government’s investment will deliver Stage 2 of Buda’s landscape master plan. The works will integrate a section of the gully and the dry creek bed section of the reserve, making Buda even more beautiful.
This latest funding builds on more than $200,000 previously invested by the Allan Labor Government through the Living Heritage Program.
“I want to commend the incredible staff and volunteers at Buda – their passion and perseverance have been instrumental in securing this investment. It’s been a pleasure to work alongside them to help bring this next stage to life. Said Ms Edwards
“This funding ensures Buda not only continue to flourish, but grow as a sanctuary for community, culture and biodiversity – supporting local jobs and events, while nurturing essential habitat for native birds, insects and pollinators.
“Buda is a cherished part of Castlemaine’s heritage, and I’m proud to support its preservation so future generations can continue to enjoy its history and beauty.”
Buda is more than a historic site – it’s a living part of Castlemaine’s cultural fabric. With its rich European heritage, lovingly preserved Goldfields villa, and creative garden traditions, it continues to inspire through festivals, arts workshops, and community events.
Originally built in the 1860s and renamed "Buda" by Hungarian immigrant Ernest Leviny, the house holds a nationally significant collection of art, furnishings and family treasures. The surrounding threeacre garden reflects the Leviny family’s creativity and resilience, adapting to Central Victoria’s dry climate with sustainable plantings, hand-built structures and heritage features such as the bird aviary, grape pergola and tennis pavilion.
Whether exploring its shaded paths, attending a local festival, or simply pausing to enjoy birdsong, Buda offers a serene and enriching experience for all – a place to come together and reconnect with nature.
For more information on Buda Historic Home & Garden, visit: www.budacastlemaine.org
