Melbourne’s last original electric crane has been restored to its former glory as part of a project that aims to revitalise the northern banks of Melbourne’s Yarra River.
The Malcolm Moore Crane had originally been built in 1948 by Malcolm Moore Limited, and is part of the most intact cargo berth in the port of Melbourne from the pre-containerisation era. It was recognised for its historical significance to Victoria in 2002.
The crane will be restored as part of as part of private developer Riverlee’s $450 million mixed-use development, in collaboration with Lovell Chen Architects and Heritage Consultants, the City of Melbourne, Department of Planning, Department of Treasury and Finance, and Heritage Victoria.
It was originally located on the west end of the historic Goods Shed No. 5, however it has been relocated and restored to the east end to make it more publicly accessible, and to integrate it with a proposed public park.
The crane has been restored to ensure its structural integrity through a collaboration between Maritime Contractor Freyssinet and Lovell Chen.
The wharf dates back to the immediate post-war era and has also undergone significant refurbishment.
Riverlee’s Development Director David Lee said the crane demonstrates what a lively area the wharf once was in the mid 1900s.
“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,” he said.
“We look forward to continuing to tell the story of the site’s historical relevance and reference its history throughout our project.”
Construction on the multi-use development is expected to begin in the first quarter of 2020, with the crane visible from Seafarers Bridge.