Bendigo Gas Works

The Bendigo Gasworks is an internationally significant example of an entire provincial gasworks. It has the only horizontal gas-producing retorts in Australia.

Coal Gas was manufactured here from 1860 and operated continuously until the introduction of natural gas in 1973. The works were operated by the Bendigo Gas Company until purchased by the Gas and Fuel Corporation in 1958 at which time they were supplying 3,500 consumers. During the Second World War the works were expanded by the Ministry of Munitions to serve the Bendigo Ordinance Factory.

The original works were constructed during 1859-1860 under the direction of engineer Alexander Kennedy Smith (1824 - 1881) and developed in a period of growth by W. A. Simco, General Manager 1922-1939.

The site is on the Victorian Heritage Register (VHR) Number H0781

Doubled-ended horizontal retorts and coal feed mechanism, Bendigo Gasworks
Source: Ken McInnes

Double-ended horizontal retorts, lower spent-coal end, Bendigo Gasworks
Source: Ken McInnes

Historic Engineering Marker Plaque
Source: Ken McInnes

Steam Driven Exhauster at Bendigo Gasworks
Source: Miles Pierce

Ministry of Munitions plaque, WW2 Livestay
Source: Ken McInnes

Ministry of Munitions plaque, WW2 gasometer
Source: Ken McInnes

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Engineering Heritage Recognition Program

Marker Type	Historic Engineering Marker (HEM)
Award Date	21 September 1995
Heritage Significance	This site is an internationally significant example of an entire provincial gasworks. Coal gas was manufactured here 1860 to 1973. The works were operated by the Bendigo Gas company until purchased in 1958 by the Gas and Fuel Corporation.
Nomination Document	Available here.
Ceremony Booklet Ceremony Report	Available here.
Plaque/Interpretation Panel Image	Available here.