The facility will close on January 6 in preparation for the start of construction by Van Mal Group Pty Ltd, the council advises.

The $2.5 million project has been co-funded by the federal government through the Building Better Regions Fund and Goulburn Mulwaree Council.

The council is encouraging residents and visitors to visit the museum one last time in coming weeks before works commence. 

Mayor Bob Kirk said he was looking forward to the start of works at Rocky Hill, a place of significance for all residents of Goulburn.

“The exciting upgrade of the Museum will allow for far larger exhibitions as well as accommodating touring shows. Around 25,000 people visit Rocky Hill each year, and the overdue upgrade of our Museum will no doubt increase this visitation number,” he said.

Federal Member for Hume Angus Taylor agreed the museum was set to become an even bigger tourist drawcard.

“The Museum extension will incorporate increased exhibition space, increased storage and education space, and improved space for volunteers. The improvements also include better car parking facilities, a bus turning circle and new footpaths.

“I congratulate council on moving forward with these upgrades.”

The Rocky Hill Memorial and car park are expected to remain open for the duration of the new Museum works. 

Did you know The Goulburn Post is now offering breaking news alerts and a weekly email newsletter? Keep up-to-date with all the local news: sign up here.