Gavranics

Statement of Significance

The places represent a diversity of industry and settlement and associations with immigrant settlers in Capel.

Physical Description

Two timber framed and clad dwellings remain on lots in Roe Rd, but nothing remains of the Gavranic timber operations. A round stone kiln was also constructed on the site.

History

Franco (Frank) Gavranic, from Yugoslavia, came to the Capel area in 1943. He had a contract to cut and supply boiler length wood to supply the steam boilers st the Capel Dairy Company (see Ref No. ) In 1947 the Capel River Timber Mill was established to supply fruit cases which was the condition of the original grant concession for milling. In 1956, a tender for the export of railway sleepers was successful, and boiler length offcuts were supplied to the Capel Dairy Company. The mill output was such that a property was purchased in Roe Rd for the purpose of operating a tongue and groove floor board machine shop, and no doubt strategically located near the Capel Dairy. A large stock pile of timber was stored at the Roe Rd site. A large iron building was constructed and the necessary machinery installed. The machine shop never came into full operation due to the advent of concrete raft floor slabs. The introduction of cardboard fruit boxes further refined the timber operations to the milling of scantling timber and sleepers. In 1963, Gavranic purchased the site of the Capel River Mill, and sold it to South West Saw Mills in 1964. Two mill houses were transported to the Roe Rd site by low loaders, a first event in Capel. Mr & Mrs Gavranic lived in Roe Rd for many years.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Low to Medium Degree
Authenticity: Low to Medium Degree

Condition

Fair - Good

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Disclaimer

This information is provided voluntarily as a public service. The information provided is made available in good faith and is derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. However, the information is provided solely on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own assessment of the matters discussed herein and are advised to verify all relevant representations, statements and information.