In 2016 ACRE led the buyback of the Old Beechworth Gaol (OBG), bringing together nineteen local families and leading philanthropic organisations, ensuring the neglected heritage site could be retained for the benefit of community.
The owners were united by a single vision, to transform the site into a thriving precinct to drive social, cultural and economic benefits for the region, creating sustainable opportunities for locally generated and supported entrepreneurship.
Today, OBG is bursting with energy and transformation, serving as a National Demonstration Site for social entrepreneurship and community asset ownership. Home to ACRE and several other enterprises, OBG plays a pivotal role as an Action Learning Centre that provides learning for systems level change and mentoring for community members wanting to lead the rejuvenation of their rural community.
In 2020 ACRE was recognised by the Australian Impact Investment Awards as a National Finalist – the first time a social enterprise had been nominated in the Asset Ownership category.
Interested in Community Asset Ownership?
Hear from ACRE CEO Matt Pfahlert who discusses some of the considerations of community asset ownership.
ACRE can support your community through guidance, engagement and Community Asset Workshops.
Learn more here.