Renovation rescue ... Prime Minister Julia Gillard in the drawing room of The Lodge in Canberra last week. Photo: Alex Ellinghausen
JULIA GILLARD has a history of rotten luck with renovations, and it seems to be continuing.
Ms Gillard, whose dissatisfaction with the workmanship of Bill, ''a big Greek bullshit artist,'' was revealed through reporting this year of her involvement in the AWU affair, has just learned that long-planned work on her official Canberra residence will be put off until late next year.
A letter from the Special Minister of State, Gary Gray, advised her that the refurbishment, which was to start in April, will be put off because investigations revealed the work was likely to run into ''significant technical challenges''.
Illustration: Cathy Wilcox
''It is important to preserve the iconic heritage values of The Lodge for future generations. However, the health and safety of residents, visitors and staff is paramount,'' Mr Gray wrote.
''I have decided the sensible and practical thing to do is to defer these renovations.''
The planned works include replacement of the slate tile roof and 1920s electrical wiring, the removal of potentially hazardous asbestos and the repair of leaky and rusty plumbing.
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