Media Statements - Funding boost for Peel and South-West heritage

6/12/05

Four historic properties in the South-West and Peel regions are set to benefit from the Gallop Government’s $1million program to conserve the State’s heritage assets.

Heritage Minister Francis Logan today announced that the owners of the four properties would share in grants worth nearly $100,000.

Mr Logan said a grant of $38,000 had been offered to the Masonic Lodge in Pinjarra for conservation work on the masonry walls and timber joinery and for repainting.

“The grant will go a long way in helping the owner develop the property into a viable and functioning commercial premises,” the Minister said.

“The lodge will once again become a striking landmark at the western entry of the Pinjarra townsite.

“The hall was built in 1903 and was used by the Murray Lodge for more than 90 years. It is possibly the only example of the Federation Gothic style of architecture applied to a Masonic hall.

“It reflects the establishment and growth of Pinjarra.”

The other grant recipients are:

Paterson and Co Fruit Packing Shed in Bridgetown: $40,000 to replace the leaking roof with short-sheet galvanised iron;
Pemberton Timber Mill Workers’ Cottages: $10,000 to re-stump and level the buildings; and
Picton Inn, Bunbury: $6,300 to prepare a conservation plan that will help guide any further conservation works on the building.

Mr Logan said the four properties were among 29 heritage sites around the State to receive grants in 2005-2006 to help pay for important maintenance and restoration work.

The Minister said the $1million grants were a significant investment by the Gallop Government.

“The grants will ensure the survival of many of our important heritage landmarks, like these four properties in the Peel and South-West regions,” he said.

Mr Logan said the Heritage Council had received 56 applications for funding under the Heritage Grants Program. Over the past eight years, the program had provided almost $7million to property owners to help conserve the State’s built heritage.

“It is another example of the Gallop Government acting to protect and enhance Western Australia's unique lifestyle and environment,” the Minister said.

Minister's office: 9222 8950