10/12/05
Three historic properties in the Mid-West are set to benefit from the Gallop Government’s $1million program to conserve the State’s heritage assets.
Heritage Minister Francis Logan announced today that the owners of the three properties would share in grants worth $107,300.
The biggest grant of $68,800 has gone to the renowned Koogereena Homestead in Greenough.
Mr Logan said the money would be used to replace the roof, gutters and downpipes. This would ensure the long-term conservation of the homestead, which featured in Randolph Stowe’s classic Western Australian novel Merry-Go-Round in the Sea, under the name Andarra.
The Minister also announced that the homestead would be entered in the permanent State Register of Heritage Places.
“Koogereena is also significant as a historical link to the early pastoral and farming activities of the region, dating back to 1911,” he said.
“During World War II, the place was used as an army hospital and also provided shelter for women and children evacuated from Geraldton due to fears of Japanese attacks.”
The other grant recipients are Northampton’s Oakabella Homestead and the Cuddy Cuddy Station Group in Chapman Valley.
“I am pleased to also announce a $20,000 grant for Oakabella’s 1860 barn, which will further enhance the place as a tourism icon in the Mid-West,” Mr Logan said.
“The money will be used to replace the upper floor and repair stonework.
“The State Government has now provided almost $74,000 in heritage grants for Oakabella which, together with the owner’s extraordinary commitment, has ensured its long-term conservation.
“The Cuddy Cuddy Station in Chapman Valley will receive an $18,500 heritage grant in addition to another $25,000 State Government grant recently provided for conservation works.
”This will allow the owners to reroof the buildings and repair stonework.”
Mr Logan said the Mid-West 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 three properties in the Mid-West,” 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 the owners of heritage properties to help conserve the State’s built heritage.
"The grants provide much-needed assistance to private owners and help ensure the State's heritage gems are conserved for future generations to enjoy," the Minister said.
“It is another example of the Gallop Government acting to protect and enhance Western Australia's unique lifestyle and environment.”
Minister's office: 9222 8950
