Media Statements - Grants boost for heritage in the Goldfields

9/12/05

Four historic properties in the Goldfields 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 $155,000.

Mr Logan said the biggest grant of $69,700 would be awarded to the Hannan’s Club in Kalgoorlie.

“The Hannan’s Club has a long history dating back to 1896 as the first gentlemen’s club established in Kalgoorlie and its members were some of the most influential men in Goldfields industrial and political life,” the Minister said.

“It was also one of the earliest substantial constructions in stone or brick in Kalgoorlie at a time when most other buildings were still being constructed in timber and iron.”

Mr Logan said the money would be used to treat rising damp problems and construct air drains, restore timber decking to the verandah and repair stonework.

The other grant recipients in the Goldfields are:

the 1902 Kalgoorlie Railway Housing Group: $40,000 to treat white ant damage, repair the roof, gutters, downpipes, floor, windows and ceilings, paint and rewire;

Coolgardie’s 1896 Railway Hotel: $37,500 to restore verandahs, repair the roof and paint; and

Laverton’s 1901 Hotel Australia: $8,600 to prepare a conservation plan.

Mr Logan said the Goldfields 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 Goldfields,” 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