1/12/05
A 107-year-old school which has produced two Rhodes scholars, State footballers and now a Western Australian of the Year, has been permanently listed on the State Register of Heritage Places.
Heritage Minister Francis Logan today announced North Perth Primary School’s permanent addition to the register at the school’s final assembly for the year.
Mr Logan said the school was significant for its long and vibrant history.
A number of prominent Western Australians had attended the school, including the recent WA Australian of the Year, Professor Geoffrey Bolton.
“I understand Professor Bolton is a proud former student,” the Minister said.
“The school has also produced two Rhodes scholars - Edmund Jarvis and John Hall - who attended the school in 1938 and 1952 respectively.
“There have also been some former students who have gone on to be among the State’s best footballers - notably Mel Whinnen, who played a record 371 games for West Perth and John McIntosh, a dual all-Australian who represented WA 17 times and played for Claremont and St Kilda.”
Mr Logan said the school also boasted a rare style of architecture.
“Dating back to 1898, North Perth Primary School was the first civic building in the area and exhibits two uncommon styles of school buildings,” he said.
“It is an example of a Federation Central Hall school building, while the School for Instrumental Music was built in the early inter-war period and features characteristic wide verandahs for open-air teaching.
“The different stages of development of the school reflect the rapid expansion of Perth’s population from the gold boom years into the 20th century.
“Since World War Two, the place has been characterised by a culturally diverse school population, illustrating the changing demographics of the area, and of WA, in the post-war period.”
The Minister said 50 places throughout the State had been entered in the State Register during 2005, ensuring their significance was recognised for the wider community.
“The Gallop Government is committed to protecting and enhancing WA's unique lifestyle, including significant heritage sites,” he said.
The former P&O Building in William Street, Perth was also permanently listed this week.
Minister's office: 9222 8950
