17/01/06
The home of Western Australia’s second Premier, George Throssell, has been included in the State Register of Heritage Places.
Heritage Minister Francis Logan said the interim listing of Throssell House, which is in Throssell Street in Perth, reflected its importance to the history and architecture of WA.
“Throssell House was built in about 1905 overlooking Hyde Park, following plans for the establishment of the park,” Mr Logan said.
“It is a magnificent residence which has been completely restored and carefully maintained. It retains original features such as stained-glass doors and windows, ivory servant bell pushes and ebony doorknobs.
“Throssell House is also linked to the expansion of Perth in the late 1800s, when there was a huge increase in the State’s population due to the gold rushes. The subdivision and sale of large lots in the area was promoted to attract wealthy Perth citizens who were interested in establishing villa homes or businesses in the area.
“The house is a fine example of the Federation Queen Anne style architecture and illustrates the standard of accommodation to which the more affluent citizens of suburban Perth aspired to in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.”
The Federation Queen Anne style of architecture became popular for residences during the end of the 19th century and into the pre-World War One era.
George Throssell became WA’s second Premier in 1901, when Sir John Forrest resigned to join the Federal Parliament. He served for just three months from February 15 until May 27, during a period of great instability in WA politics.
Mr Throssell’s son Hugo, who would have grown up in the Throssell Street home, was awarded the Victoria Cross medal at Gallipoli in 1915 and married author Katharine Susannah Pritchard.
Mr Logan said heritage listing recognised places that were important to WA as a community.
“State heritage listing provides access to State Government grants for heritage conservation, including the $1million Heritage Grants Program,” he said.
“Listed places can continue to develop and change to meet modern-day requirements and contemporary standards. The State Government is committed to protecting and enhancing WA’s unique lifestyle, including significant heritage sites."
The Kalgoorlie Club in Kalgoorlie and Slab Hut in Boyanup were also interim heritage listed and are open for public comment until January 31, 2006.
Minister's office: 9222 8950
