Cubbine Homestead Precinct

Statement of Significance

Cubbine Homestead is significant because of the associations with the pioneers of the property who are notable pioneers in the history of Western Australia. Cubbine is significant to the development of the region. The aesthetic value of the 1910 homestead is significant as it is a fine example of its period, and associated with an esteemed architect. The precinct demonstrates an evolution of the site, and a way of life no longer practiced.

Physical Description

c1880s dwelling The mud bat construction has a surrounding verandah and a corrugated iron roof. The mud bats have been white wash rendered. Portion of the verandah has been enclosed in later years with evidence of fibro cladding. The corrugated iron clad separate kitchen building remains insitu.

1910s farm buildings The timber framed and iron clad structures have been retained. They include the shearing shed and various other outbuildings. A concrete cylindrical stock feeder is also in evidence. One of the few remaining in the district.

1910 Homestead:
The brick cons:ruction is finished in tuck-pointing. The bricks were made from clay on the site. Two bands of render contrasts with the red bricks, and the chimneys are detailed in the same materials. The timber floors have been retained throughout the interior of the place. The corrugated iron hip roof over the house is separate from the surrounding verandah roof. The main roof has a feature gable on each facade, and the verandah roof has a gable entry portico. The gables are finished in decorative timber with roughcast sheeting. The entry is recessed on the symmetrical facade which is elevated and approached by sweeping concrete steps. The two front rooms have bay windows. Domed ceilings are a feature in the living room and hallway (& entry). Stylised images of pastoral scenes are depicted in the stained glass lead-lights in the formal entry. The separate kitchen has remained insitu although the breezeway connecting it to the house has been enclosed. In c1960s, the external verandahs were concreted, a back bedroom was converted to become the kitchen, which was subsequently refurbished in c1990, and pantry altered to be a bathroom. In the refurbishment in c1990s the front bedroom domed ceiling was replaced.

History

In 1873 Alexander Forrest leased the area known as "Cubbine". The original dwelling he constructed as an outpost for the pastoral operation is still on the site. Sir John Forrest commissioned the homestead in 1908, after the lease was transferred to him in 1904, and Mr & Mrs Kimberley Forrest moved in in 1910. Kimberley Forrest was the son of the explorer Alexander Forrest, and was the namesake of the Kimberley region of Western Australia.
A number of outbuildings were constructed between 1910 and 1913, and many still exist, as well as one of only a few remaining examples of a feeder grain store, and the original shearing sheds. Through the 1910s many employees and contractors worked on the sheep and wheat properly. Several stone walled wells provided water for the property. In 1927 the 13000 acres comprising Cubbine Estate was subdivided into 8 blocks ranging between 1000 and 1500 acres, in addition to the homestead property of 3600 acres which Mr & Mrs Kimberley Forrest retained. The bachelor settlers enjoyed the hospitality at the Forrest's place. Kimberley Forrest was tragically killed in a fall from a windmill. In c1950s, the Wallwork family acquired the property and constructed another residence. The Wallwork family continues to farm the property.

Integrity/Authenticity

c1880s dwelling:
Integrity: Intact or redeemable (short time frame)
Authenticity: High degree

1910s farm buildings:
Integrity: Intact or redeemable
Authenticity: High degree

1910 Homestead:
Integrity: Intact or redeemable
Authenticity: High degree

Condition

c1880s dwelling: Fair 1910s farm buildings: Good 1910 Homestead: Very good

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Disclaimer

This information is provided voluntarily as a public service. The information provided is made available in good faith and is derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. However, the information is provided solely on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own assessment of the matters discussed herein and are advised to verify all relevant representations, statements and information.