Government Well

Author

Shire of Chapman Valley

Place Number

06376

Location

Forrester Rd Durawah

Location Details

Corner of Forrester Road & Newmarracarra Road, Durawah; Lot 62 on P163238

Other Name(s)

Northern Gully Well

Local Government

Chapman Valley

Region

Midwest

Construction Date

Constructed from 1890

Demolition Year

N/A

Statutory Heritage Listings

Type Status Date Documents
(no listings)

Heritage Council Decisions and Deliberations

Type Status Date Documents
RHP - Assessed - Below Threshold Current 27 May 2005

Other Heritage Listings and Surveys

Type Status Date Grading/Management
Category
Municipal Inventory Adopted 17 Oct 2012 Category 2

Statement of Significance

The Government Well has considerable historic significance for its association with the settlement and development of the district, including the early surveying of watering points. Due to its good condition and intactness, it is a good example of stone lined wells.

Physical Description

Located on the south east corner of the intersection of Forrester and Newmarracarra Roads, the well is situated down a slight incline. Approximately 3 metres in diameter, the structure is a good example of typical stone lined well construction and remains in reasonable condition and integrity. It is surrounded by a perimeter fence, presumably to keep stock out.

History

There are a series of wells located throughout the area, situated along old stock routes. (e.g Sam's Well) Government surveys in this area noted natural springs, later developed by digging wells and lining them with stone. Thus, water was always available for stockmen and their animals as well as for travellers who passed through. This well is midway along the route from the Walkaway area to the Upper Chapman area.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: High Original Fabric: Stone lining M odifications: Perimeter Fence

Condition

Fair

References

Ref ID No Ref Name Ref Source Ref Date
Chapman Valley Heritage Trail Brochure, 1988

Place Type

Historic site

Uses

Epoch General Specific
Original Use Transport\Communications Water: Other
Present Use Transport\Communications Water: Other

Architectural Styles

Style
Vernacular

Construction Materials

Type General Specific
Wall STONE Other Stone

Historic Themes

General Specific
TRANSPORT & COMMUNICATIONS Droving
DEMOGRAPHIC SETTLEMENT & MOBILITY Exploration & surveying

Creation Date

01 May 1997

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Approved

Last Update

25 Sep 2019

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.