Carnarvon Water Tanks

Child Places

• 03469 Water Tower

Statement of Significance

Aesthetic Value – importance for its contribution to the aesthetic values of the setting demonstrated by a landmark quality or having impact on important vistas. The structures are well known and prominent local landmarks. Historic Value – Importance as an example of technical, innovation or achievement of a particular period. Social Value –Importance in contributing to a community’s sense of place. Of value for the engineering aspects of the tanks construction and operation.

Physical Description

The original tank is designed as a 12 metre high cylindrical structure. The later structure has a wider profile and is partly below ground.

History

The tank was constructed between 1920 – 1923 from reinforced concrete by Public Works Department day labour. The tank was completed in August 1923 ready for handover to the Department for the North West. The tank replaced an elevated tank situated on the corner of Francis Street and Stuart Streets which was not high enough to provide sufficient pressure to the town. It was 40 foot high with 30 foot diameter and a capacity of 176,000 gallons. The foundations extend 10 foot into the sandhill. The tank was constructed using timber forming and concrete batched on site. Aggregate materials were carted up from the Gascoyne River. The tank was part of a scheme of improvements commenced in 1920 to cater for predicted demand from the proposed North West Meatworks Co. and also increases in demand from residences and shipping. The construction and operation of the original tank represents state of the art engineering techniques from the period. When in use, water was pumped into the tanks from a bore at Yankee Town (now known as East Carnarvon) and then reticulated to the town and the jetty. In recent times (early 1960s) a reinforced concrete 2250m3 tank was constructed nearby to increase storage. A small transfer pump and Building was installed. General operation was water pumped to the 2250m3 tank and then transferred using the pump to the higher tank. The tanks were put out of service in 1986/7 when the Brown Hill tanks were completed and the supply system changed. The tanks were decommissioned in 1981. The tank is a prominent landmark and demonstrates the importance of water supplies in the town. It’s appearance is typical of early construction during establishment of North West and country towns. The need to withstand cyclones and the sand foundation account for the tank’s bulk and size.

Integrity/Authenticity

High/Medium

Condition

Good

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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