Caron Coal Stage

Statement of Significance

Architectural & technical accomplishment: Probably the only reinforced concrete coal stage constructed in Western Australia, it is a well detailed and elegant transformation of a functional timber structure into the reinforced concrete medium. Demonstration of a way of life, custom, process or junction: This concrete coal stage is a fine example of the process of coaling a steam locomotive in a remote location Historical significance of development or cultural phases; association with important figures:The building is an important marker of the development of that section of the rail transport grid Research value: The structure has the potential to provide an educational element of the steam era. Scarcity value; This coal stage_is in easily restorable and maintainable condition, is the last remaining coal stage of any type on the Western Australian rail grid and is an excellent example of its type.

Physical Description

The design potential of concrete in this instance still displays timber design provenance, the characteristics of reinforced concrete not being explored No plans or designs of coal stages have been found during the research phase of this project, but it is evident that the design is similar to stages of timber construction and genera! Capacity commonly used elsewhere, having the same loading and discharge system. The stage is constructed from reinforced concrete, with columns and formed sides and base to the hopper. Fittings to the chute and other attachments are timber and steel. A hoist no longer extant adjoined, was used to lift coal into the hopper. Evidence of the construction of the elevator is not available, but its presence is indicated at the left rear (south) of the coal stage on drawings of the siding.

History

Assessment 1994 Construction 1930 Goal stages were developed as an efficient means of bulk handling and storage of coal. The larger coaling plants, such as Ae one at Caron. used an elevator system to take coai from the supply wagons into the top of the coal stage. In the 1940's it was common to have a grid across the top of the coal stage to screen out the lumps of coal which were too large for easy flow and for immediate use in the locomotives. Coaling of locomotives took place in the depot stations and coaling stages made this task easier. The locomotive would be positioned so that its tender was directly under the coal chute. The door of the chute would then be opened and coal would How into the tender. This structure was built in 1930 to replace an earlier one which was burnt down. It is the only coal stage of reinforced concrete built in Western Australia and the only coal stage of any type remaining in WA. The'coal stage is all that remains of a former railway centre which had a locomotive depot, barracks, turntable and refreshment rooms.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update