Speaker's Chair

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The site has associations with dignitaries in the early days of the development of Wongan Hills, and subsequent associations with generations of people in the area, as a landmark and lookout place of natural beauty.

Physical Description

Speaker's Chair is a natural rock formation in the highest ridge of the Wongan Hills range.

History

Landmark. In 1908, a Parliamentary party visited the Wongan Hills area to inspect the country for the best route of the proposed railway northwards from Goomalling. The party travelled north from Goomalling, through Lake Ninan to Lake Hinds. Members of the party included TH Wilding, V Hammersley MLC, TF Quinlan MLA, and James Mitchell. After lunching at Hancey's farm, members of the party climbed the hills to gain a view over the area. The second highest point was at that time named "Speaker's Chair" in honour of TF Quinlan who was the Speaker of the House of Assembly at that time

Condition

Site

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Sandalwood Tracks - site

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The site represents associations with an occupation prior to agriculture.

Condition

Site

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Army Camp - site

Parent Place or Precinct

12466 Wongan Hills Research Station

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The site represents associations with war.

Condition

Site

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Wongan Hills Golf Course - site

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The site has associations with the earliest organised recreational activities in Wongan Hills, and subsequent sport and recreation.

History

In 1912, the Progress Association requested land for the purposes of a recreation ground. They were subsequently given 20 acres west of the Railway line. A sports day on new years day in 1914, was held to contribute to the Agricultural hall building fund, but only £8 was raised. 20 acres of land. The Golf Club was active in 1931, when it offered to fund work relief in the Wongan Hills town. The first site of the golf club was the Railway Water Reserve. In 1939, the Golf Club relocated the course to this site (Race Course reserve).

Condition

Site

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Wongan Hills Stockyards - site

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The site has associations with the development of the stock industry in the 1950s, in Wongan Hills and the surrounding district.

History

The merchants joint stock yards were opened on 21 January 1956

Condition

Site

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St Peters Anglican Church

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The place demonstrates customs and a way of life associated with the Anglican church. It is a landmark in the town of Wongan Hills, with a commanding aspect. It is a memorial to the perseverance and faith of the early settlers, and the ongoing Christian traditions.

Physical Description

The concrete block rendered building has a corrugated iron gable roof. The frontage is gabled with a gabled entry portico. The site is terraced with rock walls. The reredos (mosaic panels behind the altar) is from Salisbury Cathedral.

History

The Parish of Wongan Hills came into being with the induction of Reverend Mearing on 30 October 1929. A meeting in 1930 resolved that a block of land would be acquired for the purpose of constructing a church. The Parish hall was constructed at the instigation of Reverend Hall, who came to Wongan Hills in 1931. Funds for the church were a gift from Reverend Hall's friends in England after he told them of the Depression conditions in the wheatbelt. The concrete blocks were made on site by Roger Brown, and men of the parish carted the sand and gravel. The foundation stone was laid by Archdeacon Riley on 7 February 1932. Outstanding site. Reverend Hall opened the Church. Before there was a resident Minister, the area was worked by Ministers from Northam and Goomalling, and services were held in settlers' homes.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: intact Authenticity: high degree

Condition

Good

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.303 Rifle Club - site

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The site has associations with sport and recreation and a way of life associated with early settlers

History

The .303 Rifle Club was officially approved and gazetted in November 1910. O Ganzer was the Captain. The earliest rifle range was at John Lee's, but wasn't used for long. They applied for land which subsequently became airport road. The tennis courts were opened on 20 February 1932

Condition

Site

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Blacksmith Shop - site

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The site has associations with pioneers.

Physical Description

Plaque marks the site.

History

Frank Randell Moore established one of the first businesses in the district when he established his blacksmith shop on the corner adjacent to T Elliott's block. It became a rendezvous for settlers, and the Moore's home was a place for the ladies to rest and have a cup of tea when visiting town. Moore later made rainwater tanks.

Condition

Site

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Stonestreet's Bakery - site

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The place has associations with Mr Stonestreet, one of the early bakers in Wongan Hills.

History

Mr Stonestreet built the house and adjoining bakery in Wongan Hills.

Condition

Site

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Dr Lovegrove's House (fmr)

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The place has significant associations with Dr Lovegrove.

Physical Description

Timber framed and fibro clad with a weatherboard dado. The hipped roof forms a large gable at the front which is detailed in timber. The roof extends in a skillion over a side verandah.

History

It was very important for a developing town to have the services of a Doctor, and appropriate residence for the doctor is critical to that end

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: intact or redeemable Authenticity: medium degree

Condition

Good

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Wongan Hills Drive In - site

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The site has associations with a way of life no longer practiced.

History

The Wongan Hills Drive in was opened in February 1959 by the Roads Board Chairperson HL Shields. It had provision for 152 vehicles in addition to a seated area with canvas deck chairs. T Wilmot ran the drive in for some years, as did Vic Basham, until it closed in ?? c1990?? and was subsequently demolished. Vic Basham continues to regularly screen movies at the Wongan Hills Community Centre.

Condition

Site

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Red Shed - Site

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The site has associations with a social way of life no longer practised.

History

Roger Brown's shed opening onto the laneway near the Agricultural Hall became the venue for men to drink alcohol, as it was strictly prohibited at the dances. There was no licensed premises in the town, so the site was popular. It was men only. Brown was an enterprising business man from the early days of the town's development, and after the 1930s was a builder of some repute in the town. The site was later occupied by a boarding house, and now a private residence.

Condition

Site

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Town Well - site

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The site represents associations with the establishment of Wongan Hills town.

History

During 1910 and 1911 as the area was being settled in the north and the town was establishing, the need for water supplies was critical to the existance and continued development. The government bought in a team of well sinkers who worked in three shifts to establish water supplies. The townsite well was one of the first, and although the water was not fit for human consumption, it was patronised excessively for stock supplies. In 1913, the School was located in close proximity to the well, and after a railway construction worker was drowned, the well was filled in. The well sinkers were employed in the district for some time.

Condition

Site

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Wongan Hills Post Office

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The place represents the development that was taking place in the 1950s in Wongan Hill, associations with postal communications.

Physical Description

Cream face brick with a red brick foundation, and a low pitched gable roof. the street facade is the gable brick wall, and the entry and a verandah extends along the south side of the building.

History

This purpose built post office opened on 17 January 1959, replaced the Post Office in Wilson St.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: intact Authenticity: high degree

Condition

Good

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CWA Rooms (fmr)

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The place represents associations with the Wongan Hills Branch of the Country Women's Association

Physical Description

Cream brick construction with a hip tiled roof.

History

the(c1915) CWA in Wongan Hills met at a house at Lot 67 Mitchell Street, until this place was purpose built. CWA history ?? Telecentre beginnings?? Other involvements??

Condition

Good

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Wongan-Ballidu Shire Administration Offices

Child Places

• 13748 Goomalling, Dowerin & Wongan Hills & Shire of Wongan-Ballidu Rolls of Honour

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Child Places

• 13748 Goomalling, Dowerin & Wongan Hills & Shire of Wongan-Ballidu Rolls of Honour

Statement of Significance

The school site represents associations with early education in Wongan Hills. The place represents the progressive spirit of the Wongan-Ballidu Shire, and associations with civic leaders.

Physical Description

The 1913 school which has since been demolished was timber framed weatherboard clad, interior unlined, tin chimney. The Shire office are contemporaneously modern architecture with cream brick construction, low pitched roofs, open plan interior, and cranked wings of the plan.

History

EDUCATION The site of the original 1913 school is marked with a plaque. As early as 1910 the local Progress Association forwarded a petition to the Education Department, and the school was completed by June 1913 with the first fifteen students attending on 4 July 1913. The student numbers were assisted by the Railway construction workers who were centred in Wongan Hills for the construction of the Mullewa line. After they left in February 1915, the number of children dropped from 30 to 10. However by 1923, the school was overcrowded, and was replaced by a larger one transported from the Goldfields. This subsequently became the infants class room at the new location. The Shire Council was formed in 1961 when state legislation converted all Roads Boards to Shire Councils. Civic administration responsibilities expanded to encompass community facilities. In line with the new responsibilities, the new Wongan Ballidu Shire administration offices and Council Chambers represented a new image for the progressive Shire.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: intact Authenticity: high degree

Condition

Good

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Goomalling, Dowerin & Wongan Hills & Shire of Wongan-Ballidu Rolls of Honour

Parent Place or Precinct

12456 Wongan-Ballidu Shire Administration Offices

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Wongan Hills Gaol - site

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The site has associations with the beginnings of law and order in Wongan Hills.

History

The first gaol in Wongan Hills was built by Mr Gammal, and the Police Officer from Goomalling was the only officer in the district, visiting at regular intervals and as required. The horse paddocks were located behind the gaol. The horse trough has been relocated to the park in Fenton St.

Condition

Site

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State Hotel (fmr)

Values

· The place is an important example of a State and community owned establishment. The place preserves its importance within the community and contributes to their sense of place.
· The place has aesthetic significance and is a landmark within the township. The place is a fine example of the work of PWD architect A.E. Clare and a rare example of the Nautical/Streamline Moderne Version of Art Deco Architecture.
· The place was built on the site and used the bricks from the first hotel established in Wongan Hills.
· The place was converted to a hospital during WW2.
· The place was built by Brown & Norman.

Physical Description

Substantial two-storey brick construction on corner location. Two street fronts feature horizontal rendered balustrade contrasted by corner block (vertical) and sweeping corner curves.

History

In 1910, the Progress Association, with support from the Attorney General and the police, opposed the original plans for a Hotel in Wongan Hills. The Railway was officially opened in Wongan Hills on 22nd August, 1911. The subsequent development of the town made the lack of amenities increasingly apparent. Calls for the construction of a hotel continued. By 1913, the Progress Association retracted its previous disapproval. The original State Hotel was constructed during 1914. Development of the town and its surrounding areas quickly demonstrated the inadequacy of the Hotel. By 1939, plans for a new State Hotel were being prepared by architects in the Public Works Department under the supervision of A.E. Clare. The building was designed in the Nautical/Streamline Moderne Version of Art Deco architecture, built in a unique V shape. Demolition of the original building began in 1940. The builders for the project were Brown and Norman of Albany, who oversaw the salvaging, cleaning and recycling of the old bricks for the new Hotel. In 1940, the C.W.A requested the Roads Board divert Hotel fundraising towards the war effort and the conversion of the Hotel into hospital facilities was made possible. The Hotel was officially opened with a luncheon party on 14th November, 1941. In 1958 the Roads Board purchased the Hotel from State Cabinet. On 17th July, 1959, the Wongan Hills was officially declared a community owned establishment, by the Minister for Industrial Development. Mr. Brown was one of the original shareholders in the Hotel that he had built. Mr Stan Sadler chaired the committee that ran the Hotel until 1979. The Hotel underwent several alterations, including the construction of 10 motel units alongside in 1965, and a 1975 extension to enlarge the bar areas and incorporate a function room. The Hotel continues to run in this capacity.

Integrity/Authenticity

High

Condition

Sound

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The site represents a way of life no longer practiced. The place demonstrates ways of life and associations with war, the development of Wongan Hills, and civic identities. The place represents a "sense of place". It is a critical element in the main street streetscape of Wongan Hills, and is integral within the townscape and character of Wongan Hills. It is a fine and rare example of 1940s hotel architecture designed by the Public Works Department. The integrity and authenticity of the place which demonstrates the design ethos and details of the art deco influence of the period is significant.

Physical Description

Brick construction with a terracotta hip tiled roof. The double storey building has verandahs along the first floor of both street frontages. Rendered with horizontal incised banding, they replicate the parapet. The corner of the hotel is curved and the parapet detail continues around the curve which is balanced by the vertical red brick block over the entry of the guest accomodation.

History

HOSPITALITY In December 1910, the first move was made to have a hotel in Wongan Hills, with the attempt to transfer the licence from the "Clackline Arms" to Wongan Hills. There was a community objection to a hotel in Wongan Hills, and the Progress Association resolved to disallow a hotel until such time that the townsite was surveyed. They were supported by the Attorney General who had been advised by the Police, who had been instructed to oppose the Hotel. WH Ackland was secretary of the Melbourne Roads Board, and he forwarded information to his son RRB Ackland in Northam, to enlist support in the form of a petition from the Northam residents against the Wongan Hills Hotel. Ackland found that the three solicitors in town had been briefed for the transfer applicants, but was fortunate enough to retain a York solicitor who subsequently determined that Wongan Hills was in the jurisdiction of the Northam Court. With the Railway reaching Wongan Hills in 1911, the town developed and a shortage of amenities was apparent. The Progress Association requested a State Hotel and the town survey included blocks for a hotel. By 1913 the need was critical and it was a concern that if no State Hotel was constructed, the land may become available to private enterprise. During 1914 the hotel was built at a cost of £2800 (at that time the Agricultural Hall was being constructed for £300). It was built on lots 133 and 134, and a billiard saloon operated by J Bennett, occupied lot 135. With the rapid development of the town and the land north of town, there was an influx of travellers, and the hotel proved to be inadequate in a short time. The Roads Board constantly requested improvements and extensions to the State Hotel, and in desperation suggested that the hotel be leased. In September 1939 plans for the new State Hotel were being prepared by the Architects in the Public Works Department, and the Roads Board was asked to guarantee the water and sewerage supplies. In 1940 the CWA asked the Roads Board to divert hotel fundraising to the war effort. In 1940 arrangements were put in place should the hotel be needed as a hospital, and in 1941 blackouts were introduced. When water shortages occurred in the late 1940s the hotel was forced to rely on a bore and water carted by the Railway Department. In May 1958 State Cabinet offered to sell the State Hotel to a proper civic authority. The Roads Board was accepted and a Committee of management was appointed. On 17 July 1959, the Wongan Hills Civic Hotel was officially declared a community owned establishment, by the then Minister for Industrial Development, Charles Court. In 1980, the hotel was acquired by private interests.

Condition

Good

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Wongan Newsagency

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The place demonstrates ways of life and occupations in the developing town of Wongan Hills. The shops from a streetscape representation of the main street of Wongan Hills. They are integral within the townscape and character of Wongan Hills.

Physical Description

Brick rendered frontages with triple parapets, two stepped and the centre one curved. A bullnose verandah has been added with slender timber posts.

History

A Tearooms, grocery shop and Drapers were built for EJ Rogers whose daughter Mrs Reynoldson, later took over. In December 1931, MR WF Williams took over a lease on the premises, and left in 1935, when the lease expired. During his time, a fundraising dance was held in a "barn" at the back of the shops, for the Anglican Church. The newsagency was sold to Mr Stonestreet jnr. During the depression the Tearooms went broke, and Stonestreet set up his bakery in the rear of the building. The bakehouse & ovens are still in evidence.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: redeemable Authenticity: medium degree

Condition

Good

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Powerhouse (fmr) (at rear)

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The place has associations with Ellis and the first power supply for Wongan Hills. It is an important element in the townscape and character of Wongan Hills.

Physical Description

Brick and rendered office/shop frontage with a parapet to the street frontages. The corrugated iron roof is hipped at the front and adjoins the gable wall of the warehouse. The frontage is truncated across the street corner and has a gabled portico across the truncation, which is the shop front and entry. The warehouse is a timber framed and corrugated iron clad structure with a gable roof.

History

In 1928, Mr Ellis introduced power to Wongan Hills, and operated the first power house from this site. A blacksmith also operated from the rear of the site. Ellis was the first to show picture at the Agricultural Hall, once a week from 1928. Vic Basham who ran the drive-in for many years, and still runs pictures at the Civic Centre, also still operates a business on this premises.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: intact/redeemable Authenticity: high degree

Condition

Good

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Wongan Hills Hall - Site

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The site represents the development of the civic authority, social and community organisations, and demonstrates the social activities in the developing town of Wongan Hills.

Physical Description

Playground

History

By 1910, the railway was planned from Goomalling to Wongan Hills, but there was no townsite for Wongan Hills. The East Wongan Hills Progress Association requested 3 acres in the north-east corner of Loc 1355, and in 1911, the first 35 town lots were taken in a brisk auction. Rapid development took place and it was soon apparent that the prospering town lacked amenities. A new "Town" Progress Association was formed, and for seven months two associations operated, finally amalgamating in July 1913. The Progress Association requested a State hotel, recreation ground, a local representative on the Goomalling Roads Board, an official Stationmaster and a cemetery. An Agricultural Hall Committee was formed. A surplus of funds from the Railway opening formed the basis of the hall funds, and a Building Committee was established. Settlers had been paying subsidies to the hall since 1911. On the 25 March 1914, Sir Henry B Lefroy opened the Agricultural Hall, and celebrations continued with a sports meeting, horse and foot racing and a grand ball. Only £100 of the £300 cost was still owing. Local government activities were controlled by the Public Works Department, and with the rail came the need for roads and water supplies. PWD invited representatives to a conference to discuss new Roads Districts. RRB Ackland was the Wongan Hills representative. The first meeting of the Melbourne Roads Board district took place in August 1916, with Booth as chairperson. Four wards each had a rail siding; Wongan Hills, Mocardy, Kondut and Ballidu, and meetings were held alternatively in Wongan Hills and Ballidu. The Agricultural Society held their inaugural Industrial Exhibition in October 1917, with an emphasis on children's work. The Exhibition was repeated in 1918 and 1919. The matter of a home for the Roads Board had the subject of frequent discussion from as early as 1917, and in 1921, after frustrations with lack of full board meetings, it was moved that the office be established at the Agricultural Hall until such time that an office was built. The first permanent meeting place for the Roads Board therefore became the Agricultural Hall in 1921. In 1922, attempts were made to upset the arrangement when the ratepayers from the north strenuously objected and a special meeting of the Melbourne Roads Board was called, the outcome being the decision that the permanent office of the Roads Board would be Wongan Hills, and up to £600 be spent on constructing an office at the front of the Agricultural hall. Meanwhile an office was rented from Mr O. W. Ganzer in Wilson St. In February 1925, the Melbourne Roads Board became the Wongan-Ballidu Roads Board. By 1926, there were still problems with regard to the proposed office, and a referendum finally, overwhelmingly determined that Wongan Hills was the site. The Agricultural Hall was vested in the Agricultural Society, so the Roads Board took it over and gave the Ag Society the adjoining lot 139. The Roads Board Offices were opened in 1928, by the Minister for Works. In 1928, Mr Ellis began showing pictures once a week in the hall. An outdoor picture theatre also operated in the park behind the hall. The newly formed Country Women's Association used the ante room for their meetings. In 1936, Mrs Walsh donated the Honour Board. During World War Two, the Roads Board offered concessions for the use of the hall for the war effort. When the Infant health Services commenced from Miling in 1946, the ante room was made available. In 1963, the building was demolished when the new Shire Administration offices and Council Chambers were constructed in Elphin Cres.

Condition

Site

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Fenton Street Trees

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The trees are of considerable significance in the streetscape, townscape and character of Wongan Ballidu, and have some association with the community in 1925.

History

Planted in 1925

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Railway Barracks, Wongan Hills

Parent Place or Precinct

12594 Wongan Hills Railway Precinct

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The place demonstrates ways of life no longer practiced and significant associations with the construction of the railway line. The barracks are one of the few remaining examples as comprehensive as the Wongan Hills barracks, and form an integral part of the railway precinct. Located in the main though road north and south of Wongan Hills, the barracks form an essential landmark and character of the town of Wongan Hills.

Physical Description

Timber framed and weatherboard clad. Each accommodation unit is a separate room with approx 1 metre space between each room. Two rows of the rooms form a hall way through the centre, which the door of each unit opens onto. The entire complex of rooms is roofed with a gable pavilion roof clad with corrugated iron. A separate dwelling is located at the south end of the barracks, and is connected by a covered walkway

History

Goomalling was the railhead in 1902. From 1905, when land in the Wongan Hills region began to be settled, there was agitation for a railway line. The railway between Goomalling to Wongan Hills officially opened in 1911. In 1912, construction of the line northwards to Mullewa began from both ends. Wongan Hills became the centre for the construction workers for the new railway and the barracks were constructed to accommodate them. The barracks design was very specific to cope with the severe climate. By 1921 they were extended.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: intact or redeemable Authenticity: high degree

Condition

Fair - Good

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Wongan District Realty office

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The place has associations with the development of Wongan Hills and contributes to the main street streetscape, being one of the few remaining buildings of the pre 1950s era.

Physical Description

Brick construction with rough render exterior. The hipped corrugated iron roof features a gable over the front verandah.

History

The former house had associations with Max Jenkins in c1938.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: intact/redeemable Authenticity: medium degree

Condition

Fair-Good

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Wongan Hills Police Station

Condition

Good

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Wongan Hills Railway Precinct

Child Places

• 12414 Railway Barracks, Wongan Hills
• 16644 Station Master's House, Wongan Hills
• 12462 Railway Houses, Ganzer Street

Values

· The place has aesthetic value as it contributes to the cultural environment of the railway. It also contributes to the townscape of Wongan Hills.

· The place has rarity value as it is a comprehensive railway group including a water tower and barracks.

· The place represents the development of railway facilities and workers accommodation.

Physical Description

Railway Houses: (already registered P12462) Barracks: (already registered P12414): Water Tank and Stand: 25 000 gallons. The tank stands 12 metres above the ground, supported by a tower of Karri and Jarrah timbers. The metal water storage tank is square. Railway Station: Ÿ The building is steel framed with infill panels combining cream coloured face brick and red brick. The low pitched roof is clad with corrugated fibro cement sheeting. The window frames and entrance doors are in aluminium frames. The concrete floor slab is covered with vinyl tiles. The building was designed to accommodate train and road buses. Station Masters House P16644: Ÿ Brick construction with a gabled corrugated iron roof. Goods Shed: Ÿ Timber framed Cgi clad shed. SITES Crane, Ramp, Stockyard and Turntable: Typical style and type used in railway activities .

History

commenced. Goomalling was the railhead in 1902 and by 1908 a Parliamentary party traveled to the Wongan Hills district to determine the situation.’ ‘Early in 1911 the bill was passed before parliament which approved the extension of the railway northwards from Wongan Hills to Morawa. By that time the railway line from Goomalling to Wongan Hills was almost complete, construction having commenced at Goomalling on 13 June 1910, with the first 12.8 kms to Jintinning opened by February 1911. The entire 53 km section of the railway north from Goomalling to Wongan Hills constructed by Atkins and Finlayson and was officially opened on 22 April 1911. The Premier, Frank Wilson performed the ceremony with Mr and Mrs Chitty, the districts oldest residents, holding the ribbon. The railway line now allowed for the transport of good to and from Goomalling without a three day return journey with a horse team.’ ‘On 22 May 1912, construction of the line northwards to Mullewa was commenced from Wongan Hills, and in June to Mullewa. Wongan Hills became the centre for the construction workers fro the new railway. The construction was undertaken by Railway Construction Branch of the Public Works Department. A loop line was constructed for turning the railway engines, and the coal stand was located in close proximity to the water stand. By 20 December 1913, both sections linked and the Public Works Department owned and operated the line handing it over to WAGR on 1 March 1915. It was officially opened on 5 March 1915.’ ‘The Stationmasters house was constructed by July 1913 and on 1 August 1913 Wongan Hills opened as a booking station and buildings were located on the site as the need arose; sidings, coal stage, Goods Shed. In 1920, Railway Station Buildings were relocated from Trafalgar (Kalgoorlie) and re-erected at Wongan Hills.’ ‘The railway dam was excavated in 1913 and 1914. It had a capacity of 4.5 million gallons. In the 1920s a roof was constructed over the dam. The 25 000 gallon railway tank and stand were erected in the rail yard in 1913-1914. This was supplemented by a 23 000 gallon underground tank from Pithara which was located in the yard in 1927.’ ‘The station first operated as a goods and coaching station from 1 August 1913. The railway workers barracks were built in 1914 and 1915, and by 1921 they were extended when the new loco department was built north of the station. The stockyards were completed in 1917 and the weighbridge installed in 1922. In 1934 the CBH bin was established at Wongan Hills Station.’ ‘From the beginning there was continued lobbying for a new railway station at Wongan Hills and by 1937, a new station was promised, however when the Commissioner of Railways conferred with the deputation, he decided against a new station. In 1945, an application to the Roads Board, to move the bins to the west side of the Railway reserve increased speculation that it was a move in preparation for the new station.’ ‘After World War Two, and during the 1950s the federal Government’s Immigration Policy facilitated the New Australian immigrants, referred to as the Baltic’s, due to their European Region of their origin. The Displaces persons Camp was their home for up to three years. They lived in primitive conditions in corrugated iron huts or in tents. Many of the 3 m square huts had tents attached. There was accommodation for families and single men. They had to cart water from the railway Tank to small holding tanks. They stayed in the camp until the could afford to buy their own home. They worked very hard for their future.’ ‘Railway houses were provided for railway employees who worked on the trains and in administration and managerial positions. The houses were only the ones in Wongan Hills with water connected to them. It was supplied from the Railway Water Tank. The houses were demolished to make way for the by pass road through Wongan Hills.’ ‘Diesel trains came into service on the Goomalling Mullewa line on the 3 July 1955. The entire Railway and siding facilities were redesigned to ensure a more efficient operation and to re-route grain trucks away from town. The new station building was located on the east side and the entire yard layout was reversed. In 1964, a new grain storage facility was installed by CBH, replacing a bin and temporary structures. The station was subsequently built, and officially opened by Charles Court, the Minister for Industrial Development, Railways and the North West, on 27 November 1965. In 1969 an E1 bin was also located at Wongan Hills.’ ‘The passenger and general freight trains stopped running by 1985 and the station closed on 30 September 1985. Only wheat and super loads are now transported by rail. In 1989, the Art and Craft centre opened in the station Building.’

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity- Low Authenticity- High

Condition

Sound

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Child Places

• 12414 Railway Barracks, Wongan Hills
• 16644 Station Master's House, Wongan Hills
• 12462 Railway Houses, Ganzer Street

Statement of Significance

THE RAILWAY STATION PRECINCT REPRESENTS THE IMPETUS TO DEVELOPMENT OF THE REGION. IT REPRESENTS ASSOCIATIONS WITH THE AGRICULTURAL INDUSTRY AND ITS CONTINUED SUSTAINABILITY. IT REPRESENTS A WAY OF LIFE NO LONGER PRACTICED. THE SITE IS SIGNIFICANT IN REPRESENTING A DIFFERENT WAY OF LIFE, A DIFFERENT CULTURE AND NATIONALLY DEMONSTRATING A DIVERSITY OF WONGAN HILLS’ DEVELOPMENT. THE SITE REPRESENTS A WAY OF LIFE ASSOCIATED WITH AN OCCUPATION. THE PRECINCT IS POSSIBLY THE ONLY ONE IN THE STATE WITH A RAILWAY BARRACKS, WATER TOWER, GOODS SHED AND STATIONMASTER’S HOUSE STILL INSITU, DEMONSTRATING A DISTINCT RAILWAY IDENTITY. MURAL ADDED TO THE TOILET BUILDING IN 2005

History

HISTORICAL THEME: TRANSPORT IMMIGRATION OCCUPATION SETTLEMENT AFTER LAND IN THE WONGAN HILLS REGION BEGAN TO BE SETTLED FROM 1905, AGITATION FOR A RAILWAY LINE COMMENCED. GOOMALLING WAS THE RAILHEAD IN 1902 AND BY 1908 A PARLIAMENTARY PARTY TRAVELLED TO THE WONGAN HILLS DISTRICT TO DETERMINE THE SITUATION. EARLY IN 1911 THE BILL WAS PASSED BEFORE PARLIAMENT WHICH APPROVED THE EXTENSION OF THE RAILWAY NORTHWARDS FROM WONGAN HILLS TO MORAWA. (190 MILES—304 KILOMETRES). BY THAT TIME THE RAILWAY LINE FROM GOOMALLING TO WONGAN HILLS WAS ALMOST COMPLETE, CONSTRUCTION HAVING BEEN COMMENCED AT GOOMALLING ON 13 JULY 1910, WITH THE FIRST 12.8 KILOMETRES (8 MILES) TO JINTINNING OPENED BY FEBRUARY 1911. THE ENTIRE 53 KILOMETRE (33 MILE) SECTION OF THE RAILWAY NORTH FROM GOOMALLING TO WONGAN HILLS CONSTRUCTED BY ATKINS AND FINLAYSON AND WAS OFFICIALLY OPENED ON 22 AUGUST 1911. THE PREMIER, FRANK WILSON PERFORMED THE CEREMONY, WITH MR & MRS CHITTY, THE DISTRICTS OLDEST RESIDENTS HOLDING THE RIBBON. THE RAILWAY LINE NOW ALLOWED FOR THE TRANSPORT OF GOODS TO AND FROM GOOMALLING WITHOUT A THREE DAY RETURN JOURNEY WITH A HORSE TEAM. ON MAY 22 1912, CONSTRUCTION OF THE LINE NORTHWARDS TO MULLEWA WAS COMMENCED FROM WONGAN HILLS AND IN JUNE FROM MULLEWA. WONGAN HILLS BECAME THE CENTRE FOR THE CONSTRUCTION WORKERS FOR THE NEW RAILWAY. THE CONSTRUCTION WAS UNDERTAKEN BY RAILWAY CONSTRUCTION BRANCH OF THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT. A LOOP LINE WAS CONSTRUCTED FOR TURNING THE RAILWAY ENGINES AND THE COAL STAND WAS LOCATED IN CLOSE PROXIMITY TO THE WATER TANK STAND. BY 20 DECEMBER 1913, BOTH SECTIONS LINKED AND THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT OWNED AND OPERATED THE LINE UNTIL HANDING IT OVER TO WAGR ON 1 MARCH 1915. IT WAS OFFICIALLY OPENED ON 5 MARCH 1915. THE STATIONMASTER’S HOUSE WAS CONSTRUCTED BY JULY 1913 AND ON 1 AUGUST 1913 WONGAN HILLS OPENED AS A BOOKING STATION AND BUILDINGS WERE LOCATED ON THE SITE AS THE NEED AROSE; SIDINGS, COAL STAGE, GOODS SHED. IN 1920 RAILWAY STATION BUILDINGS WERE RELOCATED FROM TRAFALGAR (KALGOORLIE) AND RE– ERECTED AT WONGAN HILLS. THE RAILWAY DAM WAS EXCAVATED IN 1913 AND 1914. IT HAD A CAPACITY OF 4.5 MILLION GALLONS. IN THE 1920’S A ROOF WAS CONSTRUCTED OVER THE DAM. THE 25,000 GALLON RAILWAY TANK AND STAND WERE ERECTED IN THE RAIL YARD IN 1913—1914. THIS WAS SUPPLEMENTED BY A 23,000 GALLON UNDERGROUND TANK FROM PITHARA WHICH WAS LOCATED IN THE YARD IN 1927. THE STATION FIRST OPERATED AS A GOODS AND COACHING STATION FROM 1 AUGUST 1913. THE RAILWAY WORKERS BARRACKS WERE BUILT IN 1914 AND 1915 AND BY 1921 THEY WERE EXTENDED WHEN THE NEW LOCO DEPARTMENT WAS BUILT NORTH OF THE STATION. THE STOCKYARDS WERE COMPLETED IN 1917 AND THE WEIGHBRIDGE INSTALLED IN 1922. IN 1934 THE CBH BIN WAS ESTABLISHED AT WONGAN HILLS STATION. FROM THE BEGINNING THERE WAS CONTINUED LOBBYING FOR A NEW RAILWAY STATION AT WONGAN HILLS AND BY 1937 A NEW STATION WAS PROMISED, HOWEVER, WHEN THE COMMISSIONER OF RAILWAYS CONFERRED WITH THE DEPUTATION HE DECIDED AGAINST A NEW STATION. IN 1945 AN APPLICATION TO THE ROADS BOARD TO MOVE THE BINS TO THE WEST SIDE OF THE RAILWAY RESERVE INCREASED SPECULATION THAT IT WAS A MOVE IN PREPARATION FOR THE NEW STATION. AFTER WORLD WAR TWO AND DURING THE 1950’S THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT’S IMMIGRATION POLICY FACILITATED THE NEW AUSTRALIAN IMMIGRANTS, REFERRED TO AS “BALTICS”, DUE TO THE EUROPEAN REGION OF THEIR ORIGIN. THE DISPLACED PERSONS CAMP (TENTLAND) WAS THEIR HOME FOR UP TO THREE YEARS. THEY LIVED IN PRIMITIVE CONDITIONS IN CORRUGATED IRON HUTS OR IN TENTS. MANY OF THE 3 METRE SQUARE HUTS HAD TENTS ATTACHED. THERE WAS ACCOMMODATION FOR FAMILIES AND SINGLE MEN. THEY HAD TO CART WATER FROM THE RAILWAY TANK TO SMALL HOLDING TANKS. THEY STAYED IN THE CAMP UNTIL THEY COULD AFFORD TO BUY THEIR OWN HOME (THE AUSTRALIAN DREAM) THEY WORKED VERY HARD FOR THEIR FUTURE. RAILWAY HOUSES WERE PROVIDED FOR RAILWAY EMPLOYEES WHO WORKED ON THE TRAINS AND IN ADMINISTRATION AND MANAGERIAL POSITIONS. THE HOUSES WERE THE ONLY ONES IN WONGAN HILLS WITH WATER CONNECTED TO THEM. IT WAS SUPPLIED FROM THE RAILWAY WATER TANK. THE HOUSES WERE DEMOLISHED TO MAKE WAY FOR THE BY—PASS ROAD THROUGH WONGAN HILLS. DIESEL TRAINS CAME INTO SERVICE ON THE GOOMALLING MULLEWA LINE ON 3 JULY 1955. THE ENTIRE RAILWAY AND SIDING FACILITIES WERE REDESIGNED TO ENSURE A MORE EFFICIENT OPERATION AND TO RE ROUTE GRAIN TRUCKS AWAY FROM TOWN. THE NEW STATION BUILDING WAS LOCATED ON THE EAST SIDE AND THE ENTIRE YARD LAYOUT WAS REVERSED. IN 1964 A NEW GRAIN STORAGE FACILITY (TYPE A1) WAS INSTALLED BY CBH REPLACING A BIN AND TEMPORARY STRUCTURES. THE STATION WAS SUBSEQUENTLY BUILT, AND OFFICIALLY OPENED BY CHARLES COURT, THE MINISTER FOR INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT, RAILWAYS AND THE NORTH WEST ON 27 NOVEMBER 1965. IN 1969 AN E1 BIN WAS ALSO LOCATED AT WONGAN HILLS. THE PASSENGER AND GENERAL FREIGHT TRAINS STOPPED RUNNING BY 1985 AND THE STATION CLOSED ON 30 SEPTEMBER 1985. ONLY WHEAT AND SUPER LOADS ARE NOW TRANSPORTED BY RAIL. IN 1989, THE WONGAN HILLS ARTS SOCIETY AND TOURISM GROUP STARTED USING THE BUILDING AND CONTINUE TO DO SO.

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Station Master's House, Wongan Hills

Parent Place or Precinct

12594 Wongan Hills Railway Precinct

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The place demonstrates ways of life no longer practiced. The place is integral within the Railway precinct and forms part of the townscape character of Wongan Hills.

Physical Description

Brick construction with a gabled corrugated iron roof.

History

After the Railway line was officially opened in Wongan Hills in August 1911, it was sometime before an official station master was appointed to the railhead. A local person assumed a caretaker role and organised everything arriving and departing from the station, which caused some problems. The station first operated as a goods and coaching station from 1 August 1913. In 1914, goods disappearing from the railway station was a problem and urgent requests were sent to the Railway Department for an Official Stationmaster. Local Members of Parliament were lobbied for assistance in the matter. The first Stationmaster was H. Dinsdale, who remained until 1922. As was the usual practice for stationmaster's in the employ of the Government Railways, a house was provided in close proximity to the railway station.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: intact Authenticity: high degree

Condition

Good

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Railway house

Parent Place or Precinct

12462 Railway Houses, Ganzer Street

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The place is representative of the accomodation provided for the railway workers at that time. It demonstrates a way of life, and is an example of a type of which occupies most of that street. .

Physical Description

Timber framed and weatherboard clad residence with return verandahs around three sides, under the main tiled gambrel roof. The verandah has a fibro clad dado height enclosure.

History

The houses were provided for railway employees who worked on the trains, and in administration and managerial positions.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: intact Authenticity: high degree

Condition

Fair - Good

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Railway Houses, Ganzer Street

Parent Place or Precinct

12594 Wongan Hills Railway Precinct

Child Places

• 25285 Railway house

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Child Places

• 25285 Railway house

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Elizabeth Telfer's Kindergarten

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The place demonstrates associations with community co-operation and educational/social facilities for the pre-school children in the region.

Physical Description

Cream brick construction with a low pitched gable roof. A verandah along the north-east side is under the main roof, and supported by slender steel columns.

History

Built by community effort.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: intact Authenticity: high degree

Condition

Good

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Elsington or Yallaling

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The place has significant associations with the Sticklands, an early pioneering family in the district.

History

Edward Stickland and his son Willie took up land 5 miles east of the Wongan Hills in 1905. By 1907, Edward was agitating for a railway north from Goomalling. He was instrumental in the establishment of the Wongan Hills School in 1913, and officially opened it. Mrs Mary Stickland was known as "Grand old lady" or "gran". Willie( WH) and his wife Emma established "Yallaling" and his son William Edwin has carried on the tradition, also taking over his uncle Otto Ganzer's property. Willie Stickland was the secretary of the first progress association, secretary of the Primary Producers Association, President of the Agricultural Society, and the Co-op.

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Otto Ganzer's place

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The place has significant associations with Otto Ganzer, and the development of the Wongan Hills area.

History

Otto William Ganzer came from South Australia in 1876, at the age of 4. He worked in many places in Western Australia, before meeting Frances Stickland in the south west, and marrying her in 1903. He asked his wife's father, E Stickland, to select land adjoining his, which was done in 1907. In 1908, Ganzer took up his 1600 acres. He was the Dalgety agent, and his business acumen earned him the nickname of "The Oil King". Ganzer was involved in the transport industry and was one of the first to promote the idea of bulk grain handling. Ganzer was the postal vote officer for the region of Wongan Hills and for the Parliamentary elections in 1909 the Ganzer home was the polling booth location. Ganzer was the first president of the Wongan Hills Progress Association and the meetings were held at his home. He served 21 years on the Roads Board. On the 10 April 1910, the first religious service in the area was conducted by Reverend Millward at O Ganzer's home. Services were there-after conducted on the fifth Sunday in the months of May, July and October at the Ganzers. On the 29 May 1910, the first christening in the district was that of Frances Ganzer at their home. Later the services alternated between the Ackland's and Ganzer's places. The Public Works Department took over Ganzer's well which was near the highway.

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Shepherd's Cottage and Well

Uses

Creation Date

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Masonic Lodge

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The place demonstrates customs and ways of life associated with the Freemason association. It represents associations with the Masonic order

Physical Description

Brick/block rendered construction with a hipped corrugated iron roof. A gable portico supported by classical columns features over the entry doors in Mitchell St.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: intact Authenticity: high degree

Condition

Good

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Dr Stenning's House (fmr)

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The place has significant associations with Dr Stenning, and a continuing associations with medical services in Wongan Hills, as a dwelling for hospital staff members.

Physical Description

Brick rendered construction with a corrugated iron roof. The roof forms a large gable at the front which is detailed in timber. A small gable features over a front room, and the roof hips at a lower level over the entry.

History

It was very important for a developing town to have the services of a Doctor, and appropriate residence for the doctor is critical to that end. Dr Stenning was the first permanent Doctor in Wongan Hills, and he had the house built.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: intact/redeemable Authenticity: medium degree

Condition

Good

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Goldfields House (fmr)

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

: The place has associations with the early development of the Wongan hills town.

Physical Description

The weatherboard cottage has a corrugated iron gable roof which breaks pitch at the front and rear where it extends over the respective verandahs, the back one is enclosed.

History

As the town and district of Wongan Hills developed there was a need for housing in the town. A number of houses were relocated, by rail, from Coolgardie goldfields, and placed on jam tree stumps which were impervious to termites.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: intact/redeemable Authenticity: medium degree

Condition

Good

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Wongan Hills Hospital (fmr)

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

: The place has significant associations with the first resident doctor, and subsequent doctors in Wongan Hills. It demonstrates a way of life associated with hospital and medical services. It has a 'sense of place' for generations of people in the district who have had associations with the hospital. It is a good example of its type and period of which few such intact and authentic examples still remain. It is integral within the streetscape and the character of the town of Wongan Hills.

Physical Description

The timber framed single storey structure has a corrugated iron roof. The original building is a "T" shape with surrounding verandahs. The building was elevated at the front due to the slope of the land. Steps are central within the original facade as is a gable detail in the otherwise hipped roof, with the verandahs under the main roof at a break pitch. The verandah columns and brackets are conservatively detailed, and the balustrade is vertical tongue and groove boards. The floor are timber on a timber substructure throughout. The exterior of the building is clad with fibro sheeting. The interior walls have a hard plaster finish. The 1937 extension has been constructed in the same manner and detail as the original 1930s construction.

History

The railway line north from Goomalling was completed in 1911 thus making Wongan Hills the railhead at that time. By 1920, the population of the district was over 650 people, and the need for a hospital was becoming urgent. The issue was ignored for some time until 1927 when the matter was raised again at the Roads Board meeting. Donations were being made to the Goomalling and Dalwallinu Hospitals, although it was decided in 1928, that as more residents used the Goomalling Hospital, donations to Dalwallinu Hospital would cease. Following interest from a Doctor, to establishing a practice, a ratepayers meeting formed a Committee for the purposes of securing a doctor and a hospital for the region. The Union Bank promised an advance, and it was decided that the hospital would be constructed in such a way that it could function as a boarding house if the hospital did not carry on. It was intended to rent the premises to the Doctor, and a Committee was formed to carry on the scheme; JH Ackland, HC Chidlow, TM Hawker, PW Gorman, & D Evans as Secretary. After selecting the site, most suitable, which had excellent views, a submission for the land was made to the Lands Department in 1928. In 1929, the Dalwallinu Hospital had an extension and the Health Department declined Wongan's application. In October 1929, Dr Stenning who had taken up residence in Wongan Hills, commenced practice in the town. A residence was soon constructed for the doctor, and he assisted the local community and the Hospital Committee in the establishment of a hospital facility. The initial cost of the hospital was met by public subscription and the Union Bank advance, with no assistance from the Health Department. A £400 donations from the Bush Nursing Society facilitated the maternity wing. Sufficient funds were in place for construction to begin in May 1930, and the official opening took place on 18 October 1930. A gala day with an aerial carnival had been planned for the opening, however an airline disaster only days before, dissuaded the Lieutenant Governor flying to Wongan Hills, although the air pageant went ahead, and many people enjoyed a flight on the day. Vernon Hamersley MLC officially opened the hospital during a ceremony conducted by JH Ackland, the Chairman of the Hospital Committee. It wasn't until 1931 that appropriate staff were acquired, and the hospital began operation. By 1937, it was necessary to substantially extend the Hospital, the labour ward was extended and upgraded, and 3 two bed wards, a bathroom and lobby, were added along the Camm Street frontage of the hospital. In the years immediately after World War Two, more alterations took place with the enclosure of the front corner verandahs to provide more facilities. In the 1950s the Doctor's consulting room and waiting rooms were located within the building on the Mitchell Camm corner. In 1965, a new hospital facility was constructed in Wongan Hills, and the vacant former hospital became the responsibility of the Shire of Wongan Ballidu. In 1971, the Wongan Ballidu Museum/Historical Society took over the premises. On 14 April 1972, the Minister for Local Government, Claude Stubbs, officially opened the museum. The Museum is recognised as an official Municipal Museum by the Trustees of WA Museums.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Intact or redeemable Authenticity: high degree

Condition

Good

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Roger Brown's House

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The place has associations with the development of Wongan Hills.

History

Roger Brown was the original storekeeper and provider of houses in Wongan Hills

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Police Quarters

Uses

Creation Date

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Wongan Hills Cemetery

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The place has associations with settlers from all periods of Wongan's development.

History

The Cemetery was originally vested in trustees; MT Bowen & RRB Ackland and the Roads Board.

Condition

Site

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Wongan Hills Railway Dam Rock Catchment Scheme

Values

• The place is a representative example of the use of rock catchment dam technology, originally developed for railways, later used for a rural water supply.
• The place is associated with the growth of regional infrastructure in the early twentieth century.

Physical Description

P260087 Wongan Hills Railway Dam Rock Catchment Scheme contains rock catchment dam infrastructure built on a series of low granite domes immediately north of the town of Wongan Hills. The low domes, collectively known as Christmas Rock, is approximately 800 m north-south by 250 m at its widest points and sits approximately 15-20 m higher than the surrounding area. The domes lie in a large bushland reserve with the town to the south, and the Wongan Hills Airport immediately east. The domes are bisected by the Northam-Pithara Road running southwest-northeast through the place.

History

The use of granite domes for water catchment was widely utilised by Aboriginal groups living in arid areas, who maintained and preserved the gnamma holes on granite domes that collected water after the rains. This use was noted by Charles C Hunt on his failed expeditions to establish a stock route into the state’s interior during 1864-1866, as his team was led from gnamma hole to gnamma hole by Aboriginal guides George Mundale and Tommy Windich. Aboriginal people also planted food species around the bases of the rocks to take advantage of run-off. The use of the granite domes was later recognised by prospectors travelling into the state’s interior, and Engineer-in-Chief C Y O’Connor tasked Assistant Engineer William Shields with developing these domes to provide reliable water for the railway line that was slowly penetrating into the newly discovered Goldfields. Shields constructed a test dam in the Yilgarn (P10065 Moorine Rock Dam), designing a low ring wall of granite sourced off the rock, sealed with bitumen that channelled the water into a spillway and from there a puddle dam. The scheme was successful and multiple rock catchment dams were established along the Goldfields railway line. From 1905 the state’s wheat belt rapidly expanded, fuelled by the demand for grain and sheep from the state’s booming population. As the cultivated areas extended into semi-arid regions, the rock catchment dam model was utilised by farmers to provide a reliable source of water in places such as Kulin. In addition to farming, the Public Works Department utilised the rock catchment dam model for town water supplies, which began in the 1920s and continued up until 1971.

Creation Date

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Wongan Hills Research Station

Child Places

• 12520 Army Camp - site

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Child Places

• 12520 Army Camp - site

Statement of Significance

The place has significant associations with RRB Ackland and the development of the agricultural industry.

Physical Description

Large complex consisting of several offices, 7 houses, 6 accommodation transportable, a single men’s quarters and an assortment of agricultural buildings mainly associated with sheep and wheat production. An access road bisects this collection of buildings. Most of the residential buildings are on one side and office and agricultural buildings are on the other. The office buildings are located closet to this central road with the other buildings located behind in an orthogonal fashion.

History

When JB Ackland proposed the use of double fallowed land, it increased the interest in the class of land in the district. It was the for-runner of a reserve of plain country, and the establishment of a State farm in 1924. In 1919, much scrub land adjacent to the railway line through the district, was being developed. EJ Rogers moved that the Minister for Agriculture establish the State Farm in Wongan Hills on the reserved site. By 1920, the only land available for settlement was sandplain. CF Baxter MLC, the Minister for Agriculture, convened a conference on the Utilisation of Light Lands. In February 1921, the Premier James Mitchell, made a promise that a State Farm and Agricultural College would be established. On October 1926, a Field day was held at the State Farm. The memorial entry gates commemorate RRB Ackland who was instrumental in inducing the Government in 1914, with his experiments with light land. Ackland chaired the official farm opening in 1928.

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School Headmaster's House (fmr)

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The place has associations with education and a way of life.

Physical Description

Timber framed and fibro and weatherboard clad. The gambrel roof is corrugated fibro cement. clad

History

This is not the original location for the school master's house. In the early days the teachers who were transferred to country areas were boarded with local families. Later the Education Department provided housing for the Headmaster and his family.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: redeemable Authenticity: medium degree

Condition

Fair-Good

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Wongan Hills Civic Centre & War Memorial

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The place has associations with the social and civic activities in Wongan Hills, and as a commemorative site.

Physical Description

Cream brick construction with a low pitched colourbond metalclad roof in a square profile. The roof extends over the wall to form fascia like band around the building. The war memorial obelisk is located central in front of the community centre.

History

WAR The site was first occupied by the town dam. In 1932 the RSL applied to the Roads Board for Town Block 126 to erect a memorial. Permission for the land was opposed, but the Roads Board contributed a £ for £ for the memorial which was subsequently constructed in front of the original Roads Board Office and hall. It was built by Roger Brown. It was later relocated to the entrance of the sports ground, and then to the existing site in the early 1960s when the Civic administration was focussed in this area. The movies are still held regularly in the Centre, run by Vic Basham.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: intact Authenticity: medium degree

Condition

Good

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Child Health Clinic

Uses