Dormitory- Ngullah Mia Training Centre & Farm

Statement of Significance

The place is a representative example of a building style that dictated functionalisation and discouraged superfluous detail, together with post war austerity, the style produced plain forms. The style was common in Western Australia in the late 1950s and during the 1960s.

Physical Description

The dormitory forms part of the former St Francis Xavier Mission. The former mission is set in a picturesque valley and spaciously set out. The place occupies a 11,000 acres, 9,000 of which is natural jarrah woodland.

The exterior of the building features sand coloured bricks built on a brick plinth, a brick chimney breast, a random rubble stone verandah plinth, and geometric balustrade in mild steel. The roof extends to cover the verandah which is supported by steel framing.

The building has a slight industrial feel with modular construction components and small picture windows with awning sashes.

The dormitory comprises individual rooms, lounge rooms and catering facilities.

History

In September 1944, the Archbishop of Perth, the Most Reverent R. Prendiville, announced that a mission station for natives in the Arch-diocese was to be established at Wandering Brook and to be named St Francis Xavier's Native Mission Station.

In making his announcement His Grace said that for a long time he had felt that little or nothing was being done for the full-blooded and half-caste natives in the southern portion of the state. In spite of the money difficulties in establishing such a mission during the war years, the Archbishop resolved to proceed with his plans. After negotiating with the State Government, a native reserve of 9,600 acres was gazetted some 10 miles north of the township of Wandering. At the invitation of the Archbishop, the Vicar Apostolic of the Kimberley, Monsignor O'Railable provided a staff to conduct the mission. The Sisters of St John of God of Broome and Beagle Bay also promised the necessary staff to conduct the Girls' Orphanage, School and Hospital.

The construction of the Dormitory in 1963, was part of the continued development of the Mission.

Integrity/Authenticity

INTEGRITY High Degree
AUTHENTICITY High Degree

Condition

Good

Uses

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.