Hall - Railway Insitute

Statement of Significance

Railway Institute No 2 (fmr), 64 Wittenoom Street is a two storey brick hall, has cultural heritage significance for the following reasons:
the place is a good example of the Post War International style of architecture;
the place has landmark qualities and contributes significantly to the streetscape and the community's sense of place;and
the place was an important social outlet for Railway employees and the community which, on many occasions, functioned as a de facto Town Hall.

Physical Description

Railway Institute No 2, 64 Wittenoom Street is a two storey brick hall designed as an example of the Post War International style of architecture. The walls are face brick. The roof is low pitched and metal clad. Lettering depicting the name of the Hall stands free [anchored at base] above the cantilevered concrete entrance.

History

Railway Institute No 2 was built in 1956/57 and replaced an earlier institute, which had been built in Arthur Street c 1888.

Railway Institutes were commonly built in large towns to benefit railway employees, their families and the broader community. The Perth to Bunbury Railway opened in 1893 and was in daily operation in the town centre until 1985 when the WAGR/Westrail marshalling yards and infrastructure were relocated. (The 1907 Railway Station building remained for other uses.)

The foundation stone was laid by H H Styants MLA, Minister for Railways, on 17 February 1956. The two storey brick building comprised a main hall above a lesser hall, offices, reading rooms, kitchen and ancillary rooms. Lettering reading ‘Railway Institute’ was installed above the cantilevered concrete entrance.

By the time the building was completed, there was a new minister for railways, H C Strickland MLA. Strickland had the honour of opening Railway Institute No 2 and Mayor Percy Payne unveiled a plaque commemorating the event.

The main function of the hall was a social venue for railway workers and local residents. The Railway Institute’s sprung timber floor and large stage area meant that it soon became a popular venue of community events, such as weddings, social functions, movies, dances and theatrical productions.

Railway Institute (No 2) was also used by visiting entertainers and clubs. For example, high profile rock and rollers, Johnny O’Keefe and Frank Davidson performed at the Railway Institute on 8 December 1961. In 1967, the hugely popular Johnny Young Pop Show caused great excitement, and some damage to the hall – much to the consternation of the hall’s custodians. Other events held at the Railway Institute include the State Chess Championships, when Wolfgang Leonhardt played 15 simultaneous games against members of the Bunbury Chess Club, defeating all opponents over a four hour period.

By the 1990s, the building had been vacant for many years and was subject to vandalism. To save it from further deterioration, or even demolition, the building was purchased by the City of Bunbury in 1998 for $252,000 and Council estimated that a further $145,000 was needed to bring the building up to standard. Instead, Council offered the building for auction in 1999 and it was subsequently purchased by a consortium of local business people. A new building, called the Railway Institute Function Centre, was built adjacent to the old hall and was opened on 16 April 2000 by the Acting Commissioner for Railways, Wayne James.

In 2001, Hugh Ravening Design prepared plans to convert the former Railway Institute into office units, while retaining the original entrance and facade.

Integrity/Authenticity

High degree of integrity (original intent clear, current use compatible, high long term sustainability).
High degree of authenticity with much original fabric remaining.
(These statements based on street survey only).

Condition

Condition assessed as good (assessed from streetscape survey only).

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.