Co-operative Store

Statement of Significance

The place is notable as an early site in the business and commercial development of the town of Woodanilling.

Physical Description

The building is situated on the south side of Robinson Road direcdy opposite the Baptist Church. The original portion of the building was stone -from the old Agricultural hall. Extensions have been made over time and a timber frame galvanised iron shed built at the rear. The old Roads Board office was also purchased and served as a fuel storage shed at the front end section of the building for many years. The Co-op was also a fuel distributor (being agents for Shell Oil) with fuel bowsers at the front and also supplying drum fuel. Following the closure of the Woodanilling Hospital, the Co-op bought the building as a residence for their manager. The Co-op also owned a considerable portion of land in the vicinity and this consisted of 12 blocks each comprising 1 V* acres which was sold to Dave Moulden in the 1980's.

History

The first public moves to form a Co-operative at Woodanilling came in April 1917 when a meeting was called. By the beginning of the next year, H Pittelkow as secretary was advertising for general sales. Mr Seally was appointed manager and JH Fidock chairman of the board. The Company was formed in September 1921 with capital of 104 pounds. After several other locations, the present building was built with stone from the old Agricultural hall which was demolished in mid 1922. Frank Gill was appointed the manager and under his guidance for 22 years the Co-op prospered. Its share capital reached 800 pounds and by 1940 it was turning over business at 9314 pounds per annum with the annual profit being in the vicinity of 1050 pounds. This profit meant that a substantial bonus was paid annually to shareholders. Gill had come from England and fanned with his brother at Northampton. Here he married Miss Martha BelL, the postmistress. The Gills sold their farm and came to Perth. However, they spent much of the time with Martha's brothers at Woodamlling. Frank Gill became the Wesfarmers' wheat buying agent in Woodanilling. When Seally was leaving the Co-op, Gill was given the job of manager. Gill had commercial experience in England and was keen to stay in Woodanilling. In the 22 years, with Gill as manager, the Co-op was said to have paid more back to its shareholders than any other co- operative in Australia at the time. About 12 months after retiring through ill health in 1942, Frank Gill died. In the late 1940's the Woodanilling Co-operative amalgamated with Broomehill and Katanning Co-operatives to become the BKW Co-op. Stalwart supporters of the Woodanilling Co-op were the Carter family. Frank Carter was one of the original directors of the body and was chairman for a number of years before it merged with the BKW Co-op of which he was a director until he resigned due to ill health in 1952. His son, John, also served as a director and withstood many attempts by the directors pressure to close the Woodanilling Branch. Shortly after he resigned due to farming commitments the Woodamlling branch was closed and the business sold. Managers after Gill included Horrie Ahearn, Jack O'Brien (ex Savett^y in Katanning) and Norm King. In recent years it has been privately owned with Gay and Ken Lawrence, Ross Bailey, Debbie Gard and Jean Dunstan being amongst the later owners.

Integrity/Authenticity

Original Materials: Most Modifications; Numerous

Condition

Good

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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