Lynburn Homestead and Shearing Shed (fmr)

Condition

Prior to conservation works in 1986, Lynburn Homestead and Shearing Shed (fmr) was deteriorating to a ruin, with both buildings having lost their roofs. In 2000, when the conservation plan was completed, the buildings were vacant, with corrugated iron roofs in place. The homestead was a ruin, with timberwork charred by fire, unprotected walls in a state of collapse, floors and ceilings missing, stonework severely fretted in places, much timber joinery no longer extant, and blown sand and vegetation covering the interior. Conservation works for the shearing shed began in the late 1970s, well before conservation work began on the homestead. In 2000, when the conservation plan was completed, the shearing shed was in poor condition, with small chute openings in the wall sin partial collapse and stonework severely fretted in parts. Subsidence had caused cracks in the gable wall, the stone in the southwest corner was deteriorating rapidly due to water overflowing from a gutter outlet, and much of the joinery was missing. Conservation works including re-roofing and stabilisation were completed in early 2004.

Uses

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Physical Description

This simple settlers cottage was located on very fertile soil in a very pretty setting. Situated in a valley six kilometres from sea. it was on the original telegraph line track to Israelite. The old doorways were tiny, and the house consisted of a vestibule. kitchen. sitting room. four bedrooms and a verandah. A substantial stone shearing shed is located nearby. Nearby is the grave of Dennis Dunn who died in 1890 when he was 10 months old. His father was Andrew, the Station Master.

History

The original owner. Mr Campbell Taylor. was the first to take up land at the Oldfield River. west of Esperance and later at Thomas River (April 1870), His pioneering move to graze sheep in the area encouraged other settlers to come. Wool was shipped out from nearby Tagon Harbour despite no landing facilities, He died tragically after a buggy accident in 1900. His early death was a reminder of the hardship and isolation of the pioneers' lives. In 1915 the property was owned by the Turnbulls (Alex and Marion - nee Lee-Steere) and a policeman lived on it from 1926-28. It was abandoned in the 1930s but was owned and worked by the Chopin family from 1932 to about 1940, Mrs Chopin's maiden name was Dorothy Baesjon.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Floors and verandahs, windows and doors all gone. Cellar virtually gone. Shearing Shed re-roofed and half re-floored. Modifications: Roof (thatching burned and now iron). No verandah now.

Condition

Fair

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Esperance Fish Cannery (fmr)

Child Places

• 05056 Esperance Fish Cannery (fmr)
• 23789 Tree at Old Fish Cannery

Statement of Significance

Esperance Fish Cannery (fmr) is an important reminder of the efforts to rebuilt WA's economy after World War II.

Physical Description

The building is a single storey brick and corrugated iron utilitarian building in the Post-War International style.

History

The cannery was constructed in 1948 (reportably in just one week) for Daniel Samuel Hunt. It was built for the canning of fish. As a regional industry, it provided jobs for the local people as well as returned servicemen, and also contibuted to the rebuilding and reconstruction of WA's post-war economy.

Uses

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Parent Place or Precinct

05056 Esperance Fish Cannery (fmr)

Child Places

• 05056 Esperance Fish Cannery (fmr)
• 23789 Tree at Old Fish Cannery

Physical Description

The cannery is roughly built and was compleled in one week. The building measures 18 metres square and has large wooden trusses to support the roof. It is situated on Norseman Road overlooking the Bay and in close proximity to the Tanker Jetty. The floor (concrete) in the front half of the building still slopes considerably towards the sea. There was originally a large drain here as the fish were tipped onto the floor and hosed down etc and effluent ran straight out to the sea.

History

A contemporary opinion of the time was that Dan Hunt built the cannery to forestall the entry of 'snap freeze' operations into the area. Hunt thought it worthwhile to build this cannery in 1948. Herring, garfish, salmon and sardines were processed. Much of this was brought in from the eastern fishing grounds over very poor roads. Fisheries Road is named due to this. A road was made through the bush with a Bren Gun Carrier as far as Israelite Bay. A Stuart tank was then used to go over the sand hills to the beach. After only one year operations ceased due to insufficient supplies of fish. The fishing industry in Esperance seems to go through this same process. still with insufficient stocks offish. The building is now an excellent Arts Centre with fine facilities as extra studios have been built.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Walls, trusses, half floor, some original windows, other windows enlarged Modifications: Internal walls, wooden floor in half of the building.

Condition

Good

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Tree at Old Fish Cannery

Parent Place or Precinct

05056 Esperance Fish Cannery (fmr)

Uses

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The unusual twisted tree is of heritage value. It is a reminder of the natural environment and of a natural phenomenon. The tree has been growing under stress.

Physical Description

The interesting feature of this tree is its twisted limb. The tree is a Eucalyptus platypus, and is situated 6 - 8 metres from the Cannery Arts Centre in a prominent position.

Condition

Very good

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Norfolk Pine Trees

Parent Place or Precinct

18402 Esperance RSL Building, Norfolk Island Pine Trees and War Memorial

Uses

Historic Themes

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Statement of Significance

The tall Norfolk Pine trees lining the streets of Esperance are an impressive feature of the town. The Municipal Council planted 12 trees in Dempster Street, from Andrew to James Streets. in 1897. A photo dated 1915 shows some trees surviving. A street plaque says '1902'. If a tree died. it was replaced by another. These were grown at various times from 1896-1904-1915-1920-1929.

Physical Description

Three trees, one Norfolk Pine, one Sugar Gum and one unknown species, were planted on the corner of Dempster and Andrew Streets in 1896. The Norfolk Pine survived and is outside the present day Australia Post building which is on the site of the first Post and Telegraph building. The other Norfolk Pine trees were planted in 1897.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: All

Condition

Good

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Bijou Theatre

Condition

Bijou Theatre is generally in good condition. The original building and later additions appear to have been well constructed and well maintained. A section of ceiling has fallen down in the back stage area, possibly caused by water damage. The ceiling and roof coverings in this area require attention to prevent further collapse and water entering the building. In addition the sub floor structure in the theatre space requires attention due to reported sagging of the floor.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Physical Description

The Bijou Theatre was built over a period of only 31 days. The size of the original building was 93 ft x 32 ft, height 22 ft, auditorium 55 ft x 32 ft with stage 17 ft x 30 ft. The floor was pine. Two backdrop scenes were painted by H Gough, one of West Beach and the "Grace Darling" entering the harbour and the other scene of a drawing room. Patrons were seated on wooden stools and chairs. Illumination was by six large kerosene lamps. Today the Bijou retains the original facade but it now bas raked seating, consisting of 160 padded fold up seats. A rear balcony accommodates stage lighting and sound operations. A bar/kiosk bar been built inside the small entrance foyer. Steps either side lead up to the auditorium.

History

The theatre was the main source of entertainment for the people of Esperance for more than 30 years after construction. It was erected by E J McCarthy & Co for the Adelaide and Esperance Land Company and opened by Mayor Thomas Edwards. The first Esperance Show was held in the Bijou in 1897. Prior to this building becoming the centre of entertainment gatherings were held in a local warehouse. From the beginning the venue hosted balls. concerts. variety shows. meetings. plays. flower shows. court sessions. etc. The building was the headquarters of the RAOB (Royal Antedeluvian Order of Buffalos Lodge) for some years. Films were shown for many years up to the late I 960s. The Esperance Repertory Club started in 1965 and bought the theatre from the RAOB Lodge. The group later become the Esperance Theatre Guild and to date still maintains the building's tradition as a prominent entertainment venue.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Roof and walls. Modifications: Raked seating, bar/kiosk, dressing rooms, kitchen and toilets installed by Esperance Theatre guild.

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Dempster Homestead (fmr), Esperance

Condition

The condition of the house is generally good due to resorations undertaken since the 1960s.

Uses

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Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

Architecturally very simple: effective and attractive use of local available materials. Built by the Dempster brothers, the pioneers of the area, it is the first building in Esperance and is therefore unique.

Physical Description

Stone walls and iron roof

History

Built approx 1864 Architect/builder not known. Built under the direction of the Dempster Brothers, presumably by their workmen. Original building of the first Esperance settlement.

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Physical Description

The former Dempster Homestead is a plain and unpretentious building which effectively used local materials. It is constructed of white limestone of random size rocks, with a plaster mix of seashells now blended together. The roof may have been shingle until iron became available. Yate tree saplings were used for roof timbers. A verandah was added later the roof of which has since been modified.

History

The Dempster homestead is on the site of Andrew Dempster's 1867 lease of 100,000 acres at Esperance Bay. In 1870 John and Alexander Forrest surveyed a 40 acre homestead site for Andrew Dempster. A small, wattle and daub house (no windows) preceded the present house. The Dempster Homestead is said to be the first building in Esperance built by pioneers of the area. It is an excellent example of a homestead of this period, using locally available building materials. It was lived in by the manager. Mr G Bostock and his wife from 1879-1898. A room was allowed to be used as a school room for children (about 6 in all). The Dempster children were sent to Adelaide. The Dempsters sold out in 1909 after the death of Andrew. William wanted the house but there was a family dispute. It was at one time a holiday centre. It lost its dignity until it was bought and restored by the Wordsworths.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Exterior Intact Modifications: Change in the end of the verandah.

Condition

Very Good

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Esperance RSL Building, Norfolk Island Pine Trees and War Memorial

Child Places

• 00825 R.S.L. Building / RSL Headquarters
• 05054 Norfolk Pine Trees

Physical Description

Comprises a single storey building of granite construction with an iron roof in the Federation Arts and Crafts style, Norfolk Island Pines (Araucaria hetrophylla), and an obelisk style War Memorial of stone and masonry construction.

History

The RSL building was the first purpose built school at Esperance (1896) and then served as Roads Board Offices/ Municipal Chambers from 1897 to 1966, and library from 1966 to 1970; Norfolk Island Pines were planted in 1896-97; the War Memorial was erected c.1922 and relocated to a different site within the same reserve in 1974.

Condition

Esperance RSL Building is generally in good condition. The building has been well maintained and retains a large number of original features. There is some cracking evident within the external granite walls and the external joinery requires maintenance; however, these items could be readily addressed with an ongoing programme of repair works. Esperance War Memorial is in good condition and is well maintained.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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R.S.L. Building / RSL Headquarters

Parent Place or Precinct

18402 Esperance RSL Building, Norfolk Island Pine Trees and War Memorial

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

This building is of significant heritage value due to its exellent condition with very little alteration. It is a very fine example of the architectural style for country towns. It is one of few municipal or government buildings relating to the architect/influence of George Temple Poole. It also shows the use of local building material. It has been listed by the National Trust

Physical Description

This small compact stone building is set in a landscaped area of pines. Built in the style of George Temple Poole buildings with decorative gables. it bas one main room and two small rooms. The four panel doors are of heavy timbers. panelled with timber used diagonally. The windows are high and are original. There is smooth painted decorative quoining on the corners and around the window frames, providing a contrast with dark stone walls.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: All. Some decorative wood strips missing. Modifications: None outside, little inside- roof painted red.

Condition

Very Good

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Moir Homestead Ruins

Condition

In State of ruin

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Physical Description

The Moir Fanny Cove Homestead and furm buildings were erected approximately two kilometres from Fanny Cove anchorage and about a half kilometre east of Fanny Cove. The limestone skeleton of the buildings, although in urgent need of stabilization, effectively reflect the atmosphere of such pioneer establishments. According to a National Trust report (1971) there were 5 structures: a house (similar in design to the old Dempster Homestead), woolshed, hut, forge and cast shed and remains of stock yards. Most roofs, floors, door and window frames had been removed. The kitchen range and adjacent bread oven, reflect the need for self sufficiency in the 'early days'. The smithy (forge) with its tool racks and outside wheel tyring slab was an important part of station activity. Despite poor condition the woolshed remains an interesting feature and the location of the horseworks and stockyards are clearly defined. There were remains of the wool press in the woolshed and remains of large bellows in the forge in 1971. At that time most of the buildings were occupied by bees, making detailed investigation difficult. The large 100 year old Moreton Bay fig tree and the tall palms growing up through it are impressive.

History

Nineteenth century pastoralists used the relatively small freehold homestead location as the hub of their extensive pastoral leases. Security of ownership of premises was assured and the sites selected were judged the best available. The Moirs of Fanny Cove cut the first track to Dundas in 1888 and later sold stores and equipment to miners landed from ships at Fanny Cove or trekking overland from Broomehill. It was also the base of their flour cartage contract to Coolgardie. The Fanny Cove Homestead saw the genesis of the branches of a family still making significant contributions to life in Esperance, Ravensthorpe and The Goldfields.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Main building: walls, cottage walls, rafters, roof, drystone well- all excellent condition. Modifications: Original verandah removed from the homestead.

Condition

Homestead, Smithy Shed and Cottage- all quite sound

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Tanker Jetty, Esperance

Condition

The condition of the jetty varies from poor to reasonably good.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Physical Description

This jetty, completed in 1935, replaced the original Government jetty at James Street. It became the New Jetty and its predecessor the 'Old Jetty'. The length of the jetty was 2,865 feet and the width 48 feel The depth of water at the seaward end is 36 feet. The depth of water at shore end is 26 feet. The jetty originally had long pipes for oil. However. when the new landbacked jetty was built. these were removed. The oil tanker Hemiglypton damaged a portion 105 feet long.

History

From 1935-65 this was the main jetty for the Esperance region. It was important for the transportation of oil to the Goldfields and it also handled general cargo from State and interstate ships. Exports from the region included wheal sail copper concentrate and other minerals. In 1965, when most shipping operations transferred to the ncw land backcd wharf. the New Jetty was retained as a tanker berth. and was officially called the Tanker Berth. After the second land-backed berth was completed the tankers were berthed at the new No 2 berth. The tanker berth then became a recreation facility and has retained the name Tanker Jetty. The jetty was to have been demolished. but a community "Save the Jetty" group lobbied for it to be saved and officials agreed to save the jetty and repairs are underway. It is said to be one of eight jetties in Australia that have been preserved. Tourists and locals use the jetty for recreation fishing.

Condition

Good- although concrete injections of piles are needed to preserve jetty.

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Israelite Bay Post and Telegraph Station

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The telegraph line from west to east was a major achievement for the time. The station has historic significance as a link in the Albany to Eucla and overseas communication system which played an important role in the development of Australia. The operation of the place had great scientific significance, but there is not much left to demonstrate that now. The remains of the building are a landmark in the remote location and demonstrate how well it was designed to suit its purposes and location. The social value of the place lies in its capacity to remind present and future generations of the ability of people to build and operate essential services in extremely difficult circumstances. The area is visited today only by occasional fishermen or people interested in local history. It is surrounded by Coastal Reserve No A 27632. commonly known as the Nuytsland Nature Reserve. The area containing the Telegraph Station and the ruins of the surrounding settlement have been classified by the National Trust of Australia (W Australia), and have been entered on the National Estate Register. It was also entered on the Western Australian Register of Heritage Places in 1993. The National Trust have produced a conservation plan for the Telegraph Station Building.

Physical Description

The telegraph station was founded in approximately 1877 when the Overland Telegraph Line was constructed. The early timber buildings were replaced with new and larger buildings in 1896 using the design of George Temple Poole. renowned government architect. under the supervision of builders Payne and Locke at a cost of £2,572. The building had 12-foot walls and four tall chimneys. The rooms were spacious and well proportioned. the public and mail room being 20 feet by 16 feet, with three tall windows along one wall. Housed under the one roof were the Telegraph master's residential quarters, and separate similar accommodation for the single men's quarters. The station remained in use until 1917 and although it was stripped of timber and iron which was sold and removed circa 1927, the stonework is in excellent condition. In the area are the graves of Postmasters John Healey 1898. John Francis c.1920. Thomas Brass 13.1.1916, John Cook 14.10.1912. and John Charles Lecount 18.12.1922 (aged 52 years)

History

Apart from the Telegraph Station staff. others lived in the area too. Cook's cottage is still present although is partly ruined. Dimer bought the Telegraph Station building in 1927. He took the roofing for the shearers quarters on his property in 1928. The Brooks house ruins. a cemetery with five graves and the ruins of the house occupied by Cook can be seen.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: The walls of the ruin are solid.

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Statement of Significance

Architectural and historical interest

History

Built 1877, Wooden structure, standard design New buildings erected 1896 of which this is remains. Standard design by G. Temple Poole for station and quarters. One of numerous repeater stations between Albany and Eucla Telegraph station until 1917. Sold to private ownership 1927.

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Salmon Gums Research Station

Condition

poor to fair

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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