Kwinana Police Station

Condition

Good

Uses

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Leda West (inc Sloans Reserve)

Uses

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Statement of Significance

Aesthetic Value: The Leda woodland area has strong aesthetic appeal. The undulating hill country not only provides a visual contrast to the surrounding industrial and urban areas, and contains internal contrasts. Historic Value: Portions of the site were once part of the land farmed by the Sloan family, and evidence of the former agricultural use can still be seen in the remnant sections of fence located throughout the reserve. Scientific Value: The place supports a variety of wildlife and is important for flora and fauna conservation as part of the Beeliar wetland system, providing breeding grounds and summer refuge areas for a number of species. Social Value: ther reserve is valued by the community as a place for informal recreation that has retained its indigenous, flora and fauna. Research Value: The place supports a variety of wildlife and is important for flora and fauna conservation as part of the Beeliar wetland system, providing breeding grounds and summer refuge areas for a number of species. It has potential for archaeological finds relevant to the Sloan family farming enterprises and for its ongoing association with the Whadjuk Noongar. Representativeness: The park includes wetlands and surrounding landscape that demonstrates indigenous flora and fauna. Level of significance: Exceptional

Physical Description

The place comprises a large reserve of wetlands and woodland in an area where most of the surrounding land has been developed for housing and agriculture. The reserve is a popular recreational area, containing numerous walk paths, and also includes the historic Sloan Cottage, located near its eastern boundary. The topography varies from steep to undulating with small limestone outcrops. In the centre there is a chain of lakes and wetlands. The swamps are fringed by a low woodland of flooded gum and swamp paperbark, while further east the dunes are covered by a low open forest of jarrah, banksia, woody pear and sheoak.

History

In 1889, George Samuel Sloan purchased 40 acres of land, being Cockburn Location 279. Their land was located on the east side of the swamp land, on the opposite side of the valley from the Hymuses and Bells. The land was used to produce a variety of fruits and vegetables, mainly potatoes and cabbages. Farming of the swamp land ceased in the 1950s, although the original fence lines that extended north-south into the wetlands could still be seen for many years afterwards. In 1977, much of the Crown Land surrounding the wetland was released for residential subdivision purposes. Leda Reserve was created in December 1994, and was gazetted as an ‘A’ class reserve for the conservation of flora and fauna. In particular it was recognised for its wealth and variety of local flora - including the tuart, jarrah/banksia woodlands and wetland communities – and fauna, such as the southern brown bandicoot, the western brush wallaby and the echidna. Aerial photographs of the site since the mid 20th century show that the state of the vegetation has changed little although it is clear that development is encroaching on the boundaries of the reserve to the north.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Moderate Authenticity: High

Condition

Good

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Pines Cottage

Parent Place or Precinct

03841 East Rockingham Heritage Precinct

Physical Description

The place comprises the ruins of a former limestone cottage, consisting of predominantly broken walls, most of which are less than half of their original height and some of which are totally obscured by masonry rubble. The ruin site is marked by a pair of mature and distinctive Norfolk Island pine trees, while other plantings include some remnant garden and orchard plants. A scattering of archaeological material, mainly domestic refuse of colonial date, is located approximately 40 metres west of the ruined dwelling. Concentrations of artefacts may be found on the track leading from the site to the marshalling yards. Just north of this area is the foundation slab of what appears to have been a fairly substantial and recent shed structure.

Uses

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Statement of Significance

Aesthetic Value: The place has aesthetic value as a picturesque ruin of a limestone cottage dating from the 1850s and the remnants are representative of a simple, limestone rural cottage of modest proportions, built using local materials. The mature Norfolk Island pine trees are highly visible elements in the landscape and form a distinctive landmark in the cleared area of the marshalling yards. Historic Value: The place is associated with the Thorpe family, particularly John and Mary Thorpe, who established the cottage and whose family The place is historically significant as one of the earliest land grants in the area, and combines with other remaining homes such as Lealholm, Smirk’s Cottage, Key Cottage and Paradise Cottage to form a precinct that represents the early settlement of the East Rockingham district. Level of significance: Exceptional

Physical Description

The place comprises the ruins of a former limestone dwelling, consisting of predominantly walls remnants, most of which little more than stubs and some of which are totally obscured by masonry rubble. Building materials and rubbish are scattered across the site. Walls extant in 2008 no longer stand. The ruin site is marked by a pair of mature and distinctive Norfolk Island pine trees, while other plantings include some remnant garden and orchard plants. A scattering of archaeological material, mainly domestic refuse of colonial date, is located approximately 40 metres west of the ruined dwelling. Concentrations of artefacts may be found on the track leading from the site to the marshalling yards. The place is in ruinous condition, having suffered from vandalism and the ravages of a coastal environment.

History

Ben and Jane Thorpe, with three children, Edwin, Anne and Mary, came to Western Australia in 1831, on the Eliza. John was the first child born to them after their arrival in the colony, and he later became the first settler named Thorpe at East Rockingham. In 1854 he married Mary Ann Barry and in the same year, John’s elder brother, Edwin, purchased Lot 58 comprising 10 acres and gave it to his brother and sister-in-law to start their married life. John and Mary subsequently built the cottage using local building materials including limestone and sheoak, and a number of salvaged items, including nails and five-feet high doorways believed to have come from sailing ships. John and Mary raised ten children in the cottage, and were responsible for clearing most of the land for the planting of fruit trees. In 1867, with Edwin acting as his agent, John acquired a further twelve acres, being lot 139, adjacent to his first block. Other improvements included the addition of a windmill in 1900, which was located near the cottage and was used to pump water from the nearby well, and the planting of the distinctive Norfolk Pine trees, c.1925. John and Mary both died in 1902, and ownership passed onto their two sons Ebenezer and James. Descendants of the Thorpe family continued to occupy the cottage until the late 1930s, and in 1943, following a period of vacancy, the place was purchased by Mr. Riseley, who made additions to the house. In 1953, the land was resumed for the development of Kwinana, however the cottage remained occupied by tenants. In 1975, the roof of the cottage was destroyed by fire, and since this time has rapidly deteriorated to become a ruin.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Low Authenticity: High

Condition

Ruinous

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SS Kwinana - Shipwreck, Wells Park

Parent Place or Precinct

12101 Wells Park

Uses

Historic Themes

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Statement of Significance

Aesthetic Value: The remains of the ship’s hull, whose form is clearly evident despite being filled with limestone, forms an interesting structure on the promontory of Kwinana Beach, and is a well-known landmark. Historic Value: The place marks the final resting site of the S.S. Kwinana, a former State Shipping Vessel that was driven ashore in 1922 after breaking its moorings at Garden Island and being blown across Cockburn Sound. The name of the ship was embraced as the name of the new satellite town of Kwinana when it was developed in the 1950s, although the area had long been known as ‘Kwinana Wreck’, ever since the local post-mistress, Clara Wells, scrawled this name across the mail bags. Social Value: As a well-known and publicly accessible landmark, the place contributes to the community’s sense of place. Representativeness: The place demonstrates an innovative approach to the reuse of a shipwreck to create a public viewing and fishing platform. level of significance: Exceptional Historic Value: The place marks the final resting site of the S.S. Kwinana, a former State Shipping Vessel that was driven ashore in 1922 after breaking its moorings at Garden Island and being blown across Cockburn Sound. The name of the ship was embraced as the name of the new satellite town of Kwinana when it was developed in the 1950s, although the area had long been known as ‘Kwinana Wreck’, ever since the local post-mistress, Clara Wells, scrawled this name across the mail bags. Social Value: As a well-known and publicly accessible landmark, the place contributes to the community’s sense of place.

Physical Description

The place comprises the rusting shell of a steel ship hull, which has been cut down to water level and filled with concrete to form a platform. The pointed form of the hull is still evident, although there is more concrete and stone indicating the shape than steel, and the structure extends out into the bay of Kwinana Beach for a length of approximately 5 metres. A jetty is located immediately south of the wreck, extending from the slight promontory that connects the two structures.

History

Originally named ‘Darius’ when built in 1892 by William Doxford and Sons at Sunderland, England, for three Melbourne ship owners, the 3,295 tons vessel was renamed ‘Kwinana’ when purchased by the Western Australian Government and registered in Fremantle on 26 August, 1912. As the S.S. Darius, the ship was mainly used to transport horses to the Imperial forces in India, however as S.S. Kwinana it was used primarily to transport cattle from the north west of WA to Robb Jetty. It also made occasional voyages overseas, transporting WA timber to New Zealand, South Africa and China. Between 1912 and 1922, when the S.S. Kwinana finally sank, the ship encountered numerous incidents which left it damaged, including scraping the bottom of the hull, hitting rocks, and a fire in the coal bunkers. Having been almost completely gutted by fire in 1921, it was decided to escort the ship to Fremantle to be made seaworthy again, however during this voyage, the S.S. Kwinana collided with S.S. Port Stephens and eventually had to be towed into the harbour. Upon arrival, the restoration of the S.S. Kwinana was deemed uneconomical, and the ship was stripped of any fittings of value. After an unsuccessful attempt to sell the ship, it was decided to tow S.S. Kwinana to Careening Bay, Garden Island, however it was this voyage that was her last. On 28 July 1922, following a north-westerly gale, S.S. Kwinana broke her moorings and was blown across Cockburn Sound to her final resting place, now known as Kwinana Beach. In 1941 the rusting hulk of the ‘Kwinana’ was partly destroyed with explosive, then in 1959 the Fremantle Harbour Trust cut the hulk down to low water level. Later the centre was filled with limestone to form a platform. The place name ‘Kwinana’ was adopted in a rather jocular manner by local post-mistress, Mrs Clara Wells, who marked the mail bags ‘Kwinana Wreck’ to identify the location of her store, which was located just east of the shipwreck. (Source: Laurie Russell, Kwinana “Third Time Lucky”, 1979) The place name ‘Kwinana’ was adopted in a rather jocular manner by local post-mistress, Mrs Clara Wells, who marked the mail bags ‘Kwinana Wreck’ to identify the location of her store, which was located just east of the shipwreck. The name was formally gazetted as the 'Kwinana Townsite' in 1937, but in November 1955, the Kwinana Progress Association requested that the area be re named 'Kwinana Beach' to prevent confusion with the townsite of Kwinana being established by the State Government. Aerial photographs show that a jetty has been present adjoining the wreck from the early 1960s. Initially the jetty had an 'L' shaped form which was changed c1974 to a simple straight structure. By 1977, the jetty had a 'T' shaped form and the entire structure was removed in mid 2016.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Low Authenticity: Low

Condition

Fair

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Wells Park

Child Places

• 12109 SS Kwinana - Shipwreck, Wells Park

Uses

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Child Places

• 12109 SS Kwinana - Shipwreck, Wells Park

Statement of Significance

Aesthetic Value: The place is an attractive urban park, in a prominent location along Kwinana Beach, and features a number of mature trees including tuarts, palms and pines, which contribute to the appearance and amenity of the place. Historic Value: The place is associated with Clara Wells, the former postmistress who first marked mailbags ‘Kwinana Wreck’ at her nearby store when the old ship drifted ashore. Social Value: The place is valued by the community as a public park adjacent to the beachfront of the main swimming beach at Kwinana. Representativeness: the place is a typical suburban park will a well maintained landscaped area that has developed over the decades it has been in use. Level of significance: Considerable.

Physical Description

The place comprises a large public foreshore park at Kwinana Beach, bounded on its southeast boundary by Rockingham Beach Road. The park comprises a large expanse of grass, interspersed with mature tuart trees and Canary Island Date palms. There are also a number of Norfolk Island Pine trees, peppermints and sheoaks occurring in clusters throughout the park. Steel-framed shade structures incorporating fixed table and chair seating are located throughout the park, as are brick gas bbq’s and rubbish bins. A large sandy childrens' playarea is located close to the parking area and abultions block close to where the grassed area meets the sandy beach. A hard playing court is located to the northern end of the park. Recent improvements include a brick and iron ablutions block, paving and other amenities, and is in good condition. The section of beach adjacent to the park is noteworthy as the only designated swimming beach in the town of Kwinana, and features the wreck of S.S. Kwinana, and a short jetty and boat ramp. Heavy industry surrounds the park on all sides.

History

In 1966, Kwinana Councillor Charles Mitchell put forward a motion that the beach front reserve adjacent to the Kwinana wreck should be named Wells Park in honour of Clara Wells, the well-known post-mistress who in 1922, rather flippantly scrawled the words ‘Kwinana Wreck’ across the mail bags to be despatched from her nearby store. The park was finally named in December 1970, after Kwinana Beach residents agreed that the resting place of the Kwinana wreck should be called Wells’ Park. The name was formally adopted in 1974. This area had been an informal park from the 1950s when Kwinana was a popular holiday destination. The land on the opposite side of Kwinana Beach Road was the location of a caravan park and guest houses. The Rockingham Road Board established a playground on the site in 1951 and it continues to be maintained by the City of Kwinana, and its preceding authorities, the Shire of Kwinana and Kwinana Road Board. The reserve was formally created in 1956 for public utility and is now designated for public recreation. Aerial photographs indicate that one on the initial facilities on the park was a tennis court built in the early 1960s. A large area of carparking was provided from the late 1960s parallel to the beach which was modified in mid 2012 to create the current paved pathway across the park. These works created more landscaped areas north of the pathway.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: High Authenticity: High

Condition

Good

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Paradise Cottage

Parent Place or Precinct

03841 East Rockingham Heritage Precinct

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

Aesthetic Value: The place has aesthetic value as a picturesque ruin of a limestone cottage dating from the 1870s and the remnants are representative of a simple, limestone rural cottage of modest proportions, built using local materials. The remnant landscape features, particularly the stone well and row of mature tuart trees, contributes to the character of the building and represents all that remains of the early rural setting of the place. Historic Value: The place is associated with the Thomas family, particularly Joseph and Amelia Thomas, who established the property c. 1870 and continued to occupy it for at least 60 years. The place is historically significant as one of the earliest land grants in the area, and combines with other remaining homes such as Lealholm, Smirk’s Cottage, Key Cottage and Pines Cottage to form a precinct that represents the early settlement of the East Rockingham district. Level of significance: Exceptional

Physical Description

Paradise Cottage comprises the ruins of a single-storey masonry cottage with a steeply pitched hipped roof, incorporating skillion lean-to additions to the rear and a skillion verandah to the front elevation, both of which have subsided. The remaining walls are constructed with coursed limestone blocks, with brick quoining to the external openings. The roof is clad with corrugated galvanised iron, and has dispersed within the ruin. There is also general rubble associated with previous cement block and corrugated iron additions. Around the building are a number of notable landscape features including a well with a rubble limestone lining located 11 metres south of the building, and a row of mature tuart trees on the buildings west side. In 2015 the extant portions of the place comprised the rear wall with chimney, rear skilion additions, low wall remnants and building materials collapsed across the site. At least two walls extant in 2008 no longer stand. The place is in ruinous condition, having suffered from vandalism and the ravages of a coastal environment.

History

In 1867, Joseph W. Thomas, the second son of Captain John Thomas, married Amelia Key, the daughter of Edward Key from Mona’s Mount, and two years later gained title to 40 acres of land at Cockburn Sound – Lot 139. It is believed that he constructed Paradise Cottage the following year, in 1870. In 1878, Joseph Thomas acquired another 7 acres, namely Lot 146, and by the 1930s, the Thomas family land holding had considerably expanded. In the 1950s, as land was being resumed for the creation of the residential suburbs of Kwinana, the cottage was occupied by tenants, but it was vacant by the 1990s when ownership of the place was transferred to the Commissioner of Railways. (Source: Nora Taggart, Rockingham Looks Back, 1984; and, Palassis Architects, Study of Conservation Options for Thorpe, Thomas & Bell Cottages, 1997)

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Moderate Authenticity: Moderate-high

Condition

Ruinous

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East Rockingham School Site

Parent Place or Precinct

03841 East Rockingham Heritage Precinct

Uses

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

Historic Value: The place has historic value as the site of the former East Rockingham School, which was established in 1865 to facilitate the education of the children of the local early settlers and was the first school in the district. The place is associated with the early settlers of the East Rockingham who made significant contributions, both individually and collectively, to the development of the district, including the construction of the East Rockingham School. The place is associated with the various teachers who taught at the school, including Mr. Chamberlain, Mrs. Hymus, Mrs. Cobb, Mrs. Devenish, Miss Ramsay and Miss Simpson. Social Value: The place is valued by the community as the site of the original East Rockingham School, as evidenced by the placement of a commemorative plaque honouring the achievements of the early pioneers who established the school. Descendants of the early settlers of the East Rockingham district value the place as the site where many of the settlers’ children, their forebears, received their education. Level of significance: Historic Site.

Physical Description

The site of the former school is marked by a granite stone, which has been placed in the grassed clearing on the northeast corner of the intersection of Mandurah Road and Wellard Road. A plaque has been fixed to the stone and reads ‘East Rockingham School Site – The school was constructed in 1865 by the local community. The first teacher at the newly constructed school was Charles Chamberlain. In 1938 it was named as the Pioneer Settlers Hall and in 1950 was officially opened as the East Rockingham Memorial Hall. The building constructed of limestone blocks remained until 1966 when it was damaged by fire and then was subsequently demolished.’ A number of mature trees are located within the school site, including a pair of large Cape Lilacs and numerous tuarts. There are also some burnt logs and the remains of a corrugated iron rainwater tank located near the Cape Lilacs. A timber post and rail fence bounds the site along Wellard Road.

History

Many of the families living within the East Rockingham district during the 1860s had young children, the Meads for example had four, the Days had seven, the Bells eight, the Thorpes six and the Smirks about five. For schooling, the families initially paid William Hymus sixpence a week to teach them, and the government paid a further three shillings and sixpence per week. The Hymus House was used as the schoolroom, but quickly became too small. A petition was sent to the Government requesting help in the building and staffing of a school. This eventually came in the form of a grant, and through the work of a busy bee, the East Rockingham school was built, consisting of one school room and one room for the teacher’s quarters. Bishop Hale notes in his diary that the school was begun in 1865. As the labour was voluntary, and as much of the skilled work had to be done by tradesmen such as James Bell and William Day, it is probably that it was not until the end of 1865 that it was opened. The first teacher at the school was Mr. Chamberlain, who was replaced temporarily by Fanny Hymus while he was away prospecting in 1868. Chamberlain returned to teaching at the school in 1871, followed again by Mrs. Hymus in 1873, then Mrs. Cobb in 1874, Mrs Devenish in 1875 and Mrs. Hymus in 1876. Miss Ramsay was also a teacher at East Rockingham School before marrying a farmer in 1886, followed by Miss Simpson, who taught locally for approximately 30 years, at first exclusively at East Rockingham, then later at Rockingham School. When the port declined after 1902, the Rockingham School closed and the children were obliged to attend at East Rockingham. As well as being a schoolroom, the building was also used regularly by Tom Smirk to conduct Sunday services. Located on the corner of Wellard and Mandurah Roads, the place was a picturesque building constructed of limestone. Following significant damage suffered during a fire in 1966, it was demolished and a replacement school built diagonally opposite, on the corner of Office Road.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Low Authenticity: Low

Condition

Site Only

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Key Cottage

Parent Place or Precinct

03841 East Rockingham Heritage Precinct

Physical Description

Constructed partially from hand sewn blocks of Rockingham Limestone, 2 foot thick. The original sheoak shingle roof has been covered by sheet metal. Lath and plaster ceilings in three of the four original rooms remains intact. The original structure of the four room cottage is intact. There have been a number of additions to the original cottage over the years which vary in style. Earlier additions are of weatherboard and fibro to the sleep-out and bedrooms. In the 1980s a bathroom and laundry were added and are made of brick. Key Cottage is currently being used as a Riding School.

Condition

Good

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

Aesthetic Value: The building is an attractive and picturesque cottage, characterised by a number of additions that have been added to the central rectilinear form, resulting in an interesting combination of building forms and materials. Historic Value: The place is associated with Edward Key Snr and Edward Key Jnr, who established the property in the 1850s, and whose family was one of the first to settle in the area and occupied the property for over 40 years. The place is associated with Sam Dvoretsky, a well-known local businessman who served Rockingham for 27 years, seventeen of them as Chairman of the Road Board. The place is historically significant as one of the earliest land grants in the area, and combines with other remaining homes such as Lealholm, Smirk’s Cottage, Paradise Cottage and Pines Cottage to form a precinct that represents the early settlement of the East Rockingham district. Representativeness: The place is representative of the type of homes constructed by the early families such as the Keys, Hymuses and Thorpes using the local East Rockingham stone. The later additions are typical of the tradition of expanding an existing cottage to meet the needs of a growing family and business. Level of significance: Exceptional

Physical Description

The place comprises a mostly single-storey building, evidently constructed over a number of stages using different materials, with sections built of the local Rockingham limestone, rendered masonry, and timber-framing clad with fibro cement. The building presents different forms to each elevation, but has a rendered masonry core, with a hipped corrugated iron roof a recently-constructed dormer has been installed into the roof space) and a skillion verandah across three elevations. A timber-framed gable bay is attached to the southwest corner of this main core, and attached to that, facing south, is a lean-to section constructed with random coursed limestone blocks. Despite the various additions and materials, the building presents well and has a distinct and picturesque character. The residence is situated on a raised mound overlooking surrounding farmland, with a stone and concrete retaining wall to its perimeter. A large stone well, approximately 3 metres in diameter is located on the southwest corner of the building, which appears to be in continuous use. Other early structures include a rendered masonry shed located south of the residence, on the east side of the entry driveway. There are various other sheds and horse stables located throughout the site. Currently, the place is a private family residence and continues to be well maintained.

History

Edward Key (1807-1882) and his wife Isabella, nee Kermode (1809-1884) arrived in the Swan River Colony in 1841. Edward Key worked as a baker and merchant before purchasing 10 acres of land on this site in September 1854 to establish a farm and home for his family which included four children. A month later his son, Edward Jnr (1839-1879), purchased another 10 acres. At that time the property lay beside the sandy limestone track to Armadale, approximately half way between the Thorpe and Mead farming properties. It is currently [2021] on the north side of what is now Wellard Road, near its junction with Mandurah Road. The cottage, known as 'Mona's Mount', was built of the distinctive local 'vuggy' limestone as were many buildings in the region durig this period. The stone was either quarried on site or nearby. The Key family occupied the property until the mid 1890s. Samuel Dvoretsky (1862-1942), born in Belarus then part of the Russian Empire, settled in Australia in the 1890s. In 1898, he purchased the Key farm property and settled there with his wife Mary and their five children. Dvoretsky who left Russia as a wood cutter, later became a well-known local businessman who served as Chairman to the Rockingham Road Board for 17 years and consistently supported the advancement of the roads leading to Fremantle, Armadale and Serpentine. An obituary on his death in 1942 stated he was 'one of pioneers in of tractor farming in Western Australia and had extensive agricultural interests in several districts.' Rose (1900-1979), the youngest child and only daughter of the Dvoretsky's became an art collector and gallery owner in Perth with her third husband Joe Skinner. The Skinner galleries were influential in the promotion of the visual arts in Western Australia and the promotion of local artists. Aerial photographs from the mid 20th century show that the form and extent of the cottage have not changed significantly since that time.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity; High Authenticity: Moderate

Condition

Good

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Mead Homestead

Parent Place or Precinct

03841 East Rockingham Heritage Precinct

Condition

Poor

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

Aesthetic Value: The place has aesthetic value as a distinct cultural environment, being an intact collection of vernacular farm buildings of the 19th century within a cleared pasture setting surrounded by native bushland. The close proximity of Lake Cooloongup further enhances the setting of the place. The various landscape features, including the remnant fig trees, mulberry tree, peppermint tree, mature gum trees, the tankstands represent early plantings on the site and combine with the buildings to create pleasing environs. Historic Value: The place is associated with the Mead family, who were pioneers in this State and owned the property for over 130 years, and much of the existing fabric of the building features in the family’s history, for example the three consecutive dwellings, the various working buildings, remnant fig orchards and other specific trees all illustrate aspects of their lives. The place is historically significant as one of the earliest land grants in the area, and combines with other remaining homes such as Key Cottage, Smirk’s Cottage, Paradise Cottage and Pines Cottage to form a precinct that represents the early settlement of the East Rockingham district. Social Value: The place is among a number of significant sites in the area which provide the district with a sense of history and permanence.Mead Homestead has social significance due to interest and support for its retention from the City of Kwinana, the Mead family and members of the local community. The recent occupancy of the place by Horse Power Peel Group has brought more members of the community to the place who have actively sought to preserve and restore it. Level of significance: Exceptional

Physical Description

Lealholm (mead Homestead) comprises an early farming property located south of the East Rockingham Cemetery and east of the railway line, with access via Mead Road, a dirt track that extends east from Mandurah Road. The place includes the early homestead, outbuildings, working buildings and remnant orchard, all set within the setting of cleared pasture. The site also includes a raised mound believed to be the site of the first cottage, a raised pathway between the dairy and homestead, and a number of tree including peppermints, fig trees, a mulberry, and large gum known as ‘the killing tree’. The homestead is built of masonry, the older part made using the local East Rockingham limestone (vuggy lacustrine limestone) with lime mortar, the newer with red brick and a weak cement mortar. The building comprises a main house with a verandah along the rear and south side, and a semi-detached room which was formerly the kitchen. The entire homestead has a timber-framed hipped roof clad with corrugated galvanised iron. External openings in the limestone part of the building are trimmed with red brick quoining. Windows are typically timber-framed side-hung casements, while doors are timber-framed doors with patterned glass inserts. Four outbuildings occupy the yard immediately south of the homestead. A limestone toilet with an adjoining timber-framed laundry and store (clad with fibro) is situated near the former kitchen. An old timber tank stand and lean-to are located just south of the toilet and laundry. West of this are two timber-framed huts clad with fibro and corrugated iron roofs. The barn is a timber-framed structure constructed of vertical bush poles with milled hardwood rafters supporting the corrugated iron roof, which is hipped, with a gable on the south. The external walls are clad with corrugated iron (interior lined with timber boards) and the building comprises one main volume and stables opening out onto yards on the north. The dairy is in a ruinous condition, with no roof and only partial limestone walls remain extant.

History

The site was first purchased by Henry Mead c.1854. Henry was later joined by his brother, William Mead c.1860s. While Henry’s purchase was finalised in 1857, William himself was not granted title to the land until 1878. The property was named Lealholm after the village in Yorkshire from which the Mead brothers had come, and was used primarily to raise small animals (larger animals were grazed on the commonage on the west side of Mandurah Road until at least the 1960s) and grow vegetables, crops and fruit trees. In 1860, William planted approximately 70 fig trees near where the ruined dairy now stands and along the drive. The first house built on the property was a wattle-and – daub one-roomed dwelling (no longer extant), while the second house, was built using limestone obtained from the property and was believed to have be constructed in time for William’s wife and children to move into, c. 1860. In 1895 a third and larger house was built closer to Mandurah Road, using stone sourced from the swamp land on the other side of the road, between Office and Dixon Roads. A barn and shed were constructed at about the same time as the house, which by this time was occupied by William’s eldest daughter Hannah, and her husband (and first cousin) George Mead and eight children. After George’s death in 1917, his third son Andrew took over the farm, and along with his wife, Muriel (nee Pollard), planted the peppermint tree still standing in the backyard from seed obtained on their honeymoon in Busselton. During the inter-war years, Andrew Mead bought up a substantial amount of East Rockingham land and established a dairy herd at Lealholm, it was also during this time that much of the land was cleared using local men. Following Andrew’s death in 1946, Lealholm was run by his sons Murray and Colin, and it was not long after, in the early 1950s, that the government resumed part of the Mead property for the future suburb of Medina. Despite the deaths of both Murray\ and Colin during this decade, and the cessation of dairying operations forced by the subdivision of the land, the Mead family descendants continued to occupy the property until 1989, when it was finally sold to the government. Following the transfer of the property to the state government the place was occupied by tenants but gradually fell into disuse and then was extensively vandalised and a fire caused siginificant damage. In 2014, the property was leased to Peel Riding for Disabled (HorsePower Peel Group) and grant funds were secured from the State Government for conservation works and rebuilding. These funds have enabled the construction of buildings and groundworks for the group to establish a thriving organisation however no works have been undertaken on the former homestead.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Moderate Authenticity: High

Condition

Good

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Radio Communication Centre

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Statement of Significance

Aesthetic Value: The concrete structures have visual interest due to their distinct vaulted form, and as free-standing elements located in otherwise uncleared bushland, have a high degree of visibility when viewed from Wellard Road. Historic Value: The place is associated with Australia’s coastal defence system erected in response to external threats during World War II. Social value: the former communication huts have value for the former members of the RAAF 228 Radar Station who served there during World War two. Research value: the place has potential archaeological value to reveal evidence of military occupation during the second World War. Representativeness: The huts and communications tower are typical of the structures built to military design and specification across Australia. Level of significance: Considerable

Physical Description

Located on the south side of Wellard Road, on an elevated spot known as Parrot Bush Hill, are three concrete bunker structures and remnants of radar towers and a collection of other remnants that formed the former Radio Communication Centre. The bunkers are almost identical and are characterised by their semi-circular vaulted form. The structures are approximately 4.2 metres wide and 5.1 metres long with each having a single narrow doorway at one end, and a centrally placed window at the other. A tower is located at the rear of each of the bunkers. Internally, some timber framing to openings is still intact, suggesting the window had fixed louvres (no longer intact). The walls and vaulted walls/ceiling have a distinct striped appearance as a result of the timber formwork used to create them insitu. The interior floor is also concrete, and contains a narrow rectangular pit, currently filled with litter, which would have housed the generator and engine. A rusted radar tower remains extant close to the third bunker with footings of a second tower also remaining extant. The buildings are generally in good condition but have been subject to vandalism and graffiti. A commemorative plaque has been placed at the site (over the doorway to the easternmost hut) by RAAF Radar Veterans, RAAFA Aviation Museum and the Town of Kwinana. In 2021, the huts are vacant, but in generally fair condition, although heavily graffitied.

History

The Cockburn Sound area played an important role in Australia’s coastal defence system, comprising an almost land-locked Sound protected by the placement of coastal gun batteries on Garden Island, Rottnest Island and the mainland. The RAAF 228 Radar Station was formed at Subiaco on 24 May 1943 and transferred to East Rockingham on 20 August 1943. It went to reduced operations (one watch) on 2 May 1944 and operations ceased on 2 February 1945. The unit then went into care and maintenance. It officially closed on 17 September 1945 and was disbanded on 10 May 1945. Staff at the station comprised both RAAF and WAAAF but was predominantly female as the employment of WAAAFs (Women’s Auxiliary Australian Air Force) released male personnel for overseas service. During the operating period the station was under the command of Plt Officers A.W. Read; P.L. Beetson; A.W. Read; A.T. Carmody; and H.A. Strickland. The Light Weight Air Warning Radar operated at 42.05 MHz and was located at 32° 15’ 2”S 115° 47’ 30”E at an elevation of 100 feet. The two structures were believed to have been constructed during World War II and have been identified as Radar Detection Huts, operated by personnel who were stationed at the nearby campsite on Gentle Road (no longer extant). It is unclear what other facilities were located at the site for the operation of the station. Similar radar units were located at Cannington and Yanchep. Aerial photographs of the site since the mid 20th century indicate there has been little change to the structures or the surrounding bushland.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Moderate Authenticity: High

Condition

Fair

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Sloans Reserve

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Sloan's Cottage, Leda

Parent Place or Precinct

03841 East Rockingham Heritage Precinct

Condition

Sloan’s Cottage, Kwinana is in good condition.

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Statement of Significance

Aesthetic Value: The place is a simple but attractive stone building with a traditional cottage form, incorporating a hipped iron roof, a symmetrical arrangement of windows either side of the central entry door, and a timber-framed skillion verandah that extends across the front elevation. The various landscape features, particularly the mature trees, interspersed throughout the cottage-style garden, represent early plantings on the site and combine with the cottage to create pleasing environs. The place is a well-known local landmark, with a high degree of visibility from the roads that border the eastern edge of Sloans Reserve, and also from within the Reserve. Historic Value: The place is associated with the Sloan family, who were early settlers in the district with family connections to other settlers (such as the Smirks) and occupied the site for over 60 years. Social Value: The place is among a number of significant sites in the area which provide the district with a sense of history and permanence. This is further evidenced by ongoing community efforts to ensure its preservation and conservation. Representativeness: The building is significant for its form and simplicity of construction and represents an early type of building form which once characterised the rural setting of the area. Level of significance: Exceptional

Physical Description

Sloan Cottage comprises a simple rectilinear building with a traditional cottage form, featuring rubble stone walls, a hipped corrugated iron roof, a symmetrical arrangement of windows either side of the central entry door on the main elevation, and a timber-framed skillion verandah that extends across the front (west) elevation. The verandah is raised approximately 1200mm above ground level, with a timber-framed floor supported on stone foundations. Timber steps provide access to the verandah, and are located opposite the central front door. A simple timber handrail to the stairs is continued to form the verandah balustrade. A lean-to addition is located to the rear (east) of the cottage, partly enclosing the rear verandah, which has timber posts and timber floor. The enclosed (southwest) section is constructed with stone and pre-finished corrugated iron, while the northern wall is timber framed, with a vertical timber lining to the exterior. A small water tank and timber-framed pergola are located on the northwest corner of the lean-to. The building is set within an attractive cottage garden, the result of improvement works carried out since the early 1990s, and also incorporates a number of mature trees including Cape Lilacs, Jacarandas, peppercorn trees and a large ficus located to the northeast of the cottage. The garden is bounded by a timber post and rail fence with chainlink fencing. Remnants of an early post and wire farm fence is also still extant within the garden. Sloan Cottage is located within a large reserve, with Heritage House located to the north of Sloan Cottage. The reserve forms part of the Kwinana Loop Trail.

History

In 1889, George Samuel Sloan purchased 40 acres of land on Cockburn Sound Location No. 279, being a section of land between Thomas Peel’s Estate and the coast. George was married to Emma (nee Smirk) in 1880, the eldest daughter of Thomas and Eliza Smirk, some of the earliest settlers in the district. George Sloan built an early residence on the property c. 1885, which was later replaced by the existing structure, built in 1911, with the assistance of his sons, Trevor and Melville. The land was used to produce a variety of fruits and vegetables, mostly potatoes and cabbages, which were sent to Fremantle markets. In 1917, George Sloan died and the property was taken over by Trevor Sloan, who assumed responsibility and continued working the farm. Trevor married Florence Brown and they extended the farm by purchasing a further 50 acres and 130 acres nearby. Trevor and Florence continued to reside in the cottage until c. 1954, and not long after their departure, the building was taken over by the Kwinana Council. During the 1950s the place was used for selling locally-grown pumpkins, and in the 1960s the house was occupied by Mr Ingham (1961-65) and then Mr Gilber (1968-69) before becoming vacant. The house remained unoccupied for a number of years, and was badly vandalised in this time. During 1973-78, the Deputy Mayor of Kwinana, Wally Prockter, invested much personal effort to ensure the preservation and conservation of the building and stabilisation works were undertaken following receipt of a Commonwealth Grant. Improvements to the building and its site have continued to take place since the 1970s, with the involvement of a number of community groups. In 2014, a conservation management strategy was prepared for the place. The report found that the place was generally in fair condition, but a number of defects were discovered, generally related to vandalism, damp and general maintenance. Conservation works were undertaken and since that time the place continues to be well maintained.

Integrity/Authenticity

Condition: Good Integrity: Moderate-High

Condition

Good

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Mandogalup Townsite

Child Places

• 12092 Soldier Settler Homes, Mandogalup
• 12116 Balmanup Post Office - Site of
• 12087 Mandogalup Post Office (fmr)
• 12130 7 Mile Site ("Sevvy" to later settlers)
• 12115 White Bridge
• 12114 Jolly's Bridge
• 12100 Hall Reserve - Mandogalup

Uses

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Child Places

• 12092 Soldier Settler Homes, Mandogalup
• 12116 Balmanup Post Office - Site of
• 12087 Mandogalup Post Office (fmr)
• 12130 7 Mile Site ("Sevvy" to later settlers)
• 12115 White Bridge
• 12114 Jolly's Bridge
• 12100 Hall Reserve - Mandogalup

Statement of Significance

Aesthetic Value: The remaining soldier settler homes, combined with the hall site and the post office and store ruins, reveal the layout and character of the early buildings that formed the focus of Mandogalup townsite, and combine to represent a historic precinct. Historic Value: The place has historic value as the site of the Mandogalup townsite, which was established as a Soldier’s Settlement in 1921. Level of Significance: Historic Site

Physical Description

A few residences and the ruins of the Mandogalup Post Office is all that remains of the early Mandogalup townsite, which was centred around the intersection of Mandogalup Road and Anketell Road. The extant houses are predominantly located on the west side of Mandogalup Road and typically comprise single-storey residences on large rural blocks. These include the three remaining Soldier Settler homes, namely no.’s 27, 31 and 45 Mandogalup Road. The Pioneer Reserve is located on the northwest corner of the intersection, incorporating a grassed open space edged with bushland, as well as the more recently constructed Fire Brigade buildings, playing court and picnic area, marking the location of the former Mandogalup Hall. The Post Office ruins are located on the south side of Anketell Road, opposite the intersection. The identified places associated with the former townsite are Soldier Settlement Homes Balmanup Post Office - Site Mandogalup Post Office (fmr) 7 Mile - Site White Bridge Jolly's Bridge Mandogalup Hall Reserve

History

The crossroads of Anketell Road and Mandogalup Road where originally the centre of the tiny township of Mandogalup, a Soldier’s Settlement that was established early in 1921. The settlers ranged from ex-servicemen, the unemployed, temporary PWD workers and British migrants. When they first arrived, the settlers lived in a communal camp near that of the Public Works Department workers, in tents with a communal corrugated iron shelter for cooking. Many new arrivals found work with the PWD, which was then surveying the area and draining the swamps to open up new areas for farming. The income assisted many new settlers to help pay for their houses, with only the ex-servicemen being financed by the Agricultural Bank. By July 1921, the first house had been built by Mr. William McLaughlan, an ex-regular of the British Army. By the end of 1921 the local drainage and road works were almost finished, and most of the settlers already there had built their homes, small unlined weatherboard cottages. The area was dotted with houses and there were a few roads. The Hope Valley Road ran eastwards from Hope Valley to Mandogalup, crossed the railway line at Seven Mile, and after about a mile, turned north and continued on to Jandakot as the Anketell Road. The Mandogalup Road ran north along the western side of the railway line from the Seven Mile to the Six Mile, past the McLaughlan and Harrises, as far as Norkett Road. On the southern side of the Hope Valley Road, Mandogalup Road continued as Johnson Road, and went as far as the Spectacles. Northwest of the Mandogalup Road there were only bush tracks, to the farms of the Sayers, Barns, Freckletons and the Wilcots, all soldier settlers. Deep in the bush to the west were the Clementis and the Vallis. Nearer the tiny township were the Brittons, Miles and Bolases, and four miles away were the Hills. The townsite consisted of a number of shops, including; the house and shop (including Post Office) built by Percy Britton; a ramp, where the milk and cream cans were loaded onto the train; a butcher’s shop; and a boarding house. The school was built in 1922, about a mile up Anketell Road, while the Hall was constructed in 1923. In 2021, the place comprises the Post Office ruins, Hall Reserve, the fire station and community hall, and the houses along Mandogalup Road, including the three Soldier Settler homes.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Low Authenticity: Moderate

Condition

Good

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Mandogalup Post Office (fmr)

Uses

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Parent Place or Precinct

12125 Mandogalup Townsite

Statement of Significance

Aesthetic Value: The limestone building ruins, despite being in a dilapidated state, retain evidence of skilled stonemasonry and have acquired an attractive patina consistent with their age and condition. The remaining archaeological material reveals the layout and characteristics of the earlier buildings that formed the focus of Mandogalup townsite, and combine to represent a historic precinct. Historic Value: The place has historic value as the site of the first Mandogalup post office and store, built by local settler Percy Britton in the 1920s, and is associated with the early development of the district. The place is also associated with local settler, Ben Miles who was also a storekeeper and postal officer at Mandogalup Research value: The place has potential archaeological value in revealing the way of life of early settlers in an isolated rural community. Representatives: The remnant structures on the site are evidence of local business that were central to small regional communities in the Inter War and the period following World War Two. Level of significance: Considerable

Physical Description

The site of the former Mandogalup Post Office can be seen from the south side of Anketell Road, across the road from the main Mandogalup townsite. The site of the former Post Office comprises a number of built and landscape features including a small limestone stru ture, the remains of a brick chimney, and the limestone base of a former tank stand. Other remnants of the former Post Office building and associated structure may remain on the site but access to the site was not obtained. There are numerous significant plantings located in the vicinity of the built structures, including a mature pine tree, a number of large fig trees, a variety of fruit trees, a pair of Cape Lilacs and a large deciduous tree. The limestone building, believed to be a former creamery was located to the south east of the original Post Office building and is approximately 4m x 3m, with a simple rectilinear form. The structure has random coursed limestone walls, with a single door opening on its west side that retains its timber lintel. Earlier assessment noted that the building has what appears to be a reinforced concrete roof, with bricks forming a rounded plinth on top, presumably once supporting a water tank (no longer extant). The east wall has largely collapsed. The stone tank stand is located north of the ruins, and northwest of the creamery, and comprises a circular stand with random rubble limestone walls, approximately 600mm high, and a smooth cementitious top.

History

The crossroads of Anketell Road and Mandogalup Road were originally the centre of the tiny township of Mandogalup, and on the southwest corner stood a house and shop, built by Mr. Percy Britton, of saw-cut limestone. The store was partly subsidised by the Public Works Department, which employed upwards of 1000 men on the construction of the Peel Estate drainage scheme, but even so its prices were almost double those of Fremantle. The store and post office was run by local settler, Benjamin Miles, until the beginning of WWII, when it was taken over by the Brittons ‘for the duration’. A number of elements extant in 2008 (partial limestone building, W.C. remnant building materials and grape vine) have been removed. In 2021, the structures evident in 2015 are still in place although degraded.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Moderate Authenticity: Moderate

Condition

Poor to ruinous

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Hall Reserve - Mandogalup

Uses

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Parent Place or Precinct

12125 Mandogalup Townsite

Statement of Significance

Historic Value: The place has historic value as the former site of the Mandogalup Hall, constructed in the 1920s as part of the early townsite, and associated with the initial growth and demise of the Mandogalup settlement.

Physical Description

The place comprises a public reserve, Mandogalup Pioneer Reserve, located on the northwest corner of the intersection of Mandogalup Road and Anketell Road. A large granite boulder fixed with a metal plaque is located on the site, facing Mandogalup Road, commemorating the former location of the Mandogalup Hall and the Mandogalup townsite. A number of elements are located in the immediate vicinity of the granite boulder, including a small bitumen carpark, a pair of elevated tanks. A tennis court is located to the west, along with a brick toilet block. A picnic area shaded by mature sheoak trees is located further north, directly adjacent to the fire station buildings.

History

In the very early years of the Mandogalup settlement, the population showed a steady increase, with the schoolroom quickly becoming overcrowded. A meeting was therefore held at Mrs. Dove’s boarding house, at which it was decided to raise money to build a hall, and a committee was formed, of which Mr. George Foster was the Secretary. A grand concert was held in the Rockingham Hotel Hall, which Mr. George Grigg kindly lent for the occasion. It was a great success, and a considerable sum of money was raised. Other entertainments followed, and soon there was enough to pay the initial deposit to the State Saw Mills. The building comprised a very long weatherboard structure. The settlers were very proud of it and were determined to open it befittingly. A dinner was held, at fifteen shillings a double ticket, including free drinks, followed by a supper dance. The Premier, Mr. Phillip Collier, was invited, as was the Minister for Works, Mr. A. Mc Callum, and several Members of Parliament. A piano was purchased for the hall by the Parents and Citizens Association, and dances were held regularly. A screen for projecting films was bought and occasionally the place operated as a cinema. For a short time the hall was the social heart of Mandogalup, but with the mass exodus of settlers during the 1930s following the failure of the Peel Settlement Scheme, the place was eventually deserted. With fewer people attending the infrequent dances and social, it became more difficult to raise the money to meet the instalments still owing and finally the State Saw Mills foreclosed and put the hall up for sale. It was bought by Mr. Dave Sparks, who relocated it near the corner of Penguin Road and Safety Bay Road in Rockingham. In this location it was used as a General Store and Tearoom, and then later leased to Jack Bidstrup who used it as a picture theatre. (Source: Nora Taggart, Rockingham Looks Back, 1984)

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Mandogalup School - Site of

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Statement of Significance

Aesthetic Value: The row of mature pine trees mark the location of the first Mandogalup School and Teacher’s Quarters, and by virtue of their impressive size, are a well-known local landmark. Historic Value: The place has historic value as the site of the first Mandogalup School and Teacher’s Quarters established in 1921, which was also the first school on the Peel Estate. The place has historic value as the first settler’s cottage to be erected on the Peel Estate and the pattern upon which all group settler houses were subsequently built. The place is associated with Mr. George Forster, the first school teacher on the Peel Estate who taught at the various Mandogalup schools for over 15 years. Social Value: Descendants of the early settlers of the Mandogalup district value the place as the place were many of the Peel Estate children, their forebears, received their education. Level of significance: Historic Site

Physical Description

The site of the former school and teacher’s quarters can be distinguished by the row of mature Radiata pine trees growing along the southern edge of Norkett Road, The surrounding area is used for farming, and there appears to be no remaining evidence of the previous buildings previously located at the northern end of the pine trees.

History

Constructed in 1921, the Mandogalup school and quarters was housed in a small timberframed building, being the first settler’s cottage to be erected on the Peel Estate and the pattern upon which all group settler houses were subsequently built. The building housed both the school room and the teacher’s quarters, with the traditional dividing wall between the two front rooms of the cottage omitted to create one large room used for teaching, and the front verandah serving as a shelter to the children in wet weather. The living quarters were located in the back room, a space 12ft x 10ft, and back verandah, which had been enclosed with hessian and served as a kitchen and living room. For water supply, there was a 400 gallon water tank and windmill adjoining the building. School and living furniture was provided by the Public Works Department and the school became operational when the first school teacher, Mr. George Forster, arrived in late 1921. Mandogalup School was the first school on the Peel Estate and the first students included Elizabeth Parkey, Grace Maltby, Margery Shaw, Alf Burt, Roy Bell, Ronald Shaw, Frank Sayers, Charley Lee, Margery Parkey, Lily Harris, Ethel Sayer, David Harris, Alf Bolas and Hilda Burt. In 1922, the school building was replaced by a newer one built further south. Early photographs of the school dating from the 1920s clearly show the row of pine trees near the building, although they are already well established, indicating it is unlikely they were planted by the children during 1921 as previously thought, but instead pre-date the school building itself. (Source: Laurie Russell, Kwinana “Third Time Lucky”, 1979)

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Low Authenticity: Moderate

Condition

Good

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Jolly's Bridge

Uses

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Parent Place or Precinct

12125 Mandogalup Townsite

Statement of Significance

Historic Value: The place is associated with local resident, Jack Jolly, who was foreman for the Settlement Scheme house building in the 1920s. The place is associated with the Peel Estate drainage project, which involved draining lowland swamps to open up new tracts of land for farming. Social Value: The place is a well-known crossing of the main Mandogalup drain and contributes to the community’s sense of place for its presence in the landscape since the 1920s. Level of significance: Some

Physical Description

The place comprises a simple road bridge crossing the open drain that extends southwest from Mandogalup. Culverts on either side of the bridge are constructed with concrete, and a circular channel runs beneath the road, providing free flow for water in the drain. The drains constructed during the Inter-War period can be clearly seen on either side of Mandogalup Road, comprising narrow but deep drains, characterised by their mounded earth banks.

History

The area east of Mandogalup was the starting point for the Peel Estate drainage project which commenced in the 1920s, whereby lowland swamps were drained to reveal more fertile soil than the surrounding dry land could provide. The drains were designed by engineer-incharge, Richard Anketell, and the main drain started east of Mandogalup, passing through Beenyup, The Spectacles, Bollard Bulrush Swamp, Baldivis and Folly Pool, onto Mandurah where it discharged into the sea. The crossing at Mandogalup Road, known as Jolly’s Bridge, was most likely first constructed in the 1920s as part of the Drainage scheme works, and was originally a timber bridge. It was named after Jack Jolly, who was the foreman of house building for the Peel Estate in the 1920s. The earlier bridge structure was replaced by the existing concrete culvert construction in 1991.

Condition

Good

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Lake Wattleup / Sayer Road Swamp

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Statement of Significance

Aesthetic Value: The place has aesthetic value as a small but attractive remnant wetland, distinguished from the surrounding cleared farming land by its distinctive paperbarks and flooded gums. Scientific Value: As part of the Beeliar Regional park, the place is an important component of one of the most important systems of lakes and wetlands remaining in the Perth metropolitan area. In particular the wetland is an important summer refuge for birds. Representativeness: The remaining wetland is representative of the indigenous fauna and landscape prior to farming. Level of significance: Some.

Physical Description

Lake Wattleup comprises a small permanent wetland which provides a link between the northern and southern Beeliar wetlands. Most of the surrounding vegetation has been cleared and the land is used for farming, however there are some remaining paperbarks and flooded gums marking the edges of the swamp.

History

The Beeliar Regional Park is an important remnant of ecosystems which were previously more widespread, and the wetlands are considered to form one of the most important systems of lakes and wetlands remaining in the Perth metropolitan region. (Source: Register of the National Estate, Place Details, Beeliar Regional Park, 1997)

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Moderate Authenticity: High

Condition

Good

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Soldier Settler Homes, Mandogalup

Values

Initially believed to be houses constructed with the implementation of the Soldier Settlement Scheme in the Peel Estate in the 1920s, the cottages are associated with the early development and settlement of the area as part of the 1923 Subdivision of Balmanup (now Mandogalup).

With their simple built form, weatherboard cladding and corrugated iron roofs, the residences combine to produce a rare and recognisable precinct of buildings, which contribute to the streetscape of Mandogalup Road.

Physical Description

The place comprises a discontinuous row of three single-story cottage residences, each located on the west side of Mandogalup Road, within the locality of Mandogalup. All three buildings are clad with timber weatherboards and have a corrugated iron roofs. Two of the residences, house numbers 27 and 31, are characterised by their simple rectilinear form, with large gable roofs incorporating timber-framed verandahs across the front elevation. House number 45 has a slightly different form, with a single room projecting from the main building, creating a gable bay facing the street. This different form is likely because the structure is not an original soldier settler home dating from the early 1920s period, as indicated through historical imagery. House number 27 has recently been renovated and extended and is set within attractive landscaped grounds incorporating a number of mature trees. The front verandah has criss-cross balustrading (not original) and the door and window openings appear to have been modified or removed. The brick-face chimney is still evident on the north side. House number 31 is mostly concealed from the road by large plantings, but its original building form is clearly evident and the place appears to be largely intact, retaining its original timber-framed windows and dark-coloured weatherboards. House number 45, also known as ‘Rhondarosa’ is also mostly concealed from the road by vegetation, but closer inspection reveals the main building form is intact. The windows appear to have been replaced with aluminium-framed windows. The houses are each located on separate ribbon shaped blocks that include vacant areas, shed structures and paddocks.

History

The area of Mandogalup, within the City of Kwinana takes its name from Mandogalup Swamp, a name of Aboriginal origin with an unknown meaning. Prior to 1946, and from 1923, Mandogalup was named Balmanup, after Lake Balmanup, an alternative name for Mandogalup Swamp. The Pinjarup Noongar people were the first to live on this swampland system, which would have provided a rich source of food and water up until Colonial settlers came to the area. Early colonial settlers of the early 1830s had little agricultural success within Mandogalup and the southern area of Kwinana, which at that time was included in the Peel Estate. As a result, Mandogalup was left relatively unsettled until after the WWI. After the war, in both Australia and the United Kingdom, there was a sudden increase in the unemployment rate as soldiers returned home and struggled to find work in the suffering economy which was already rife with general unemployment. This lead to the establishment of the Soldier Settlement Scheme in WA, in which returning ex-servicement were offered virgin land in exchange of the estbalishmetn of viable farms that could contribute to the State economy. One of the areas identified was the former Peel Estate, which was purchased by the WA government in 1920. The land selected, included swampland to the north and south, with sandy soils comprising the areas in between. Mandogalup was within the northern swampland section, and it was this area that was chosen as the first to be developed and settled within the Peel Estate. Being a swamp, the whole area required an elaborate system of drainage. Local unemployed men were contracted to drain the area and a camp was established at what is now the corner of Anketell Road and Mandogalup Road. This area was known as the Six Mile, then as the Seven Mile, indicating the mileage by rail from Jandakot, a rail line that had been constructed specifically for the project. By 1921 the drainage works were underway and the land was open for selection, primarily to Western Australian ex-serviceman. Unfortunately, there was not a huge response, and so land was also offered to unemployed non-serviceman and temporary workers from the Public Works Department, as well as soldiers and migrants from the UK, who were given free passage to Australia as part of the scheme. Blocks were allocated to them through a ballot system to avoid the appearance of any favouritism. By the end of 1921, most of the drainage and road works in the area had finished, and the schoolroom and most houses had been constructed. The Public Works Department was ready to move further south in the Peel Estate to drain other areas, and in their wake a small community had formed in Mandogalup. The men who had come to Mandogalup were now ready to begin farming. The Soldier Settlement Scheme at the Peel Estate did not start strongly. Although there were numerous applicants, many were deemed unfit for selection. The amount of land allocated for farming under the Scheme, and the value and therefore cost per acre, varied considerably. The size of farms that were offered ranged from 47 acres to 142 acres, with no evidence that the Government had a clear understanding of how much land was required, particularly for a viable dairy. By 1925, many farms had been abandoned. Those who did stay lived on the more fertile areas, but the community atmosphere was no longer present. It is likely the land these three cottages are located were intended for use under the Soldier Settlement Scheme however, the initial land owners were not returned servicemen, and therefore the cottages are not associated with the Scheme. The cottages are more associated with the early development of Balmanup/Mandogalup. There was little development in the area until 1970, when the rapid development of the heavy industry in Kwinana in the late 1960s meant an increase in accommodation close-by. Since that time land in Mandogalup has slowly been subdivided and the population has slowly grown as more people have moved further from the city areas.

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Parent Place or Precinct

12125 Mandogalup Townsite

Statement of Significance

Aesthetic Value: With their simple building forms, weatherboard cladding and corrugated iron roofs, the residences combine to produce a recognisable precinct of buildings and contribute to the streetscape of Mandogalup Road. Historic Value: The houses are associated with the implementation of the Soldier Settlement Scheme on the Peel Estate in the 1920s, which, although generally considered a failure, contributed to the early development of farming and settlement at Mandogalup. One of the remaining houses is associated with local resident, Jack Jolly, who was foreman for the Settlement Scheme house building in the 1920s. Representativeness: This group of three cottages demonstrate government planning of rural settlements, through their location together and the style and size of the homes. The differences between the homes demonstrate how the settlers could express their individuality. Level of significance: Considerable.

Physical Description

The place comprises a (discontinuous) row of three single-storey residences, each located on the west side of Mandogalup Road. Two of the residences, No. 27 and No. 31, are characterised by their simple rectilinear form, with large gable roofs incorporating timberframed verandahs across the front elevation. No. 45 has a slightly different form, with a single room projecting from the main building form, creating a gable bay facing the street. Each of the buildings is clad with timber weatherboards and has a corrugated iron roof. No. 27 has recently been renovated and extended and is set within attractive landscaped grounds incorporating a number of mature trees. The front verandah has criss-cross balustrading (not original) and the door and window openings appear to have been modified or removed. The face-brick chimney is still evident on the north side. No. 31 is mostly concealed from the road by large plantings, but its original building form is still clearly evident and the place appears to be largely intact, retaining its original timberframed windows and dark-coloured weatherboards. No. 45, also known as ‘Rhondarosa’ is also mostly concealed from the road by vegetation, but closer inspection reveals the main building form is intact. The windows appear to have been replaced with aluminium-framed windows.

History

After the First World War, rehabilitation of returning soldiers posed a major Commonwealth problem, particularly in the United Kingdom where hundreds of thousands of returned soldiers were unable to find employment. To combat the problem, and also potentially populate the vast undeveloped areas of Western Australia, the Group and Soldier Settlement Scheme was implemented. The government resumed or purchased large estates and these were then subdivided. The Peel Estate was such an example. Most farmlets were approximately 100 acres in size, and were established for dairy farming because of the rich land surrounding the swamp areas. The settlement of each ex-serviceman was financed by the Agricultural Bank, with an initial loan made to them to enable them to built a small, four-roomed unlined weatherboard house, to clear and fence their property, and to prepare pasture land to feed their stock. A supervisor from the bank was appointed to help them with advice and instruction, and a Bank Inspector visited them periodically to assess the work they had done before making any further loans. Unfortunately for the Soldier Settlers, most of whom had no previous farming experience, the cost of producing the milk was generally greater that the price they received for milk. Some settlers sought new avenues of revenue and combined pig raising and poultry farming with dairying, but that rarely provided a real solution to the problem and the majority of settlers were forced to walk off their lots. The homes constructed on the Solider Settlement lots were generally smaller than the Group Settlement homes, and typically consisted of four rooms and a verandah. Each cottage had a wood fired stove and a 1,000 gallon rainwater tank and cost approximately £40 to build. The house at No. 31 was believed to have been built by Jack Jolly, who was foreman of house building in the early 1920s and retired to Mandogalup in 1931/32. (Source : Nora Taggart, Rockingham Looks Back, 1984; Laurie Russell, Kwinana “Third Time Lucky, 1979) In 2021, all three residences are extant and appear to be in good condition.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: High Authenticity: Moderate-High

Condition

Good

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Mandolgalup School Cottage - site

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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