Harry McGuigan Park

Parent Place or Precinct

17306 Medina Townsite

Uses

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Statement of Significance

Aesthetic Value: The place has aesthetic value as an attractive urban park characterised by its undulating sand dunes and remnant bush vegetation, and contributes to the townscape of Kwinana. Historic Value: The place is associated with Harry McGuigan, its namesake, who was the Commissioner of Kwinana from 1953-1961 and who administered the local government affairs of Medina and its environs. Scientific Value: The place is valued by the community as a long-standing public open space and recreational reserve. Research value: the place is valued by the community as a long-standing public open space and recreational reserve. Level of significance: Considerable

Physical Description

Harry McGuigan Reserve is located to the north of the Medina Shopping Centre and oppoiste the Salvation Army and is bounded by Medina Avenue to the west, Hoyle Rpad to the north, Wheelock Road to the south and housing to the east. The place comprises a large public reserve demontrating a slightly undultating topgraphy incorporating a gentle rise to the centre before dropping off towards the east and west. The reserve comprises open parkland interspersed with clusters of remnant bushland including mature tuarts, sheoaks, Christmas bushes, banksias and blackboys. Playground equipment is positioned at various locations throughout the park, within purpose-built sand pits. A series of winding concrete paths extends through the parkland, connecting the roadway footpaths to the main play areas.

History

On the 18th December 1953, the Western Australian Government passed the Kwinana Road District Act, severing the requisite land for industry and housing from the Rockingham Shire and placing the entire responsibility for the satellite town of Medina and its environs under the direction of one man, Commissioner Harry Lester McGuigan. In his capacity as Commissioner, Harry McGuigan was employed to administer the local government affairs for the first five years, with the Minister for Local Government having the authority to extend the commissioners tem of office to seven years. Commissioner McGuigan found himself to be in a challenging situation, on the one hand he was to be the mediator between a huge international petroleum company and the Western Australian Government, while on the other hand he was confronted with the social problems of a new community made up of men and women of different professions, trades and nationalities, transplanted into what was then a new and remote location. The success with which McGuigan carried out his task, until being replaced by the constitutionally elected Road Board in 1961, made him a well-respected local identity and an obvious choice for honouring with the naming of a local bushland reserve. When Medina was designed, 16% of the town site was retained and set aside as natural bush reserves, creating an aesthetically pleasant area in an otherwise urban centre. These reserves, which also include Ridley Green and Oakley Hollow have come to characterise the area.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: High Authenticity: High

Condition

Good

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Medina Shopping Centre

Parent Place or Precinct

17306 Medina Townsite

Uses

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Statement of Significance

Aesthetic Value: The building is a simple but well-resolved example of the modern style architecture typical of the 1950s, with a distinct building form that combines a simple rectilinear plan with projecting skillion roofs and stylish detailing. The building complements the style of surrounding residential and community buildings from the same era and makes a positive contribution to the streetscape of both Medina Avenue and Pace Road. The mature fig trees located in the carpark are attractive specimens that improve the amenity of the shopping centre and complement the avenue of similar trees along Medina Avenue. Historic Value: The place is associated with the early development of the Kwinana town site, being one of the first buildings constructed to provide much needed local facilities for the residents of Medina and Calista. Social Value: The place has social value to the community as it was the first commercial premises in the district and provided a place for the new residents to meet and shop. Representativeness: The group of shops are typical of 1950s shops that served a small community often within walking distance of their homes. Level of significance: Considerable

Physical Description

The Medina shops comprises a range of single-storey brick units creating a row of 11 adjoining shops. The building range is characterised by its simple, rectangular form and its skillion roof sloping away to the rear of the units. A cantilevered awning extends across its front (south) elevation which extends to shade the width of the footpath. Each of the shopfronts is approximately 7 metres wide (except the tenancy on the western corner, which is wider) and incorporates a single entry door flanked on either side by glazed shop windows. The configuration and presentation of the shops has been modified, with the addition of new window frames replacing the original maple timber frames, new signage and security features. There is still evidence of some original tiling to sill height, angled pilasterds between the windows and the upper clerestory windows that run along the full range of the shops. The awning is lined with a modern-profile pressed metal cladding and fascia, and like the brick walls, has been painted in bright colours. Local up garages and store rooms were constructed to the rear of the shops. The shopping centre is oriented parallel with Pace Road, and features a large bitumen carpark in the area immediately south of the covered walkway. Mature weeping fig trees (ficus benjamina) are planted in a row through the centre of the carpark, matching the nearby impressive specimens on Medina Avenue. In 2021, the shopping centre is still extant with all shops tenanted.

History

The Medina Shopping Centre was first discussed at a meeting of the Kwinana Roads Board in February 1953, when Commissioner Harry McGuigan, health and building inspector Doug Waddingham and the residents in attendance discussed the civic facilities required for the fledgling town. Amenities requiring urgent attention were a public hall, a school, shopping centre, children’s playground, playing fields, temporary bar, street signs and lighting. Following construction during 1953, the shopping centre at the top of the hill in Medina Avenue, on the north side of Pace Road, was opened by April 1954, when Norman Corker opened his delicatessen. Other shops included a butcher, café, newsagent, chemist, greengrocer, hairdresser and drycleaner, with a temporary post office. The shopping centre was an important commercial and social element which helped define the Medina town centre. Prior to the construction of the Infant Health Centre, a sub-committee of the Infant Health Association arranged fortnightly visits by a mobile unit to the shopping centre. By 1957, the Medina Shopping Centre was still the only local shopping facility for residents of Medina and Calista, and the Resident’s Association requested additional facilities, claiming “the Perth housewife would pay 1/9 a pound for grilling chops while the price in Medina was 2/6. Pears and onions were selling in Perth for 3/- and 2/- for five pounds respectively whilst the local prices were 5/- and 3/4”. Large shopping facilities were eventually provided in 1972 in the form of ‘The Hub’, constructed as part of the New Town Centre in Kwinana. The distinctive mature trees planted in a row through the Medina Shopping Centre carpark first appear on archival photographs in 1958 as young saplings, suggesting they were planted within four years of the opening of the shopping centre.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: High Authenticity: High

Condition

Good

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Kwinana Police Station (fmr)

Parent Place or Precinct

17306 Medina Townsite

Condition

Demolished

Uses

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Beeliar Regional Park & Adjacent Areas

Child Places

• 10184 Manning Park
• 10200 Tuart Trees, Coogee Lake
• 25420 Blue Gum Reserve
• 17805 Piney Lakes Reserve
• 12098 The Spectacles Wetland
• 05317 North Lake & Bibra Lake
• 12103 Mt Brown
• 24422 Baldivis Tramway Reserve
• 25386 Booragoon Lake
• 10199 Stand of Tuarts

Statement of Significance

The Beeliar Regional Park and Adjacent Areas is an important remnant of ecosystems which were previously more widespread. It has been estimated that, by 1964, 75% of the Swan Coastal Plain wetlands had been drained or filled. The Beeliar wetlands are considered to form one of the most important systems of lakes and wetlands remaining in the Perth metropolitan region. The place supports a number of plants and animals of conservation significance, including Hackett's hopbush (DODONAEA HACKETTIANA) and HIBBERTIA SPICATA ssp LEPTOTHECA which are Conservation and Land Management (CALM) priority species; the rare southern brown bandicoot; nationally vulnerable freckled duck and the lined skink, a CALM priority species. The wetlands show remarkable diversity in form, degree of permanence, water chemistry and vegetation cover. This diversity of habitat is very important to wildlife utilising the wetlands. The wetlands and surrounding areas are an important nesting and feeding habitat and because of their high biological productivity, directly or indirectly support most of the wildlife of the surrounding region. Because the wetlands of the Swan Coastal Plain are the only extensive varied wetland habitat and permanent summer fresh water in Western Australia (WA), south of the Kimberley, the Beeliar Wetlands are of considerable importance to migratory waterbirds, including a number of species such as the greenshank, wood sandpiper, long toed stint and Oriental pratincole which are listed under the Japan Australia Migratory Birds Agreement (JAMBA). The Spectacles support a significant nankeen night heron rookery; such rookeries are restricted in the south-west of WA. The Beeliar Regional Park and adjacent areas also has the best developed vegetated limestone cliff remaining in the metropolitan region and large, good examples of MELALEUCA RHAPHIOPHYLLA, M CUTICULARIS and M TERETIFOLIA communities. A number of plant taxa and floristic community types are at the limits of their range in the place, including a number of taxa found on the coastal limestone cliffs which have not been located in other coastal areas. in addition, the Beeliar Regional Park and adjacent areas make a significant contribution to the amenity of the region, providing visual and topographic variety in the landscape. The place is also important for scientific research and teaching purposes. (Reg Nat Estate).

Physical Description

Approximately 2700 ha. The Beeliar Regional Park and Adjacent Areas includes the Beeliar Wetlands, North lake, Roe Swamp, Hope Road Swamp, Bibra Lake, South Lake, Little Rush Lake, Yangebup Lake, Kogolup Lake, Banganup Lake, Mandogalup Swamp (Wattleup Lake), Spectacles Wetland, Blue Gum Swamp, Booragoon Lake, Piney Lake, Murdoch Swamp and bushland, Bollard Bulrush, Manning Lake, Lake Mount Brown, Brownman Swamps, M19, Lake Coogee, Market Garden Swamps and Long Swamp. (Reg Nat Estate).

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Mt Brown

Parent Place or Precinct

09198 Beeliar Regional Park & Adjacent Areas

Uses

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Statement of Significance

Aesthetic Value: By virtue of its elevated position, Mt Brown is a highly visible landmark and, when combined with the undulating limestone hills, the nearby lake and the bushland that surrounds it, the place is an attractive place. Historic Value: The place is associated with the early development of the district, particularly those settlers who purchased lots surrounding Mt Brown in the 1880s. 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. Social value: The place is valued by the community as a popular place for recreation which has remained largely unchanged. Research value: as part of the Beeliar Regional Park, the place is an important component of one of the most important reserves remaining in the Perth metropolitan area. There is potential for the place to provide information relevant to the habitat and lifestyle of indigenous fauna and flora. Level of significance: Considerable.

Physical Description

The place comprises a portion of the Beeliar Regional park, in particular the highest point, Mt Brown which is approximately 60-70 metres high and is located on the border of the Local Government boundary between City of Kwinana and City of Cockburn. The place comprises a large area of undulating limestone hills, vegetated by a woodland of tuart and banksia, as well as shrubland dominated by honey myrtle. Lake Mount Brown is located to the northeast of the peak and comprises a shallow saline wetland which usually dries out in summer. The lake is fringed by strands of paperbark and Tussock Sedge and supports a variety of water birds. The area surrounding Mt Brown has numerous bushwalking trails and a lookout area and water tower is located at the peak.

History

In June 1829, Mount Brown was named by the survey party on board the 'Challenger' under the command of Captain Fremantle. It is speculated that this area of the Western Australian coast was the first landing place for Captain James Stirling in 1829. Early survey plans also refer to the place as 'Brown Hill'. In his report "A Glance at the Manners and Language of the Aboriginal Inhabitants of Western Australia: with a short vocabulary" in the Perth Gazette 23rd March 1833, Robert Menli Lyon's lists the name "Booyeeanup" as the name of the area known as Mount Brown. Lyon compiled his vocabulary through conversations with Noongar leader Yagan, whilst imprisoned on Carnac Island. The earliest known settlers in the vicinity of Mount Brown, whose land transactions can be traced, include: Charles John Armstrong who acquired lot 47/263, a parcel of 10 acres just southeast of Mt Brown in 1881; Walter & Andrew Armstrong who jointly purchased lot 435, just south of Mt Brown in 1885; L.A. Manning purchased Lot 47/289 in 1884; and, Angel de San Miguel, who was issued with Lot 339, on the southeast corner of Mt Brown, in 1886. Mount Brown is a trigonometrical station featuring a large survey marker, a reserve was created around the site for this purpose in 1955. An additional reserve was created for part of the site for the purpose of a pumping station and pipeline in 1958. These reserves reflect the provision of services to facilitate development of the region in the 1950s. Aerial photographs from the mid 1950s demonstrate that there has been little change to the area apart from the increasing numbering of trails through the park.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: High Authenticity: High

Condition

Good

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All Saint's Rectory

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All Saint's Church

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DAFWA Medina Agricultural Research Station

Uses

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9 Mile Dumps site

Uses

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Statement of Significance

Historic Value: The place is associated with the Peel Estate drainage project, which involved draining lowland swamps to open up new tracts of land for farming. The place is associated with R.J. Anketell, engineer-in-charge of the Peel Estate drainage project and designer of the Main Drain. Representativeness: The dumps are representative of the type of methods used during the construction of the drains in the Peel Estate. Level of significance: Considerable.

Physical Description

The place comprises a large drain, flanked by large sloping sand dunes on either side, being the northernmost extent of the Main Drain before it enters The Spectacles. At their northern end, the dunes have a width of approximately 130 metres across, near where the drain crosses Thomas Road. Further south, the drain narrows, and the dunes are less pronounced, instead taking the form of earth embankments with an approximate width of 65 metres across. The embankments are almost entirely covered with trees and bushland. The site is accessible via the sandy tracks that extend westward from Johnson Road.

History

The Main Drain was constructed as part of 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 John Anketell (1862-1928), and the main drain started east of Mandogalup, passing through Beenyup, The Spectacles, Bollard Bulrush Swam, Baldivis and Folly Pool, onto Mandurah where it discharged into the sea. The Nine Mile Dump comprises one section of the drain, named for the nearby light railway line running between Jandakot and Wellard (the mileage being reckoned as the distance by rail from Jandakot). The distinctive sand dunes, also known as dumps, were the result of the extensive excavation in this area for the Main Drain pipes.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: High Authenticity: High

Condition

Good

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The Spectacles Wetland

Parent Place or Precinct

09198 Beeliar Regional Park & Adjacent Areas

Uses

Historic Themes

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Statement of Significance

Aesthetic Value: The place is an attractive and prominent landscape feature which makes a significant contribution to the character of the area. In particular, the contrast between the dense paperbark forest which eventually opens out into the swamp, conveys varying feelings of isolation and spaciousness. Historic Value: The place is associated with the Millar’s timber line, which passed through the site on its way between Jandakot and Wellard, and made use of the water in the Large Eye to refill the boilers of the steam locomotives. The place is associated with the implementation of the Group/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. 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 important as a refuge and breeding site for native fauna. Social Value: The place is valued by the community as a popular and educational site for bush-walking and bird-watching. The place is valued by the local Aboriginal community, who have an ongoing association with the site and who recognise its significance as a traditional source of abundant food. Research value: The place has the potential to provide information about the life cycles and habitat of native fauna and flora. There is some potential for archeological finds relevant to the use of the place by settlers from the Peel Estate Scheme and for its longer ongoing use as a place occupied and valued by the Whadjuk Noongar. Representativeness: The Spectacles is a good example of large diverse wetlands. The area is important as a refuge and breeding site for native fauna, supporting breeding populations of scarlet robin, weebill, western thornbill, silvereye, Pacific black duck and rufous night heron. The black gloved wallaby, short nosed bandicoot and skinks, all species of conservation significance, are found around the wetlands. Level of significance: Exceptional

Physical Description

The Beeliar Regional Park and adjacent areas is an area of remnant bushland and wetlands in the area south of Perth. The Beeliar wetland system consists of two chains of lakes running roughly parallel to the coast for a distance of 25km south of the Swan River. The Spectacles Wetland within the Beeliar Regional Park is a large permanent wetland in the Spearwood dunes and consists of two lakes, Large Eye and Small Eye, which are largely covered with paperbarks. Bordering the lakes on the western and eastern sides are relatively undisturbed jarrah/banksia woodlands, while between the lakes and the woodland is a transition zone dominated by Flooded Gum (eucalyptus rudis). Some areas of the wetlands have been cleared, and introduced plants like veldt grass, pigface, cape weed and stinkweed have become established. A series of walk trails, cycle paths and boardwalks can be found through the wetland, with access via the vehicle parking areas off McLaughlan Road and Spectacles Drive.

History

Lakes and wetlands within the Beeliar Regional Park, including the Spectacles, would have provided a rich food source for the local Whadjuk Noongar, and the place has ethnographic significance for Aboriginal people as the traditional source of abundant food throughout the year due to the permanence of the water supply. Until the 1920s, when the Peel Settlement Scheme was established this area had minimal settlement. The 360 hectares of wetlands are part of the original scheme however the swamps in the centre of the land and the infertile leached quartz sands which surround them, led to early settlers walking away from the area. A rail line ran through the site, between Jandakot and Millar’s timber line at Wellard, and the steam locomotives were able to fill their boilers with water from a spot on the east side of the Large Eye. It was only after World War II that the Spectacles again attracted settlers. In the 1970s the Industrial Lands Development Authority and Alcoa of Australia purchased the land for future industrial use. However, when the land was evaluated for residue disposal purposes, it became clear not only that the wetland nature of the property made it unsuitable for this particular industrial use, but that the Spectacles wetland area had high conservation value. In 1997, the place was evaluated for potential inclusion on the Register of the National Estate and it was determined that The Spectacles as part of the larger Beeliar Regional Park was 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. It was noted in the documentation that the area is important as a refuge and breeding site for native fauna. Aerial photographs from the mid 20th century indicate that there has been minimal physical change to the wetlands apart from the construction of the Kwinana Freeway to the east of the wetlands in the early 1990s. Remaining evidence from the former use of the wetlands for farming, such as fencing through the wetlands appears to be diminishing.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: High Authenticity: High

Condition

Good

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Mandogalup School - Site of

Uses

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Statement of Significance

Historic Value: The site has historic value for its association with the establishment of the Mandogalup community as the location of the second school in the region. Level of significance: Historic Site.

Physical Description

A granite monolith is all that remains to mark the former site of the second Mandogalup School. The rock is approximately 2 metres high, and is set back approximately 8 metres from the edge of De Haer Road, in a small clearing. The edge of the clearing is marked by half-tyres arranged to form a border, although both the monolith and the tyres are concealed from the road by large trees and shrubs. A plaque is fixed to the north face of the rock, which reads “Site of Mandogalup School, 1922-1943, Dedicated to the Pioneers of the Area by The Country Women’s Association Hope Valley, Mandogalup and Kwinana Districts Branches, June 9th 1982. Supported by CWA of WA, Town of Kwinana, Alcoa of Australia and B.P. Kwinana”. The face of the plaque has been painted over with graffiti, as has most of the surface of the rock.

History

The second Mandogalup School was constructed in 1922 to replace the earlier buildings located on the corner of Mandogalup and Norkett Roads. There was now a proper schoolroom and more commodious quarters for the school teacher, as well as a playground and shelter shed for the children. The new school building quickly became a social centre, hosting numerous dances before eventually being replaced by the purpose-built Mandogalup Hall located further west. George Forster, the first school teacher on the Peel Estate who began work at the first Mandogalup School, continued to teach at the new school, and was assisted by his wife, Mrs. Ernestine Forster until 1937 when they transferred to Rockingham Beach School. From 1937-1939, Mr William Tonkin was the school teacher, while Mr Edward Summerville taught from 1940-1944, after which time the school ceased operation.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Low Authenticity: Low

Condition

N/A

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Hazel Glen Farm

Uses

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Statement of Significance

Aesthetic Value: The farm buildings, stone entry pylons, mature trees and various outbuildings combine to represent an attractive cultural environment and represent the early layout of the farm. Historic Value: The place is associated with the Hill family, early settlers in the Mandogalup area, who are noteworthy for having retained their farm despite the ruin faced by many surrounding settlers during the failure of the Group Settlement Scheme in the 1920s and 1930s. Social Value: The place is valued for its continuity of function as a dairy farm from the 1920s to the 1980s. Representativeness: The farmhouse is typical of the soldier settlement farmhouse built in the Inter War years that has been enlarged and adapted as the farm prospered and the family grew. Level of significance: Considerable

Physical Description

The place comprises a former farming property spread over two lots, each of which has a single-storey residence and a number of outbuildings. A pair of impressive stone pylons mounted with a timber sign “Hazel Glen Farm”, identifies the property from DeHaer Road, and there is a row of mature eucalypts lining the eastern boundary of the residence on Lot 60 (the westernmost lot). The house on Lot 541 appears to date from the 1930s, and is constructed with cement bricks typically used during that time period. The house has a sprawling bungalow form, incorporating verandahs on all four sides and a complex hipped corrugated iron roof incorporating a small window into the apex to the front.

History

The Hill family were settlers in the area east of Mandogalup as early as 1921, with their farm located approximately four miles away from the tiny townsite. Other families in the area included the Sayers, Barns, Freckletons and the Wilcots, all soldier settlers located northwest of Mandogalup Road, deeper in the bush to the west were the Clementis and the Vallis, while nearer the townsite werhe the Brittons, Miles and Bolases. The Hills were one of only a few families who managed to retain their farm following the failure of the Group Settlement Scheme and in 1933/34 were able to take advantage of changes to the regulations preventing a settler from buying more land to extend the property to a payable size. The Hill family operated the property as a dairy farm for many years. From the 1980s, the property has been adapted for use as a riding school.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Moderate Authenticity: High

Condition

Good

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Barber's Bridge

Statement of Significance

The place is associated with the Peel Estate drainage project, which involved draining lowland swamps to open up new tracts of land for farming. The place is a well-known crossing of the Banjup Lake drain and contributes to the community’s sense of place.

Physical Description

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

History

Lake Banjup was part of 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-in-charge, R.J. Anketell, and the main drain started east of Mandogalup, passing through Beenyup, The Spectacles, Bollard Bulrush Swam, Baldivis and Folly Pool, onto Mandurah where it discharged into the sea. The Lake Banjup drain extended due south from the lake until heading west with numerous road crossings before it terminates at Mandogalup. The crossing at Lyon Road, known as Barber’s Bridge, was most likely first constructed in the 1920s as part of the Drainage scheme works, although it is believed to have been rebuilt in the 1940s. The existing culverts and channel are of recent construction. The place name was used by early settlers for identification of the crossing, and is believed to be named after a local settler. (Source: Laurie Russell, Kwinana “Third Time Lucky”, 1979; Town of Kwinana MHI, 1997)

Uses

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Statement of Significance

Historic Value: 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 Banjup Lake drain and contributes to the community’s sense of place. Representativeness: The bridge is representative of the continual rebuilding and maintenance of road construction. Level of significance: Some

Physical Description

The place comprises a simple road bridge crossing the open drain that extends southwest from Banjup Lake. Culverts on either side of the bridge are constructed with limestone blocks, and a pre-formed square concrete channel runs beneath the road, providing free flow for water in the drain. The drains constructed during the Inter-War period can be seen from Lyon Road, comprising narrow but deep drains, characterised by their mounded earth banks, extending east and west of the road. The western culvert appears to be of quite recent construction, possibly connected with the Honeywood residential development on the western side of Lyon Road.

History

Lake Banjup was part of 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-in-charge, R.J. Anketell, and the main drain started east of Mandogalup, passing through Beenyup, The Spectacles, Bollard Bulrush Swam, Baldivis and Folly Pool, onto Mandurah where it discharged into the sea. The Lake Banjup drain extended due south from the lake until heading west with numerous road crossings before it terminates at Mandogalup. The crossing at Lyon Road, known as Barber’s Bridge, was most likely first constructed in the 1920s as part of the Drainage scheme works, although it is believed to have been rebuilt in the 1940s. The existing culverts and channel are of recent construction. The place name was used by early settlers for identification of the crossing, and is believed to be named after a local settler. (Source: Laurie Russell, Kwinana “Third Time Lucky”, 1979; Town of Kwinana MHI, 1997)

Condition

Good

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Wandi Nature Reserve

Uses

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Statement of Significance

Aesthetic Value: The place is an attractive and prominent landscape feature which makes a significant contribution to the character of the area. Social Value: The place is believed to have significance to the local Aboriginal communities because of its location on the Bassendean dune system, and its proximity to the coast, watercourses, lakes and wetlands. Scientific Value: The place is of biogeographical significance as remnants of plant communities which were once common on the Swan Coastal plain, but have been reduced by clearing for agriculture and urban development. The place has value locally as a teaching site, being a good example of remnant bushland in an increasingly urbanised area. The place is considered to have high species diversity, and contains a number of species uncommon in the region, as well as providing a valuable habitat for local birds and reptiles. Representativeness: The remaining wetland is representative of the indigenous fauna and landscape prior to farming. Level of significance: Exceptional

Physical Description

Wandi Nature Reserve comprises a small urban bushland remnant. The vegetation on the reserve consists of firewood banksia, candlestick banksia and sheoak low woodland, with a dense understorey of well developed shrub, herb and sedge layers. The understorey includes green stinkwood, spearwood and common woolly bush, along with blue boy, beard heath, spiked scholtzia and buttercups over grasses and sedges. Prickly bark and macarthuria australis are also present on the reserve.

History

Approximately 75% of Wandi was burnt in a summer wildfire in 1995-96. Prior to this it was in very good condition, particularly for a small urban bushland remnant, being long unburnt, free of dieback and with only a few non-aggressive weed species. Since the fire the site has regenerated well. The place is believed to have significance to the local Aboriginal communities because of its location on the Bassendean dune system, and its proximity to the coast, watercourses, lakes and wetlands

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: High Authenticity: High

Condition

Good

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Leslies Property - Mandogalup

Uses

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Statement of Significance

Historic Value: The place has historic value for its association with the development of the region in the 1920s and its association with the Peel Group Settlement scheme. The place is associated with the Leslie family who established the farm on this site and contributed to the development of the community in the region. Level of significance: Historic Site

Physical Description

The place comprises a farming property located on the corner of Lyon Road and Darling Chase in Wandi, and consists of a number of sheds and landscape structures set within paddocks. The buildings are located on a rise along the eastern edge of the property, and include a series of large timber-framed sheds clad with corrugated iron and timber boards. A substantial stone retaining wall is located to the east of the sheds, extending for a distance of approximately 30 metres. The wall is constructed with random rubble limestone and incorporates regularly-spaced buttresses for support. Timber stockyards are located at the top of the wall, although these are generally in a dilapidated condition, as are some of the sheds. There are a number of mature eucalypts on the property, concentrated in the area surrounding the sheds. The pasture area located to the west of the sheds drops away significantly and shows evidence of continuous moisture, most likely the result of the freshwater springs believed to be located on the property. A rough hewn timber loading ramp is positioned midway through the paddock, positioned to take advantage of the sloping topography.

History

The former large property across this site was one of a number of places established in the Mandogalup area during the 1920s as part of Peel Settlement Scheme. It was established and occupied by the Leslie family. It was well known because of a fresh water spring located on the property. The water was used extensively for water irrigation and the place was maintained by the Water Authority for many years. An item in the local press from 1932 relating to the problems of the Group Settlement scheme referred to an interview with William Leslie (1870-1959) and his experience on the land. His observation was that the drains had silted up and the swamps sunk making his land too wet to work apart from 6 acres of cultivatible land. This he used for growing lucerne and fattening pigs. In 1937, Leslie is recorded as running sheep on the property and in 1947 Leslie was still riding a horse around the property at the age of 77. Aerial photographs show that the house was still evident although in poor condition until c1980 and was then demolished. Sheds were built in the north east corner of the property in the 1970s for egg production and these were demolished c2013 to enable the residential subdivision of the site.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Moderate Authenticity: Moderate

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Tramway Reserve - site

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Statement of Significance

Historic Value: The place has historic value as the site of the former tramway which was constructed in the 1900s as a supply rout for settlers in the northern section of the Peel Estate Research value: there is potential for the sites to yeild archeological finds relevant to its former use Level of significance: Considerable

Physical Description

Very little physical evidence remains of the former tramway, however a network of reserves and unallocated crown land extending between the northern border of the municipal area and the old Wellard Townsite reveals the tramway reserve.

History

The railway line was constructed in the early 1920s as a supply route for early settlers in the northern section of the Peel Estate. The Tramway Reserve is currently zoned as Parks and Recreation and is a popular recreation location.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Low Authenticity: Low

Condition

Site Only

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Wellard Townsite

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Statement of Significance

Historic Value: The place is associated with the Peel Group Settlement Scheme, which was established during the 1920s, particularly Groups 50 and 54, who settled in the Wellard area. Level of significance: Historic Site.

Physical Description

The former Post Master’s Residence on Wellard Road is all that remains of the early Wellard townsite, which was located on the west side of Bollard Bulrush Swamp. This area was most recently redeveloped for housing in the 1980s, with the creation of the Homestead Ridge estate.

History

Wellard was situated on the south western side of Richardson (Bollard Bulrush) Swamp and took its name from Wellard Road – the track made by John Wellard on his way to the Serpentine Farm. The small township was joined to Baldivis and Karnup by the Baldivis Road. In the Wellard area were Groups 50 and 54 (Group Settlement Scheme), on either side of the Folly drain. Although the town did not survive, Wellard thrived for a few years and in the early 1920s a townsite was planned. The store and post-office at Wellard was believed to have been established in the early 1920s as one of the first buildings constructed in the proposed Wellard townsite. A furniture factory was built in 1926, followed not long after by the Wellard Hall, which became the focus of community activities for locals, being used for church services and as a school. The former Wellard Post Masters residence is the only remaining structure from this period of development. Those sites currently recognised for their heritage value are; Wellard Hospital - site Wellard Doctor's Residence - site Wellard Post Office and General Store - site

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Low Authenticity: Low

Condition

Site Only

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Wellard Swamp / Bollard Bullrush Swamp

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Statement of Significance

Aesthetic Value: The place has aesthetic value as an attractive wetland, and combined with the drains used to channel water away from the swamp, combine to create distinct cultural environs. Historic Value: The place is associated with the early settlement of the Wellard Area, particularly the Group Settlement Scheme which attracted numerous settlers to the area during the 1920s and 30s. The place is associated with the Peel Estate drainage project, which involved draining lowland swamps to open up new tracts of land for farming. The place is associated with Mr. Alexander Robert Richardson, who purchased the swampland in 1898, and was considered its namesake during the 1920s. 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: Exceptional

Physical Description

Bollard Bulrush swamp is the southernmost swamp of the eastern chain of wetlands, at the interface of the Spearwood and Bassendean dunes. The place has suffered some clearing and has been grazed, however there is still dense growth of paperbarks and flooded gums, with bulrushes through the very wet areas. The drains constructed during the Inter-War period still pass through the swamp and can be seen on Bertram Road, comprising narrow but deep drains, marked by their mounded earth banks.

History

Mr Alexander Robert Richardson, born in 1847, arrived in WA from Portland Bay, Victoria in May 1965. He was described as a farmer and grazier of ‘Lowlands’, Serpentine, when he gained certificates of title to 8,100 acres around the swamp east of Kwinana in 1898. The locality was generally referred to as ‘Richardson’s Swamp’ from 1923, although the correct name, which had appeared on maps from around 1900, was ‘Bollard Bulrush Swamp’. Richardson also owned 1,857 acres to the west of Bollard Bulrush Swamp, all of which was transferred to the Crown in 1922 and eventually became the site of Wellard townsite, surveyed in 1923. Bollard Bulrush Swamp was part of 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-in-charge, R.J. Anketell, and the main drain started east of Mandogalup, passing through Beenyup, The Spectacles, Bollard Bulrush Swam, Baldivis and Folly Pool, onto Mandurah where it discharged into the sea. Bollard Bulrush Swamp was subject to farming as part of the Group Settlement Scheme during the 1920s and 30s, with a number of settlers known to have occupied lots adjoining the swampland such as Mr. A.J. White, who had 120 acres on the west side of the swamp, and George Foster who acquired Lots 71 and 93 from his brothers Robert and Alan, who had both given up farming them before him. (Source: Laurie Russell, Kwinana “Third Time Lucky”, 1979)

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: High Authenticity: High

Condition

Good

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13 Mile

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Statement of Significance

Historic Value: The place has historic value as the terminus for the light rail travelling between Jandakot and Wellard, which was originally used to transport water and supplies to the Peel Estate settlers’ camps. The place is associated with the development of the region through the Peel Estate Agricultural Scheme. Level of Significance: Historic Site.

History

During the 1920s development of the Peel Estate, a light railway line was constructed from Jandakot, running southwards to the swampy area of Mandogalup, which was to be the first area drained. Mandogalup was first known as the Six Mile, then as the Seven Mile, the mileage being reckoned as the distance by rail from Jandakot. Later the line was extended across the Hope Valley Road, and the Seven Mile was named Mandogalup. The line followed the course of Johnson Road almost due south to the Nine Mile, where Johnson Road meets Thomas Road, then to the Eleven Mile, finishing at the Thirteen Mile, subsequently called Wellard. At the Nine Mile, a branch line ran parallel to Thomas Road as far as Berriga Brook, mainly for the benefit of firewood cutters.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Low Authenticity: Low

Condition

Site Only

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Sutton Farm House

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Statement of Significance

Aesthetic Value: The place is a modest but pleasing example of a weatherboard and iron cottage dating from the 1920s, exhibiting characteristics typical of its kind, including a simple gable form that incorporates a front verandah, and timber-framed walls clad with horizontal weatherboards. Historic Value: The place has historic value as the surviving prototype of the Soldier Settlement dwellings, demonstrating the modest living conditions endured by many early settlers. The place is 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 Wellard. Social value: The house demonstrate the form and detail of housing which were typical for working families. Representativeness: The farmhouse is typical of the soldier settlement farmhouse built in the Inter War years that has been enlarged and adapted as the farm prospered and the family grew. Level of significance; Considerable

Physical Description

The place comprises a single-storey weatherboard and iron dwelling located on the east side of Bertram Road, near the intersection with Challenger Avenue. The place is mostly concealed from the road by a number of overgrown plantings, including jacarandas, ficus and hibiscus, and there are remnant orchard plantings and various outbuildings to the east. The building has a distinct cottage form, comprising a simple rectilinear form with a gable roof that incorporates a timber-framed verandah across the front elevation. The walls are clad with horizontal timber weatherboards, areas of which are damaged, and it has a combination of aluminium-framed and timber-framed windows to each elevation. In 2021, the place is largely screened from street view by thick vegetation

History

The now dilapidated Sutton farmhouse in Group 66, near Wellard, was one of the soldier settlement cottages erected in 1921. It was the prototype of the settlement dwellings, which consisted of four rooms and a verandah. Each cottage had a wood fired stove and a 1,000 gallon rain water tank, and cost about £40 to build. This place was originally occupied by William Sutton and his family, early settlers who stayed in the district until at least the 1940s.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Moderate-Low Authenticity: Moderate

Condition

Poor

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