Goldfields Road, Goomalling to Bullfinch

Child Places

• 16892 Goldfields Road, Wyalkatchem

Uses

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Donbering Hill (fmr)

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Statement of Significance

An important geological feature.

History

Danberrin Hill (HK81) was recorded by H.S.King (1889) in field book 9, pages 22,24,60 - T.G. plan 326. Originally named Donbering Hills by C.C.Hunt (1864-6) on exploration plan 25 James Morrell took out the first lease of the Danberrin Area in 1876. The area was used for grazing until the development of agriculture with the Civil Servants Re-Settlement Scheme in 1909. The name has been used for one of the local government wards in the Municipality of Nungarin.

Condition

Site only

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Danberrin Area

Physical Description

The Danberrin Area comprises a large area of mostly rural properties and State government land, encompassing approximately 14, 647 hectares. The area comprises arable land used for wheat-farming, as well as paddocks, native bushland, granite outcrops, revegetated areas and salt lake system. Danberrin Road runs in a north-south fashion through the centre of the place. The majority of properties are fenced, and include buildings (residences, sheds) and other farming landscape features such as dams, water tanks and windmills. The Danberrin Hill Reserve, located just over a kilometre from Danberrin Road, is well-known for its wildflowers. The area has been identified within the Shire of Nungarin’s Municipal Inventory as representing the centre of the Civil Service Land Settlement Scheme which settled former government employees in the Wheatbelt to help stimulate the wheat-growing industry in Western Australia. A memorial to the Civil Service settlers is located on Danberrin Hill within the Reserve.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Statement of Significance

The Danberrin area is significant because it was the centre for the Civil Service Land Settlement Scheme in 1909. This settlement was an integral part of the agricultural development of the Nungarin District.

History

James Morrell took out the first lease of the Danberrin Area in 1876. The area was used predominantly for grazing until the large scale development of agriculture throughout the Nungarin district in 1909/1910. Over 120 settlers took up land in the area during these 2 years. During the boom years of the gold rush, the population of WA escalated dramatically. The number of people had more than trebled from 53,279 in 1891 to 194,109 in 1901; and increased again to 239,000 by December 1904. As the gold industry gradually declined, there were concerns for the State's economy. The Civil Service was over-staffed, and it was apparent that an alternative industry was needed. Western Australia was still an importer of foodstuffs, and it was realised that self-sufficiency in food production was highly desirable. The Government was convinced that the state had unlimited possibilities for agricultural development, and that the industry could also offer alternative employment for the men made redundant by the decline in gold mining. James Mitchell served as Honorary Minister for Agriculture from 1906 until 1909, and as Minister for Lands and Agriculture from 1909 until 1911. Before he entered parliament, he had been Manager of the Northam branch of the Western Australian Bank, and also a successful farmer. In 1892, during the excitement of the gold rush, he had been a guest at the Mangowine Inn, having ridden out from Northam through Goomalling to Dandanning with W.G.Leeder. He had first-hand knowledge of the area, having reported good water supplies at Mangowine, Talgomine and "Noongerin", and was enthusiastic to promote agricultural development of the district. Between 1907 and 1910, regular newspaper advertisements in all Australian capital cities, and in New Zealand, extolled the virtue of farming in a land where "droughts were unknown", "railways existing or under construction", and the "State Agricultural Bank the most liberal in the world"! The conditions included a maximum selection of 2000 acres for each male aged sixteen years or over. Prices ranged from 3/9 to 15/- per acre payable half yearly over 20 years without interest; and a free homestead block of 160 acres was allotted to each purchaser, subject to certain residence and improvement conditions. (See appended advertisement for the opening up of Western Australian crown lands from "The Australian", December 25th 1909). Teams were sent out to begin preparatory ring-barking and surveying of blocks, and between the beginning of June and August 18th, 1910, 887 settlers were sent to Western Australia as a result of the extensive advertising campaign. A great number of farmers from South Australia relocated to the Nungarin area at this time. As a strategy to provide alternative employment for members of the over-staffed Civil Service, applications were also invited from officers and clerks in various Western Australian Government departments. Just over seventy men were selected, and in 1909 the Civil Servants' Land Settlement Scheme was initiated south of Nungarin. Settlement was concentrated in the Burran Rock (earlier called Burrancobbing) and Danberrin areas, although some land was selected as far south as the Nokaning area, and north-east as far as Mt.Moore (Talgomine) Men without capital or experience were encouraged to take up agricultural land. Government grants were made available, and all credit advanced to prospective settlers was repayable at 5% interest. To help with establishment, payment ranging from twelve to twenty shillings an acre was given for clearing the land. On being transported to their blocks, the settlers had to quickly erect temporary shelter, and begin clearing. Quite often they had to wait a week or more for the teams carrying their equipment and building materials to arrive. Once a month an inspector from the Agricultural Bank would arrive to assess the amount of loan payable to the settler for the purchase of necessary equipment such as machinery and horses. In accordance with a motion by Mr W.C.Angwin, M L.A., on the 19th October 1910, a return listing all Civil Service Officers who were granted land and took up their blocks, was tabled in the Legislative Assembly by the Honourable the Premier on 17th November 1910. (Legislative Assembly Tabled Paper 143/1910 Acc 855). Some available location numbers have been added. In 1909, The Eastern Recorder' carried regular reports about the arrival of civil servants at what was then called the 'Wooroolocking' (Worrolocking) settlement. Prospective settlers were met at Kellerberrin where arrangements were made to transport them and their goods, and guide them to their blocks approximately 40 miles north-east of Kellerberrin. The shortage of water was an immediate and serious concern. The November 3rd issue of 'The Eastern Recorder', carried the following article, "...but there is trouble looming ahead, and that is in connection with the water supply. It is true that there are some wells near the settlement, but they are privately owned, and the water is so precious that the owners will not sell it. There are some public dams, but the chances of filling them at this time of year are very remote. The only practical way to overcome the difficulty is for the government to boldly face the situation, and lay down, say a 4 inch main to the settlement, connecting it with the Goldfields Water Supply Service. In addition to providing a permanent supply of water to the settlement, it would also give employment to the large numbers of men who are now out of work in Perth."

Condition

Site only

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Mangowine Community Sheep Dip

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Statement of Significance

The community sheep dip at Mangowine is the earliest example of pioneering husbandry methods in the district, and the difficulties faced by early sheep farmers.

Physical Description

The four community, or government, sheep dips in the Nungarin Shire are all built to the same basic "C.P.Murray" design. A curved, timber fenced race opens into a small enclosure from where sheep enter a concrete pit approximately four feet deep, 4'6" wide and 6'6" long leading into a narrow ascending channel which rises to draining pens. The Mangowine sheep dip appears to be the earliest example of the four dips in the Nungarin area. The concrete is more roughly formed, with rounded instead of square edges, and most of the timber race and yards no longer exist.

History

The Scab Act of 1891 required stock owners to inspect their sheep regularly for indications of scab (psoroptic mange, a skin disease caused by mites) and to treat any infestations by compulsory dipping. Even as early as 1878, Thomas Adams was appointed as honorary scab inspector for the district, and combined stock inspections with his regular police patrols. Penalties for neglecting to keep sheep flocks scab-free were very strict. Inspectors were empowered to not only take possession of the infected sheep, but also to seize any tanks, implements, fuel, lime, sulphur and anything else he needed in order to treat them. Infected sheep could also be ordered to be destroyed, and the costs charged against the owner. Reserve number 20043 (Avon Location 25378 1.9424 ha) was originally part of Avon Location 14170, then a 999 acre block incorporating what is now Avon Location 16929 (118.1353 ha), as well as Avon Location 17653 (Reserve number 17016 13.8402 ha) and the Historic Sheep Dip Site. The earliest use of the Mangowine Sheep Dip site was as a water catchment. Settlers to the north of Nungarin were experiencing severe water shortages, and were eventually successful in gaining approval for a dam to be sunk as a watering place convenient for settlers travelling between Nungarin, Dandanning, Merredin and Lake Brown. The original quote was for a 2500 cubic yard dam with standpipe, pump and trough at an estimated total cost of £450. Local teamster, Mickey Bates, successfully tendered for the job, and began excavation in June, 1917. Progress was hampered due to the presence of salt, and construction halted at 7'. The final capacity was only 1500 cubic yards, and the dam was never very successful. On 21st August, 1918, 39 acres were excised as water reserve number 17016, in order to protect the water catchment area. A letter from the Secretary of the Nungarin Road Board on 11th September, 1923, stated that the dam was not holding water, and that the area was a harbour for rabbits. A further letter in 1928 requested that the reserve be cancelled and the land made available to the surrounding land holder (Mrs R.M.Johnson). The point was made that the travelling public would not need the use of the dam because of the immanent connection to the Knungajin and Barbalin Water Catchment Schemes. The water reserve number 17016 was cancelled on 10th October, 1928, at which time the land was taken up by Mrs Johnson. The current value of the tank (£50) was added to the price of the land. A narrow strip of land 16 chain long by 3 chain wide was excluded from the sale and retained as gravel quarry reserve number 20043. Ultimately, gravel from the site was deemed to be not suitable for roadworks, and on 10th February, 1998, the status of the reserve was altered to that of Historic Sheep Dip Site. There is no reference to the construction or operation of the Mangowine sheep dip in the Department of Land Administration file. While the basic plan is the same as other community sheep dips within the Shire, the construction appears to be of an earlier date. Under the Marginal Area Reconstruction Scheme of 1938, government funds were made available for the assistance of farmers within defined areas. The Nungarin district came within the boundaries of the North Eastern Marginal area. At that time, C.P.Murray was seconded from the Department of Agriculture, as sheep adviser to Agricultural Bank clients. He recommended that "Marginal Area" funds be used for the construction of community dips at strategic locations throughout the district, and it is likely that the Mangowine Dip was one of the first of these to be built. The Agricultural Bank administered the funds, and construction and management was under the authority of the local Road Board.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Redeemable Authenticity: Medium

Condition

Poor

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Campion Townsite

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Statement of Significance

The Campion Townsite has historical significance representative of the hopes and aspirations of the development of agriculture in the twenties.

History

Agricultural settlement in the Campion area began in the early 1920s, with many migrants being attracted to the region as clearing contractors. The Agricultural Bank paid 25/- - 30/- per acre for clearing, and some of those involved in the clearing stayed on to purchase their own blocks. As a sense of community developed, football and cricket teams were formed, a store was opened, and a school established. A townsite was surveyed and named after Sir William Campion, Governor of Western Australia from 1924-1931. The town was gazetted under the Land Act on 28th March 1928, and advertised in the Government Gazette page 870. On 11-12th June 1930, the Governor of Western Australia, Sir William Campion, and his wife, made a visit to the area named after him. The Governor and his party travelled to Campion on a special train, and made a tour of the district, being entertained at special events held in Mukinbudin. The newly established area was seriously affected by the falling wheat prices from 1926, and the following depression of the thirties. In January 1930, a meeting of farmers in Campion joined other disgruntled wheatgrowers who were eventually responsible for the formation of the Wheatgrower's Union, and the organisation of the wheat strike of 1932. Natural pests were another difficulty faced by farmers, and in 1932 the region was blighted with a plague of emus. The local member of parliament suggested that the army be called in to eradicate the pests, and in November Major G.W.Meredith arrived with several machine gunners to deal with the problem. The campaign was decried by conservationists, and has now become part of Western Australian folklore. As early as 1924, Mr J.Chandler had submitted a sample of powdery material obtained from the Campion area and found that subsequent analysis revealed an alunite content of 50%. Potash was able to be extracted from the alunite, and in 1942, a State Alunite Industry was established on the Chandler townsite reserve close to the west side of the Lake. Approximately 250 government employees were living there by the end of the war, and the focus for development was shifted from Campion to nearby Chandler. The Campion townsite remained undeveloped, and the school was closed. In December 1956, the Government closed 842 miles (1355 kms) of rail in the marginalised areas of the state, and the Campion siding was closed. The Campion townsite was cancelled on 24th November 1972 (Government Gazette page 4477). The name was retained as an unbounded locality name, and is also used for one of the local government wards in the Municipality of Nungarin. All that remains today is the ballast from the old railway line.

Condition

Site only

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Nungarin Townsite

Child Places

• 15274 Congregational Church - Site
• 01919 Nungarin Roads Board Office (fmr)
• 01921 Agricultural Hall, Nungarin
• 15309 Church of England Rectory (fmr)
• 01922 Nungarin Post Office
• 15305 WS Waterhouse & Sons Hardware Shop
• 15302 Shire Foreman's House
• 13175 Nungarin Catholic Church
• 01918 Nungarin Hotel

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Child Places

• 15274 Congregational Church - Site
• 01919 Nungarin Roads Board Office (fmr)
• 01921 Agricultural Hall, Nungarin
• 15309 Church of England Rectory (fmr)
• 01922 Nungarin Post Office
• 15305 WS Waterhouse & Sons Hardware Shop
• 15302 Shire Foreman's House
• 13175 Nungarin Catholic Church
• 01918 Nungarin Hotel

Statement of Significance

The townsite of Nungarin is the cultural and commercial centre of the Shire, and has special significance to the people of the district through their use and associations of the place.

Physical Description

Reserve number 13099 was set aside for the townsite of Nungarin on 28th October 1910 (Government Gazette p.3327). The townsite was declared under the Land Act on 1st March 1912 (Government Gazette p. 1083) The town was named for the aboriginal name of nearby Nungarin (originally Noongarin) Rock.

History

The first known Europeans to have passed through the Nungarin district were Surveyor John Septimus Roe and his party in October 1836. The purpose of this exploration was to locate a body of fresh inland water which would allow good pasture for the expanding flocks in the southern districts. Lefroy passed through the district in 1863, and Charles Hunt made 3 separate trips between 1864 and 1866. The main purpose of Hunt's trips was to open the country up for grazing by forming a chain of wells, tanks, drains and roads. Hunt stopped at Knungajin on 8th & 9th April 1864, and on a subsequent trip one year later, he made the first recorded reference to Noongarin (Nungarin) Rock when he camped overnight there on Sunday April 10th 1865. With more reliable water, the way was open to take advantage of the wide tract of pastoral land to the east of Perth. On 31st August 1867, Henry Twine took up 30 000 acres of grazing lease in the area. This lease was later transferred to Charles Adams and James Ward, and the Adams family subsequently moved to Mangowine Spring, becoming the first residents of the Nungarin district in 1874. In the summer of 1887, a nugget of gold was found at Moujakine. This was the first gold to be discovered in the eastern districts, and led to the Eastern Goldfields rush, and the development of the Yilgarn fields in 1888. The goldfields route passed through Mangowine and the homestead became a stopping place for prospectors. As the gold industry gradually declined in the early 1900s, there were concerns for the State's economy. The Government was convinced that the state had unlimited possibilities for agricultural development, and that the industry could also offer alternative employment for the men made redundant by the decline in gold mining. The Civil Service was over-staffed, and applications were invited from officers and clerks in various Western Australian Government departments. In 1909 the Civil Servants' Land Settlement Scheme was initiated in the Burran Rock area south of Nungarin, and agricultural development of the region began. A sense of community quickly developed, leading to the eventual declaration of the town of Nungarin. The first store in Nungarin was built by T.Bolton adjacent to the railway goods shed. It was constructed of bush timber with hessian walls and corrugated iron roof, and would have been built around the time of the completion of the railway line in 1911. During the next eighty years, various buildings and businesses were constructed in the town. The commercial buildings have been mainly sited in Railway Terrace, while dwellings have been erected on blocks facing First and Second Avenues, and Danberrin Road.

Condition

Site Only

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Chandler Townsite

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Statement of Significance

Chandler has historical significance because of its role in providing essential supplies of phosphate during the Second World War, and as the site of a flourishing but short-lived industry which employed several hundred people. The supply of gypsum for the building industry is also important as the only significant commercial venture in the district other than agriculture.

History

Chandler was named after Mr J.Chandler of Campion, who obtained a sample of powdery material from Lake Campion and submitted it for analysis in April 1924. The government mineralogist reported that the sample revealed an alunite content of 50%. Later, exploration chemists also identified the presence of 22 separate chemicals in the lake clay. Examination revealed that varying quantities of alunite were present throughout the string of clay pans that formed Lake Campion and Lake Brown. These deposits were about eight feet deep, and represented the most extensive alunite deposits in the world, and the only deposits to occur on a lake surface. Potash was able to be extracted from the alunite, and in 1942, a State Alunite Industry was established on the Chandler townsite reserve close to the west side of the Lake. Nungarin was able to fulfil a strategic wartime need for supplies of potash fertiliser (alunite) when the supply of superphosphate for agriculture had become critical after the Japanese captured the island of Nauru, the main source of rock phosphate. The Chandler townsite was gazetted on 19th February, 1943 (see attached townsite and locality plans). The Chandler plant operated from January 1944, until February 1950. During that time 182,629.60 tons of raw material was treated to produce 9073.05 tons of potash, with a market value of £215,669.72. Drag lines were used to gather the alunite clay, which was then transported by truck to a hammer mill where it was crushed, and then roasted (or calcined) in a rotary kiln that reached temperatures of 800° c. The potassium and aluminium salts were then separated using a water solution and centrifuges to produce the final product of potassium sulphate in the form of glasserite. The alumina (aluminium oxide) by-product was stockpiled in a huge residue dump. The industry at Chandler was able to take advantage of some of the army surplus sales at Nungarin, and purchased a couple of large buildings previously used for stores. Some houses were transported from Youanmi after the goldmining there had closed down. At one time the settlement there had about 57 houses, as well as a dozen huts for single men, and facilities such as canteen, hall, library, butcher, gallon licence, powerhouse, post office and school. Each of the new houses was erected at a cost of approximately £740, and rented out at 15/- per week, which included the provision of light, water, and a sanitary service. Various accounts claim that between 330 and 250 government employees were living at Chandler by the end of the war. After the war, when imported potash once more became available, and at much cheaper prices than the local product, the State Alunite Industry at Chandler was closed down. At the same time there was a shortage of plasterboard for the burgeoning building industry. Due to the presence of large quantities of gypsum (the raw material of plaster of paris) in the area, it was decided to convert the works at Chandler for the production of plaster. In 1949 Australian Plaster Industries commenced operations. The demand for housing and plasterboard dropped with the credit squeeze of 1952, so A.P.I, decided to cease operations at Chandler, and the whole townsite was put up for sale by tender. After the factory at Chandler closed, it was realised that the alumina tailings that were stockpiled at the old site were a useful absorbent, and in 1975, Chandler Clay obtained a licence to treat the alumina for sale as 'Kitty Litter'. Five people were employed at the new factory, and 30-40 tonnes of material were carted out each week until the stockpile was exhausted in 1988. Today virtually nothing remains. Gypsum is mined by Brady's at nearby Lake Brown, but they cart the raw material to Perth by road for processing.

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Knungajin Hill, Dam and Trig Station, Nungarin

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Statement of Significance

Knungajin Hill represent aesthetic, historic and social value tot he local community. As well as being a prominent local landmark, the water catchment area is important to the agricultural industry.

History

This twin-peaked granite outcrop was located on 24th October 1836 ,u Surveyor JS Roe who referred to the summits in the text of his journal as hills 'G' and 'H'. On a sketch in his journal he added the descriptive name 'Twins' which was shown on early maps (Filed Book 5 Exp. Plan 31 and Arrowsmith's 1939 map). Following is the relevant excerpt from Roe's field notes: "October 24th 3.10 pm. Began to ascend the approach to 'G' over various country - sometims forest of gnardoruk, at other scrubby land and thickets, among which, occassional patches of grass. 4.05 pm. In 2 and a quarter miles reached SE Side of 'G' Hill and halted close to a hole of excellent water in the foot of a rock, where excellent green grass heavy in seed, was in abundance for our horses. Ascended 'G' hill and recorded compass reading for ridge 'K'. 3 native fires smoking up 7 miles off under long range 'K'. In the vicinity are white cockatoos, pigeons, crows, hawks and a few small birds besides more kangaroo rat than usual, and more burrowing animals have been passed today, but no traces of kangaroo are yet discernible. Feet marks of some have been met with in our route, as well as numerous tracks of natives, and a few small huts, some of the former very recent. They had evidently seen us on hill 'G', and blazed up 3 fires tot he northward immediately after we had ascended the summit. It is but justice to the 'Gnow' or whatever bird it was whose nest we robbed today of six eggs to say that their contents when blown out of the shells (Which were very thin indeed for their size) and fried, proved most excellent although the hatching process had commenced in some, and was considerable advanced in others. October 25 7.40 am. Sun rose a t 5.34. Having no trees to mark the number of our bivouac on. a cairn of stones on top of hill 'G' and the conspicuous character of the hills, answered the same purpose. Proceeded NNE towards Eagle Rock, passing round SE side of hill 'H'. A good spring at NE of hill 'H', deepened out to a well by the natives." On August 8th 1976, the Nungarin Shire Council and the Royal WA Historical Society organised a small function to mark the 140th anniversary of Roe's visit. The Surveyor General Mr John Morgan was invited to unveil a memorial plaque which was fixed to Roe's cairn. The ceremony was followed by lunch at the National Trust Property at Mangowine. The wording ont he plaque is as follows (NB. 1975 instead of 1976): This Cairn Was erected in 1836, by John Septimus Roe First Surveyor General of the colony of Western Australia It marks the site of Bivouac 20, made in the course of his expedition of exploration To open up the interior for agriculture This hill named by him 'The Twins" is now known as By the native name of 'Knungajin' Erected by Nungarin Shire Council And the Royal Western Australian Historical Society 1975 The aboriginal name was recorded as 'Nurngurdin' by CC Hunt during explorations on 8th and 9th april 1864 (Field Book 2). This was incorrectly shown as 'Nurngwdine' on Exp. Plan 25. The aboriginal name was recorded as 'Knungagen' during a trig survey by HS King in 1889 (Field Book 9 pages 44, 53 and 54) included in a trig network as 1-K66 and shown as 'Knungagen (or Twins)' on T.G. 326. Originally shown on Public Plans 34/80 and 35/80 in 1909 spelt 'Knungajen' and later changed to 'Knungajin' for reasons unknown. The name was amended to 'Knungajin Hill (The Twins)' in May 1966. Water had long been a problem in the northern districts, and at last it seemed for some the situation would be eased by the utilisation of natural resources. Three reservoirs were built throughout the area, one at Barbalin holding 32 million gallons of water, another at Waddouring holding 23 million gallons and a third at at Knungajin holding 9 million gallons. Granite retaining walls were constructed around the base of Knungajin to channel run-off into a reservoir. The water was then pumped into a 580 cubic metre tank constructed at the summit of the north-eastern peak. From there water gravitated through specially laid pipes to the surrounding farming properties. On October 26th 1929, the No. 1 District Water Supply was officially opened by the Premier of Western Australia, the Honourable Phillip Collier. A large party of Members of both houses of Parliament, as well as city visitors and locals all celebrated at a special dinner held in Nungarin that night. A plaque and rain gauge wa erected adjacent tot the pump house at Knugajin to commemorate the event. Wording on the plaque is as follows: This tablet Was affixed by The Honourable Phillip Collier Premier of Western Australia To mark the occasiom of the Opening of No. 1 District Water Supply October 26th 1929 The Hon James Cunningham Minister for Country Water Supplies PV O'Brien M.I.C.E Engineer in Charge

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Nungarin Bowling Club

Parent Place or Precinct

15267 Army No 5 Base Ordnance Depot Precinct

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Statement of Significance

The Nungarin Bowling Club is significant as one of the few remaining buildings of 5 BOD, and also because of its association with the sport and recreation in Nungarin.

Physical Description

The 'Dampier Herald 1 dated March 14th 1957 carried a description of the building as follows: "The building itself is of two wings with the dining room continuing to make a large and pleasantly designed building. Entrance is made through a porchway and glass doors to a carpeted foyer. Through one wing which is beautifully carpeted in restful tones of green and large green leaves, with plain curtains to match. "The visitor then enters the second wing, which contains a billiard table. Carpets are movable, so that dancing can take place on the gleaming surface of the highly polished floor. A bar which partly divides the two wings, is of futuristic design in wrought iron with the distinctive snake motif, the front sloping inwards and finished in a strippled (sic) design of black and gold with black gleaming panels set at the rear of the well-stocked bar itself. "The whole setting is most attractive and would more than justify itself in a city club."

History

While the bowling green itself was originally put down in 1949, the Sergeant's Mess was constructed by the 22nd Construction Squadron Royal Australian Engineers at the beginning of 1957. The building was opened initially by the Commanding Officer 5 BOD, Lt.Col. E.E.Demler at a small function with official guests on the evening of Friday 22nd February. The mood of the evening was obviously light-hearted, because the 'Dampier Herald' dated March 7th carried a cover-page article in which it was mentioned that "after supper a diversion was created by the 'planting' of a dummy snake at the ante-room entrance." There was a second official "public" opening on the following Saturday, 9th March, at which a large number of people from Nungarin and surrounding districts were present. At this function, guests were welcomed by the President of the Mess, Sergeant Major Robinson. The Sergeant Cook, Sgt T.Graham received a special commendation for his efforts in providing a supper in "super-abundance". The March 14th issue of the 'Dampier Herald' describes a highlight of the table decorations; "green and red peppers and cucumbers, with prawns, the latter so placed as to appear animate and endeavouring to crawl over the peppers and cucumbers"! At the final clearance of Army property and equipment in 1962, the Nungarin Bowling Club purchased the Sergeant's Mess for use as a clubhouse. The Mess was conveniently located adjacent to the bowling green, and required only minor modifications to suit the purposes of the local committee. Shire President, H.S.(Bert) Waterhouse, and Bowling Club President, Les Hoare, presided at the official function to mark the occasion of the community assuming the property. Greenkeepers were C.H.de Lacy, L.D.Evans, H.H.Waterhouse, and M.Squire.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Intact Authenticity: High

Condition

Good

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Nungarin Swimming Pool

Parent Place or Precinct

15267 Army No 5 Base Ordnance Depot Precinct

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Statement of Significance

The Nungarin Swimming Pool is significant as a unique example of army-civilian co-operation, and as one of the few remaining structures erected by the Army during the occupation of 5 BOD in the town. It is also important as a recreational facility enjoyed by all age groups.

Physical Description

The Nungarin swimming Pool is half Olympic Standard length (82 ft 6 ins) and 30 ft wide. It is of concrete construction and incorporates a children's wading pool, filtration plant, and showering and changing facilities (Porta Cabin style) with a covered terrace area, as well as an entrance kiosk and paved barbecue area. The pool has a capacity of 110,000 gallons. A plaque at the entry kiosk reads: 5 BASE ORDNANCE DEPOT NUNGARIN SWIMMING POOL OPENED BY MAJOR GENERAL J.HARRISON C.B.E. GENERAL OFFICER COMMANDING WESTERN COMMAND 15th DECEMBER 1958

History

The construction of the Nungarin Swimming Pool was the result of three years of intense effort, and a testament to army-civilian co-operation. The first definite discussions on the construction of 5 BOD Nungarin Swimming Pool were conducted in 1955. Major F.C.A.Meadows proceeded with preliminary enquiries on such matters as finance, water supply and co-operation of local authorities. A site was selected adjacent to the O'Meara Soldier's Club, and the Nungarin Road Board agreed to finance the original excavation. Final approval was obtained from Headquarters Western Command, and a loan of £7000 was made available from the Central Army Amenities Fund. The loan was repayable at the rate of £700 per year, and repayments were made from the proceeds of a Mardi Gras, wheat cropping ventures during the 1956-57-58 seasons, donations from Regimental Trust Funds, and admittance charges. On 21st January, 1958, the first load of pool materials arrived. A construction party of Royal Australian Engineers arrived in February, headed by Warrant Officer I.Lang who directed operations throughout. The pool was officially opened on Monday, 15th December 1958 by Major-General J.W.Harrison, CBE, General Officer Commanding, Western Command. The program included an inaugural exhibition swim by Mr Ron Day, State 100 metre and 200 yards champion, and an exhibition of diving by Mr John Charles, State Champion, as well as other events. In 1995, the old ablution block was demolished, and replaced with new change-rooms and toilet facilities. The Pool Committee has been active in developing a paved barbecue area, and generally upgrading the surrounds.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Intact Authenticity: Medium

Condition

Good

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Ron Herbert Pavilion

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Statement of Significance

The Ron Herbert Memorial Pavilion is significant to the community of Nungarin because of its value as a recreational facility, and also because of its association with an important local identity.

Physical Description

The Nungarin Sports Pavilion is a long rectangular dark brick building with full length verandahs on the north-west and south-east sides. Entry to the building may be made through double glass doors opening from each of the verandahs, into an enclosed area used for meals and meetings. This central area connects to the kitchen and the umpire's room. The kitchen and servery is on the north-east end of the building, and toilets and change-rooms are on the south-west end. Some time after the original building was completed, a club room (called "The Blue Room" because of the blue carpet) was added to the south-western end. The addition of this room necessitated changes of function for some of the ablution facilities so that the men's toilets and change-rooms could open directly into the club room. In 1981, the following plaque was fixed to the south-east wall: THIS PAVILION IS DEDICATED -TO-RON HERBERT COUNCILLOR 1951-1970, 1971-1980 SHIRE PRESIDENT 1960-1962, 1964-1970, 1973-1980 IN RECOGNITION OF HIS CONTRIBUTION TO THE SHIRE OF NUNGARIN OFFICIALLY DEDICATED BY MR WILSON TUCKEY, M P. -ON-31st MAY, 1981

History

Although the sports pavilion was constructed in 1968, it was dedicated to the memory of Ron Herbert after his death on 15th July 1980. Ronald Luscombe Herbert was born in 1922, the son of Nungarin pioneer, Sidney Pembroke Herbert, who took up Avon Locations 1112 and 1113 in 1910. For 28 years, Ron served the Nungarin district as a councillor in local government. This period included fifteen years as Road Board Chairman, and later as Shire President. He represented the Great Eastern Ward on the Executive of the Country Shire Councils' Association of W.A., and also represented the Nungarin Council on the Mount Marshall Regional Council, and was Chairman of that group for nearly two terms Ron always fought for greater autonomy for local government, believing that it was best able to assess and administer local community needs. He always had complete loyalty and faith in fellow councillors and staff, and in Council's ability to administer the affairs of the Shire. He was a strong advocate in supporting local business and always urged everyone to shop locally. At a local level, Ron displayed great faith and enthusiasm for the area he loved so dearly. His faith in the future of agriculture, and his loyalty to Nungarin never wavered. He was a strong supporter of local sporting clubs and was very proud of the harmonious relationships that existed between various sporting bodies and the Council. He believed that the best possible facilities should be available for all to use, and the high standard of Nungarin's recreation facilities was a source of great pleasure and satisfaction. It was most fitting that the sports pavilion should be dedicated to his memory and honour. The pavilion is the centre of the Nungarin recreation area, serving the tennis and cricket clubs, and in the past, hockey, football and basketball.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Intact Authenticity: High

Condition

Very Good

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Neening Tank

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Statement of Significance

The Neening tank has significance because of its association with agricultural development in the Nungarin area.

History

The earliest reference to Neening tank is in H.S.King's field book number 9, (1889) page 60 (plan 326). This was located on Avon location 11347, and would have referred to an early earth tank, or dam. The tank was mentioned again by J.C.Watt in 1908, field book 97, page 21 The tank is located at Nocaning Rock which was first shown on exploration plan number 25 - Country Eastward of York, by C.C.Hunt 1864-5-6. The purpose of these trips was to open up country for grazing by forming a chain of wells, tanks and drains. In the typescript of Ted Fitzgerald's Memoirs (Sir James Mitchell's Civil Servant Land Settlement Scheme 1909 - written 1987), he mentions that the Government blasted a dam at the foot of Neening Rock (c1909). He says that the dam was approximately 1 chain square and 12 feet deep. Perhaps this blasting referred to an enlargement of the tank noted earlier by King and Watt. Fitzgerald noted that the Government arranged for each settler to be supplied with a thousand gallon tank, and each tank was filled with a couple of hundred gallons of water from the Neening tank. On page 9 of Fitzgerald's memoirs is the following account of the Neening Dam: "In the first few years we had to depend on the Neening Dam for water, the years started to get dry and the dam went dry. In one corner there was a spring. My dad dug it out and it used to take about 3 or 4 hours to make 3 or 4 hundred gallons of water and if some settler came along in the meantime and emptied it out, we would have to wait till it made up again. "Later the water supply laid a pipeline from Merredin Pumping Station out through the farms north westerly onto the Nungarin Road and on to Nungarin and from this line the pipes were laid to North Baandee and out Burran Rock way. All the pipes were carted on jinkers pulled by camels. They used a big forked salmon gum with a steel share to dig the trench to put the pipe in. The pipes were about 5 and 6 inch diameter. One end was cupped (sic) shaped and was sealed with string lead with a blunt ended instrument and hammer to belt it in all around the pipe until it was sealed. They used to keep a man on the job with a horse and sulky to keep the pipes sealed as there used to be a lot of leaks." On page 13 Mr Fitzgerald goes on to talk about the Neening Water Reserve: "Around the year 1929, the Neening Water Reserve where the dam was thrown open for selection. My mother applied for the area. It was 305 acres and also a 100 acre cleared block once held by A.C.McCorry, which adjoined the top end of the 305 acre reserve. The 100 acre was known as Neening Tank. It was granted Conditional Purchase. The land had to be cleared and fenced. We fenced and cleared the land and built a 4 room galvanised iron house on it. "As the rabbits were starting to get bad, I fenced the dams in and water holes..." On page 16, reference is made to the present concrete tank at Neening: "1937. The Water Supply decided to build a 500 thousand gallon cement tank on top of the rock at Neening and I took a job on it. It was all steel laced and the concrete poured in moulds around the steel lacing, and it was roofed with galvanised iron." Reserve number 21834 was set aside as a tanksite and pipeline reserve on 1st April, 1938. On 10.9.1975 the spelling of the rock was amended from Nocaning to Nokaning, to agree with the spelling of the siding. The present concrete tank is currently not in use.

Condition

Site Only

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Elabbin Townsite & Siding

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Statement of Significance

Elabbin is significant because of its association with the shipment of grain and gypsum, and the importance of these industries to the economy of the district.

History

HISTORY SITE 017 The Elabbin townsite was declared under the Land Act on 27th June 1913 (Government Gazette p.2120). Brady's used the siding for the shipment of gypsum from Lake Brown, and at one time the mine manager was resident adjacent to the siding. A siding was built for grain receivals and transport, but the townsite was never developed. Bulk handling facilities were installed at Elabbin Siding in 1939. The bin was a 1939 type with a capacity of 800 tonnes. The last recorded delivery was in the 1975 season, and the bin was demolished and removed in 1978.

Condition

Site only

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Mangowine Grave Sites

Parent Place or Precinct

01923 Mangowine Homestead

Uses

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Statement of Significance

Charles Adams made a significant contribution to the development of the Nungarin district. In his roles as a pioneer pastoralist, a special constable, a well sinker, and in his function as owner of the wayside inn at Mangowine, he had a major impact on the establishment of the region. The Adams graves which are a part of the Mangowine heritage precinct are icons of the pastoral and agricultural eras of the district's history.

Physical Description

The graves of Charles Frederick Adams and his granddaughter Constance Edna Payne are situated in a thin strip of land within Lot 1, Avon Location 972, on the eastern side of Karomin Road opposite the main Mangowine property. An avenue of eucalypts are planted within the strip. Inscriptions on the graves read as follows: Charles Adams Husband of Jane Swaine Adams Died 28.4.1895 Result of a horse and dray accident at Nokaning - about 4 miles from Nungarin Brought back to Mangowine for burial Aged 49 yrs Father of 11 children (details on headstone are not consistent with generally accepted information regarding Charles's death) Constance Edna Payne Born 30.4.1910 Died of bums at Mangowine at approximate age of 18 months Her death has not been registered anywhere in the state of W.A. Grand-daughter of Charles and Jane Adams.

History

Charles Frederick Adams was born in Scotland in 1846. It is believed that he came to Western Australia with his father, Thomas, on the Pyrenees in April 1853. The Adams family have always believed that Thomas came out as a Pensioner Guard, and this was stated in his death notice that appeared in the West Australian March 21st 1887. However, the Enrolled Pensioner Force was not published on the passenger lists, and his name does not appear on payroll records held in the Public Record Office in England, so this cannot be substantiated. When Western Australia was compelled to accept convict labour in 1850, the British Government promised that one free person would be sent to the colony for every felon transported. With each convict ship, pensioned or expired soldiers were sent as guards. On arrival, these pensioner guards were available for engagement as labourers, but could also be called upon to assist in the event of any outbreak by prisoners. They were accompanied by their wives and children, and if they "made good", were promised 10 acres of land on a 7 year lease. They were allowed to select land within certain limits, and were granted £10 towards initial expenses, as well as the assistance of convict labour. If the property was improved within the tenure of the lease, they were granted free title. Charles Adams would have been 7 years of age when he arrived with his father in 1853. He married Jane Swain(e) Glass in Toodyay on 6th November 1868. Charles was a cobbler by trade, but entered into an agreement with Henry Twine to shepherd his sheep in the district east of Toodyay. After his marriage to Jane, Charles and his brother-in-law James Ward, took up a pastoral lease at Yarragin. In 1875 Charles took over the lease on the property at Mangowine, and proceeded to build a homestead there. The next year he extended the lease to 10,000 acres. Jane and Charles were to have twelve children: Edwin Born 8.7.1869 Died 29.6.1872 Elizabeth Jane Matilda born: 21.4.1871 died: 18.11.1951 David born: 1872 Died at Birth Mary Annie born: 14.3.1874 died: 10.5.1931 Janet Amy born: 5.4.1876 died: 28.1.1896 Alice born: 24.3.1878 died: 19.9.1939 Minnie May born: 10.5.1880 died: 23.1.1954 Charles Edwin born: 4.10.1882 died: 8.10.1917 Henry David born: 5.2.1885 died: 28.5.1960 Kitty May born: 25.5.1887 died: 16.11.1948 Thomas George born: 6.5.1889 died: 1.12.1963 John born: 25.5.1891. died: 7.4.1905 In May 1877, Charles' father, Thomas Adams, was appointed as a special constable in the far-eastern settlements. Thomas lived in a small hut at Barbalin, and his main duty was to control aborigines who were becoming troublesome and killing sheep and pilfering settlers' goods. The next year Thomas also accepted the honorary duty of inspecting sheep flocks for scab. These duties were undertaken in conjunction with his regular police patrols. When Thomas retired in 1881, Charles took over his father's police duties at an annual salary of £120. Water was a very precious commodity throughout the district, and the most important asset at Mangowine was the soak located below the base of the shelving rock. In dry seasons the supply of water was unreliable, and other wells had to be sunk. In 1879 The Toodyay Road Board authorised Charles to put down 2 wells between Goomalling and Mangowine. There is evidence that he employed ticket-of-leave men for the project, because in Alexandra Hasluck's "Unwilling Emigrants", it is recorded that the ex-convict, William Sykes, was sent a letter addressed to "Well sinkers in care of Mr C.Adams." The whole way of life at Mangowine changed radically when gold was discovered at nearby Moujakine in 1887. This find led to the opening of the Yilgarn fields in 1888. Prospecting teams passed through Mangowine on their way to the goldfields, and in order to cater for this passing trade, a wayside inn was built alongside the homestead, and a licence was granted in 1889. The completion of the railway through Merredin in 1893 diverted the gold-rush traffic, and Charles found he was not so busy and was able to take the opportunity to do some prospecting himself. In 1895 while away from home on one of these trips, he died of a heart attack at Norkaning, just south of Nungarin. His body was brought back to Mangowine for burial. Constance Edna was the daughter of Charles and Jane's tenth child, Kitty May, and her husband William Frederick ("Bill") Payne. When Kitty's marriage foundered, she returned to Mangowine with her children. In October 1911, 18 month old Constance died, and was later buried beside her grandfather Charles.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Intact Authenticity: High

Condition

Very Good

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Nungarin Roads Board Office (fmr)

Parent Place or Precinct

15295 Nungarin Townsite

Condition

Poor (conservation works in progress 2002)

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Statement of Significance

This building has been classified by the National Trust. Recommended for entry into the State Register of Heritage Places Recommended protection under Town Planning Scheme. At one time the building had been restored and furnished. Recommended that restoration be upgraded and the building be included in an integrated tourism plan for Nungarin.

Physical Description

The building consists of a single room of weatherboard with a corrugated iron roof which overhangs on the front side to form a verandah. It has a sheet metal fireplace and chimney at one end, is timber lined with a timber ceiling and wooden floor. Some boards have been damaged by white ants. In 1991, a time capsule was buried in front of the building to commemorate the 70th anniversary of local government in Nungarin. A plaque with the following wording is attached: NUNGARIN SHIRE COUNCIL IN COMMEMORATION OF SEVENTY YEARS OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT 1921-1991 This plaque was unveiled on 24.8.1991 By Shire President, Barry Neyle Cornish. A time capsule has been placed below this plaque To be opened On the centenary of Local Government in Nungarin In the year two thousand and twenty one.

History

Water has always been a precious and rare commodity in this country. The availability of water dictated where aboriginal encampments would be, where stock could graze, and where settlement was possible. The path of human exploration has followed a path of wells and waterholes. It was the lack of water, and the expense when it was available, that led to the formation of the Nungarin Progress Association in 1911, and the harbinger of local government. Water was being brought in by train at a cost of six shillings per thousand gallons, and the Progress Association made a deputation to Parliament for the extension of the Goldfields Water Scheme. During the 1870s when Charles Adams became the first settler in the district, Nungarin was part of the Toodyay Road Board. In 1895, the Nungarin area was included in the area administered by the Goomalling Road Board. Administration subsequently passed to the Kellerberrin Road Board in 1908, and then to the Merredin Road Board on 30th June 1911. At this time the interests of the Nungarin settlers were represented by Messrs W.S.Hodges, and R.G.Bagot. In 1917 the Nungarin Farmers and Settlers Association raised the possibility of establishing a local Road Board, as the settlers had many grievances against the Merredin Board. The roads in the district were in a very poor condition, and lacked maintenance. Travel was hindered as horses and cars alike were susceptible to bogging, and the carting of goods became an unnecessarily lengthy process. A deputation comprising Mssrs Hancock, Hodges, McCorry, Mann, Reddrop, J.R.Baird, Jolly and Jones saw the Clerk in charge of local government to present their case, and in February 1921, a proposal to redistribute the boundaries of the Merredin Road Board District appeared in the Government Gazette. The electoral roll for the Nungarin Road Board District was prepared on July 4th, and elections for the new board were held on August 6th. The Board was divided into five wards: Nungarin, Danberrin, Lake Brown, Mangowine and Wattoning. The first meeting was held in the Agricultural Hall on August 19th, 1921, and a dance was held that night to celebrate the occasion. The first Nungarin Road Board covered a large area of about 517 998 hectares, but the Board quickly began to look after the advancement of the district. Dams and roads were upgraded, and tenders for horse and dray work were called for. The Board was concerned about the proliferation of rabbits and other vermin, and enforced regulations to control the problem. In 1922, the first Road board Office was erected in Mitchell Terrace at a cost of £196. As farming properties were developed to the north of Nungarin, there was I increasing dissatisfaction with local government representation from those I more remote areas. The northern parts closer to Mukinbudin produced the most wheat, and needed more roads and water supplies, but were constantly outvoted by the Nungarin representatives. The Lake Brown area had been settled by returned soldiers after the first World War, and the early 20s were difficult years as they struggled to establish and develop their properties. At the end of 1921, the Nungarin Road Board had adopted the ward rating system, which meant that only funds raised in each ward were available to be allocated for works within that ward. This policy had immediate ramifications in these struggling areas. Roads in J the northern area were little more than rough tracks, and as settlers found I themselves unable to pay rates, the Road Board was not able to allot funds for road works. At the annual ratepayers meeting in April 1925, J.Mulqueeny and T.Pain (both returned soldiers settled in the Lake Brown area) proposed a motion of no confidence in the Nungarin Road Board. The following year, settlers in the Lake Brown -Mukinbudin area first brought up the suggestion of a separate road board for the northern region, with the administrative centre in Lake Brown. By 1927, representation on the Road Board had increased to eleven. Two members from each of the Nungarin, Danberrin, Mangowine and Lake Brown Wards, and three from Wattoning. The balance of power shifted after the 1932 elections when Mr.J.Ferguson of Dandanning defeated the sitting member, Mr F.Williams of Mangowine. This change gave the Mukinbudin faction 6 votes as opposed to 5 for Nungarin. With the change came the realisation that Mukinbudin now virtually had control of the board, and new possibilities presented themselves. Agitation now became focussed on maintaining a single local government body centred in Mukinbudin. At a Road Board meeting on July 11th, 1932, Mr H.Hansen moved, Mr E.B.White seconded, that the administration centre of the Nungarin Road Board be moved from Mukinbudin to Nungarin. There were immediate amendments from the Nungarin members, but ultimately the Mukinbudin faction won the vote with Messrs Mulqueeny, White, Hansen, Calder, Conway and Ferguson defeating the five Nungarin representatives, Hodges, Jolly, Hoare, Horn and McCorry. Mukinbudin pressed home their advantage by immediately moving that an application be made tot he lands Department for two blocks in the Mukinbudin townsite, and that a committee of three be elected to investigate the financing of new offices there. the financing of new offices there. The next few months saw dramatic action as board members and ratepayers promoted various views. There were public meetings throughout the district. There were Road Board resignations, retractions, walkouts and delegations. Some parties favoured one single government body, with the centre variously proposed to be sited in Nungarin, Mukinbudin or Lake Brown. Some preferred two separate districts, but still contested whether the northern seat of administration should be Lake Brown or Mukinbudin. Bonnie Rock ratepayers were concerned about how a separation would affect any later claim they may have to form their own district. Local feelings ran high, and with rumours about a proposal to "highjack" the Nungarin Road Board building, a group of Nungarin settlers mounted an armed guard to prevent the building being shifted. Ultimately it was decided to separate the district, and on 1st September 1933, the Government Gazette advertised that portions of the Nungarin Road District would be severed and reconstituted as the Mukinbudin Road District. Boundary negotiations continued for several years, and in 1938, after refusing to licence his vehicles in Mukinbudin as a protest, Mr M.J.Pink succeeded in having Avon Locations 14086 and 21462 transferred back to Nungarin. In 1940, a small portion of land at Mangowine (30 acres of Avon Location 13792) was also returned to the Nungarin District. The old Road board building served as the administrative centre for the Nungarin Road Board between 1922 and 1936, when the new Road Board Building (now the Alice Williams Memorial Building) was completed in Railway Avenue. Toe H meetings were held in the building after the Road Board moved to the new offices in 1936, and at one time the building also housed a library. Toe H is a Christian organisation that had its foundation in Europe in World War One. The Branch in Nungarin was an active force in helping those in need by doing a variety of tasks such as chopping firewood and cleaning yards, offering friendship, visiting Kununoppin Hospital and collecting books for the library. The Branch eventually disbanded in the late 50s. Because of overcrowding at the Nungarin School, the Road Board building also served as an extra classroom between 1950 and 1952. At one time the old building was restored and furnished, but has now slipped into a state of neglect.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Intact Authenticity: High

Condition

Fair

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Shire Foreman's House

Parent Place or Precinct

15295 Nungarin Townsite

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Statement of Significance

The present Shire Foreman's residence has significance as the one time home of the Nungarin Road Board Secretary.

Physical Description

A timber framed residence with weatherboard and fibro cladding, and a corrugated iron roof.

History

This dwelling is believed to have been built circa 1929, during the period that F.B.Mason was serving as Road Board Secretary. The first Road Board Secretary (R.Bagot) lived at Lot 2, Railway Avenue where the Nungarin Hotel is now situated. The building at Lot 51 remained the residence of the Nungarin Road Board Secretary/Shire Clerk until the present residence was built in Danberrin Rd during the early nineties while Peter Varris was serving as Shire Clerk.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Redeemable Authenticity: Medium

Condition

Very Good

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Church of England Rectory (fmr)

Parent Place or Precinct

15295 Nungarin Townsite

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Statement of Significance

The old Rectory has significance as the home of the first Church of England Minister to reside in Nungarin.

Physical Description

A timber framed residence with weatherboard and fibro cladding, and a corrugated iron roof.

History

On 13th September 1929, the Reverend Lionel Guy Courtney was appointed Priest-in-charge of the Mission District of Nungarin, which had previously been part of the Merredin Parish. The Reverend Courtney, arrived in Nungarin after a six week sea voyage from England. He was accompanied by his wife Irene, and their two children; Auriel aged 5 years, and infant son Hugh, aged 2. The Courtney family were the first residents of the rectory, and left Nungarin in 1931 after a two year term. A succession of other clergy families lived in the building until the centre of the Parish moved to Trayning and the building was sold. On 24th November, 1954, the Bencubbin-Nungarin Parish received a total of £830 from the sale of the old Nungarin Rectory. This amount was allocated to the construction of the new Church of St.Thomas in Nungarin. At one time the old rectory was owned by the Nungarin Shire, and Shire Foreman Eric Rule lived there for many years until he eventually purchased the building for his family home. The original garage from the Rectory was purchased by the Green family, and is now sited at "Carranya" (K.J.Cornish).

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Redeemable Authenticity: Medium

Condition

Fair

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

St Thomas' Anglican Church

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Statement of Significance

The Anglican Church of St Thomas is significant to the community because it represents the spiritual life of the people of Nungarin. It is a meeting place for the worship of Jesus Christ, and offers Christian rites of baptism, marriage and burial.

Physical Description

The Anglican Church of St Thomas in Nungarin is a rectangular building constructed with unpainted cement brick, and consisting of a single room. The most outstanding feature of the building is a circular stained glass window in the north-eastern wall. The window is a representation of the infant Jesus being nursed by his mother. The colours are vibrant and stunning, and the overall effect quite beautiful. Other windows are metal framed obscure glass with tinted glass panels on the top of each. There is some evidence to suggest that the yellow glass windows either side of the sanctuary, and in the south-western wall, were originally given by Reverend Courtney, and retained from the original building. The interior of the building has a raised section at the north-eastern end which houses the altar. The altar rail and church furniture are jarrah. The church building is sited on a double block, which also accommodates a prefabricated meeting room. The meeting room was originally constructed as a Sunday School building for use by the Congregational Church at Lot 26 Railway Avenue. The Congregational Church building deteriorated, and was eventually demolished. The Sunday School building was given to the Anglican Church and jinkered to its present site. The meeting room is metal framed with fibro walls, corrugated fibro roof, and timber floors. It consists of two large meeting rooms opening from a front verandah which is sectioned off at the western end to form a small storage room. The church meeting rooms are currently being used as offices for Wheatbelt Agcare, a Christian counselling service.

History

The original church was a small weatherboard structure which was opened by Archbishop Riley on 16th December, 1924. A porch was added in 1932, and at the same time the interior was lined and a ceiling fitted. A church bell was received from the Church of the Good Shepherd in Como. On 13th September 1929, the Reverend Lionel Guy Courtney was appointed Priest-in-charge of the Mission District of Nungarin, which had previously been part of the Merredin Parish. The church font was donated to the Church by Rev Courtney's parents in England in 1930, and has been retained in the present building. In 1951 the old weatherboard church was condemned because of structural decay, and the last service was held there on 23rd September of that year. The building was sold for £120, and demolished in 1954. The present cement brick church was commenced in July 1955, and consecrated by Archbishop Moline on 16th November. The round stained glass window over the altar was donated by local parishioners, Fred & Alice Williams, in memory of Alice's parents, the Reverend Edward Wolstenholme and his wife, Sarah. The Reverend Wolstenhome was employed by the Congregational Church in 1913, to serve the area between Nungarin and Bencubbin. He was actually an ordained minister in the Church of England, who migrated to Western Australia because of poor health. The Church of England had been unable to offer him a position at the time, and as the Congregational Church were anxious for someone to act as pastor in the newly developing agricultural area, they were pleased to appoint him. He was later offered an Anglican parish in Kalgoorlie. The jarrah altar was presented to the church by Mr and Mrs W.E.Crane in memory of their late parents; Mr & Mrs W.E.Crane of Woolwich, England, and Mr & Mrs F.W.Mofflin of Fremantle. In 1958, the name of the Bencubbin-Nungarin Parish was changed to the Trayning Parish. Parish Priests from 1929: 1929 Lionel Guy Courtney 1931 George John Little 1932 James Paice (Mt Marshall) 1932 James Paice (Mt Marshall) 1940 Peter Vere Hodge 1943 Warwick Shaw Bastian 1946 Edmund Hyde Arblaster 1948 John Francis A.Dobson 1948 Harold Stuart Napper 1949 Frank Walter Pitcher 1953 Charles Dene Gillman 1954 Henry Thomas J. Sumpton 1965 Noel Maxwell Townsend 1969 Kenneth John Drayton 1974 Robert John Greenhalgh 1977 Leonard Peter Firth 1982 Steven Brian Russell 1985 David George Atkinson 1990 David Bambach 1993 Peter Stanley

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Intact Authenticity: High

Condition

Very Good

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Mangowine Dam

Parent Place or Precinct

01923 Mangowine Homestead

Condition

Fair

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Statement of Significance

The Mangowine Dam has historic significance because of its association with Mangowine Homestead, and the pioneering Adams family, and as an example of early animal husbandry. It is also significant because it is representative of the importance of water to the development of the district, and the resourcefulness that settlers showed in harvesting and conserving it.

Physical Description

The natural watercourse has been enhanced and lined with local stone which conserves the run-off and directs it into the holding dam. The dam and watercourse have silted up and reduced holding capacity.

History

In 1875, Charles Adams took up a grazing lease at Mangowine, and he and his wife, Jane, and two daughters moved there from Yarragin. They built a homestead at Mangowine (c1875), and continued to extend their grazing leases. Water was a precious and rare commodity in this country, and in dry seasons the supply was unreliable. The availability of water dictated where stock could graze, and where various aspects of stock management were possible. In "Goomalling - A Backward Glance", Barbara Sewell describes early sheep husbandry methods, including the practice of washing sheep before shearing. Sheep were washed in soaking pens located in running streams or soak pools. Surveyor J.S.Roe noted Mangowine Spring (located on Avon Location 13792, north of Mt Grey - in the Shire of Mukinbudin) during his exploratory journey in 1836, but a reliable supply of water was one of Charles Adams's first concerns after he settled at Mangowine in the mid 1870s. Charles was responsible for putting down numerous wells on his grazing leases throughout the district, and there are three wells still remaining on Lot 2 close to Mangowine Homestead, and another across Karomin Road in Avon Location 972, just North of Lot 1 adjacent to the Adams graves. On the same side of the road are the remnants of the Mangowine Dam located on Avon Location 14085. Water was directed into the dam by way of a stone lined waterway which has silted up over the years, but enough of the structure remains to excite the imagination.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Redeemable Authenticity: High

Condition

Fair

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Baandee CWA Rest Room

Parent Place or Precinct

01923 Mangowine Homestead

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Statement of Significance

The Baandee CWA Rest Room is significant because it represents the unique organisation of CWA, and its concern for women, children and families who lived in the isolation of remote country areas. As a CWA building, there are links to Nungarin which formed the first branch of CWA in this state.

Physical Description

The Baandee CWA Rest Room at Mangowine is a cement brick rectangular structure with a corrugated iron roof which extends over verandahs to the front and rear. The building comprises a large meeting room with a brick fireplace and a separate kitchen. Two sets of timber framed doors open onto the verandah from the meeting room. The CWA initials, and the date '1928' are inscribed on the lintel panels above the front entries. Original items of furniture include a magnificent 9' x 4' timber table with carved legs and edges, a gift from the Dangin Branch of CWA; the Baandee CWA cupboard constructed of tongue and groove timber; a china cabinet with three doors and central leadlight panel, given in appreciation of the work done by all foundation members of CWA (1926); photographs of 6 women of historical interest to the state; and one of the original hand-made croquet mallets.

History

The Baandee CWA Rest Room was the first Rest Room to be purpose built by the Country Womens Association in Western Australia. Baandee was a small siding 32 kilometres west of Merredin on the main east-west railway line. When the broad-gauge line was built, it by-passed the small town, which subsequently fell into decline and in 1968 the local branch of CWA was forced to disband. The Rest Room was abandoned, and began to decay. A past CWA State President, Mrs Lilian Higgins, was concerned about the fate of the building, and after discussion with CWA, and with encouragement from fellow CWA member, and Vice-President of the National Trust, Miss May Knowles, she decided to approach The National Trust with a view to re-siting the Rest Room at Mangowine. Mrs Joan Crook, President of Eastern Division of CWA, was elected to oversee the project as part of Eastern Division's contribution to the CWA Golden Jubilee Celebrations, and Mr Gabriel Puncher was engaged to undertake the building. Mr Puncher had experience with repairing old buildings that were damaged in London during the blitz, and was working on the restoration of Mangowine. The Crook family supplied voluntary labour, and the whole demolition and removal took about 5 or 6 weeks to complete. It had been recorded that after the original foundations were laid, a Baandee CWA member, Mrs Saunders, had placed a small piece of gold in one corner of the building to symbolise the golden ideals of the hearts of the women on the land, and the Golden West. Unfortunately this gold was never found during the re-siting process. Nungarin was the first branch of the CWA to be formed in Western Australia, and it was fitting that this first rest room should be preserved in the district that was often referred to as the "cradle of CWA". The pioneer Baandee Rest Room is now part of the historic Mangowine precinct, and an interesting link with Jane Adams is preserved. In earlier days, the Nungarin CWA sent a photograph of Jane Adams to hang in the Hall of Remembrance at CWA Headquarters, and her name was also submitted by the Nungarin CWA for inclusion in the Roll of Honour for the Pioneer Women's memorial in Perth. On Saturday 28th August 1974, a state CWA event was held to celebrate the successful resiting of the building, and its restoration in almost perfect detail with original items of furniture and photographs. To commemorate the opening of the rest room on its new site, well known Western Australian historian, Rica Erickson, wrote a one-act play depicting a day in the life of Jane Adams. Nita Pannell delivered the premier performance from the verandah of the building, and when rain began to fall, she asked the audience if they would like to move to shelter. They refused to disperse, which was a remarkable tribute to her powerful performance, and a testimony of appreciation for the life and work of Jane Adams. In 1999, the floor in the kitchen was replaced by the National Trust, and new jarrah cupboards installed.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Intact Authenticity: High

Condition

Very Good

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update