Bangemall Wayside Hotel (fmr), Cobra Station

Condition

Good

Uses

Historic Themes

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Statement of Significance

The former Bangemall Hotel has high historic significance as one of the few surviving examples of the wayside hotels which used to be scattered throughout the north west. It has further historic significance for its association with, the Bangemall goldfield area and Percy St Ayliffe. The Hotel was an important centre in this isolated area for pioneer pastoralists, gold miners, drovers and camel teamsters. Although the building has been subjectedto some modification, there remains considerable evidence of the original adobe building and stone kitchenb. The aesthetic significance of the place is enhanced by its attractive location amongst established gardens near a creek.

Physical Description

The former Bangemall Hotel is a simple building with adobe walls and a hipped corrugated iron roof. The roof extends to cover the verandah which is supported on bush timber posts. The building originally consisted of four rooms with a central corridor. There is a stone kitchen to the rear south-east corner with a hipped corrugated iron roof and an office to the south west corner of the building. The building has timber framed casement windows and is set amongst established gardens. The grave of Mr John Ashley Cooper, the Mining Registrar, who died in February 1898, is located to the north of the former hotel.

History

The Bangemall goldfields were first discovered by prospector Jack Horrigan in 1894. Word seen spread of the gold finds, attracting other diggers to the field which was located in a belt of auriferous country running east and west about 8 miles long by 2 miles wide between the Centipede Range and Mts. Phillips and Samuel. With more and more diggers arriving in the area and leases being pegged out, a warden's court was established in 1897. Capitaiising on the growth in population of the area, a hotel and store were established at Bangemall. it is unclear as to when exactly the Bangemall Hotel. which until 1927 was known as the Euranni Hotel, was built. It is believed that the hotel was built in c1897 by Percy St Barbe Ayiiffe, a prospector whose name is included on a 1905 application to renew a Wayside House Licence for the Euranni Wayside Hotel. The application further states that Ayiiffe had already held the wayside licence for the premise for 7 years. Percy St Barbe Ayiiffe first went to the Bangemall goldfields in 1895. In 1903, in partnership with Mr Alf Oakley, he pioneered Mt Phillip Station, and three years later in 1906 had a general store at Gascoyne Junction. In 1913 the Hotel -was owned by Greg Glass, who was followed by Joseph Senior O'Connor and then six months later by Charles Cornish. Due to Licensing Board requirements Cornish had accommodation built for guests consisting of a corrugated iron building immediately to the west of the hotel, it -was Charles Comish who on 12 January 1927 changed the name from Euranni Wayside House to Bangemail Hotel. Subsequent licensees of the hotel include George William Frederick Mead. Joseph Reid. Joseph King, George Bruce Gaskin and Bill and Tena Stidworthy from 1934. The effects of the Second World War resulted in the Stidworthy's selling the Hotel to Francis William LeNephew. who died of pneumonia shortly after. The lease changed hands for the last time when Albert Constantina Sorrensen took over. When the hotel lease came up for renewal in 1940. Sorrensen did not apply for a renewal. When Ben Wilson bought the Cobra lease in 1948 he also purchased the Bangemall Hotel -which he used as his homestead: the original homestead being used as the shearers' quarters. -'Place No. 12' in 1967 the lease passed into the hands of Bob and Maxine Bozanich and then, in 1979 John and Jill Gerney bought the lease. in 1980 a syndicate CT* Perth cusmessmen headed by Peter Eaten bought the lease with the aim of securing the licence back for the Bangemall Hotel and establishing a tourist centre. The current owners. Dennis and Alexa Lang, purchased the property in 1989. (McDonald. R., 'Winning the Gascoyne'. Hesperian Press. Perth. 1991. cc.75-35 1 McDonaic. P., "Geld in -he Gascoyne" Hesperian Press. Per

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Medium

Condition

Good

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Cobra Station Homestead - Original

Condition

Fair

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Physical Description

Situated approximately 9 Kilometres west of the present Cobra Homestead ( the former Bangemail Hotel), the original Cobra Homestead is a simple stone building with a hipped corrugated iron roof. Bush timber posts and some rafters are all that remain of the verandah to the west side. The building, which features a twin fireplace, is in a deteriorated condition with some roof sheets missing. Adjoining the rear of the stone building is a room of mud brick construction with a corrugated iron gable roof, rendered exterior walls and a verandah to the east. There is some evidence of a garden with stones marking the boundary edge. Immediately to the east of the homestead is the kitchen building, a small stone building with a new corrugated iron addition to the south. The building was re-roofed approximately 15 years ago. To the west of the homestead, and approximately 20 yards off the main road, is a lonely grave which is marked by a marble headstone, with a cross which has broken off the 3-tiered base. The grave is surrounded by a decorative iron railing. The headstone reads: "In loving memory of mary Katherine, beloved wife of James Comtesse who died 1st Feb 1925 aged 43 years." A second grave is located to the north-east of the old homestead and adjacent to a creek. Similarly, this grave is marked by a 3-tier marble base and intact cross all mounted on a cement base. The grave is surrounded by a simple bush timber and wire fence with a metal handrail. The headstone reads: "To the memory of Mary Jane Cream, loving mother of Ada, Edie, Ethel and Ray who died on March 15the 1933, aged 70 years." Situated to the south east of the old homestead is the shearing shed which is a timber framed building clad with corrugated iron.

History

Cobra Station 'was taken up in 1906 by James Comtesse of the Euranna Hotel (later renamed Bangemall Hotel - Place No. 13). Comtesse relinquished his hotel interest to concentrate on the pastoral holding with his wife, Mary Katherine. In 1925 when Many died, James had her buried near the homestead at Cobra. In 1927 Jack Edney acquired lease 3637/96 and then In 1933 Alfred Ray (Ray) Cream took over the Cobra lease. Ray's mother, Mary Jane Cream, passed away in 1933 and is buried at Cobra. George Gooch acquired 105,517 acres which adjoined Cobra and the two leases were subsequently run as one. In 1934 there was a total of 8,515 sheep on the property however, by 1939 there were only 1,300 sheep due to the effects of the 1935-42 drought. By this stage the Cobra leases had changed into the hands of Percy and Elsie Fitzgerald, in 1948 Benjamin Wilson took over the lease. By this time the Bangemall Hotel was no longer functioning as a hotel and Ben bought the building and- made it into his homestead. The original Cobra Homestead was then, used as shearers' quarters. In 1967 the lease passed to Bob and Maxine Bozanich and then to John and Jill Gerney in 1979. The lease changed hands again in 1980 when a syndicate of Perth businessmen headed by Peter Eaton, bought the lease and concentrated on establishing a tourism venture at Cobra. ; present owners. Dennis and Alexa Lang purchased the property.

Integrity/Authenticity

integrity: High

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Fossil Hill

Child Places

• 15415 Bidgemia Station

Uses

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Dairy Creek Station

Values

The place has aesthetic and landmark values as a homestead complex, incorporating a number of buildings of local stone construction, located on the banks of the Geeranoo River in a rural setting.

The place has associations with the development of the Gascoyne region for pastoralism.

The place has associations with early settlers the Fitzpatrick family.

The place is a good representative example pf a pastoral homestead group in the region.

Physical Description

The current homestead and outbuildings on the north side of Geeranoo Creek form one group; and the shearing shed, quarters and ruins of c. 1890 homestead make up the other group. The original c. 1890 homestead ruin and the shearers quarters are of stone and CGI construction. Other buildings nearby including the shearing shed are CGI clad. The 1904 homestead on the north side of Geeranoo Creek is rendered mud brick with CGI roof. The 1926 stone homestead alongside also has a CGI roof. Nearby quarters are part stone and part CGI construction and have recently been renovated. All other buildings are CGI clad.

History

‘In the early 1880s John Bernard Fitzpatrick inspected virgin land on the Duri Creek with a view to establishing sheep station. On 31 January 1883 he purchased the property and 2,000 sheep from Gooch and Wheelock for 1,300 pounds. John Fitzpatrick moved to the station with his wife Rose, and their family. The station takes its name from the creek on which it was situated. The Aboriginal name from the creek was ‘Duri’ or ‘Durni’ [?], but it has since been anglicized to ‘Dairy Creek’. In 1890, after 8 years of makeshift accommodation, a small homestead was built by the family. By 1904 a spacious homestead made of local stone was built overlooking the Duri Creek. The new homestead was built by Ted Harris, a carpenter, and Billy Jackson, a stonemason. Sections of the Dairy Creek Station were divided off to create Dalgety Downs for John and Rose’s sons, James and Merton as well as Carey Downs for the Glass brothers. Following the deaths of Rose in 1906, and then John Fitzpatrick in 1909, their son Jim Fitzpatrick carried on the management of the station until 1921 when he died. All three were buried at Dairy Creek Station. Subsequently the station was run by a succession of managers, during which time the homestead fell into disrepair. In addition, the 1935-43 drought took its toll on the Station’s stock numbers, going from 32,799 sheep in 1936 to 3,735 in 1943. When the beneficiaries of Dairy Creek finally decided to sell the station, the lease was held by Norman Armstrong for a short time and then, on 23 March 1965, by Richard Kingsley Cornish. In 1973 the Dairy Creek leases were bought by the Steadman family who continue to run the property today [1999].’

Integrity/Authenticity

High

Condition

Good

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

Dairy Creek Station has high historic significance as evidence of the early pioneering and settlement of the Gascoyne and for its connection with the development of the pastoral industry in the area. The place has further significance cue to its association with the Fitzpatrick family, well Known early pioneers of the area. The buildings are evidence of the changing fortunes of the pastoralists and also of the use of local materials. The aesthetic significance of the place is enhanced by its attractive location on the banks of the Duri Creek.

Physical Description

Located east of Gascoyne Junction, the buildings which comprise Dairy Creek Station are located on both the north and south banks of the Dairy (or Dun) Creek. The present homestead, built in 1904, is situated on the north bank of the creek and is constructed of local stone taken from a nearby quarry. The building has a hipped corrugated iron roof which extends to cover surrounding verandahs. Some modifications and additions have been undertaken to provide increased living space. What is believed to be the original homestead, built in the 1890, is located on the south side of the creek near the shearers' quarters and shearing shed. In poor condition, the roof of the stone building was blown off during a willy willy. There is evidence of some cement patching to the stone walls and timber lintels over window and door openings, while a chimney is still standing to one end of the building. The Shearers' Quarters is located nearby. This long building is of stone construction with a hipped corrugated iron roof. A verandah extends along the length of the front (north) facade and is supported on metal poles. The verandah has been concreted and shutters are used on the window openings. Internally the building comprises one long room which is divided by timber framed room separators. Approximately 100 metres to the north-east of the current homestead are a number of graves, some marked by headstones and other only indicated by raised mounds of earth. Three ornate headstones located next to each other mark the burial place of Rose Fitzpatrick, her husband John and their son James. Enhanced by decorative iron railings, two of the graves have matching headstones, while the headstone for James Fitzpatrick features an anchor and chain decoration. The Dairy Creek Station also contains a marble mine which has been in development since c1990.

History

In the early 1880s John Bernard Fitzpatrick inspected virgin land on the Duri Creek with a view to establishing a sheep station. On 31 January 1383 he purchased the property and 2,000 sheep from Gooch and Wheelock for 1,300 pounds. John Fitzpatrick moved to the station with his wife. Rose, and their family. The station takes it's name from the creek on which it is situated. The aboriginal name for the creek was 'Duri' or 'Durri', but it has since been anglicised to 'Dairy Creek'. In 1890, after 8 years of makeshift accommodation, a small homestead was built by the family. By 1904 a spacious homestead made of local stone was built overlooking the Duri Creek. The new homestead was built by Ted Hams, a carpenter, and Billy Jackson, a stonemason. Sections of the Dairy Creek Station were divided off to create Dalgety Downs for Jonn and Rose's sons. James and Merton as well as Carey Downs for the Glass brothers. Following the deaths of Rose in 1906. and then John Fitzpatrick in 1909, their son Jim Fitzpatrick carried on the management of the station until 1921 when he died. All three were buried at Dairy Creek Station. Subsequently the station was run by a succession of managers, during which time the Homestead fell into disrepair, in addition, the 1935-43 drought took its toll on the station's stock numbers, going from 32.799 sheep in 1936 to 3.735 in 1943. When the beneficiaries of Dairy Creek finally decided to sell the station, the lease was held by Norman Armstrong for a short time and then, on 23 March 1965. by Richard Kingsley Cornish. :In 1973 the Dairy Creek leases were bought by the Steadman family who continue to run the property today. The following information is taken from the headstones at Dairy Creek Station - Rose Fiizpatrick died on 3 Juiy 1906, aged 59. John Fitzpatrick died on 3 October 1909 aged 57. James Fiizpairick died on 3 August 1921 aged 47. Simon Anderson died on 9 July 1901 aged 38. (McDonald, R.. 'Winning the Gascoyne', Hesperian Press. Perth, 1991, pp.44-51 & Battye.JS (ed). The History of the North West of Australia'. V.K. Jones & Co, Penh. 1915. p.275';

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Medium

Condition

Good

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Old Cemetery

Condition

Good

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The old cemetery at Gascoyne Junction has considerable historic significance as the first official burial place for the town. Although there is no obvious evidence of the old section of the cemetery, the picturesque and unusual location of the site affords the place aesthetic significance. Further the place is associated with a number of local characters.

Physical Description

The old cemetery is situated immediately to the north of Gascoyne Junction on an island formed by the Gascoyne River and adjacent to the polo ground. The cemetery contains three marked graves positioned side by side. The graves are distinguished by small concrete plinths with attached plaques and a simple metal pole grave surround and a simple metal pole surround. The plaque reads: "Henryk (Harry) Albinski, 1926 - 1984", "James Henry Fairweather, 1922-1984" and "John Anderson 1927-1986".

History

In June 1917, the upper Gascoyne Road Board wrote to the Lands Department requesting that an area on the island in the Gascoyne River at the Junction be set aside as an official cemetery. The area, which already contained five graves, was subsequently registered as the cemetery. Over the years the cemetery fell into a state of disrepair which was worsened by occasional big floods. By the 1970s the exact location of the graves was in doubt due to the poor condition of the area. Following the death of old-timer Harry Albinski, who had requested to be buried there, a new section of the cemetery was set aside. Among those buried in the old section cf the cemetery are: Philip John Dolton, aged 55, a station hand; Frederick McDonald, 40, a shearer who died on 14 April 1923 from drowning; Fred Cousins, 58, a blacksmith who died of heart failure; Frederick Edward Selway, 75, a contractor who died of natural" causes and Douglas Hugh Phillips, a station manager from Mt Augustus who died in 1942. The body of Douglas Phillips was later taken to Toodvay and reburied in the family grave yard. (McDonald. FR.. "Winning the Gascoyne', Hesperian Press, Perth, 1991. p.21")

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Medium

Condition

Good

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Star of Mangaroon Mine

Uses

Creation Date

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Carey Downs Station

Condition

Fair

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The two outbuildings of the Carey Downs Station have local significance only, as evidence of the developing pastoral industry in the district. The place is evidence of the way in which buildings were often relocated for re-use in remote areas, highlighting the resourcefulness of the local population.

Physical Description

Located south of Gascoyne Junction, Carey Downs Station consists of the current modern brick house; there being no evidence of the original homestead. Of particular note to this study are the two out buildings situated immediately to the north of the house. One is of mud brick construction and although originally consisting of three rooms, has been altered internally to now contain only two rooms. The building has a hipped corrugated iron roof with a separate surrounding verandah supported on bush timber posts. The building features casement timber framed windows and ripple iron ceilings. Adjoining the east side of the mud brick building is a long timber framed building believed to have been relocated from the Big Bell gold mining townsite near Cue. Clad with iron to three sides and fibro sheeting to the west wall the building has a hipped corrugated iron roof. The roof extends to the west elevation to cover the verandah which is supported on bush timber posts. The building consists of five rooms and a toilet, and has timber framed casement windows. Also adjoining the mud brick building is a cool house of bush timber, wire and brush construction. To the north-west of the house is an old well and tank, which due to bad leaks, has been relined with cement. However evidence still remains of numerous local names scratched into the original metal remnants of the tank. Palms are thriving on the water source and add a picturesque to the location.

History

The major portion of the Carey Downs Station was run until reselected in 1929, as a portion of the Dairy Creek Station, which was taken up prior to 1888 by Padbury, Loton & Co. The first area of the present Carey Downs Station was reselected in 7th June 1923 by Walter Summerhayes Smith and Fitzroy Francis Marmion on pastoral lease 2408/96, an area of 20,000 acres. The lease of the station, which was named after Carey Downs in Ireland, was transferred on 17th August 1926 to Charles Collins, son-in-law of John and Rose Fitzpatrick who leased Dairy Creek. Not long afterwards, Charles Collins took up an adjoining lease 3640/96, consisting of 133,125 acres. On his death, both of these leases were held by the perpetual Trustees as executors under his will from 27th June 1933 until a transfer was effected on 4th February 1935 to William Edward Collins and Grace Francis Milne, on pastoral lease 394/1280 consisting of 27,000 acres. Like other stations in the district, Carey Downs was badly affected by the 1935-42 drought, with only 2,799 sheep out of 10,195 surviving these harsh conditions. On 21st july 1948, Grace Milne transferred her interests in the station (3/8th share) to Constance Collins, the wife of William (Bill) Collins, who held the remaining 5/8th share. In September of that year, adjoining lease 394/1325 containing 55,949 acres, was taken up bringing the total holding for Carey Downs to 236,974 acres. Following the death of Bill Collins in 1959, Constance Collins and her family continued to manage the station until 1964, when the lease was purchased by the Hall family of Wooramel Station. The present leaseholders are Ron and Margaret Rogers, who took over the property in 1975.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Medium

Condition

Fair

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Bidgemia Station

Parent Place or Precinct

18642 Fossil Hill

Condition

Good

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

Bidgemia Station has high historic significance for its close connection with the very early settlement of the Gascoyne District and with the commencement and development of the pastoral industry in the area. The piace has further significance for its close association with Robert Bush, an early pioneer of the area and first Chairman of the Upper Gascoyne Road Board. Subsequent managers and owners, including 'William Scott, Bill Cream, Donald and Lachlan McTaggart, have also figured prominently in local government activities in the district. The largely intact grouping of buildings combined with the picturesque location of the complex adjacent to the Gascoyne River, afford the place a high degree of aesthetic significance.

Physical Description

Located east of Gascoyne Junction on the south bank of the Gascoyne River, Bidgemia Station consists of a large grouping of buildings including the homestead, kitchen-dining building, meat-house, wash-house, machinery sheds, black store, native quarters, bread oven, stables shearing shed and shearers' kitchen. The current homestead is located on the site of the original homestead and was built in 1948 out of home-made bricks from river sand. The building has a hipped corrugated iron roof and surrounding verandahs. Immediately to the east is the kitchen-dining building which also includes the office. The long building which also includes the office. The long building is of rendered mud brick construction and has a steeply pitched corrugated iron gable roof. The roof extends broken back to cover the surrounding verandahs which are supported on metal poles. The gable end to the south facade is enhanced by painted timber barge boards. These buildings are set amongst lawns and gardens and surrounded by a bush timber fence. Further to the east is the meat-house and wash-house which features small twin gables to the corrugated iron roof. The workers' quarters consist of a timber framed building clad with weatherboards. The hipped corrugated iron roof extends to cover surrounding verandahs supported on timber posts. French doors open out onto the verandahs. Nearby, the bread oven is rendered mud brick structure covered by an iron roof mounted on timber posts. The solid metal doors are still intact. Adjoining is the shearers' kitchen, a simple timber framed building clad with corrugated iron. The shearing she, which has been rebuilt three times, is a large corrugated iron clad building which features large bush timber uprights and an old wool press. Originally containing 32 stands, the shed was downgraded to 16 and now has 8 stands operating. To the west of the Bidgemia homestead is another house built in c1940, the Native Quarters, stables and timber yards and a weatherboard cottage which is no longer in use.

History

Robert Edwin Bush took up leases in the Gascoyne foil owing an expedition through the district in 1879 to look for suitable grazing land. In 1880 he secured his first holding called Pindandoora Station, however the local natives referred to the area as "Bidjia Mia", as it was home to the Bidjie grub and the station eventually took this name. During that year the first sheep arrived at the newly acquired property. Gradually Bush set about expanding his holdings until he had in excess of 1,000,000 acres, in 1890 Bush bought Mt Clere and Erravilla Stations in .the East Gascoyne and at this time, named his properties Upper Clifton Downs and Lower Cliftonn Downs after his old school in England, in 1920 Upper Clifton Downs was divided into two separate stations - the eastern portion. Mt Clere. resumed its former name while the western portion was called Lander Station. Lower Clifton Downs was then named Bidgemia Station, in the early years many aborigines worked on the station as shepherds. wnile Chinese and Japanese males were employed as cooks and gardeners. Robert Bush was badly affected by the drought of the early 1900s which severely depleted his sheep numbers and resulted in a large debt to Dalgety and Co. However. Bush struggled through and was abie to restock the property. Robert Bush was the first Chairman of the Upper Gascoyne Road Board, a Justice of the Peace and a member of the Legislative Council from 1890 -1893. Around 1904 Bush and his family went to live in England, leaving Mr William Scott to manage Bidgemia. In 1912 Bill Cream took over the management of the property when William Scott left to pioneer his own station, Mooloo Downs. In 1927 Bidgemia, with 80.000 sheep, was sold for 95,000 pounds to a Melbourne syndicate consisting of Archbishop Mannix, John Wren and Henry Crosthwaite. the latter acting as manager and living on the property with his family. Following several years of success another drought hit and resulted in serious stock losses so that by 1937 only 8.000 sheep were left compared to 92.000 in 1934. Noel Bevan replaced Henry Crosthwaite as manager of Bidgemia when he departed, however by 1946 the station was up for sale again for the sum of 20,000 pounds. Following an inspection of the property by brothers Lachlan and Donald McTaggart from South Australia, the station was purchased by their family company, Nonning Pastoral Company. The bad drought had resulted in Bidgemia becoming very run down, so the McTaggart brothers set about making many improvements to the station. The station is still run by the McTaggart family today. (McDonald, R., Winning the Gascoyne', Hesperian Press, Perth, 1991. pp.4-16 & Battye. J.S. (ed), 'The History of the North West of Australia', V.K. Jones £ Co. Perth. 1915, p.273)

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: High

Condition

Good

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Jimba Jimba Station

Values

The main residence has high aesthetic value for its imposing scale and construction of local stone.

The place has landmark value and together comprises a precinct of pastoral buildings.

The place has associations with the development of the Gascoyne region for pastoralism since the 1870s.

The place has associations with the Phillips and Viveash families, who were prominent settlers of the district.

The place is a good representative example pf a pastoral homestead group in the region.

Physical Description

The place is located on a low rise on the left bank of the Gascoyne River about 5 km west of Gascoyne Junction. The place comprises a homestead (main residence), kitchen & dining building, store, office, meat house, cottage, men’s quarters and various sheds. The main residence is of local stone with a CGI roof. Other buildings are of rendered stone, mud brick or concrete block construction. The sheds are clad with CGI.

History

‘Jimba Jimba Station was first taken up in 1878 by G. Hamersley and S. Simms and consisted of 100,000 acres. Over time adjoining leases were taken up and soon the station size had increased to 400,000 acres. The name of the station derives from an aboriginal language and means ‘very small’. In 1885 the station lease was taken over by Samuel James Phillips in partnership with his brother, John Hugh Phillips. Phil Ryan was the manager of the property until 1907 when Douglas Hugh Phillips tool over. The station passed onto brothers John and Douglas Phillips following the death of their father, John and uncle, Samuel Phillips. In 1921 Guy Viveash (nephew of John Phillips) bought into the property eventually taking over the management. Guy Viveash and his wife Jean set about improving the station stock and the homestead, which was extended from a simple mud cottage into a gracious home. By 1934 Jimba Jimba was carrying 20,000 sheep, however the onset of the 1935-42 drought, combined with some health worries, resulted in Guy and Jean Viveash departing for Northam, leaving the property under the management of Edgar and Lorna Bostock. Almost half the sheep were lost to the drought. Following the death of Guy Viveash in 1947, Edgar Bostock continued to manage Jimba Jimba until Guy’s sons, Robert and Don, were old enough to assume responsibility for the station. Subsequently the property, which was restocked, prospered. In 1963 the Viveash brothers bought Landor Station where Don and his wife Gwen lived until Don’s untimely death. Following Robert’s tragic Death in a flying accident, Jimba Jimba Station was sold in 1977 to Martin and Virginia Baston who continue to run the property today [1999].’

Integrity/Authenticity

High

Condition

Sound

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Physical Description

Located at the Junction of the Gascoyne and Lyons Rivers. Immediately to the west of Gascoyne Junction, Jimba Jimba Station consists of a stone homestead, kitchen-dining building, store, office, meathouse, cottage and mens' quarters. Only the foundations remain of the original homestead and its outbuildings located to the south-east of the present homestead. The homestead is a large building of local stone construction with a hipped corrugated iron roof with gablets. The roof extends broken back to cover surrounding verandahs. While the original timber verandah posts have been replaced with metal poles and the verandahs have been concreted, most of the original oregon verandah rafters remain. The south-east corner of the verandah has been enclosed to form a sleepout. Feature gables enhance the entrances to the north and south elevations, while the main entrance is on the east facade. Generally windows are timber framed and double hung, however there are some replacement aluminium framed windows as well. There are concrete lintels over window and door openings with some timber lintels to the south facade. Internally, the house features pressed metal ceilings. The grounds of the homestead contains a swimming pool and tennis court, while the Gascoyne River is located to the north. Adjacent to the homestead is the office which is of rendered stone construction with a hipped corrugated iron roof. Nearby stands the Meathouse which is a timber framed structure with corrugated iron tothe lower wall and mesh to the upper wall. The dutch gable corrugated iron roof extends to form a surrounding verandah to provide shade for the structure. To the south of the homestead is a rendered stone building which contains the kitchen, mens' dining room, cook's room and store room. The kitchen features original Metters and aga stoves while the dining room is now used as the school room. Further to the south is the mud brick store, which originally contained 2 rooms but has been converted into one large room. This believed to be the oldest remaining structure in the station complex. Adjoining the store is a garage. To the west is a concrete block cottage and mens' quarters. To the south-west of the homestead is a lonely grave which is marked by a stone. While a further two graves are located near the Mooka Station boundary.

History

Jimba Jimba Station was first taken up in 1878 by G. Hamersley and S. Simms and consisted of 100,000 acres. Over time adjoining leases were taken up and seen the station size had increased to 400,000 acres. The name of the station derives from an aboriginal language and means 'very small'. In 13S5 the station lease was taken ever by Samuel James Philiips in partnership with his brother John Hugh Phillips, Phil Ryan was the manager of the property until 1907 when Douglas Hugh Phillips took over. The station passed onto brothers Jonn anc Douglas Phillips following the death of their father, John and uncle, Samuel Philliit ps. in 1921. Guy Viveash (nephew of John Phillips.) bought into the property, eventually taking over the management. Guy Viveash and his wife Jean set about improving the station stock and the homestead. which was extended from a simple mud cottage into a gracious home. By 1934 Jimba Jimba -was carrying 20,000 sheep, however the onset of the 1935-42 drought, combined with some health worries, resulted in Guy and Jean Viveash departing for Northam. leaving the property under the management of Edgar and Loma Bostock. Almost half the sheep were lost to the drought. Following the death of Guy Viveash in 1947. Edgar Bostock continued to manage Jimba Jimba until Guy's sons. Robert and Don. were old enough to assume responsibility for the station. Subsequently the property, which was restocked, prospered, in 1962 the Viveash brothers bought Landor Station where Don and his wife Gwen lived until Don's untimely death. Following Robert's tragic death in a flying accident. Jimba Jimba Staiion was sold in 1977 to Martin and Virginia Baston who continue to run the property today. (McDonald. R., 'Winning the Gascoyne', Hesperian Press, Perth, 1991, pp.38-42 & Battye, J.S. (ed). The History of the North West of Australia', V.K. Jones & Co, Perth, 1915, c.271)

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: High

Condition

Good

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Junction Hotel

Condition

Good

Uses

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Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The Junction Hotel has considerable historic significance for it's long and ongoing association with the social and recreational activities of the district since around 1909. The building is rare evidence of the historic built fabric of the town and is the largest remaining structure of its era in Gascoyne Junction. The place is characteristic of hotels in remote settings, with its simple form and use of construction materials. The Hotel is an important component of the district's heritage.

Physical Description

The Junction Hotel is prominently located in Gascoyne Junction on the south side of the main road junction from Carnarvon. The substantial timber framed building is clad with horizontally fixed corrugated iron to the walls. The hipped corrugated iron roof extends to cover partly surrounding verandahs which are supported on replacement metal poles. The original timber verandah floor has been replaced with concrete. The building, which features large timber framed 4-paned double hung windows, has been painted white, with pale green highlighting the window and door surrounds. Internally, some modifications have resulted in the removal of walls to allow for larger spaces, including the large dining room. Remedial action in the form of the installation of a long steel beam in the roof was required to prevent the ceiling from sagging. Recent works carried out by the present owners have resulted in a number of the original features of the building being reinstated. This included removing cork tiles from the bar area and reinstating the ripple iron cladding to the interior walls. Immediately to the east of and separate to the hotel is the accommodation wing. This is a simple timber framed structure clad with fibro sheeting. The long building has verandahs to two sides supported on metal poles. The Junction Hotel is situated in grounds featuring green lawns, a swimming pool and tall gum trees

History

Correspondence from Surveyor Saimon ito the Surveyor General dated 5th November 1909. Indicates the early potential for a hotel in the new townsite that he was setting out. "...on Location 30 a general store has been erected and is now being used - also a larger building is erected suitable for a hotel or boarding house. These buildings front the main road..." in 1911, the first licenced premises in Gascoyne Junction 'were situated on Location 20. the licence being issued to Percy St Barbe Ayliffe, -who was involved in the establishment of the Euranni Wayside Inn (later renamed the Bangemall Hotel) (Place No. 13). (Licence No. 149, Certificate File 8221/131). The premises consisted of four bedrooms, two sitting rooms and quarters for the tenant, Mr Ayliffe. While the hotel licence transferred from Percy Ayliffe to Alfred James Brady on 9 October I910'. the properly continued to be owned by Messrs Phillips and Ryan, and later Phillips and Viveash. of Jimba Jimba Station, until 1957, 'when the freehold was purchased by Jack Carter. The present Junction Hotel is located on Lot 27, which is sub-divided from Location 30. The current owners. Anne and Mark Russell, have owned the Junction Hotel for over 10 years and have lived there for nearly 3 years. (McDonald. R.. Winning the Gascoyne' Hesperian Press. Perth "99" pp.213-4: The Northern Times', 13 May I911).

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Medium

Condition

Good

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Mt Augustus Station

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Landor Station

Condition

Good

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Physical Description

Landor Homestead is situated east of Gascoyne Junction and consists of the original homestead with additions, bedroom wing, laundry, meat-house, and a number of outbuildings. The original homestead is a mud brick building with a corrugated iron hipped roof and surrounding verandahs. The walls are rendered to 1 metre in height and the original timber windows have been replaced with aluminium framed windows. Adjoining the rear of the original building are two large timber framed rooms which are clad with decorative pressed metal to the walls. This section is covered by an arched corrugated iron roof with air vents to each end. Situated immediately to the rear is the bedroom wing, containing three bedrooms. This separate building is of mud brick construction with a hipped corrugated iron roof. Interestingly the building has a bullnosed surrounding verandah, which appears to be uncommon in the Gascoyne district. French doors open onto the verandah which has been concreted. To the north of the homestead is the laundry - a small corrugated iron building. Further to the north is the small meat-house which is a timber framed, hexagonally shaped structure with a metal roof. To the south of the homestead are the workers' quarters and a large machinery shed. Nundigo Well and Stockyard, Landor Station - Situated between tributaries of Bubbagundy Creek and soft country. East of yard flood gums present. West of yard similarly interspersed with low scrub. This yard stands as a monument to the early pioneers of the pastoral industry and the hardships endured by the cattle drovers and, to the men who constructed the yard. (only Nundigo Well and Stockyard is on the RNE listing)

History

The western section of Lander Station was first taken up by the Davis family, who later sold out to Robert E Bush. The eastern side, known as Erraviila. was originally taken up by Robert and Hubert O'Grady in 1885. When the O'Grady's fell on hard times, the station was sold firstly to the Shaw brothers and then to Robert Bush. Bush, who had already bought the Mt Clere Station to the east, named the entire area consisting of two million acres, Upper Clifton Downs. (Bidgemia Station was named Lower Clifton Downs - Place No. 7) Eric Russell took over the management of Erraviila in 1919 for Bush. When a new land act was introduced decreeing that pastoral properties in the North West could not exceed one million acres in area, it was decided to form two companies each to own one station. The western half of this huge property, called Lander, was owned by the Landor Squatting Company with its headquarters being a new homestead or, the Aurillia Creek. The other station comprised the eastern portion of the property and was owned by the Mt Ciere Pastoral Company. Both companies were held by the Bush family of Bristol, England. The relocation of the Landor homestead was mainly due to there being a better water supply at Aurillia Creek compared to Erraviila. In the 1920's the old stone cut camp ai the Aurillia Creek was enlarged and altered using some of the materials from the Erraviila Homestead. There followed a run of good seasons for the station, in 1924 sheep were introduced onto the property which previously had only run cattle. Consequently sheep yards, a ten stand shearing shed, and shearers' quarters were built, with the first shearing put through in 1925. Eric Russell left Lander in 1931. Lander suffered at the hands of the 1935-42 drought with only 6,220 sheep surviving, a marked difference t0 the 50,000 sheep the station 'Carried in 1926. Following the death of Robert Bush in 1938, sheep numbers fluctuated on the station with the most that it carried being 20,000. in 1963 Landor was sold to the Viveash family of Jimba Jimba. The station was sold in 1973 to Joe De Pleage. who sold the remaining 2.500 sheep on the property and replaced them with cattle. In 1921 the first unofficial Landor horse race was heid on the flats on the east side of the Auniiia Creek opposite the Landor homestead. The following year saw the first officiai meeting of the East Gascoyne Race Club held. The annual races were heid at Lander untii 1933 when, due to the new manager not wanting the race to be held there, they were moved to Mt James Station where a new track had been laid out. Nevertheless the race meeting continued- to be referred to as the Landor Races. (McDonald. R.. 'Winning the Gascoyne'. Hesperian Press. Perth. 1991. pp. 19-27 & Battye.JS (ed) "The History of the North west of Australia". VK Jones & Co Perth. 1915 99. 273-4.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Medium

Condition

Good

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Lyons River Station

Condition

Fair

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Statement of Significance

Lyons River Station has considerable historic significance as evidence of the establishment of the pastoral industry in the Gascoyne district. Although the homestead has been modified over the years, its large scale, use local materials, intact kitchen building combined with impressive location and panoramic views afford the place a high degree of aesthetic significance.

Physical Description

Located north of Gascoyne Junction, the Lyons River Homestead is situated in an elevated position and commands panoramic views to the Kennedy Ranges in the west and the Lyons River in the east. The place consists of the main homestead, a separate kitchen/dining building, machinery shed and other outbuildings. The homestead is an 'L' shaped building of stone construction. The building has a hipped corrugated iron roof which extends to cover surrounding verandahs which are supported on metal poles. The homestead appears to have originally comprised of two buildings which have now been joined by enclosing the breezeway between them and replacing the original roofs with one large structure. French doors open out onto the verandah which has been concreted. Other alterations include the installation of a number of aluminium framed windows and some verandah enclosures. A cement render has been applied to the external stone walls to window sill height. Nearby to the north is the kitchen/dining building which is of local stone construction with a corrugated iron hipped roof. The surrounding verandah is an extension of the main roof and has been partly enclosed with shade cloth. The building has small timber framed casement windows and chimney to the south facade. The room to the western end is believed to have been used as a school room. Further to the west are several outbuildings including a machinery shed and a small stone building with corrugated iron roof which was the store. The shearing shed is located some distance to the south.

History

The Lyons River Station takes its name from the river which runs through the property, which was named in honour of Admiral Lyons by F. Gregory 'when he explored the area in 1858. The station was originally part of large tracts of land first taken up by well-known pastoralists George Hamersley and Thomas Simms. Following a period of drought the leases were transferred in 1887 to S.J. Phillips and P. Ryan, who also held Jimba Jimba Station to the south and west. No development work was carried out on the property until after 1906 when William Hatch purchased the lease. The Hatch family were responsible for most of the pioneering work on the property. William Hatch purchased an additional 60,649 acres from Mr Bush which gave him a total of 301,251 acres. Lyons River Station experienced some good seasons in the early 1900s and a new shearing shed was built in 1911. William Hatch, who was a foundation member of the Gascoyne Road Board, passed away in 1932, after which Lyons River was managed by his nephew of the same name. Bill Hatch Junior managed the station from the end of the depression through the drought years and also the war years, Ike Trelcar took over the management of the station after Bill and Di Hatch left Lyons River in 1949. In 1962 the property passed into the hands of the McTaggart family and was managed by Alan McTaggart and his wife Jenny until they bought Mundabullagana Station. Since then the station has been under management. 'McDonald.R; 'Winning the Gascoyne'. Hesperian Press. Penh. 1991. pp. 127-132 & Battye JS ed), The History cf the North West Of Australia'. V.K. Jones & Co Perth. 1913. pp. 259-70

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Medium

Condition

Fair

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Minnie Creek Station

Condition

Good

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Statement of Significance

Minnie Creek Homestead and outbuildings have considerable historic significance as evidence of the developments within the pastoral industry in the district. The grouping of buildings is characteristic of pastoral homestead complexes. The place exhibits considerable aesthetic merit through its use of local materials, large scale and relative intactness.

Physical Description

Minnie Creek Station is located north of Gascoyne Junction and consists of the main homestead, kitchen/dining building, meathouse and a number of outbuildings. The large shaped homestead is of stone construction with a hipped corrugated iron roof. The roof extends to cover surrounding verandahs which are supported on bush timber posts. French doors open onto the verandah which has been concreted. The pointed stone walls have been rendered with cement to 3/4 metre height following flood damage to the stonework. An enclosed breezeway joins the stone section of the homestead to a timber framed and iron clad wing which also has surrounding verandahs. Situated immediately to the east is the separate kitchen and dining building and beyond that is the meat-house. This structure is dominated by a steep pitched corrugated iron roof which is supported on bush timber posts. The lower walls are of ripple iron with fly wire above. The outbuildings include a concrete block office which was originally the laundry, a brick bathroom, jackaroos' quarters, a stone store and workshop, a cement brick cottage and an airplane hangar.

History

Pioneered by Kenneth Durwent Messer, Minnie Creek was once part of the Gifford Creek lease which was owned by Septimus Burt. Taking its name from the nearby Minnie Creek, in 1913 a stone homestead was built on the property in which Kenneth lived with his wife Hilda. Like the other stations in the area, Minnie Creek was badly affected by the drought years between 1936- 42 with sheep numbers drastically decreased. Following the death of Ken Messer in 1940 the station was run by a succession of managers, including Fred and Francis Nelson who were at :.-e property for 14 years. In 1973 the Meecham brothers purchased Minnie Creek Station and the adjoining Mt Sandiman lease, both of which were bought by Ian and Jiil Dobson in 1980. Following lan's tragic death the stations were sold to John and Pam Leeds. In 1984 the Leeds family bought Mangaroon Station and ran the property from Minnie Creek. The leases were sold to the Mullens family in 1989 and the present owners and occupiers are John and Jenny Fraser. (McDonald, R.. 'Winning the Gascoyne', Hesperian Press, Perth, 1991, pp.36-3.)

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Medium

Condition

Good

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Mt Sandiman Station

Values

The place has historic significance due to its close connection with the early settlement of the Gascoyne District and the development of the pastoral industry since the 1880s.

The place is associated with Robert Newman and Robert Bird, well known settlers in the district.

The place has high aesthetic significance due to the large scale of the buildings, the use of local stone and the intactness of the complex.

The place is a good example of an early pastoral homestead in the Gascoyne Region.

Physical Description

The place is situated on a flat in-between stony promontory. The homestead complex forms one small group and the remnants of a shearing shed and quarters, located approximately 15km west of the homestead, forms another. The main homestead is constructed of stone with CGI roof and consists of two main buildings separated by a breezeway. The front verandah of the homestead has replacement steel rafters. Stone quarters are located to the southeast and CGI sheds to the north. The remnants of the shearing shed, and quarters are stone and CGI. The cement floor which formed part of the shearing shed bears the date 1948.

History

In 1884 the Mt Sandiman Station formed part of Moogoorie Station, the lease of which was owned by Robert Newman. Later Newman sold the Moogoorie lease but retained the Mt Sandiman lease which he considered to be the better of the two properties. Newman had the homestead built of local quarried sandstone. In 1918 the Mt Sandiman lease passed to Robert and Samuel Bird, teamsters and blacksmiths operating out of Carnarvon, for the purchase price of 12 000 pounds. Robert Bird and his wife, Lucy went to live at Mt Sandiman Station with their five daughters and Lucy’s sister. Samuel Bird sold his half share in Sandiman to Robert in 1936. During his years at Mt Sandiman Robert Bird added the stone bedroom wing to accommodate his large family as well as a cement brick room added to the store for use as the cook’s bedroom. The drought of the 1930s and 40s severely depleted the stock on the station – sheep numbers had been built up to 13 000 prior to the drought but by the time it was over only 1 600 sheep remained. By 1945 all five girls were married and had left Mt Sandiman. Robert & Lucy retired to the city in 1946 when Sandiman was sold to the Mosley family in partnership with Benjamin Sharp. Following several good seasons and increasing flock numbers the Mosley family bought the remaining share of Mt Sandiman in 1950. Under the management of Reg Mosley improvements were made to the property and the homestead, including replacing the worn flagstone verandah with concrete and building a new laundry. When Reg and his wife Peg moved away from the area in 1958 the station was run by a manager. In 1973 Mt Sandiman was absorbed into Minnie Creek Station when its owners, the Meecham brothers, purchases the adjoining lease. Alan and his wife lived at Sandiman for several years until the economic downturn of the pastoral areas resulted in them leaving the station, following which a caretaker or station worker stayed at the property. In 1980 Minnie Creek and Mt Sandiman were purchased by Ian and Jill Dobson, however following Ian’s tragic death the stations were sold to John and Pam Leeds.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity- Moderate Authenticity- High

Condition

Good

Uses

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Statement of Significance

Mi Sandiman Station has high historic significance for its ciose connection with the early settlement of the Gascoyne District and development of ihe pastoral industry since ihe i88Cs. The place is associated with Robert Newman and Robert Bird, well known settlers in the district. The homestead complex, together with a number of the outbuildings have high aesthetic significance for their iarge scale, use of local sione and intactness. it is characteristic of pastoral homesteads of that era. The aesthetic qualities of ihe place are further enhancec by the picturesque location.

Physical Description

Located north of Gascoyne Junction, the Mt Sandiman Homestead is situated in a picturesque setting amongst hills. The homestead consists of three main stone buildings connected by breezeways which form a small courtyard in the centre. The dining, lounge and office building , the bedroom wing and the kitchen/store building are all of local stone construction with hipped corrugated iron roofs. The roofs extends to cover surrounding verandahs which are supported on a combination of timber posts and metal poles. The original flagstone verandah floor has been replaced by concrete. The verandah is partly enclosed with lattice to provide shade. The current office was originally a bathroom. The windows are generally large and timber framed with 12 panes to the dining building, while french doors open from the bedrooms onto the verandahs. Window and door surroundings are rendered. A concrete block extension to the kitchen building contains the laundry. To the south east of the homestead is the Jackaroos' Quarters which is a simple stone building with a corrugated iron gable roof and a verandah to the south side. The Shearing Shed is located approximately 20 Kilometres to the north west of the homestead. Believed to be the second shearing shed constructed on the property, the exact location of the original is not known however, it is thought to have been approximately 4 miles from the homestead. The existing shearing shed is of stone construction and features arched gable ends and a curved corrugated iron roof which is said to have been imported from England with the steel trusses. The building originally had lean to roofs on both sides, however,the east section was removed to allow for the extension of the shed in corrugated iron to house 8 stands. To the west of the shearing shed is the black mens' quarters. a simple long corrugated iron clad building, while to the east are several buildings including the meat house.

History

In 1884 the Mt Sandiman Station formed part of Moogoorie Station, the lease of which was owned by Robert Newman. Later Newman sold the Moogoorie lease but retained the Mt Sandiman lease which he considered to be the better of the two properties. Newman had the homestead built of local quarried sandstone. In 1918 the Mt Sandiman lease passed to Robert and Samuel Bird, teamsters and blacksmiths operating out of Carnarvon, for the purchase price of 12,000 pounds. Robert Bird and his wife, Lucy went to live at Mt Sandiman Station with their five daughters and Lucy's sister. Samuel Bird sold his half share in Sandiman to Robert in 1926. During his years at Mt Sandiman Robert Bird added the stone bedroom wing to accommodate his large family as well as a cement brick room added to the store for use as the cook's bedroom. The drought of the 1930s and 40s severely depleted the stock on the station - shep numbers had been built up to 13.000 prior to the drought but by the time it was over only 1,600 sheep remained. By 1945 all five girls were married and had left Mt Sandiman. Robert and Lucy retired to the city In 1946 when Sandiman was sold to the Mosley family in partnership with Benjamin Sharp. Following several good seasons and Increasing flock numbers the Mosley family bought the remaining snare of Mt Sandiman in 1950. Under the management of Reg Mosley, improvements were made to the property and the homestead, including replacing the worn flagstone verandah with concrete and buiiding a new laundry. When Reg and his wife Peg moved away from the area in 1958 the station was run by a manager. In 1973 Mt Sandiman station was absorbed into Minnie Creek Station when its owners, the Meecham brothers. purchased ihe adjoining lease. Alan and his wife Cheryl lived at Sandiman for several years until the economic downturn of the pastoral areas resulted in them leaving the station, following •-,r;cr: a caretaker or station worker stayed at the property. In 1960 Minnie Creek and Mt Sandiman were purcnased by Ian and Jill Dobson, however following Ian's tragic death the stations were sold to John and Pam Leeds. They are currently owned by John and Jenny Fraser who live at Minnie Creek. (McDonald, R., 'Winning the Gascoyne', Hesperian Press. Perth. 1951. pp.108- 114 & Mosley, R., "History of Mt Sandiman Station", September 1996.)

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: High

Condition

Good

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Winderie Station

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Statement of Significance

The two outbuildings of the Winderie Station have local significance only, as evidence of the developing pastoral industry in the district. The place is evidence of the way in which buildings were often relocated for re-use in remote areas, highlighting the resourcefulness of the local population.

Physical Description

Located south west of Gascoyne Junction. Winderie Station consists of the current house which was built in the c1950s. Little evidence remains of the original mud brick homestead which was badly damaged in a flood in previous years. To the west of the house is the workers' quarters, comprising of an old Road Board building which was relocated from Gascoyne Junction. The simple timber framed building is clad with asbestos sheeting and has a hipped corrugated iron roof. The roof extends to cover surrounding verandahs which are supported on timber posts. The posts show signs of white ant damage. The building contains five rooms, including a kitchen, lounge room and bedroom. The bathroom and laundry are located on the south-west corner of the building which has timber casement windows. A metal pole and wire fence surrounds the building. Located approximately 4 kilometres north-east of the Winderie Homestead are the ruins of a small stone cottage. The two-roomed structure had a corrugated iron roof, as evident by the sheets lying on the ground in close proximity. The chimney to the north wall remains in good condition. Nearby glass bottles mark out what would have been a garden. About 100 metres to the east is a well called 'Secret Well'. Winderie Station also has a lonely grave located approximately 15 miles from the homestead along the rabbit proof fence. No name is indicated on the grave which is marked by a pipe frame and netting to prevent damage. However, it is known that the grave belongs to a man who worked on the rabbit proof fence and perished while returning to the camp on Mooka Station.

History

Winderie Station 'was first taken up on 1 April 1905 by Thomas Binning, a police officer who had worked in Northampton and Thomas River before being transferred to Gascoyne Junction. Together 'with his wife, Hester, and young family. Thomas Binning worked the station leases which also included part of Mooka Station. By 1922, Winderie carried 5,000 sheep, 40 horses. 90 cattle and 10 camels. In 1924 Thomas Binning took up the Callytharra lease and in the following year he sold the Mooka lease to George Hutton. By 1934, sheep numbers on the station had increased to 14,049, however then a disastrous drought struck the next year and depleted the numbers to 2,900. Following the death of his wife, Hester, Thomas Binning stayed on the property, even after mortgagees took over the station in 1939. in November 1948 the leases were transferred to Joseph Kempton of Carnarvon. The Kempton family were 'well known as early pioneers of the transport business through the Ashburton (Pilbara) and Gascoyne districts, the workers' cottage, located adjacent to the house at Winderie Station, is said to have been, relocated approximately 40 years ago from Gascoyne Junction where it was used by the Upper Gascoyne Road Board. According to Elaine Kempton one room of the building, which was purchased from the Road Board for 300 pounds, was used as the local post office and shire office while the remaining rooms were used for living quarters. The stone cottage ruin was originally built by the manager of Bidgemia who was developing the country on what 'was later to become Winderie Station, it is said that he -was undertaking this 'work without the knowledge of the owners of Bidgemia and intended to move there at a later date. (Eiaine Kempton & McDonald. Winning the Gascoyne. Hesperian Press. Perth. 1991 p. 178-181

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: High

Condition

Fair

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Mangaroon Lead Mine

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Gascoyne Junction Police Station

Condition

Fair

Uses

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Upper Gascoyne Road Board Office (fmr)

Condition

Good

Uses

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Creation Date

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Statement of Significance

The Former Upper Gascoyne Road Heard Office has high Historic significance as the centre of local government in the district for 55 years. The place also has considerable social significance for its links to the prevision of education in the district for several years and its current use as a local museum. The simpIe style and compact scale cf the building together with its good condition and high integrity combine to enhance the aesthetic Qualities cf the place. The building is an excellent example of the small road board offices built in rural and remote areas in the early part of the 1900's and forms an intrinsic part of the civic precinct arc built environment of Gascoyne Junction.

Physical Description

The Former Upper Gascovne Road Board Office is located immediately to the east of the present Shire Office on Scott Street. The small timber framed building is clad with horizontally fixed weatherboards which have been painted cream. A steeply pitched pyramid-shaped corrugated iron roof covers the main building while a separate surrounding verandah reef is supported on timber posts. The original timber verandah floor has been replaced with concrete. The simple front (north) facade of the building faces the street and features only a centrally placed timber pane! entry door. The symmetrical design of the building sees a second door positioned on the opposite (south) wall, while the side walls each have a large timber framed double hung window. Internally, the building consists of only one room and features ripple iron to both the walls and ceiling. There is some evidence of white ant damage to the weatherboard cladding on all the elevations of the building. A collection of artifacts is housed inside and around the building, including a number of etc signs attached to the external walls.

History

The Gascoyne Road Board was formed in 1887. and it's first members were Robert Busr,. Roger O'Grady. Henry Waish, Charles Davis. E. Darlot and John Fitzpatrick. The Board was mainy occupied with building and maintaining roads and wells In the district, which at that time also included the Murchison District. In 1S07, the Upper Gascoyne Road Board was termed with William Scott as Chairman and Walter Summerhayes Smith as Secretary. Road Scare meetings were held at Bidgemia Station [Place No. 7], however members seen agreed that it was necessary to have an official office for Board meetings. On 20 September 1912, the Road Board Secretary submitted the pro-forma invoice from Millars Karri and Jarrah Co. fcr a proposed office at 'the Junction' as it was locally known, but officially named Kiiliii in 1912. and later renamed Gascoyne Junction. The invoice for 88 pounds was for material cut and ready for erection on a block of land granted by the government. The small two-room building was used for the regular meetings of the Road Board, it was also used as a school from 1953 until a new school was built and officially opened in May 1965. on July 1961. the Upper Gascoyne Road Board became the Upper Gascoyne Shire Council when the Local Government Act 1950 cane into operation. A new Shire Hall and Office were built immediately adjacent en Scott Street and opened on 24 June 1967. the old Road Board building currently operates as a local museum.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: High

Condition

Good

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