Trust News Western Australia February 2017

Trust News EDITION 01 | FEBRUARY - APRIL 2017

Having a Voice: new funding brings Fanny Balbuk Yooreel to the Heritage Festival GINA PICKERING

Fanny Balbuk Yooreel is arguably the most important and uncelebrated Whadjuk woman in Perth’s history. With a deep emotional commitment to her land and people, Fanny was a passionate resistance fighter in Perth’s landscape who experienced colonisation of her environment first hand during the 19th century.

ABOVE: Fanny Balbuk Yooreel. State Library of Western Australia 253420PD

The extraordinary life of Fanny Balbuk Yooreel is a highlight of the WA program in this year’s Australian Heritage Festival. It takes the 2017 theme, Having a Voice to a new level for Perth’s Noongar and broader community.

Fanny Balbuk Yooreel: Realising a Perth resistance fighter has received $40,000 funding from Lotterywest and is a collaborative National Trust program with the City of Perth, ARC Centre of Excellence for the History of Emotions, Professor Susan Broomhall, historian, WA Inspired Quilters and Department of Aboriginal Affairs History Research Officer, Mark Chambers.

National Trust of Western Australia Project Manager and contributor Gina Pickering will work closely with partners and a group of Noongar Elder Women who will guide the project including Irene Stainton and Marie Taylor.

ABOVE: Balbuk’s Country: Heirisson Island, Looking East by Elizabeth Humphreys. The artwork was inspired by the watercolour paintings made by early European settlers in the Swan River Colony. The quilt portrays the view to the East across the Swan River at Heirisson Island towards the Escarpment. Australian ravens (crows) were of special significance to Fanny Balbuk, and they overlook the crossing.

An outstanding description of Fanny Balbuk Yooreel by Daisy Bates provides an emotional glimpse into her incredible life.

“To the end of her life she raged and stormed at the usurping of her beloved home ground... Through fences, and over

them, Balbuk took the straight track to the end. When a house was built in the way, she broke its fence-palings with her digging stick and charged up the steps and through the rooms.” continued page 2

SEE BACK PAGE FOR MORE HERITAGE FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE PERSPECTIVES

INNOVATION

PLACES PLACES

CONNECTIONS

OUT AND ABOUT OUT ‘N’ ABOUT

PERSPECTIVES

CEO Message JULIAN DONALDSON | CEO NATIONAL TRUST OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Early in my new tenure as CEO here at the Trust I came to the realisation that this is a rare and extraordinary organisation with deep community roots and lofty ideals. It has a proud history of making a profound contribution that has enriched our society.

Of course the old hands who have been members, volunteers, staff and Council members for many years know this well and need little reminding of the intrinsic value of heritage in a civil society. However, I am aware of the magnitude of the task ahead of us as we strive to increase broad community support for the value of our Natural, Aboriginal, and Historic heritage.

Promoting widespread community understanding of the value of heritage is a big goal we must achieve. We’ll get some of the way to achieving this when we find ways to encourage the community to participate in a conversation on why heritage is important. In particular, I am interested in a conversation where heritage is embraced as a central part of the discussion on our culture and our identity rather than being relegated in a simplistic way as a descriptor for old buildings or worse still as a pejorative term used by some who claim heritage stands in the way of progress.

For nearly 60 years the National Trust has been at the vanguard of community opinion and action in making the case for the value of heritage. Much has been achieved without fanfare, although the achievements deserve to be heard over and over. In the coming year the Trust will focus on conserving the wonderful portfolio of places in its care; in activating some of these to attract new visitors; in deepening our meaningful connections with the Aboriginal community; in protecting our natural heritage; in providing relevant and stimulating education programs to the many thousands of school children who visit our places; in presenting public events that offer opportunities for the community to participate in the heritage conversation; and importantly, in reaching out to the broad community of business and private individuals to make a connection that will see financial and emotional support for the Trust increase. There is much to be done and great value in what we aim to achieve. I encourage you to renew your membership in the coming year and to spread the word amongst your friends so that we can all benefit by increased community support for our lofty ambition.

continued from page 1 Perth will hear from Fanny Balbuk Yooreel in new ways in 2017 with the Australian Heritage Festival program featuring a range of Fanny Balbuk event options including a new map and guided walk through the city, an exhibition of beautiful quilts from WA Inspired Quilters at City of Perth Library, a free booklet and education pack, a public talk featuring Noongar voices, a short documentary and an academic symposium on the life and legacy of Fanny Balbuk Yooreel open to the public and presented by the Australian Research Council Centre for the History of Emotions.

“The events focus on lifting the recognition of the life and legacy of Fanny Balbuk Yooreel in 2017 which marks the 110th anniversary of her death,” Ms Pickering said.

“This year’s festival events provide many opportunities for the Perth community and visitors to get to know and appreciate Fanny Balbuk Yooreel a little bit better.”

The Australian Heritage Festival runs from 18 April to 21 May. For more information visit: www.australianheritagefestival.org.au

INSIDE THIS ISSUE 2 PERSPECTIVES Having a Voice: new funding brings Fanny Balbuk Yooreel to the Heritage Festival CEO Message Heritage Watch Quite a serve from the Artillery Drill Hall

6 INNOVATION National Trust welcomes lead role in Sunset Heritage Precinct future Inaugural 2017 Prelude Composer in Residence at Gallop House Christmas Island Heritage

9 CATALYST Curtin’s legacy of activism Rededication of the Shearer Memorial Debris and memory

10 PLACES Property Wrap Learning from Ellensbrook

Saluting Graeme Bridge Valuing Volunteers

13 OUT ‘N’ ABOUT Vintage welcome at Old Farm, Albany - An Albany Amble Angels at Peninsula Farm Live music in the gardens of Old Blythewood

11 CONNECTIONS The Spaces between us Digital treasure marks library anniversary Scan the code to access the National Trust of Australia (WA) home page.

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PERSPECTIVES

Heritage Watch NEW ENTRIES ON THE STATE REGISTER

SUBIACO OVAL HERITAGE LISTING REJECTED

Harvey Agricultural College and Bebo Moro in Guildford were recently added to the State Register of Heritage Places by the State Heritage Office. Harvey Agricultural College is associated with World War II as a former Italian Internment Camp before becoming an army training school and later an agricultural training centre. Bebo Moro which consists of a Federation Queen Anne style residence (1890) with associated cellar (1837) is significant as an early building in Guildford designed by prominent architect JJ Talbot Hobbs as well as the pioneering Pratt family who lived at the property for almost 100 years. The WA State Register of Heritage Places is maintained by the Heritage Council, supported by the State Heritage Office, a government department. Places entered on to this Register are subject to statutory controls and must seek owner’s approval from the Heritage Council for changes to be made.

Subiaco Oval has been the home of footy in Western Australia for over 100 years and has significant value to the WA Community.

However, its future is now under a cloud with the Minister for Heritage, Albert Jacobs rejecting its inclusion on the State Register of Heritage Places late in 2016. With a new stadium under construction and major WA AFL teams moving to new facilities, Subiaco Oval will no longer be in demand for sporting or other events. Heritage listing of the oval was supported by the City of Subiaco who are concerned the place will be unrecognisably redeveloped. Whilst redevelopment of the place may be likely, conserving the oval’s values through sensitive management can still be achieved.

LITTLE KNOWN BEACH TAKES OUT TOP SPOT A little known beach at Cocos (Keeling) Islands has been named as the ‘Best Beach’ by Brad Farmer in his new publication, 101 Best Beaches 2017. After reviewing around 4,000 Australian beaches and with 30 years experience reviewing and writing about surf and sand, ‘Cossie Beach’, a name bestowed by Farmer after Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove, outshone other well-known (and less remote) beaches to take out top spot. To the Cocos (Keeling) locals this is known as Direction Island Beach. Despite the name change, few seem to mind the increased exposure. Another remote beach on Christmas Island also received a placing with Dolly Beach rounding out the Top 10. As a coastal nation, Australians are inextricably tied to the ocean and it’s great to see regional and remote places recognised for their natural qualities and value to communities.

ABOVE: Image by Rik Soderlund; sourced http://www.traveller.com.au/cossies-beach-wa-brad-farmers-best-beach-in-australia-in-2017-gt354u

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PERSPECTIVES

Quite a serve from the Artillery Drill Hall

GINA PICKERING

It’s been dusty and disciplined at the Fremantle Artillery Drill Hall during early 2017 and the finds have been outstanding.

ABOVE: Comprising remnant feathers and cork, this shuttlecock was discovered during archaeological investigations at Artillery Drill Hall. G Pickering

“It is clear there is a 30cm layer of sediment that represents the 50 years the site was a convict garden before the hall was built and it’s full of 19th century artefacts,” Dr Winter said.

ABOVE: Archaeologist B’geella Romano with a WWII artefact from under the floorboards.

G Pickering

The very methodical work of archaeologists Dr Sean Winter and B’Geella Romano for the National Trust has caught the attention of researchers and media as it reveals details about convict gardens, the Australian origins of Badminton and links to the Fremantle No 2 Battery Field Artillery.

The archaeologists are on site as part of redevelopment plans, and are providing archaeological monitoring while the integrity of the floor stumps are assessed and underpinned. The National Trust has a current contract with Western Projects to lift the floors and undertake structural work which is revealing a substantial underfloor archive.

ABOVE: Combined Volunteer Artillery Corps. Army Museum WA

“There is also a considerable artefact assemblage on the surface that is predominantly made up of mid-to late 19th and mid-to late 20th and early 21st century artefacts which could lead to at least three honours level projects,” he said.

“The artefacts will be analysed to provide information about life both before the building of the Drill Hall, and since its construction. We also hope to ‘virtually’ recreate the garden by analysing charcoal, seeds, pollen and sediment, to determine what was being grown there, and in what quantities.”

The Artillery Drill Hall was constructed in 1895/6 to provide facilities for the town’s Volunteer Artillery Corps known officially as the Fremantle No 2 Battery Field Artillery. The site comprised part of the original 1857 convict grant which has been used for

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law and order since that time. The hall provided space for practising drill as well as facilities for various leisure pursuits and social activities including badminton.

Mr Moore, an artillery officer recalled being introduced to the sport in Aldershot during his holidays and resolved to establish the game at the Drill Hall1. He bought back shuttles, net and eight racquets and in 1900 Fremantle became the first place badminton was played in Australia.2 The place also has social significance for its high profile use as the music and entertainment venue Fly by Night Musicians Club, the first non smoking venue in Australia. The Artillery Drill Hall is listed on the Register of State Heritage Places within the parent precinct Fremantle Courthouse fmr and Police Station Complex and has been in the National Trust’s care since 2004.

1 South Western News, 24 Jan 1930 2 Jean Yves Guillain, 2012. Badminton an Illustrated History, p65 CLOCKWISE FROM RIGHT:  Perth, Fremantle and Guildford Volunteer Corps.

Army Museum WA Underfloor artefacts reflect the culture of smoking. G Pickering Framework of a shuttlecock. G Pickering Badminton racquet held by the Badminton Association of WA. G Pickering

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INNOVATION

National Trust welcomes lead role in Sunset Heritage Precinct future GINA PICKERING

National Trust of Western Australia Chairman Michael Murray AM QC has welcomed Premier Colin Barnett’s endorsement of the National Trust of Western Australia as the manager of Sunset Heritage Precinct which was formally opened to the community in late November.

ABOVE: National Trust CEO Julian Donaldson with Premier Colin Barnett at the Sunset Hospital announcement. NTWA

Mr Murray said he was delighted with the decision, which would strengthen Sunset Heritage Precinct’s continuing transformation into a significant community space which provided creative arts and cultural facilities.

Built in 1904, the place was originally Claremont Old Men’s Home and housed aged agricultural and pastoral workers as well as gold prospectors and former convicts.

In 1941 it was named Sunset Hospital.

National Trust CEO Julian Donaldson said Sunset Heritage Precinct has extraordinary cultural heritage values and historically significant buildings connected to the wellbeing of many Western Australians.

ABOVE: Current Sunset landscaping. S Guerrero

“Its outstanding riverside location at Dalkeith means many more people will enjoy the health benefits of the extensive parklands and Swan River vistas into the future,” Mr Donaldson said.

The collection of buildings over 7.9 hectares makes up one of the largest intact early twentieth century public health facilities in the State. Restoration work on the site will be funded through private organisations, collaboration and sponsorship arrangements.

“The National Trust has successfully completed many outstanding adaptive reuse projects in Perth including Gallop House, Wanslea Cancer Wellness Centre, Old Perth Boys’ School and 57 Murray Street ensuring our state’s historical past has a sustainable future,” he said.

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Interpretive plaques that tell the story of Sunset through its architecture, landmarks and the people who lived and worked on the site have been created for visitors to discover throughout the Precinct.

“The National Trust is well placed to lead the future stages of Sunset’s transformation, ensuring the cultural heritage values of the place are not compromised while the Precinct is progressively restored.”

“The Department of Finance will retain responsibility for the Sunset Heritage Precinct until the transfer to the National Trust of Western Australia occurs,” Mr Donaldson said.

Innovation

Inaugural 2017 Prelude Composer in Residence at Gallop House GINA PICKERING

Perth composer Dr Mace Francis, long time advocate for Big Band composition and outstanding contributor to Western Australia’s jazz scene was named the inaugural Western Australian 2017 Prelude: Composer in Residence for Gallop House by the National Trust of Western Australia on 9 November.

Dr Francis said he was honoured by the gift of the residency which provides the creative sanctuary of National Trust property Gallop House in Dalkeith over twelve months.

“There were not many opportunities in the world like this and it’s a thrill to have the craft of composition respected through the resources and restoration demonstrated at Gallop House,” Dr Francis said.

National Trust of Western Australia CEO Julian Donaldson said Prelude is an innovative national initiative providing space and time to Australian composers to produce work by offering twelve month residencies in historic houses around Australia.

“This is the inaugural opportunity in Western Australia for a twelve month residency and the National Trust is delighted to support the creative process of one of our state’s most talented composers at one of the National Trust’s inspirational locations,” Mr Donaldson said.

“Gallop House is a 1870s house that underwent an extraordinary transformation in 2016 thanks to funding from the Feilman Foundation to become a unique creative haven with extraordinary river views,” he said.

ABOVE (L-R): Julie Ryan Arts Program Officer Bundanon Trust, Dr Mace Francis 2017 Prelude: Composer in Residence at Gallop House and Julian Donaldson CEO National Trust of Western Australia. G Pickering

Dr Francis believes the location will influence his work and life over the next year as he focuses on a new extensive composition for the WA Youth Jazz Orchestra as well as collaborative opportunities with local, national and international peers.

Curtin’s legacy of activism Associate Professor Deborah Gare from the University of Notre Dame presented the Annual Curtin Family Home Lecture 2016, 17 November at the Grove Library.

In her talk, Curtin’s war against the state, Professor Gare suggested a new relevance for John Curtin’s legacy in contemporary times linked to his strong activism. The lecture analysed the impact of Curtin’s experiences with conscription in WWI with his actions during WWII.

The Prelude Composer in Residence program is made possible with the collaboration between the PeggyGlanville Hicks Composers Trust, National Trust of Western Australia, and Bundanon Trust. The program is funded by the Australian Government Department of Communications and the Arts’ Catalyst Program and APRA.

GINA PICKERING

Comparisons between 1916 and 2016 also revealed similar political strategies including embargoed information, campaigns against the media, censorship, suppression of information and government secrecy.

Watch the lecture in full at https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=FMBmR243hks ABOVE (L-R): National Trust CEO Julian Donaldson with Josh Wilson MP, Federal Member for Fremantle, Curtin Family Home Guest Presenter Assoc Prof Deborah Gare and National Trust President Max Kay AM Cit WA

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Innovation

Christmas Island Heritage

LISA STURIS | COORDINATOR HERITAGE SERVICES

The National Trust of Western Australia has successfully completed important strategic planning for Christmas Island’s heritage. Over the past year, the National Trust has had the privilege of working with the Christmas Island community, learning its history and experiencing the unique environment and culture. Supported by a federal grant from the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development, the Trust has developed strategies and resources to help manage, conserve and communicate Christmas Island’s significant heritage by working with local organisations and individuals. A Heritage Policy and Strategy, Interpretation Strategy and documentation of over 20 temples and shrines scattered around the Island have now been completed.

ABOVE: A rugged coast and exceptional views of the Indian Ocean from Christmas Island. G pickering

ABOVE: Island Home. Christmas Island District high School. G Pickering

With a unique and complex history, appropriate management of these places and culture is essential. Christmas Island along with Cocos (Keeling) Islands, became part of Australia’s Indian Ocean External Territories in 1958. Prior to this, Christmas Island was a Singaporean territory which is reflected in the culture and architecture of the place. Governed by the Commonwealth as well as local Shires in each territory, these are strategically important to Australia and also represent a unique community which has developed since the late 1800s as a result of many international influences.

This project represents the National Trust of Western Australia’s approach to advocacy which involves working with and developing positive relationships with government agencies, community organisations and individuals. The vision for this approach to Christmas Island’s heritage is to: ‘Support and stimulate

ABOVE: Rituals at one of the many Christmas Island temples. G Pickering

community connections to the Island’s exceptional history, cultures and environment.’ As a result, a new website has been established where the developed resources can be accessed as well as additional resources, links and photographs: www.christmasislandheritage.com The Trust team experienced the colour and vibrancy of Chinese festivals, stunning views and natural environments, red crabs migrating in their millions, wonderful sunsets, friendly and passionate locals and the outdoor cinema with fish and chips! It was a privilege to work with the local community and the Trust hopes to continue its involvement with the Indian Ocean Territories to see ongoing goals achieved. The National Trust gratefully acknowledges and extends its thanks to the organisations and individuals on Christmas Island who have given us their time and contributed to this project.

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CATALYST

Rededication of the Shearer Memorial SARAH MURPHY | DIRECTOR CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP

An exceptional heritage outcome was achieved on the last Sunday of November 2016 with the rededication of the Reverend David Shearer Memorial at East Perth Cemeteries.

Debris and memory CARLY LYNCH

Carly Lynch a local, emerging artist who recently completed her Bachelor of Arts (Honours) at Curtin University considered the question: In what ways can an arts practice evoke the transition and absence of objects removed from local collections by engaging with archived traces?

ABOVE: Shearer family members pay tribute to the Reverend David Shearer.

S Murphy

The project took some substantial planning and logistics to remove the memorial from its Perth city location on the corner of Pier Street and St Georges Terrace where it had been placed in 1937 after being removed from East Perth Cemeteries.

The congregation of the former St Andrew’s Church funded the relocation and conservation of the 450 kilogram marble monument through a National Trust tax deductable appeal, after the church was sold to a developer. Members of the Shearer family also funded the repair and conservation of an adjacent Shearer grave marker.

Family members turned out in force for a special service at East Perth Cemeteries where the monument had been originally installed marking the final resting place of Rev David Shearer.

One relative brought a bible that had belonged to Rev Shearer who was commissioned to establish the Presbyterian Church in Western Australia, who served as a Pastor at St Andrew’s Church for 12 years and was a leading reformer in education.

ABOVE: Drawings from Debris. C Lynch RIGHT: Deaccessioned object from National Trust Collection. NTWA

One of three deaccession events Carly investigated through her artworks was the ‘Deaccession Project’ conducted by the National Trust of Western Australia (2000-2007). 6,000 donated objects held in storage for many years were redistributed where possible and also sold in a total clearance public auction. Sarah Murphy, Director, Conservation and Stewardship, granted Carly access to the vast photographic archive documenting each of the objects in storage. After experimenting across many mediums, one of the major artworks Carly created in response to these traces was a series of drawings titled Debris.

Debris is a set of 83 drawings created using a single sheet of graphite transfer paper to trace a selection of the photos. By reducing these objects to an ever-fracturing and disappearing outline, this work seeks to amplify notions of transience and distance inherent to Carly’s experience of these objects.

Through Debris, Carly hopes to visualise the boundary between the collection and the outside world, at the moment it falters. This artwork was recently shown at Curtin University’s School of Design and Art’s Degree Exhibition. At the opening, Carly was one of five students chosen to apply for the National Graduate Exhibition, Hatched, to be held at the Perth Institute of Contemporary Art (PICA) in 2017.

This project stems from Carly’s ongoing curiosity about how stories are deposited and retrieved, and how institutions such as archives, museums and libraries have changed the ways we remember.

Website: www.c-lynch.com Instagram: carl_y_lynch

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PLACES

Property Wrap Old Farm, Strawberry Hill

Nos 3, 4 & 8 Pump Stations updated conservation plans

In association with rehabilitation of the creek, landscape design work, funded by a Royalties for Regions grant is being undertaken to improve the Middleton Beach Road entrance to the site.

Engineers will assess the site’s needs and a Town Planning consultant has been engaged to review and amend the zoning of the various lots to suit heritage purposes.

Central Greenough

ABOVE: View of No 8 Pump Station. Global Unmanned systems.

ABOVE: Gray’s Store, Greenough. K Lomas

Planning is complete for a series of masonry skill conservation training courses commencing this month with completion in August. Projects will include the Police Station/ Lock-up, chimneys, Convent, Greenough Store and Hackett’s Store carpentry training, Cliff Grange garden conservation; and ongoing stone skills work. A Masonry Conservation Open Day is planned for 3 May as part of the Australian Heritage Festival.

Ellensbrook

Site visits of No 3, 4 and 8 Pump Stations have been completed and condition report schedules and physical evidence statements are being drafted for each Pump Station. Documentary evidence, bibliographies, values and Statement of Significance for the overall of GWSS and for each of No 3, 4 and 8 Pump Stations have been prepared as draft documents. National Trust staff are in the process of reviewing the documentation and selecting archival photographs and plans to be included in the conservation plans.

Consultation will be undertaken prior to preparation of policies for the updated conservation plans funded through the federal Protecting National Historic Sites program.

Royal Perth Hospital Heritage Complex

The Trust is scoping a project to develop an interpretation framework for the Royal Perth Hospital Heritage Complex precinct in association with the Catholic Archdiocese and the City. The work builds on the ‘RPPH Integrated Vision Study’, prepared by heritage planner Frank Buchner while on secondment from the Netherlands Cultural Heritage Agency in 2015. The aim is to develop a substantial interpretation framework for the precinct in anticipation of future development options being explored, and to enhance the precinct through a range of activation strategies.

ABOVE: Ellensbrook, Margaret River. A Brake

Weed control and revegetation work has been completed as part of a Coastwest grant focussing on areas around the historic house.

RIGHT: David Young samples mortar to gauge lime and salt content at Ellensbrook. K Lomas

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CONNECTIONS

The Spaces between us

GINA PICKERING

Difficult topics translated through art can bring new understanding and deep empathy.

ABOVE: Sharon Tassicker, Manager Collections and Exhibitions Janet Holmes a Court Collection opened The Spaces Between Us with sensitive observations. G Pickering ABOVE: Eva Fernandez Hessian Sack, 2016 Archival digital print 60cm x 60cm RIGHT: Helen Seiver’s haunting bonnets included natural elements, historical text, wrappings and fabrics. G Pickering

This is the case with The Space between Us, a gripping recent exhibition at Bunbury Regional Gallery which highlights the concealment of deaths of tiny babies often at their mother’s hands during colonial times in the Swan Colony.

It’s enough to make most turn and run in the opposite direction, but this discomforting, complex and taboo topic is a sad legacy for Western Australia’s community.

Dr Amanda Gardiner, curator post doctorate researcher from Edith Cowan

University, investigated this practice for her doctorate. It was a courageous choice to sit with over a number of years and considers a set of power relations in fledgling WA in which some women had no moral permission to be mothers with traumatic consequences. Young pregnant women became isolated, fearful and desperate mothers with tragic outcomes for newborns, babies and their own futures. This practice of concealment became a public and legal issue only when a body was found, sometimes

Learning from Ellensbrook

washed up on a beach, discovered in sacks, parcels, tea boxes, kerosene tins or packages. At the Bunbury Regional Gallery these agonising outcomes were transformed by six artists into sculpture, painting, photographs, mixed media and music by National Trust Prelude Composer in Residence Dr Mace Francis.

Among the work, fifty five finely crafted bonnets give presence to an absence, grief and fall from grace. The legacy of the discarded is a fragile and delicate recognition.

KELLY RIPPINGALE | CONSERVATION ARCHITECT

On 22 November heritage professionals and students were invited to attend a practical one day workshop on site at Ellensbrook with conservation specialists David Young and Peter Baxendale.

National Trust conservation architect Caroline Stokes provided an overview of the history and construction of the place while David and Peter explored a variety of integrated topics through practical exercises over the course of the day.

These included: reading the building – what to look for and appropriate

techniques to use; sampling and labelling mortars; structural investigation of timber elements, chimneys and stone walls; how to bring material and structural investigations together; and specifying modern materials in conservation. The workshop was attended by a range of heritage professionals including

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architects and engineers, and conclusions from the investigations will guide the conservation works funded by Lotterywest. Meantime, the consultation process for the project has progressed strongly including discussions with more than forty community stakeholders.

CONNECTIONS

Digital treasure marks library anniversary GINA PICKERING

A grisly chapter in West Australian history was made available online as the J S Battye Library of WA History, celebrated its 60th anniversary in December 2016.

ABOVE: Images from the Battye Library’s extraordinary collection feature in a 27 metrelong decal installed on the ground floor windows of the State Library. SLWA

Culture and the Arts Minister John Day announced the digitisation of Francisco Pelseart’s account of the 1629 voyage and mutiny of the Batavia, as he marked the library’s birthday and launched a publication for tourists and visitors featuring some of the library’s treasures.

“This is the digital age making history more accessible and relevant to new generations,” Mr Day said.

ABOVE: The journal of John Septimus Roe, first surveyor general of Western Australia displayed at the State Library. SLWA

A vital resource for the National Trust and all West Australians, the J S Battye Library features the State’s oldest and most significant collection of heritage documents and records.

Pelseart’s book can be viewed at http://purl.slwa.wa.gov.au/slwa_b1660729_7

Saluting Graeme Bridge A stalwart of goodwill and office management, Graeme Bridge retired from the National Trust in December after more than 20 years of service. Graeme Bridge came to the National Trust as a volunteer after a distinguished career with a major bank.

Within a very short period, an opportunity came up for a part time person to look after a range of general duties including Trust’s vehicles, organising minor maintenance around head office and other Trust places to assisting the administration with events, volunteers and general enquiries.

Graeme was successful in his application and then proceeded to excel in everything he did at the Trust for the following two decades.

His colleagues provided a long table lunch as a thank you for his continuing friendship and unrivalled attention to detail which brought much grease to the wheels of the Trust’s day to day operations over the years. Safe and exciting travels Graeme.

RIGHT: Graeme Bridge turns his attention to travel after an impressive innings at the National Trust of Western Australia. G Pickering

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CONNECTIONS

Valuing Volunteers

GINA PICKERING

Early December 2016 saw forty of the Trust’s valued volunteers gather at the National Trust’s headquarters in West Perth as part of annual International Volunteer Appreciation Day.

ABOVE: Taking a moment to appreciate the National Trust’s band of volunteers at the Old Observatory, West Perth. S Guerrero

Welcomed by Trust President Max Kay and CEO Julian Donaldson the volunteers provide a variety of expertise at properties, as councillors and in contributing to activities at the National Trust offices.

A delicious morning tea and get together was a gesture of appreciation for their ongoing contribution and commitment to WA heritage and the Trust’s activities.

The Trust was also pleased to host new members at the Old Observatory on 15 December.

A sundowner and tour of the 1897 building introduced new members to the work of the Trust and what generous support makes possible, while quietly celebrating the end of an exciting year. We hope to make this style of new member welcome an annual tradition.

Find out more about membership or volunteering at the National Trust. Contact Gae See on 9321 6088

OUT ‘N’ ABOUT Vintage welcome at Old Farm, Albany - An Albany Amble Thirty veteran vehicles took part in WA Vintage Car Club’s Albany Amble in November last year. The enthusiasts visited the Trust’s Old Farm, Strawberry Hill as part of their rally providing a an eye catching spectacle in the grounds as part of their three day tour.

ABOVE: Veteran car lovers enjoy the grounds at Old Farm Strawberry Hill. Vintage Car Club, WA

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OUT ‘N’ ABOUT

Angels at Peninsula Farm GINA PICKERING

Festive conditions welcomed all-comers to the Sunset Christmas Carols held at Peninsula Farm, Maylands during the Christmas lead up.

Riverside and in song, Tuxedo Junction and National Trust President Max Kay AM CitWA provided the way for more than 300 carollers during the evening.

Carole Foley delivered a Welcome to Country. Pam Hall, National Trust Volunteer had some help from young Christmas performers for the Nativity play, including many little angels.

ABOVE (L-R): Young carollers Reyse Daniels, Emily Jeans, Charlotte Mitchell and Sofia Koroveshi (front), contributed to the Nativity scene at the National Trust’s Sunset Carols. C Daniels

Live music in the gardens of Old Blythewood ANNE BRAKE | MANAGER COMMUNIT Y ENGAGEMENT

Around fifty visitors enjoyed the sublime sounds of smooth jazz in the beautiful gardens of Old Blythewood on in November.

Old Blythewood made the perfect backdrop for Swing Bits jazz performance. Setting themselves up on the front veranda, Pete Stockman on drums, Glenn Boardman on bass, and Geoff Loneragan on guitar, entertained visitors who picnicked under the trees or made use of chairs sprinkled around the front lawn. Many took advantage of the four guided tours of the house and enjoyed the complementary tea and coffee.

John and Mary Anne McLarty established Blythewood in the 1860s.

They had been amongst the first Europeans to settle in the Murray District originally arriving around 1842. John had been a tenant farmer and Mary Anne the local post mistress before purchasing 6,000 acres. As well as running cattle. John applied for and was granted a publican’s licence in 1860 and the house was built to accommodate the post office and hotel as well as the family. The complex on the banks of the Murray River includes the main house and the detached kitchen as well as the beautiful gardens.

Old Blythewood is 6kms south of Pinjarra and reopens 4 March.

ABOVE LEFT: Swing Bits used the veranda as their stage for some live music in the grounds of Old Blythewood. C Nunan LEFT: Many of the visitors took time to walk through Old Blythewood’s beautiful gardens.

C Nunan

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Peninsula Tea Gardens

ENJOY A TRADITIONAL HIGH TEA AND MUCH MORE OVERLOOKING THE SWAN RIVER

ADJACENT TO PENINSULA FARM, JOHNSON ROAD, MAYLANDS WA PH: 08 9272 8894

Come and Volunteer at the National Trust

Open every day including public holidays 8am - 5pm

OLD FARM, STRAWBERRY HILL

The National Trust of Western Australia appreciates the great contribution by all its volunteers.

Volunteering opportunities are available in our gardens, in caring for our collections and in greeting visitors at our places.

If you’d like to contribute to Western Australia’s heritage through the National Trust, we would be delighted to hear from you.

We have vacancies available at all our places.

Please contact the National Trust of Western Australia on 9321 6088 or at trust@ntwa.com.au during office hours.

EXPLORE ABORIGINAL CONNECTIONS, THE NEW EXHIBITION AND CONSERVATION WORK AT WESTERN AUSTRALIA’S OLDEST FARM.

174 MIDDLETON ROAD, ALBANY PH: 08 9841 3735

Open every day between 10am and 4pm

Your gift for the future

Collecting, conserving and sharing stories is our reason for being.

Those stories are reflected in the places we manage, the buildings we conserve, the objects we share and the experiences we provide. We connect past, current and future generations with stories, places and memories making sure that our culture and our heritage is respected and valued in the future.

As you plan for the future, we invite you to consider how you can join the National Trust in sharing stories of our State and preserving our treasures. Leaving a gift in your Will is a powerful legacy for the future.

The people of Western Australia trust us with their stories, their heritage and their culture. You become part of that trust when you decide to make a bequest in your Will.

Please contact us if you would like to talk about your Will and your decision to make a gift for the future.

Call CEO Julian Donaldson on 9212 1119 or visit ntwa.com.au/bequests

TRUST NEWS | 15 | WESTERN AUSTRALIA

18 April - 21 May

2017

A sneak preview of a few April highlights in the WA program: Perth – CBD

Perth – East

Heritage Bar Walking Tour Perth CBD | Wed & Sat 26 Apr – 6 May

Regional - South

Isolated Voices exhibition Northcliffe Pioneers Museum | Sat 22 Apr

Act-Belong-Commit Makers’ Markets & Heritage Fair Stirling St, Bunbury | Sun 23 Apr

Giddy Up saddle hunt Revolutions Transport Museum, Whiteman Park, Beechboro Rd/Lord St, Whiteman | Tue 18 Apr – Tue 25 Apr

Ask the Expert Antique Show The Old Observatory, 4 Havelock St, West Perth | Sat 29 Apr – Sun 30 May

Regional – East

Berkshire Valley Mill Museum Festival Berkshire Valley Rd, Berkshire Valley Sat 29 Apr

Perth – South

Wadjup-Gabbilju Foreshore Walk

Perth – North

Rossmoyne | Sun 30 Apr

1890s The Progressive Years of the Gingin Shire exhibition Lot 500 Jones St, Gingin | Sun 30 Apr

Suitcase of Stories children’s show Woodvale Library, 5 Trappers Dve, Woodvale | Wed 19 Apr

Bottled Up collection project Wanneroo Library & Cultural Centre, 3 Rocca Way | Tue 18 Apr – Sat 20 May

Strange’s War: The World War One Cartoons of Ben Strange

Regional - North

History House Museum, 7 Orchard Ave, Armadale | Sun 23 Apr – Thu 18 May Tues, Thurs – Sun including Public Holiday

Tue 18 Apr – Fri 5 May. Mon-Sat

World War One – Roebourne exhibition Traditional Masonry Skills Demonstration Day Central Greenough, off Brand Hwy, Greenough | Wed 3 May

The Australian Heritage Festival is supported through funding from the Australian Government’s National Trusts Partnership Program