The 2021 WA Heritage Awards, now in the 29th year, recognise outstanding contributions to heritage conservation, promotion, tourism and interpretation.
The coveted Gerry Gauntlet Award went to Farmers Home Hotel in Northam for its multi-million-dollar restoration showcasing adaptive reuse and layering old and new in the hotel's design and interpretation to provide a unique tourism experience.
The Hotel was also a joint winner with the York Residency Museum for excellence in conservation or adaptive reuse of a heritage building, with commendations awarded to Fremantle's Warders Hotel and Emily Taylor, and Old Onslow Townsite.
Volunteers and professional heritage champions recognised in this year's awards have worked tirelessly to preserve valuable stories, culture and places, including 15-year-old voluntary curator for the Lost Mundaring & Surroundings Local History Museum, Owen Briffa.
Owen has produced two photographic history books featuring pictures from Glen Forrest to Wooroloo and a documentary, in which he interviewed and recorded residents about life in the Perth hills.
The Judges' Award recognised structural and heritage engineer, Ian Maitland OAM, who throughout his 54-year career, and into retirement, has worked tirelessly to promote and advocate for heritage, in particular, engineering heritage.
From St George's Cathedral to Trinity Church Perth, the heritage balconies of the State Buildings and redevelopment of Raine Square, Ian has passed on his knowledge through mentoring and teaching to emerging engineers, architects and builders.
Since the first awards in 1992, the WA Heritage Awards have showcased excellence in revitalising State Registered Heritage Places, setting standards in interpretation, heritage tourism, conservation and adaptive reuse.
More information on the winners and commendation recipients can be found online at http://www.dplh.wa.gov.au/heritage-awards
Photo caption: Ngajarli Art Viewing Trail - FuzzDigital 2020
