150 year-old pastoral station recognised

One of the earliest pastoral settlements in the State's Mid-West, Tibradden Homestead, has been celebrated with an entry in the State Register of Heritage Places.

Heritage Minister Albert Jacob said the homestead was established in the 1850s by pioneer John Sydney Davis, who later became a Member of Parliament.

"Davis was part of the 'Pastoral Company', in which pastoralists joined forces to build homesteads and infrastructure," Mr Jacob said.

"Many from this company went on to become important figures in the development of the State."

Governor James Stirling was originally reluctant to allow the Swan River Colony to spread to the Mid-West because it would increase government expenditure on services.

"When the land eventually opened up for settlement, it was found to be among the most fertile land in Australia, contributing to the economic development of the State," the Minister said.

"The area became known as the 'breadbasket' of the State because it was renowned for producing large quantities of quality wheat."

Tibradden Homestead Group has the only wind powered flour mill in the area.

"Unlike mills powered by steam and horse, Davis' mill was reliant upon favourable weather conditions to be successful, and its rotational cap allowed its sails to be angled into the wind," Mr Jacob said.

"Today, it is one of only four remaining wind powered flour mills in the State."

Fact File

• Tibradden Homestead Group joins Glengarry Station Complex, Moonyoonooka; Belay Farm Group, Walkaway; Sandsprings Homestead Group, Sandsprings and Windarra, Moonyoonooka in the State Register. Together they tell story of the economic and agricultural development of the Mid-West

• Visit http://www.stateheritage.wa.gov.au  for more information

Minister's office - 6552 5800