Pioneer farms recognised

Two homesteads that provide an insight into the early colonial past of the Mid-West have been given State Heritage protection.

Heritage Minister John Castrilli today announced that Sandsprings Homestead in Sandsprings and Belay Farm in Walkaway have been included on the State Register of Heritage Places.

Sandsprings Homestead has been farmed continuously by six generations of the Sewell family since its establishment in 1860.

Belay Farm was established in 1858 by former stonemason John Jones and farmed by three generations of his family.  In 1971, the property was purchased by its current owners, Robert and Norma Martin.

Mr Castrilli said the contribution of these farms and other properties in the Geraldton-Greenough region was vital in ensuring the survival of our then-fledgling colony.

"Both families set standards for farming practices and were also actively involved in the development of the district by serving on various committees, associations, and the local Road Board," the Minister said.

Geraldton MLA Ian Blayney has welcomed the addition of Sandsprings Homestead and Belay Farm onto the State Heritage list.

"Geraldton faces an exciting future, but we need to remember its significant role in the early days of agriculture in Western Australia," Mr Blayney said.

"The many old buildings of the Greenough Flats and Walkaway areas, and the homesteads of the original stations around Geraldton, are all treasures that will only increase in significance as time passes."