Heritage boost for Wheatbelt

15/10/00
The Wheatbelt has been allocated the largest number of heritage grants in the State, with 19 projects receiving a total of $261,800 in the fourth round of the Heritage Grants Program.
Heritage Minister Graham Kierath announced the funds today as part of almost $1 million in heritage grants awarded across the State.
Mr Kierath said the Federal Hotel in Wagin received $50,000 - the largest grant in the Wheatbelt Region - to help restore its verandas.
Mr Kierath said the hotel building was significant because it demonstrated the development that occurred in Wagin around the turn of the century, as it became the service centre of the district.
"The Federation Hotel is a fine example of the Federation Filigree architectural style common in the Australian pub tradition," Mr Kierath said.
"The building is an important element of the streetscape, enhanced by the veranda and balcony which extend over the pavement.
"It was completed in 1896 with accommodation for 20 people, including special accommodation for ladies and a wagonette and horses for use by visitors."
Mr Kierath said the $1 million in grants announced today would go to 73 projects in metropolitan and regional Western Australia.
He said the average amount allocated in each grant was $13,000 with the majority of the sites owned by the private and commercial sector.
"The grants are a clear indication that the Government has a strong commitment to preserving heritage both in the metropolitan area and in regional Western Australia," Mr Kierath said.
"However I would urge owners of heritage buildings to also meet their responsibility to preserving these community assets.
"The purpose of the grants is not to fund all heritage works throughout the State but provide a helping hand to those projects deemed by the Heritage Council of WA to be most in need."
Mr Kierath said in all there were 142 applications for grants this year, requesting a total $7.2 million including one request for $1.6 million.
Of the 73 projects to receive grants, 61 were from regional Western Australia and totalled $769,700 with 12 projects in the metropolitan area receiving $187,000.
WHEATBELT HERITAGE GRANTS