Opening of refurbished Mitchell House in Northam

6/6/95

Premier Richard Court has today opened an historic former Governor's residence in Northam, which has been refurbished to cater for the accommodation needs of tourists to the region.

Mr Court said the refurbishment of Mitchell House was a significant step for tourism in Northam and the picturesque Avon Valley.

"The stately mansion will provide good quality accommodation with heritage appeal," he said.

"Research by the Western Australian Tourism Commission has shown that there is strong demand for this type of facility."

State Government Ministers attending a Cabinet meeting in Northam were the first official guests at the National Trust-listed property.

Mr Court said Mitchell House was purchased in February by the owners of the Shamrock Hotel, which has won numerous industry awards for excellence in food, accommodation and customer service.

"Mitchell House was built for Sir James Mitchell and his wife Clara in 1905, the same year that Sir James became MLA for Northam," he said.

"He served as Premier of WA for two periods, from 1919 to 1924 and again between 1930 and 1933."

When Sir James was appointed Lieutenant Governor of WA and moved to Government House in Perth, the property was sold.  He later became Governor of WA from 1948 to 1951.

In the 1960s the two-storey mansion was converted into two flats and the beautiful jarrah staircase was removed.  Subsequent owners replaced the lost staircase and began renovating the property.

Mr Court said he was impressed with the quality of the restoration.

"Pieces of furniture originally owned by Sir James Mitchell are included in the furnishings and ensuites have been installed in all guest rooms without damaging the heritage quality of the house," he said.

"It is also pleasing that through this initiative the house will now be more available to the wider community than it has been in the past when it was a private residence."