State Government officially recognises the Fini Group

20/9/96

The State Government today officially recognised Perth-based developer, Fini Group, for leadership in the conservation of Western Australia's industrial heritage.

Heritage Minister Richard Lewis awarded the company with a certificate of merit on behalf of the Heritage Council of WA at the opening of the E Shed Market redevelopment at Fremantle.

Mr Lewis said the Fini Group's involvement in the E Shed redevelopment was a further example of the company's expertise in the conservation of industrial heritage through adaptive re-use.

"The redevelopment of the Fitzgerald Hotel in Northbridge and the transformation of the Boans Warehouse in East Perth has earned the Fini Group a reputation which is second to none in this field," he said.

Mr Lewis said the Fini Group's foresight and vision had ensured the State heritage listed buildings would be preserved for future generations of Western Australians.

"The group has also played a significant role in the education of the development industry and the wider community about the benefits of heritage conservation," he said.

"There is growing recognition in WA of the potential investment values in the conservation and restoration of heritage, be it a residential or commercial property."

Mr Lewis said the Fini Group had developed a close relationship with the Heritage Council since it began work on its first adaptive re-use project, the Fitzgerald Hotel.

"On all of its projects the Fini Group has been sympathetic to the building's heritage values and they have been successful in combining sound conservation practices with imaginative development strategies," he said.

"The Fini Group's work is of great benefit to our community and deserves recognition."

Media contact: Bronwyn Hillman 222 9595, 221 1377