Two Canning landmarks to be recognised for their heritage value

30/3/97

Two Canning landmarks are to be recognised for their heritage value.

Heritage Minister Graham Kierath said the Canning War Memorial, a symbol of mourning for those who lost their lives in World Wars I and II, and the historic Canning Town Hall were to be placed on the Heritage Council of Western Australia's interim Register of Heritage Places.

Mr Kierath said the white stone memorial at the corner of Albany Highway and Manning Road was striking and well known in the local community.

"Western Australians have a long history of answering the call to arms given by the British Empire," he said.

"This memorial, marking the sacrifice Western Australians made, was commemorated in 1921 when it was erected in front of the then Canning Town Hall."

After the hall was converted into a picture theatre, the stone arch was dismantled by volunteers and relocated in 1956.

In 1993 a plaque commemorating the 75th anniversary of Remembrance Day was added to the arch.

"The war memorial has significance as a symbol of the national mourning for those members of the armed services who died in our defence and demonstrates the way in which we recognise their sacrifice," Mr Kierath said.

"As such, it deserves the protection of the State's heritage laws."

Another highly prized local landmark to be recognised is the Canning town hall because of its reflection of the history and development of the Canning area.

"It is an important focal point which contributes to the community's sense of place as well as the centre for many social activities," Mr Kierath said.

"Despite the controversy that surrounded the siting of the Town Hall, the two-storey building is a good example of the style at the turn of the century."

With its semi-classical facade and simple plastered brick walls and high central clear storey windows, the main hall was built with a stage to the rear and an upper gallery to the front.

Initially lit by gas, the Electric Light Committee recommended in 1919 that it be electrified.

Two years later the council voted to allow the hall to be let one night a week as a picture theatre.

In 1972 the focus changed to a community hall and senior citizens centre and renovations were made the following year.

Still used as a community centre, Mr Kierath said the hall and stage retained the form and detailing of the original.

"The Canning Town Hall is an important part of the history and life of the Canning region and deserves State heritage law protection." he said.

Media contact: Mark Thompson 322 2311 or pager 482 4648