A new home for Sir James

4/11/02
The Captain Sir James Stirling statue which stood for many years outside the old R&I Bank building in Barrack Street, Perth, could soon be restored to a suitable site in the Perth metropolitan area.
Housing and Works Minister Tom Stephens is calling for expressions of interest from local government and community groups who may want to showcase the statue in an appropriate location.
The life-sized statue of Perth's founder and the fledgling colony's first Governor was sculptured by C P Somers and unveiled by HRH the Prince of Wales in 1979 to mark Western Australia's 150th anniversary.
Captain James Stirling RN proclaimed the colony of Western Australia in June 1829. Lieutenant Governor Stirling became Governor of the colony in 1831 and resigned in October 1837.
The statue was located at the front entrance of the R&I Bank until the building was demolished in 1996. The statue and a plaque commemorating the founding of Perth were placed in secure storage.
Mr Stephens said the statue recognised a key figure in the State's history and such a significant piece of the State's culture should be restored to a suitable site in Perth.
"However, it did not necessarily need to be returned to its former Barrack Street location," he said.
"I suspect there are many other sites - particularly in the Perth city centre - that are just as appropriate and I welcome the public's input."
Submissions can be made to the Department of Housing and Works, 169 Hay Street, Perth.
Minister's Office - 9213 6500

The Captain Sir James Stirling Statue