Goldfields relic added to Heritage Register

4/7/05
Laverton's historic Hotel Australia has been added to the State Register of Heritage Places.
It is one of the few remaining historic buildings in the mining town and the only known surviving hotel in Western Australia with an enclosed carriage way (a laneway for horse-drawn carriages that provides access to stables at the rear of the building).
Heritage Minister Francis Logan said the hotel represented the booms and busts of the Goldfields and the Laverton area over a period of 105 years.
"The former Hotel Australia is a significant part of the character and history of Laverton," Mr Logan said.
"Built in 1901 following the discovery of gold, it was the first permanent hotel to be constructed in what was once the main street of the town.
"It was believed to be a stop over point for Cobb and Co coaches, which transported people and mail between mining towns.
"The place is also linked to the discovery of nickel at Mt Windarra in 1969, being the base of operations for prospector Ken Shirley."
Owner Jim Carter welcomed the hotel's heritage listing, saying he was proud that the important outback building had been recognised.
"The building has survived and connects with 105 years of history of Laverton - many of these connections to our local history are very compelling and worthy of preservation," Mr Carter said.
"The heritage listing will be a huge boost in deciding on what to do with the building next - hopefully it will have a public use to interpret its unique heritage and history."
Until 2002, Mr Carter ran a newsagency from the former hotel. The building had previously been used as the Coach House dining room, a boarding house and headquarters for a local newspaper.
Mr Logan said 80 places were included in the State Register in 2004-05 and 40 privately owned properties shared in about $1million in grant funding.
He said the Gallop Government was committed to protecting and enhancing WA's unique lifestyle, including significant heritage sites.
Other interim listings announced this week include Anzac Park in Bunbury and St Columba's Church Group and St Joseph's Convent in South Perth. They are open for public comment until August 9.
Permanent listings this week include the Cathedral of St Constantine and St Helene in Northbridge, First Church of Christ, Scientist in Perth, Lesmurdie Group and Swanleigh Precinct in Middle Swan.
Minister's office: 9222 8950