5/1/04
The State Government's $75,000 contribution to the City of Fremantle's facelift of Victoria Hall has helped restore the gracious old building to its former glory.
Heritage Minster Tom Stephens today handed Fremantle Mayor Peter Tagliaferri a certificate acknowledging completion of the $241,000 first phase of a restoration project.
Mr Stephens said the High Street building was highly valued by Fremantle residents, as demonstrated by their efforts to prevent the demolition of the place twice in the 1970s and public opposition to inappropriate development in 2000.
"Victoria Hall has been an important part of the Fremantle community for more than a century," the Minister said.
"This project has ensured that the building's beautiful stuccoed faade will be preserved for future generations."
Mr Stephens said the double volume, limestone and brick Victorian Academic Classical building was initially constructed as a parish hall.
It was associated with prominent Perth architect John Talbot Hobbs, who was responsible for the design of many notable buildings in Perth and Fremantle during the goldrush era.
Extensive works included conservation of the faade, repairs to the exterior joinery, installation of a new drainage system and repair to roof coverings.
The next phase would continue conservation works on internal features, which included a theatre stage arch and decorative timber panelling to an impressive timber-lined ceiling.
The city was successful in obtaining a Heritage Council of WA grant in 2002, which was the largest grant application allocated that year, and the fourth largest grant ever to be allocated under the program.
Originally the project was allocated $60,000, but this was increased to $75,000 when additional funding became available.
For information about the Heritage Grants program call the Heritage Council of WA on 08 9221 4177, or visit http://www.heritage.wa.gov.au
Mr Stephens also said the former Court House on Fremantle's Esplanade had been given permanent status in the State Register of Heritage Places.
The Minister said the building served as a Court House from 1884 until 1899 and from 1921 to the mid-1990s had been used variously as migrant accommodation a rest home for alcoholics and a men's refuge.
Currently the Court House was used by Notre Dame's University of Law as a teaching facility where mock trials are conducted in a courtroom setting.
Minister's office: 9213 6500
