Heritage grant helps restore Garrick Theatre, Guildford

23/6/03
A $17,277 grant from the State Government's Heritage Grants Program has enabled conservation works to progress on the Garrick Theatre in Guildford.
The existing corrugated iron roof and roof battens were replaced with transparent corrugated roof sheets on the west elevation of the building, to interpret the original roof as well as protect the building.
Environment and Heritage Minister Judy Edwards said the place was highly valued by the local community for its role in the historic, social and cultural activities of Guildford.
"The Garrick Theatre is rare, as it is one of the few intact parts of a convict depot, demonstrating the way of life in the convict era," Dr Edwards said.
"It originally served as the commissariat store and quarters and its characteristics are representative of the commissariat stores of the convict establishment in Western Australia.
"The place is important in demonstrating the transition from an impoverishedcolony, suffering severe labour shortage, to the more affluent period where the arrival of convicts provided an influx of capital and cheap labour."
The former commissariat store and quarters building was among those designed and constructed as part of the Guildford Convict Depot by Lieutenant Du Cane, who was in charge of convict works in the Guildford, Toodyay and York district.
The place has aesthetic qualities imparted by the simplicity of its Colonial Georgian style and is highlighted by a pleasant textured, warm mellow brickwork.
"It forms a significant streetscape alongside other historic buildings on Meadow Street, in the Guildford heritage precinct," Dr Edwards said.
"The Gallop Government is committed to protecting our unique environment, both built and natural, for future generations.
"The Gallop Government is committed to protecting our unique environment, both built and natural for future generations."
Minister's office: 9220 5050