Heritage listing for Nedlands Park Masonic Hall and Godfrey House, Subiaco

20/6/03
The Nedlands Park Masonic Hall on Broadway Street and Godfrey House in Subiaco have been interim listed in the State Government's State Register of Heritage Places.
Environment and Heritage Minister Judy Edwards said the listings recognised the social and architectural qualities associated with the sites.
"Nedlands Park Masonic Hall is associated with the Freemasons, having served as a meeting place for many different suburban lodges, particularly the University of WA lodge which used the building from the 1940s until recent times," Dr Edwards said.
"The two-storey building, built in 1935 in Inter War Art Deco style, has a dominant and distinctive street fa?ade, making the place a local landmark in Nedlands.
"The interior Masonic detailing of the building reflects the specific requirements of meeting places for Freemasons in the 1930s.
"The place is also important in contributing to the urban fabric of Broadway and demonstrates the commercial development of the area.
"It was designed by William G Bennett, the architect responsible for many Art Deco buildings throughout the State, including the Raffles Hotel and Plaza Theatre and Hotel, Perth.
"The building is highly valued by the local community, providing a public hall and retail outlet as well as a Masonic hall."
Dr Edwards said Godfrey House, on the corner of Thomas Street and Roberts Road, Subiaco, was one of only two buildings remaining from the original development of Princess Margaret Hospital.
"The place is a rare and intact example of a purpose-built residential building which provided housing for doctors at a major metropolitan hospital in the 20th century," she said.
"It demonstrates the period when the chief resident medical officer and assistant resident medical officers were required to live on the hospital grounds, a way of life no longer practiced in Australia.
"It is a good example of a two storey residential building exhibiting the characteristics of the Federation Queen Anne style, popular for the design of prestigious homes in the early decades of the 20th century.
"Godfrey House has provided accommodation for many prominent doctors and paediatricians who have worked at Princess Margaret Hospital, including Dr Robert Godfrey who was Medical Superintendent and Medical Director from 1953 to 1979.
"The Gallop Government is committed to protecting our unique environment, both built and natural, for future generations."
Minister's office: 9220 5050