New lease of life for Rottnest Island's oldest cottages

18/1/04
Tourism Minister Bob Kucera today announced the completion of extensive restoration work at two of Rottnest Island's oldest buildings.
Originally constructed as the prison superintendent's house in the 1840s, the two cottages have undergone $320,000 worth of conservation work - including the replacement of asbestos roof coverings and the reconstruction of timber verandahs.
"The project reminds us of the rich history of Rottnest Island and provides Western Australian, interstate and overseas visitors with an opportunity to revisit the past," Mr Kucera said.
"The two cottages (F and G) are perhaps the most significant heritage accommodation on the island.
"They were constructed in the 1840s by Henry Vincent, the prison superintendent as his first home when the island was a prison.
"They were then used by the State Governor as a summer cottage until a purpose-built Governor's residence was completed in 1865, now known to visitors as the Quokka Arms."
By the 1930s, cottages F and G had become two of the most popular holiday accommodation units.
Apart from internal cosmetic improvements, including new fixtures and furniture, plastic paints and hard cement renders have been removed and traditional lime render and lime-wash have been applied to replicate the original finish.
The unique circular bedroom of cottage G has also been renovated to showcase the Vincent roof trusses by exposing the timber.
Removal of the cottages' asbestos roofs is part of the Rottnest Island Authority's ongoing asbestos removal program.
Works were undertaken under the guidance of heritage specialists from Considine and Griffiths Architects.
The authority expects to complete similar restoration work at heritage cottages E, J and H later this year.
As part of the Year of the Built Environment, the authority will also publish a new booklet and stage an exhibition on the historical architecture of the Thomson Bay Settlement.
Last month the Gallop Government announced the establishment of a high-level taskforce to turn around the structural and financial challenges being faced by the island.
The taskforce, chaired by former British High Commissioner Alex Allan, met for the first time this week.
Mr Kucera said during the next three months, the taskforce would undertake a thorough analysis of the island's infrastructure, services and facilities, including costings.
"The establishment of the taskforce is part of a new beginning for Rottnest Island," he said.
"I expect the taskforce to play a crucial role in ensuring Rottnest's immediate and long-term needs are met and the island remains a top holiday destination for the community."
Minister's office: 9213 7000