Midland Heritage Interpretation Strategy August 2017 BACKGROUND ABOUT MIDLAND APPLICATION FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES MORE INFORMATION

GOVERNMENT OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Contents

BACKGROUND...... 5 1.0 Introduction...... 6 2.0 Interpretation Planning...... 7 2.1 What is Interpretation?...... 7 2.2 Where and how the Strategy applies...... 7 2.3 Who is interpretation for?...... 9 2.4 Interpretation Techniques...... 9 2.5 Interpretation Principles...... 10 2.6 A Snapshot of Some Existing Interpretation...... 11 2.7 Methodology...... 12

ABOUT MIDLAND...... 13 3.0 Historical Overview of Midland...... 14 4.0 Key Resources...... 16 4.1 Aboriginal Significance...... 16 4.2 Midland Redevelopment Area Heritage Inventory...... 16 4.3 Midland Railway Workshops Interpretation Concepts Plan...... 16 4.4 Historical Resources...... 17 4.5 Heritage Reports...... 17 4.6 Non-Built Heritage Assets...... 17

APPLICATION...... 18 5.0 Vision and Themes...... 19 Overall Vision...... 19 Central Theme...... 19 Sub-Themes...... 19 6.0 Framework for Interpretation...... 21 6.1 The Place...... 21 6.2 The Precincts...... 22 6.3 Nodes...... 23 6.4 Key Places...... 24

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Contents

7.0 Themes, Messages and Storylines...... 25 8.0 The Place, Precincts, Nodes and Key Places...... 32 Location: Place...... 32 Location: Precincts...... 33 Node Map...... 34 Location: Nodes...... 35 Location: Key Places – examples of some of the main key places in the Redevelopment Area only...... 46

FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES...... 50 9.0 Future Actions and Opportunities...... 51

MORE INFORMATION...... 52 10.0 Bibliography...... 53 Appendix 1: Existing Interpretation in Midland...... 54 Appendix 2: Interpretive Opportunities and Examples...... 59 Appendix 3: Midland Railway Workshops Interpretation...... 82

Tables Table 1: Role of the Midland Heritage Interpretation Strategy...... 9 Table 2: Thematic Framework for Interpretation...... 24 Table 3: Locational Framework for Interpretation...... 31

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Developers, owners and the local community of Midland play an integral role in telling the stories of the past and in leaving a mark for future generations.

Ted, 1948 – worker’s footprint in Block 1 at the Railway Workshops

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Background

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1.0 Introduction

This Heritage The MRA approach to heritage Consistent use of the themes, Where development sites The Strategy acknowledges is broader than historic built messages and storylines will are on the State Register of interpretation plans and Interpretation Strategy form. It also encompasses support a more cohesive and Heritage Places or where they related strategies, guidelines (the Strategy) is a guiding natural heritage and Aboriginal comprehensive approach to are listed in the MRA Midland and reports that have been document for future heritage with a focus on interpretation that can reveal Redevelopment Area Heritage prepared for the MRA as cultural significance. and help retain significance, Inventory (the Heritage well as existing interpretive heritage interpretation heighten public awareness Inventory), then developers elements and mechanisms in The Strategy sets out the and understanding, strengthen may be required to undertake the Redevelopment Area. within the Midland key themes, messages local identity and contribute to interpretation as part of any It builds upon what has been Redevelopment Area (the and storylines that an authentic sense of place. development approval process. done in the past and identifies are recommended for Redevelopment Area) and Successful interpretation Whilst the themes, messages future opportunities that could interpretation. The pivotal enriches the experience and and storylines in the Strategy be harnessed to deliver a rich may also be used for the themes capture and reflect the enjoyment of the place. provide guidance, developers interpretation environment for wider Midland town site. the history, development and may propose alternative Midland. inherent characteristics of The Strategy is not a statutory interpretation for consideration. Midland. Underpinning these document; it offers guidance It is hoped that developers themes are the messages but is not prescriptive. All of and individuals will take the that best reflect, inform the community is encouraged opportunity to acknowledge and illustrate these themes to undertake interpretation and celebrate the history of and the key storylines when the opportunity arises Midland through interpretation that are recommended for as all sectors have a role to initiatives even when it’s not a interpretation. The Strategy play in keeping alive the stories requirement of development is also acknowledged as a of Midland in both private approval. Encouragement is companion report to the suite development sites and in given to engagement with the of strategic and statutory public areas. Aboriginal community to also documents and reports that reinforce through interpretation exist for Midland and which their unique stories of, and guide development. relationships to, Midland.

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2.0 Interpretation Planning

2.1 What is 2.2 Where and how the Interpretation? Strategy applies “Interpretation is an interactive It is best when interpretation The process of interpretation The Strategy is acknowledged • MRA Midland Public Art communication process, opportunities are considered at can foster and encourage as a companion report to the Strategy (2016) suite of MRA strategic and involving the visitor, through every stage of development, community value, appreciation • Heritage Strategy Midland statutory documents and which heritage values and from subdivision through to and investment in Midland, Central Redevelopment cultural significance are site development and ongoing encourage good stewardship reports that exist for Midland and which guide development, Area (2003) revealed, using a variety of management. of its assets and build resilient including but not limited to the techniques in order to enrich relationships within the Whilst not a statutory Interpretation seeks to convey following: the visitor experience and community, business and local document in itself, the why the place was important • MRA Midland enhance the enjoyment and government. Strategy is integrated with and how that importance Redevelopment Scheme 2 understanding of the place.”1 the MRA’s statutory planning relates to people today and (2016) framework to ensure there is Interpretation refers to into the future. A test of the • MRA Midland clarity with its purpose and the many interesting and success of interpretation is Redevelopment Area when it is to be applied. evocative ways of engaging whether a visitor leaves with Development Policy 2 – The Strategy links to people in the history, stories an appreciation of the place Heritage Places (2016) development control through and significance of a place.2 and thoughts and ideas about • MRA Midland the Heritage Inventory and Interpretation ensures that place. Likewise the people Redevelopment Area similarly can apply to places that the important values of Midland should be able Design Guidelines (2016) on the State Register of associated with a place are to feel a sense of the place Heritage Places. Where places recorded, remain visible and and its past in their everyday • MRA Midland are listed in the Heritage resonate into the future, interactions with the buildings Redevelopment Area Inventory, then conditions of even as changes occur and and the town site as a whole. Heritage Inventory (2016) development approval may new uses are established.3 • MRA Midland Master Plan require interpretation and (2015) would point to the Strategy for guidance.

1 Murphy Sarah, National Trust WA, 1997. 2 Place includes site, area, land, landscape, building or other work, group of buildings or other works and may include components, contents, spaces and views. Definition according to The Australia ICOMOS Charter for Places of Cultural Significance [The Burra Charter], 2013. 3 For further definitions of interpretation refer to The Burra Charter, op. cit.

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2.0 Interpretation Planning

For example, when works The Strategy can also inform The Strategy supports Reference should be made to to heritage places would development that is subject to interpretation of natural the themes and stories relating require submission of a Midland Redevelopment Area heritage and Aboriginal to the interpretation node in Heritage Impact Statement or Development Policy 4 in which heritage, noting that the which the place is situated. Heritage Interpretation Plan in developers are required to Department of Aboriginal In addition to Statutory accordance with the MRA’s incorporate artworks to satisfy Affairs has statutory Planning requirements, the Midland Redevelopment a condition of development responsibility for management Strategy may be promoted by Area Development Policy 2 – approval. and protection of the Place Activation as a resource Heritage Places, interpretation Aboriginal sites Register. The Strategy is recognised for anyone organising an event should be guided by this Interpretation is encouraged as the guiding document for or activity in Midland that Strategy. for both registered and non- interpretation of the Midland would benefit from or could registered places to allow the In some instances, developers Redevelopment Area generally, be premised on an aspect of wider community to gain an and owners (including but does not supersede the Midland’s heritage and the appreciation of the Noongar Local Government) may be Midland Railway Workshops associated stories. people in this area. encouraged or required to Interpretation Concepts Plan incorporate interpretation into [Carrick et. al. 2012] which The Strategy can also be a future development, whether still applies for interpretation useful reference should an or not the development relates that falls specifically within owner wish to undertake directly to a heritage place. the registered curtilage of the minor refurbishments or Interpretation outcomes for Midland Railway Workshops. to enhance their property/ a development will often be An extract of that report is business even where a imposed as a condition of included in Appendix 3 of the development application is approval, however, this should Strategy. not required, in particular preferably be considered at where a place is located on the design stage and included an historic site, adjacent to a in a development proposal heritage listed place or within a rather than something that is heritage precinct (such as the an afterthought or arbitrarily Workshops). installed after a development is fully designed and/or completed.

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2.0 Interpretation Planning

Table 1: Role of the Midland Heritage Interpretation Strategy 2.3 Who is interpretation 2.4 Interpretation for? Techniques Role of the Midland Heritage Interpretation Strategy (MHIS) The audience for interpretation The types of interpretation in Midland is broad and covers are many and varied and may all ages and a wide range of include examples such as the     cultural backgrounds: following: • Locals who live and/or work Inform Assist Inform Place Tangible techniques in Midland Frameworks Development Custodianship Activation • Influencing subdivision • Aboriginal community design, road layout and lot configuration • Influence • Guide • Guide • Provide a guide • Regular visitors who use Planning Interpretation for maintenance of to understanding Midland as their main • Fostering particular uses Frameworks works requiring assets and other key heritage service centre that relate to historic use including a Development work not requiring themes in patterns • Ex Midland residents and Masterplans Approval on a Development Midland workers on return visits • Adaptive reuse of heritage • Assist with Heritage listed Approval • Inform heritage buildings • Those passing through preparation of sites • The MHIS may tours • Conservation works to Midland to other Interpretation • Guide inform artwork buildings and landscapes • Promote destinations plans for specific Interpretation for under the MRA Midland’s • Recycling of authentic • Tourists, with some seeking places other works of Midland Public Heritage materials a heritage experience • Guide local significance Art Strategy. • Inspire heritage (such as the Workshops • Guiding the design of new infrastructure related business. for railway and machinery infill development and proposals landscape enthusiasts) • Inform Design • Colour schemes Guidelines • Maps, plans and models • Signage panels – either Early engagement with the Aboriginal Traditional Owner Group is recommended as it provides an freestanding or applied to opportunity for local stories to be incorporated. surfaces • Displays of historic photographs and imagery

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2.0 Interpretation Planning

2.5 Interpretation Principles • Conservation and display of These interpretation principles • Development of places • Interpretation needs to cater • A central publicly accessible machinery and other historic apply to all buildings, that are not on the State for a diversity of learning repository to hold and artefacts structures, spaces and Register or listed in the styles, age and culture but manage archival material • Artworks documentation that relate to Heritage Inventory to be still present an integrated and historical data used in the place of Midland. harmonious with adjacent and clear experience. the development of content Non-tangible techniques • The area as a whole heritage places and the • Interpretation to tread lightly should be determined. • Oral histories, audio tours, to be approached as a broad heritage values of the on the landscape and be • Engagement with the soundscapes multifaceted, cohesive surrounding area. judicious in its presence. Aboriginal community to • Selection of names that interpretive experience • Interpretation to have a high be via the legal framework have an historic connection that evokes a sense of • Interpretation to have level of public access and for the Traditional Owners to the place discovery. the capacity to be be available in the public complemented, enhanced through the South West • Guided heritage walks • Interpretation outcomes and domain wherever possible, and overlaid by temporary Aboriginal Land Council projects to be promoted • Place activation and but not limited to public or ephemeral interpretive with the Whadjuk Working as part of the planning and educational events that spaces. measures and approaches. Party. development phase of the address heritage • Appropriate hubs or adaptation of historic places • Signage and panels or • Web based information central gathering places into new uses, new works applications directly onto to be identified to provide • Smart phone applications and additions, and to inform built fabric (i.e. painting/ orientation and guidance to using sound, images and that process. urban art) to be located film footage to enhance the Midland visitors as well as so as to not impact on • Interpretive nodes to be experience to introduce and promote important views and vistas utilised to support the the interpretive experiences nor on significant fabric, nor All interpretation requires central theme and sub- available. where historical elements some level of upkeep and themes and to highlight • A contrast between the and detailing can be maintenance and should be particular buildings, spaces Aboriginal, natural heritage, obscured. It should make a considered when the form and storylines. industrial and domestic or positive contribution to the and media are being chosen. civic themes and storylines physical environment both In addition, it is important to should be evident in choice in design and quality. ensure that the interpretation and design of interpretation is not intrusive to and does techniques. not detract from the heritage values of the place and/or artefact being interpreted.

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2.0 Interpretation Planning

2.6 A Snapshot of Some Existing Interpretation Several interpretative elements responding to the history, development and character of Midland have already been implemented and installed by the MRA and the City of Swan. The scope of interpretation works has covered: • Retention, conservation and adaptive reuse of heritage buildings • Subdivision design and road layout that responds to alignment of rail tracks • Retention of machinery and equipment and ancillary elements in the landscape • Retention and reinforcement of significant vistas and view lines • Landscape design that supports heritage values • Public artworks that tell the story of the people and place • Events and activities that celebrate the past • Interpretation signage and Events – Anzac Day panels.

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2.0 Interpretation Planning

2.7 Methodology The Strategy has been built on a solid foundation of research and documentation, with extensive heritage work having already been undertaken by the MRA and the City of Swan. Consultation for the Strategy has focussed mainly on the City of Swan and a briefing to the State Heritage Office. The process guiding the preparation of the Strategy has included: Adaptive reuse – • Definitions and purpose of The Principal Bar the Strategy • Key resources • Articulation of intent, application and audience • Historical research and analysis • Presentation of an overall vision, and the themes, messages and storylines that guide interpretation • Development of precincts, nodes and key places • Analysis of existing and Road layout – potential interpretive Woodmill Lane techniques and forms Refer to Appendix 1 for further information on existing interpretation. • Future actions and opportunities.

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About Midland

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3.0 Historical Overview of Midland

The Heritage Inventory The Noongar Aboriginal people Midland Railway Company As a result, it became home Whilst changes have of the south-west of Western and other businesses that to an independent, resilient occurred in Midland there contains a thematic Australia have inhabited this were established in Midland. and self-sufficient community, remains a very strong sense history of the region since ancient times, The downturn and the final with strong working class of place with the following characteristics: Redevelopment Area and and the Swan Valley contains closure of the Midland Railway traditions that filtered through some of the oldest evidence Workshops in 1994 signified to family, social and political • Midland as an ancient environs. The historical of Aboriginal occupation in the end of its industrial life. For both the traditional landscape overview following Australia. The Midland area dominance, and a great owners and those who also • Midland as a frontier town provides a synopsis. was important for meeting, sense of loss was felt by the call it home today, Midland • Midland as a major junction camping and abundant workers, their families and the signifies a place of rhythms of roads, rail and traditional food supplies, both in the community. Following that and routine, journeys and pathways waterways and on the fertile decline has come a period of pathways, and the footprints • Midland as an industrial lands surrounding them. The revitalisation that still relates to of these journeys are scattered town Helena River was well known those roots of technical skills, throughout the town site and as a moort bidi – a main run. craftsmanship and innovation. beyond. In some cases, whole • Midland as a place of life life journeys unfolded in this journeys Much of the post-colonial Midland was, and still is, a one place at the junction. • Midland as a place of development of Midland frontier town at the edge of rhythms, routines and was premised on its position the metropolitan area with Midland still bears a strong patterns as an important industrial strong connections to the sense of the ancient landscape town. For almost a century agricultural and mineral rich with glimpses to the river, the it played a major role in lands beyond its boundaries. scarp, remnant native bush the economic growth of Its earlier name “Midland and the vast plains beyond. Western Australia and in the Junction” illustrated its role fostering of many trades, as a destination and a place of skills and craftsmanship, connection for both traditional mainly through the Western owners and the subsequent Australian Government generations of settlers. Railway Workshops but also through the private

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3.0 Historical Overview of Midland

Midland town c1930s as viewed from the Town Hall tower, with views to the scarp in the background – an ancient landscape and a frontier town. [Held at City of Swan Local History Library]

The old private hospital, Amherst St c1914: long gone now but where the journey for many Midland locals began. [Held at City of Swan Local History Library]

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4.0 Key Resources

4.1 Aboriginal 4.2 Midland 4.3 Midland Railway Significance Redevelopment Area Workshops Interpretation Heritage Inventory Concepts Plan Future Aboriginal engagement Interpretation that responds to The MRA adopted the The Heritage Inventory The Midland Redevelopment could provide a broader and conveys the significance Heritage Inventory in July includes a total of 60 Authority (Midland RA) creative and cultural context of these sites, as well as 2016 as a statutory document places across the three commissioned a detailed for the Midland Heritage the cultural and spiritual that recognises and affords MRA precincts within the interpretation plan – Midland Interpretation Strategy. This connection to the land protection to heritage places. Redevelopment Area: Railway Workshops can expand the context for more generally and the The Heritage Inventory lists • Helena Precinct – 25 places Interpretation Concepts Plan interpretive work, reinforcing Aboriginal community of places of cultural heritage (mainly comprising buildings – that was finalised in 2012. understanding and a Midland past and present significance and sets out a within the Midland Railway This comprehensive document contributing to a shared, should be supported and statement of significance Workshops) consolidated previous studies deeper sense of place. actively pursued. As well as and a management level for • Victoria Precinct – 32 places and existing interpretation and dedicated interpretation of each place to guide future (mainly residential, public provided guidelines and design Sites of Aboriginal significance Aboriginal heritage, there are development, with a focus on and commercial places) concepts for implementation that are currently known opportunities for integrated built heritage. as redevelopment of the / documented within the • Clayton Precinct – 3 places interpretation outcomes where Workshops progresses. Redevelopment Area are Interpretation is identified as (mainly industrial and there are common themes and An extract from that report is listed with the Department of a desirable outcome for such agricultural-related places). stories. Early engagement is included within the Strategy Aboriginal Affairs. places. The Heritage Inventory Of these places, three have important. however any development contains a thematic history of been entered on the State 4 within the Workshops area Midland and is an important Register of Heritage Places: shall have regard for the reference for interpretation. • Midland Railway Workshops (includes Coal Dam Park) content of that full report. [Place No. 3273] • Western Australian Bank (fmr) [Place No. 2529] • Old Midland Junction School [Place No. 2505].

4 The HCWA Inherit database shows the Chief Mechanical Engineers’ Office, the Railway Institute and the War Memorial as being on the Register of Heritage Places, however these are included as part of the greater Workshops registration [Place No. 3273] and are not individually registered.

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4.0 Key Resources

4.4 Historical Resources 4.5 Heritage Reports 4.6 Non-Built Heritage Assets Key resources used in the An extensive body of heritage Non-built heritage is an ■ Example of extract from an Oral History interview with Midland resident development of the Strategy Peter Carty, recollecting childhood memories of growing up in Midland. work has been done for important factor in the and that will assist in the [City of Swan Local History Library] Midland, particularly the interpretation of Midland. preparation of material for former Railway Workshops. This includes evidence relating interpretation, include: Heritage reports, such as to traditional Aboriginal land Anyhow, I hammered him until Wednesday • Photographs conservation plans and archival use, settlement patterns and • Newspaper articles records, are useful references subsistence cycles, and the morning. I got up Wednesday morning, Dad 5 • Oral histories for the history and significance natural heritage of the area. was tired because he worked in the foundry, of heritage places. The City Non-built heritage also • Published histories he was the colour of this (Peter indicates of Swan Local History Library, relates to the character, • Post office directories something that is black) every day when he Heritage Council of Western purpose and traditions of • Historic plans and maps. Australia ‘Inherit’ database and places. For example, Midland come home from work see. ‘Go and get the 10 library, and the MRA can assist as a frontier town or, as bob’ he said. ‘Wow’. [I went over], I said ‘Mr with further information. the original name for the Moyer’, I couldn’t call him [Alf]. ‘Good on you town implied, a junction or crossroads from Perth to the boy’ he said, ‘round the dogs up’ he had a couple hinterland and its growth as a of little dogs. 3000 sheep, out on Morrison major industrial town. Midland Road, we chased them along Orchard Street, became a very self-sufficient all the way to the Great Eastern Highway, and independent community with strong union ties, making across the Great Eastern Highway, no car or it distinctive within the Perth truck’d stop, across there into the abattoirs. metropolitan area.

5 McDonald, Hales and Associates, ‘Report of an Archaeological and Ethnographic Survey for Aboriginal Sites Hazelmere Town Planning Scheme 15’, prepared for Shire of Swan, 1992, p. 6.

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Application

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5.0 Vision and Themes

The following vision, central themes and sub-themes for the Redevelopment Area have been guided by those presented in the Midland Railway Workshops Interpretation Concepts Plan.6 This approach aligns with much of the interpretation that is already percolated around the town site and in the Workshops.

OVERALL VISION SUB-THEMES

To celebrate the stories and places that have shaped The Place: and are significant to Midland and its people in ways that Midland as a site – the traditional, natural and ancient landscape; the built environment; the town site stimulate engagement, conservation, acknowledgment layout and structure; its unique aesthetic and cultural features; its rhythms, patterns and routines, and and participation of the local community. also its nomenclature. The Trades: The traditional trades, professions, services and work that was available and practiced in Midland CENTRAL THEME and how that shaped the town; its community, sense of place and economic and social structures. In particular, the persistent industrial trades practiced and nurtured in Midland, and the high level skills, From its ancient landscape through to its position in the innovation and excellence developed out of these industries, especially at the Railway Workshops, 20th century as a major industrial and frontier town, and their impacts on the development of the town and the State. Midland’s role as a transport junction and skills hub with The People: a strong local community has helped to build the State The stories and experiences ranging from the traditional owners, to the first British settlers and to of Western Australia. other cultural groups represented in the community. “The People” are those who have lived, worked, grown up and been schooled in Midland as well as people who regularly visit or have some other significant connection to or relationship with Midland. The strong traditions of a working class culture, of industrial relations, of trade unionism and politics that have influenced and defined the people of Midland in all aspects of their lives.

6 Stephen Carrick Architects, Savagely Creative and Creative Spaces, Midland Railway Workshops Interpretation Concepts Plan, prepared for Midland Redevelopment Authority, 2012. This plan was primarily developed out of the Interpretation Plan prepared for the Workshops in 2008 by Forrest Consulting, but reviewed and updated to align with the current redevelopment focus endorsed for the Midland Railway Workshops.

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5.0 Vision and Themes

After a hard week of work, the weekend was for recreation: a bike race followed by a visit to the local hotel (the Eastern Hotel background left) or a night at the movies (the Picture Palace background centre). [Held at City of Swan Local History Library]

Hallidays Blacksmith Co. c1910, one of the important industries established in Midland [Held by City of Swan Local History Library]

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6.0 Framework for Interpretation

6.1 The Place Interpretation of Midland The layering is also related The place as a whole is that which is contained within the Redevelopment Area. Although this is the to locations where physical focus of the Strategy, the stories explored inevitably reference and are relevant to other places within can be approached as a interpretive mechanisms the broader town site and central area. The notion of “The Place” also acknowledges the significance layering process in relation can be installed (such as an of Midland to the traditional owners pre and post-colonisation. to the location and focus interpretive panel) or where interpretation can be focused of interpretation, from via more ephemeral or virtual the place as a whole means (such as a stopping right down to specific or point for a guided walk or a place where a digital code or key sites and individual app can be activated). buildings.

Midland townsite 1963, City of Swan Local History Collection, no. P653

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6.0 Framework for Interpretation

6.2 The Precincts The Redevelopment Area has three distinct precincts. The historic associations are noted below and guide the direction of interpretation. Helena Precinct – Industrial (railway, river, water, power, Victoria Precinct trades) Victoria Precinct – Residential and Commercial (town, home, institutions – work, rest and play) Clayton Precinct – Agricultural Helena Precinct (cattle, grain, markets, abattoirs, connections to the eastern goldfields) Clayton Precinct

100 0 300

Victoria Precinct METRES Helena Precinct Clayton Precinct

Figure 1: The MRA Precincts that together form the Midland Redevelopment Area

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6.0 Framework for Interpretation

6.3 Nodes Within the Redevelopment Whilst each node has a Area, Nodes have been thematic connection, the set identified that are defined of Nodes are interdependent by use and activity and for in the development of themes which particular key stories and key stories and together can be presented through provide a multi-layered and interpretation. They are diverse experience. Selection typically defined by clusters of of Nodes has borne in mind associated historic buildings key gathering places and ease and other physical elements as of access by pedestrians well as by traditional activities to maximise exposure to and spaces. Although there is interpretation and support some overlay, these Nodes are walking trails. particular to this Strategy and The concept of focussing not to be confused with the interpretation at a series of ‘Heritage Precincts’ included nodes assists in coordinating in the Midland Redevelopment the content, allowing key Scheme 2. messages and stories to be covered and then to be supplemented by further individual interpretation over time. The historic junction of roads and rails in the Midland Town Centre (Junction Node) [City of Swan Local History Library]

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6.0 Framework for Interpretation

6.4 Key Places Within each of the Nodes These are listed in the Heritage there are individual key Inventory as Management places that warrant dedicated Level 4 Historic Site (e.g. interpretation in order to Tuohy Garden place no. V28). provide more detailed and For interpretation specifically specific stories about the within the registered curtilage place, whilst still connecting of the former Midland to the overarching themes Railway Workshops – which and stories of Midland. State is a key place – refer to the Registered Places as well Midland Railway Workshops as places in the Heritage Interpretation Concepts Plan. Inventory identified as Management Level 1 or 2 would all be considered key places. In some cases historic sites where there are no built elements (i.e. demolished buildings or former railway lines) or where a particular event or activity occurred that is not represented by a specific building can be considered a key place.

The former Western Australian Bank, now a State Heritage listed building

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7.0 Themes, Messages and Storylines

The following tables set out the key messages and storylines for the sub-themes and show how a layering of interpretation can be applied from the place as a whole, through to specific precincts, nodes and key places. Table 2: Thematic Framework for Interpretation

CENTRAL THEME From its ancient landscape through to its position in the 20th century as a major industrial and frontier town, Midland’s role as a transport junction and skills hub with a strong local community has helped to build the State of Western Australia.

SUB THEMES The Place: Midland as a site – the traditional, natural and ancient landscape; the built environment; the town site layout and structure; its unique aesthetic and cultural features; its rhythms, patterns and routines, and also its nomenclature.

KEY MESSAGES The traditional or ancient landscape including the topography, the natural resources, the scarp (including views to the scarp from the town AND STORYLINES site), Spiritual and cultural connections and locations relating to the Aboriginal people. The rivers and other important waterways and ecological systems particularly those that supported the Aboriginal habitation patterns and livelihood. The indigenous flora and fauna and introduced species that define the natural environment and subsequent periods of development and even fashion (i.e. public parks, gardens). The historic layout of the town site and its unique and complex road patterns, railway lines and junctions, and the evidence in the landscape today. The dispersal of the various elements that make up the built environment that illustrates the commercial, residential, social/recreational and industrial cores. The development history of the town site in the context of the wider WA story (i.e. the impact of the railways, the gold boom, war, changes in power and advances in technology) including after the Workshops closed in 1994 and the developments implemented by the MRA. The human journeys undertaken in and around the town site: the journeys/pathways of the Aboriginal people; early river and horse transportation; railway and roads; walking and bicycles.

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7.0 Themes, Messages and Storylines

Table 2: Thematic Framework for Interpretation (continued)

KEY MESSAGES The rhythms, patterns and punctuations created by the strict regime of industrial work, the routines and timetables of the Railway AND STORYLINES Workshops and the clock-work arrival and departure of trains that coloured life in Midland and gave it its voice, vibrancy and vitality. The train journeys in and out of Midland – evoking stories of the people, goods and cattle, noise, visitors and tourists, war, events (i.e. circus). It also relates to the identification of people not from Midland of it being a railway town, a major train junction and destination, and the sense of place they felt whether their train stopped or just passed through. Trains would bring as well as take. The nomenclature – the names of roads and opens and how these are clues to people and culture.

DETAILS Tangible and non-tangible evidence of Aboriginal habitation of the place prior to and after British colonisation. Although much of their presence on the landscape prior to colonisation has been obscured, early recorded explorations of the Swan River region documented the presence of huts and footprints as well as evidence of land management (i.e. burning) and water sourcing (like wells). Interpretation can therefore provide a mechanism to evoke key sites, elements and areas as well as stories that were and still are important and represent spiritual and cultural connections, particularly where these stories relate to the physical environment today (i.e. the formation of the scarp, the river). Beyond the Midland Redevelopment Area, there are other places that contribute to the stories. These include: • Midland Oval • Carnegie Triangle • Abattoirs site • Amherst Rd Private Hospital and Government Hospital (Archer St) (sites only) It is also important to reinforce that the Midland Railway Workshops reached much further across the town site than the current registered curtilage now defines, so its effect and activity was felt at a broader level, from Coal Dam Park and just past the new Midland Health Campus. So too, the historic complex of railway lines and junctions were far more numerous than what is present today and very much informed the layout of the roads and town site generally. Midland has a strong story of people being born, living, schooling and working in the town in the late 19th to mid-20th century. A picture can be drawn that shows the life-cycle journeys of locals such as walking and riding (horse, bike, car) to and from home to work; the local hospital; to church and school; to the local halls and recreational facilities; to the dances and pictures; to the hotel and coffee palaces, and to the shops. The Midland area was also a place where men trained for the armed services (Blackboy Hill) and used the town centre for recreational activities during leave breaks. Midland was also a main arrival and departure point (via the railway) for the men arriving at the training camps and then heading to Fremantle port for departure for overseas service. Midland’s wider influence on rail and associated development across the State. For example the impact of rail being constructed east to the Goldfields and also north with land being granted along the route as payment for delivery of the railway.

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Table 2: Thematic Framework for Interpretation (continued)

SUB THEMES The Trades: The traditional trades, professions, services and work that was available and practiced in Midland and how that shaped the town; its community, sense of place and economic and social structures. In particular, the persistent industrial trades practiced and nurtured in Midland, and the high level skills, innovation and excellence developed out of these industries, especially the Railway Workshops, and their impacts on the development of the town and the State.

KEY MESSAGES Industrial, agricultural, retail, commercial, educational, government, service industries. AND STORYLINES The local natural resources utilised and maintained by Aboriginal people that supported habitation in and around Midland and gave it its particular identity. The traditional trades, professions, services and work that was available and practiced in Midland and were significant to its development, boom and bust, and its past and present economic culture, and which branded Midland as centre of innovation and excellence. How the type of work, trades and training (i.e. apprenticeships) has shaped and influenced the development of a strongworking class and industrial relations culture in Midland. The inter-dependence of the different trades, such as the reliance of timber yards, hotels, inns and coffee palaces on the presence of the railway and the large industrial workforce within Midland. The strong tradition in Midland of generations of families working in the same industry and the passing down of trades and skills. The changes in the work available over time and the core businesses/industries that have been and gone, including as a result of changes in power and technology of trains and machinery. The impact that the World Wars had on Midland and its industries, particularly the Workshops, in the development of skills.

DETAILS Key heritage buildings and streetscapes, and their location in close proximity to the railway line, will trigger stories within this sub-theme (such as the shops, hotels, dining rooms, coffee palaces, schools and banks) both those buildings that are still extant as well as those buildings that have since gone. The Government and private Workshops – processes and skills; how work and the workforce was organised and managed; what skills were required; how skills were fostered; how skills evolved over time and were passed down from generation to generation, and the focus on innovation and excellence in craftsmanship and trade skills. These skills and innovations were important not just for the Workshops but had repercussions for the town and the State. The businesses that supported the railway and other forms of transportation: timber yards, blacksmiths, stables, cycling stores, commissioning agents. Some acknowledgement of the brickworks, pipeworks and abattoirs is also important. In addition the businesses and services that relied on the large blue and white collar workforce such as hotels, inns, clubs/societies. The other important trades represented by the Saleyards, Abattoir and CBH Grain Silo – including the Italian worker employed to construct the silo and the temporary camp set up for them. Also major firms such as Hoskins Engineering who manufactured pipes for the Goldfields Water Supply Scheme. The impact and effect the two World Wars had on the trades and work available in Midland during these time, in particular for women, and the dedication of some of the Workshops’ operations to the war effort.

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Table 2: Thematic Framework for Interpretation (continued)

SUB THEMES The People: The stories and experiences ranging from the traditional owners, to the first British settlers and to other cultural groups represented in the community. “The People” are those who have lived, worked, grown up and been schooled in Midland as well as people who regularly visit or have some other significant connection to Midland. The strong traditions of a working class culture, of industrial relations, of trade unionism and politics that have influenced and defined the people of Midland in all aspects of their lives.

KEY MESSAGES The traditional owners and local Aboriginal community both in the context of pre and post colonisation. AND STORYLINES The early British settlers and those who arrived subsequently from other countries to settle in Midland during the 19th century (i.e. pre-railway) and what attracted them to Midland – large land grants, proximity to river, farming. The people who have lived and/or worked in Midland from when the town site was officially gazetted and started to develop, as well as those from outside the MRA area who came to town to engage in social, recreational and cultural activities. How the people have shaped the place and its sense of community and traditions. The vast workforce connected to the Government and private railway workshops as well as the other major industrial and agricultural activity in Midland. The experience of industrial relations, unionism, blue and white collar divide and culture which not only dictated and shaped their working lives but also other aspects such as local and State-wide sporting, institutional, political and religious affiliations. The experiences of “childhood” in Midland should be explored, particularly with the old Midland Junction School being one of the key sites, as well as the excitement of the railway and the enormous size of the buildings at the workshops from a child’s perspective, Midland’s remoteness from Perth and the coast. There were also the opportunities for education and work available to the younger generation and the expectation of children following the traditional trades of their parents and siblings and other family members. Migrants who came to Midland, particularly after the WWI and the diversity they brought to the cultural and social life of Midland’s community. Key figures in Midland’s history who made a contribution to the town, its governance and community as well as its industries and businesses and from which much of the nomenclature (streets, parks, buildings etc.) has been derived. There is also an element of transitory people – those who have a regular interaction with Midland even though they don’t live or work there, such as those who regularly travel on the train or main arterial roads and pass through Midland. Notions of “seeing Midland through the window of the train” or the view of Midland from the outside looking in.

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7.0 Themes, Messages and Storylines

Table 2: Thematic Framework for Interpretation (continued)

DETAILS Interpretation covers Aboriginal people of Midland, past and present, the early white settlers as well as later migrant populations who arrived after World War I. It is a diverse community, and there should also be an element of inclusiveness in the interpretation and key stories whereby all cultural groups are treated as a holistic community and presented as an integrated part of Midland’s contemporary culture. Experiences of the workers and others who had an association with the Workshops as well as at other significant industrial and agricultural sites (e.g. Saleyards) can be touched upon within the Workshops as well as across the town site. These stories will include industrial relations and unionism, the blue collar/white collar divide, workplace culture, the social lives of workers and where they lived, and also the friendships and camaraderie that developed out of the strong affiliations to these workplaces. The “footprints” of the workers and residents of Midland can be traced around the town site as they go from work to home, to school, to the shops, to sporting clubs, to visit friends or go to the hotel. This notion can inform particular trails and walking tours that can be offered as part of interpretation. Stories should explore how the people of Midland have changed or stayed the same and what has determined and influenced this. Clues to this constancy and also transition or change may be evident in the built environment as well as the socio-economic make-up and political alliances of the community and the kinds of activities they engage in. The story of the impact and effects of the two World Wars on Midland and its people; of its men going away to war, the training of soldiers at nearby Blackboy Hill, and of workers man-powered for the war effort. The employment of women at the Workshops during the War in the production of munitions and the impact this had on the Workshops and the community at the time (e.g. the women’s football team, the fundraising for the war) and from then-on. The presentation of key figures in Midland’s history can be highlighted and in some cases can provide a context for the names of streets, buildings and parks around town. For example Elgee Road was named after a well-known local doctor, Tuohy Garden after former Mayor, Francis Tuohy. However, focus on key figures should not overshadow the importance of the many people in the local community who individually and collectively have contributed to the development and character of Midland and its sense of place.

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7.0 Themes, Messages and Storylines

Working and living in Midland: Farrall’s Timber Yard, cnr Helena St and Great Eastern Hwy, 1890s (left) and the Farrall family home, 65 Sayer Street, 1913 (below) [Held at City of Swan Local History Library]

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7.0 Themes, Messages and Storylines

War and Midland: (left) Midland AIF recruits leaving from Midland Train Station c1914; (bottom left) the opening of the Memorial Gardens and Peace Statue after WWI in 1925; (bottom right) and women munitions workers at the Midland Workshops during WWII. [photographs sourced from Australian War Memorial; City of Swan Local History Library and Pearl Parker, private collection held by MRA]

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8.0 The Place, Precincts, Nodes and Key Places

Table 3: Locational Framework for Interpretation Location: Place

Location Boundary/Location Key Messages Storylines Examples of Key Places

Midland town site Town site boundary Midland as an The traditional, natural and ancient landscape, Midland Railway Workshops ancient and industrial the built environment, the town site layout Old Midland Junction School landscape and structure, its unique aesthetic and cultural Roads and railway network/junction A place of journeys features and its nomenclature (incl. Carnegie Triangle) and junctions Helena River/Swan River

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8.0 The Place, Precincts, Nodes and Key Places

Table 3: Locational Framework for Interpretation (continued) Location: Precincts

Location Boundary/Location Key Messages Storylines Examples of Key Places

Victoria Precinct MRA boundary Residential and Town, home, institutions and facilities WA Bank Commercial Work, recreation and culture Old Midland Junction School The junction of traditional and post-settlement Loco Coffee Palace/Wilkin’s Imperial pathways and routes Coffee Palace Eastern Hotel Municipal Electric Sub-Station Salvation Army Hall Swan Express Office fmr Railway Station Site Midland Company Rail Line and Workshop site Tuohy Garden Commercial buildings – 267, 269, 300 Great Eastern Highway Houses in Byers Road, Victoria and William Streets

Helena Precinct MRA boundary Industrial past Railway, river, water, power, trades, politics and Midland Railway Workshops industry

Clayton Precinct MRA boundary Agricultural Cattle, grain, markets, abattoirs, Midland Saleyards Industrial Connections with and to agricultural lands and Grain Silo eastern goldfields Flanging Shop The threshold to the scarp beyond Coal Dam Park

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8.0 The Place, Precincts, Nodes and Key Places

Nodes Map

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8.0 The Place, Precincts, Nodes and Key Places

Table 3: Locational Framework for Interpretation (continued) Location: Nodes

# Location Focus area Key Message/s Stories Examples of Key Places

1 Old Great Eastern Hwy Living and Working Shops, Businesses, Hotels, – businesses Former shops and hotels along old Commercial Rd William St established in response to the private Midland Commercial Rd Node Railway Workshops Byers Rd 1-9 William St The older commercial strip (mostly along the 25 – 35 Byers Rd fmr Commercial Rd now Great Eastern Hwy) when Midland Railway Co. was established and before the railway station moved east to Railway Pde (fmr Margaret Rd)

2 Junction Node Great Eastern Hwy/ Roads and Rail The eastern and northern railway lines Midland Railway Co. Workshops Helena Street The historic Junction of roads and rails and (private) intersection core of the townsite The Junction The Crescent The road layout informed by rail lines that Farrelly Bros Timber Yard followed or deviated from the traditional grid Touhy Lane system Carnegie Triangle (incl. Town Hall, Traces in the landscape – traditional pathways Library) and patterns

3 Helena St Node Helena St (north) Shopping and Commercial, Finance, Power, Clubs, Loco Coffee Palace Railway Pde Socialising Communication, Shops Swan Express Victoria St Municipal Electric Sub-Station Eastern Hotel Former Trades Hall Former Empire Theatre

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Table 3: Locational Framework for Interpretation (continued) Location: Nodes

# Location Focus area Key Message/s Stories Examples of Key Places

4 Cale St Node Cale St (formerly Education and Services Education, Commercial, Finance – school, Midland Junction School Viveash Rd) shops, bank Western Australian Bank Great Eastern Hwy Recreation and sport Old Shops Midland Oval

5 Railway Parade Railway Parade Change and Growth The establishment of businesses in response Wilkins Imperial Coffee Palace Node (former Margaret Rd) to being in proximity to the railway station and Commercial Hotel the Government Workshops Cale St Victoria Hotel The housing of railway station staff and workers including the Station Master Millers Timber Yard The second wave of settlement based on the Heritage houses Victoria Street consolidation of Midland as an industrial town

6 Workshops Yelverton Dve Building a State Consolidation of industry and the benefits that Midland Railway Workshops Node Railway Square come with it – employment, trades, education, Helena River sewerage, power, services, friendships Coal Dam Park

7 Saleyards Node Clayton St Cattle and livestock The impact/effects of agriculture beyond Midland Saleyards Midland and the role Midland played Railway line Employment opportunities provided by the Abattoirs site saleyards and also the abattoirs Helena River The seasonal patterns of the livestock sales and its impact on the town

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Table 3: Locational Framework for Interpretation (continued) Location: Nodes

# Location Focus area Key Message/s Stories Examples of Key Places

8 Silo Node Elgee Rd Grain and gold The economic and social impact/effects of Grain Silo site Robinson Rd agriculture and mining beyond Midland and the Railway line role Midland played Rail line Bellevue camp area (historic site) The Italian construction workers who were brought over from Victoria (where a large grain silo was also constructed in Geelong) specifically to construct the Midland silo and who were housed in a camp at Bellevue Train routes and services in and out to the wheatbelt and the eastern goldfields

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8.0 The Place, Precincts, Nodes and Key Places

Node 1: Old Commercial Rd Node Living and Working – early Midland a 25-35 Byers Road Houses s 1-9 William St Houses d Old Store (fmr) f Railway Hotel (fmr) g Midland Junction Hotel (fmr) h Tobacconist, Baker, Bootmaker, Tailor, Chinese Laundry (fmr) j & k Butcher, Shopkeeper, Grocer, Baker (fmr) l Wesleyan Church (fmr)

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8.0 The Place, Precincts, Nodes and Key Places

Node 2: Junction Node Roads and Rail a Midland Railway Company Workshops (fmr) s The historic junction of roads and rail d Farrelly Brothers Timber Yard (fmr) f Touhy Lane/Touhy Gardens

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8.0 The Place, Precincts, Nodes and Key Places

Node 3: Helena St Node Shopping and Socialising a WA Bank s Old Shops d Salvation Army Hall f Old Shops g Freemasons Hotel h Empire Theatre (fmr) j Old Shop k Swan Express l Loco Coffee Palace ; Midland Trades Hall (fmr) { Midland Bowling Club (fmr) } Civic Triangle (Courthouse, Town Hall & Post Office)

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8.0 The Place, Precincts, Nodes and Key Places

Node 4: Cale St Node Education and Recreation a Old Midland Junction School s Midland Oval

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8.0 The Place, Precincts, Nodes and Key Places

Node 5: Railway Parade Node Change and Growth a Old Midland Railway Station s Commercial Hotel d Swinbourn & Sons Timber Yard (fmr) f Wilkins Coffee Palace g Helena Vale Hotel (fmr) h Millers Timber Yard (fmr) j Masonic Temple k Old Electric Substation (RSL Hall)

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8.0 The Place, Precincts, Nodes and Key Places

Node 6: Workshops Node Building a State a Coal Dam Park s Midland Railway Workshops

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8.0 The Place, Precincts, Nodes and Key Places

Node 7: Saleyards Node Cattle a Midland Saleyards (fmr) s Midland Abattoir (fmr)

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8.0 The Place, Precincts, Nodes and Key Places

Node 8: Silo Node Grain and Gold a CBH Wheat Silo (fmr) s The Eastern Railway Line – agricultural areas and gold fields

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8.0 The Place, Precincts, Nodes and Key Places

Table 3: Locational Framework for Interpretation (continued) Location: Key Places – examples of some of the main key places in the Redevelopment Area only

Location Boundary/Location Key Message/s Stories Key Places

Midland Railway State Registered Industry, trades and Refer to Appendix 3 for an extract from Midland Railway Workshops Workshops Curtilage traditions Midland Railway Workshops Interpretation Power, innovation, Concepts Plan for further detail services Establishment of Workshops A town/community The industrial and political culture defined The transition from steam to diesel to electricity in train technology and also from the changes in powering the machinery at the Workshops – line-shaft, hydraulics and electrical. Also, the broader impact of these developments for the townsite in its power and water/sewerage services Innovation and design excellence, high level skills and trades and opportunities The people and generations of families who worked there and the associated social life The rhythms, routines, sounds, patterns (physical and non-tangible) The effect on the workers and community when the Workshops closed

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8.0 The Place, Precincts, Nodes and Key Places

Table 3: Locational Framework for Interpretation (continued) Location: Key Places – examples of some of the main key places in the Redevelopment Area only

Location Boundary/Location Key Message/s Stories Key Places

Helena River Helena River The lifeblood of a town Significance of the river to the spiritual and Helena River (within the Workshops Journeys in and out cultural life of the traditional owners curtilage incl. Coal Reflection Its pathway – trajectory – connection to other Dam Park) waterways Contemplation The importance of the river by the early Ecology settlers and its uses (transport, food, water) How has it changed/stayed the same Indigenous flora, fauna and eco-systems

Midland Saleyards Original Lot Boundary Agriculture and The role of the Saleyards in the history and Midland Saleyards hinterlands development of agriculture in WA – particularly the Eastern Wheat belt The type of men (and women) who worked there – jobs/roles The cycle of sales and activity, peaks and troughs The impact of the saleyards on the broader community – work, smells, sounds, activity, the excitement of the sale times and reasons for its closure Relationship to the Abattoirs

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8.0 The Place, Precincts, Nodes and Key Places

Table 3: Locational Framework for Interpretation (continued) Location: Key Places – examples of some of the main key places in the Redevelopment Area only

Location Boundary/Location Key Message/s Stories Key Places

Old Midland Junction State Registered Education, childhood The growth of education in Midland – from a Midland Junction School School Curtilage and growing up, and single room classroom to a substantial school community services complex The characters (teachers and students) who are associated with the school The relationship of the school with the town – the local shops The experience of walking or riding to school – the journey The connection between the school and the Workshops The role the school played during WWII when it was closed to students and utilised as a repatriation centre Life after its closure – opera, music, theatre, art

Railway Station Site Railway Reserve – Railway Why the station was located there – why it Railway Station Site (second) (second) Railway Parade Journeys and was moved. destinations The facilities that it had (cloak room, refreshments, bike shed) The activity and movement of people and goods in and around the station The excitement of the trains arriving and departing The landscaping and architecture of the station complex

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Table 3: Locational Framework for Interpretation (continued) Location: Key Places – examples of some of the main key places in the Redevelopment Area only

Location Boundary/Location Key Message/s Stories Key Places

Midland Railway Original Reserve Industry and Railways The start of the iron roads as another part of Midland Railway Company Workshops Company Workshops Boundary The iron horse and iron the story of the junction (private) (private) (now comprising roads The dominance of railways and importance to Centrepoint Shopping A town and community the development of Midland Centre, Great Eastern is established Who worked there – where did they live Hwy, and Train Station) Other businesses that were established on the back of the railway

Western Australian 12 Cale St Services – banking and The substantial bank building reflecting the Western Australian Bank (fmr) Bank (fmr) finance strong economy of Midland deriving from its A place to live and important industrial and agricultural sectors work The architecture of Midland particularly during the Federation period where there was a boom in development Who worked there and lived there (upstairs bank manager’s residence Personal relations of residents and businesses with the local bank manager and staff that no longer exists

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Future Opportunities

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9.0 Future Actions and Opportunities

The MRA has a strong track record of heritage The following is a list of proposed actions to be undertaken by MRA or other stakeholders, whether as part of a statutory obligation or not. protection and interpretation in the Midland Redevelopment Area. The intent of the Strategy 1. Undertake early engagement with the Aboriginal community via the legal framework for the Traditional Owners through the South West Aboriginal Land Council with the Whadjuk is to consolidate the work already undertaken, Working Party. frame it within identified themes and storylines 2. Consult with Aboriginal stakeholders to identify other themes, key messages and stories relating and propose or identify further opportunities for to the specific interpretation of their heritage. interpretation by both the MRA and other stakeholders. 3. Continue to undertake interpretation projects for sites and buildings under MRA control. Broadening the definition of heritage to include Aboriginal heritage and Natural heritage introduces 4. Develop a broad interpretive response that can link the narratives of the precincts and nodes, potentially in a heritage trail. new opportunities for acknowledging and sharing heritage values from other perspectives. 5. Encourage others across the community and in business to engage in interpretation outcomes and seek opportunities to partner with others e.g. City of Swan.

6. Prepare a brochure or web material to promote interpretation by the local community, business and government and offer a simple guide and examples.

7. Assess the value and success of existing interpretation installations and activities and respond to findings when opportunities arise.

8. Develop an interpretation asset register to facilitate and guide management, maintenance and replacement of interpretive assets.

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More Information

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10.0 Bibliography

8 Art Projects (Midland Redevelopment Authority, 2010) Celebrating 10 Years (Midland Redevelopment Authority, 2010) Heritage Strategy Midland Central Redevelopment Area (Heritage and Conservation Professionals, 2003) Juniper Gardens Interpretation Signage, hopscotch artwork paving (Palassis Architects, 2006) Machinery Interpretation Strategy, Midland Railway Workshops (fmr) (Palassis Architects, 2013) Midland Conservation Plan: A Legacy of Forgotten Assets (Hocking Planning and Architecture, prepared for the Shire of Swan, 1998) Midland Master Plan (Hassell, 2015) Midland Public Art Strategy (MRA, 2016) Midland Rail Workshops Interpretation Plan (Forrest Cultural Consulting, 2008) Midland Railway Workshops Interpretation Concepts Plan (Stephen Carrick Architects Pty Ltd, Savagely Creative and Creative Spaces, 2012) Midland Railway Workshops Weighbridge Interpretation Plan (draft) (Heritage and Conservation Professionals, 2006) Midland Redevelopment Area Heritage Inventory (MRA, 2016) Midland Redevelopment Scheme 2 (MRA, 2016) Midland Redevelopment Area Development Policies (MRA, 2016); Development Policy 2: Heritage Places/Development Policy 4: Providing Public Art Midland Redevelopment Area Design Guidelines (MRA, 2016) Midland Saleyard Interpretation Concept Plan; Plans 1 – 5 (Heritage and Conservation Professionals, 2007) Preliminary Interpretation Report for Midland Saleyards (Rosemary Rosario and Robin Chinnery, 2007)

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Appendix 1: Existing Interpretation in Midland

A selection of existing interpretation elements are identified below.

Interpretation signage Coal Dam Park and panels In 2003, the MRA converted The main interpretation the historic coal storage dam signage/panels installed in for the Workshops into a water the Redevelopment Area are feature, following remediation. those within the Workshops This area provides an attractive precinct. These panels, located public open space adjacent at key buildings and elements, to new housing. Importantly, function independently and some of the structures relating also as a suite, providing a to the coal dam were retained form of a self-guided walk trail and now form impressive around the site. archaeological features in and around the lake. Artworks that responded to the site were also installed (Anne Neil’s suite of three artworks Rose Arch (Welcome Arch), Shovels and Shapes).

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Appendix 1: Existing Interpretation in Midland

Workers’ Wall, Midland Interpretation Centre, Railway Workshops Midland Workshops Built of bricks inscribed with This was opened in 2004 in the names and trades of the former Time Keeper’s workers, the Workers’ Wall Office located at the main pays tribute to the thousands entry of Yelverton Drive to of Western Australians who the Workshops. The building were part of the rich social was sensitively adapted history of the Workshops. It is to its new use, with much installed at the northern end of original fabric and fittings left the Workshops on Yelverton (including the docket boards Drive, near to Main Gate. and the metal dockets), and The Wall contains industrial a suite of interpretive panels remnants from the Workshops were installed that provided together with cut steel images an overview of the history of of workers taken from archival the Workshops and the people photographs. The Wall was a who worked there. Multimedia collaboration of artist (Mark tools were also installed. Grey-Smith), landscape The centre was attended architect and heritage by volunteers who would architect. collect and collate historical information and data as well as provide guided walking tours around the Workshops. With remedial and construction works commencing c2008, the Workshops had to be closed for public access and the centre was closed. A 2016 initiative to reopen the Time Keeper’s Office as a cafe and interpretive hub is being pursued.

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Appendix 1: Existing Interpretation in Midland

Hopscotch, Old Midland Junction School Located in the former school yard, each paving stone explores different stories (or facts) relating to the school using the hopscotch numbering system to trigger a particular story.

Public art There are several public artworks within Midland that have been delivered by the Midland Redevelopment Authority that interpret the The human feet represent • Robert Juniper and Ron themes and storylines that Aboriginal traditional lands Gomboc Tree Forms – 5m have been identified in the and the emu feet represent tall sculpture in Juniper Strategy. Some examples the cultural connections Gardens that celebrates include: between Aboriginal people, organic forms and bush • Lance Chadd (Tjyllyungoo) land, animals and the creatures with a mechanical Footprints and Seasons in environment. reference to the Workshops. Coal Dam Park – a series of • Kath Wheatley Pole Figures • Warren Langley’s Tower of human and emu footprints – a series of ‘people’ that Memory in the Workshops and a disc showing the six are spread around the town comprises 2 corten steel Noongar seasons. The work site. These portray workers towers, one of 18m and recognises that Noongar and families for whom the one of 6m, that provide a people are the traditional Workshops was the heart tangible reminder of the owners of the land in the of the community as well as former industrial chimneys Midland area. a place of work. They were that once dominated the constructed with materials Workshops skyline. The from the Workshops. towers are illuminated by changing patterns of LED lighting that creates a beacon for Midland. Page 56 // Midland Heritage Interpretation Strategy BACKGROUND ABOUT MIDLAND APPLICATION FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES MORE INFORMATION

Appendix 1: Existing Interpretation in Midland

Events Some examples of events held in Midland that can be considered to contribute to interpretation outcomes include: • Stan Gurney (VC) Memorial Cycle Race – links to Midland’s strong tradition of cycling that dates backs to the early 19th century. Held on Anzac Day in honour of Private Gurney, who was a keen cyclist and killed in active service in WWII. • Anzac Day – this has become a significant event in the Midland calendar and held at the Peace Statue and Memorial Gardens since 1926.

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Appendix 1: Existing Interpretation in Midland

• The Paul Robeson Tribute • Railway Workshops Concert 2004 – the original Open Days – these concert by African-American events activate the site, singer Paul Robeson in foster community value 1960, organised by the in this significant heritage workers of the Midland asset and offer significant Railway Workshops, was a interpretive potential by significant event in Midland either re-engaging or at this time. The tribute introducing locals and concert in 2004 was an visitors with its many opportunity to not only stories. provide an entertaining event but also act as a reminder of the strong connections that the original Robeson concert had with the unionism and labour relations of the Workshops and its culturally diverse workforce.

Page 58 // Midland Heritage Interpretation Strategy BACKGROUND ABOUT MIDLAND APPLICATION FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES MORE INFORMATION