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Architectural evaluation of existing buldings and assessment of their cultural significance
Jack Kent
second part of:
David Hutchison, Jack Kent, Agnieshka Kiera, Russell Kingdom, Larraine Stevens, Tanya Suba, 1991, Victoria Quay and its Architecture its History and Assessment of Cultural Significance, City of Fremantle, 54pp, numbered separately.The first part, David Hutchison's History of Victoria Quay, is here.
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PART II
INTRODUCTION
In Part II of the study of Victoria Quay a more detailed study of the surviving buildings was undertaken (the study area can be seen on Figure 1 at the front of this document).
To facilitate the understanding of the 'evolution' of buildings on the Quay a drawing was compiled indicating existing buildings and the location of previously constructed and now demolished buildings (See Appendix VII). This not only assisted in the ' tracking' of buildings through the Quay's history but helps to identify sites of potential archaeological value.
Figures 3, 4 and 5 are location maps for identifying and numbering buildings, structures and areas - colour photographs of the corresponding buildings are located immediately after Figure 3. Each building, structure and identified area is then studied individually giving a brief history, construction information and finally an assessment of its cultural significance (this is not to be confused with the Statement of Cultural Significance for all of Victoria Quay that is located at the front of this document). In some instances it has been unable to complete a full historical research in which case this has been stated. Of these buildings and structures, further research will be required prior to their significance being fully determined.
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FIGURE 3.
KEY TO EXISTING SIGNIFICANT BUILDINGS ON VICTORIA QUAY FREMANTLE, WESTERN AUSTRALIA
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EXISTING BUILDINGS ON VICTORIA QUAY
BUILDING NUMBER 1
C. Y. O'CONNOR CENTRE/SECURITY OFFICE
HISTORY
The C. Y. O'Connor Centre was constructed in c. 1942 adjacent to the Immigration Office, following the demolition of the Refreshment Shop, as shown on F. H. T. Drawing ARP Plan of Essential Services dated 1941. It was built at approximately the same time as the Boom Defence buildings to the west of Victoria Quay and together, being constructed in brick, represent a change in construction of the wharf buildings. However, no archival evidence was found to date to provide full appreciation of the historical background of the building construction and evolution.
A Railway Wharf Office (built cl925) also used to be on the same site next to the Refreshment Shop prior to the C. Y. O' Connor Centre being constructed.
CONSTRUCTION
The C. Y. O'Connor Centre is constructed in brickwork with a clay tile roof. The timber joinery is largely intact although enlargement of some windows has since occurred.
ASSESSMENT OF CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
Aesthetically, the C. Y. O'Connor Centre/Security Office does not readily conform to the coherent utility of the remaining wharf architecture. Its visual links with Victoria Quay defence operation warrants further investigation as well as further historical research before its full cultural significance can be determined.
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EXISTING BUILDINGS ON VICTORIA QUAY
BUILDING NUMBER 2
IMMIGRATION OFFICE
HISTORY
The Immigration Office, currently being used as a police station, was built in its present location in c. 1912. The first Immigration Office, together with an Information Centre was originally constructed nearer the quayside approximately 200m west of the present position which had to be demolished in 1912 to allow for the extension to ' C' Shed. It is possible that some materials and elements were recycled into the ' new' building when the service was relocated to the new position near north end of the Market Street bridge.
The front verandah/colonnade is clearly indicated on the PWD plan 26519 revision 1928 but seems to be omitted on PWD plan 17630 revision August 1920. It is therefore possible that this verandah/colonnade was added between these dates and this would also be supported considering that the architectural style of the colonnade would be classified as typically 1920s.
CONSTRUCTION
The main body of the building is timber frame construction with external walls clad in weatherboard. A small amount of fibre-cement sheeting is used as wall cladding immediately below the gutter line and above the verandah roof. The main roof is covered in clay tiles. The verandah/colonnade is constructed in brick and concrete, and it is possible that the fibre cement sheeting and clay roof tiles were installed around the same time as its construction. The original c. 1912 roof would probably have been corrugated metal sheets.
ASSESSMENT OF CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
In terms of aesthetic value, the Immigration Office is a pleasantly proportioned building, attractive in its own right. It is 'domestic' in scale although its character has an appropriate air of officialdom.
Historically, the Immigration Office is physical evidence of a major past function of Victoria Quay, that was, the receiving of new immigrants to Australia.
Even though the building is no longer used for its original function it is significant in as much that it demonstrates the original mode of immigration prior to public air travel.
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EXISTING BUILDINGS ON VICTORIA QUAY
BUILDING NUMBER 3
PUBLIC TOILET
HISTORY
The construction date of this building is so far unknown, although a detailed drawing of the Quay, PWD26519 dated 1928 does not show this public toilet. Most of the old drawings of the Quay referred to in this study are at such a small scale that this building may have been emitted from the drawing even though it may have existing. However, it can be assumed that it was constructed after 1928.
CONSTRUCTION
The public toilet is of timber frame construction, the roof is clad in 'custom orb' , the lower walls clad in weatherboard and the upper walls in fibre-cement sheeting. The timber joinery is competently detailed and in a fair state of repair.
ASSESSMENT OF CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE.
The public toilet is a compact little building demonstrating good building skills. It is a nicely proportioned and carefully detailed building and mimics the style and architectural character of the large goods shed. This uncanny resemblance, contributes significantly to its aesthetic and townscape value.
Its historical association with the Immigration Office gives this building historical significance being a public building relating to this previously major port function.
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EXISTING BUILDINGS ON VICTORIA QUAY
BUILDING NUMBER 4
WAITING ROOM
HISTORY
The Waiting Room (present use unknown, possibly a store) appears on a P. W. D. plan 26519 dated 1928 but not on PWD plan 17630 revision 1920. Its construction therefore is traced to between these dates. The windows and doors in the northern, brick elevation appear later than this period. It is possible then that the building was constructed with ' fashionable' elements c. 1928 or alterations, at least to the north elevation, have subsequently been made since its original construction.
CONSTRUCTION
The main body of the Waiting Room is of timber frame construction with a mono-pitch roof. The roof is pitched down from a brick parapet wall on the northern elevation. The remainder of the external walls are clad in weatherboards and the roof is corrugated pressed metal. A canopy is suspended from the parapet wall with asbestos cement sheet cladding to the soffit and fascia. The western end of the building is probably a later extension constructed to match the original weatherboard detailing.
ASSESSMENT OF CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
The Waiting Room is utilitarian building providing support accommodation to immigration activities and as such has historical significance. Its aesthetic value can be seen in terms of its utilitarian design - similar to railway and wharf architecture - and also how its materials and character are sympathetic to the other wharf buildings contributing to Victoria Quay's coherent townscape.
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EXISTING BUILDINGS ON VICTORIA QUAY
BUILDING NUMBER 5
F. P. A. ADMINISTRATION BUILDING
HISTORY
The F. P. A. Administration Building was required to accommodate the Port Authority's existing staff in one building as opposed to the pre-existing eight buildings scattered around the wharf area. It was designed by architects, Hobbs, Winning and Leighton and built by A. T. Brine and Sons Ltd in 1963 at a cost of $650, 000.00. Its size, however, exceeded the needs of the FPA staff and was seen at the time as a partly commercial venture. Its construction required the demolition of several buildings at the east end of Slip Street including the former Harbour Trust Offices and the State Shipping Office building. The new Administration Building was officially opened by the Premier of Western Australia, the Honourable David Brand, MLA.
CONSTRUCTION
Foundations: The steel-framed office and service tower building is carried on 120 'Franki' piles driven to an average depth of 30 feet below ground level. The loading capacity of each pile varies between 60 and 71 tons.
Lighting: Special consideration was given to the orientation of the office tower so that controlled natural lighting could be obtained from the North and South, while the East and West walls are blanked off. All windows on the Ground Floor and North side of the office tower are protected with fixed vertical and horizontal sun baffles which protect the windows from direct sunlight. All windows are in anodised aluminium frames glazed with anti-glare glass and are completely reversible, allowing all window cleaning to be carried out from within the building.
Ground Floor Roof: The roof over the Ground Floor is unique and is the only known one of its type in Australia. It is a folded roof pattern of pre-stressed concrete units in two spans each of 66 feet, which provides continuous roof lighting together with built-in air-conditioning ducts and artificial lighting. The glass used is 'Sun-X' tinted, which assists in controlling heat, fade and glare, and is shadowless.
Ceilings: Ceilings generally are in acoustic tiles or acoustic vermiculite plaster.
Tiling: A special feature of the building is the use of tiling for both exterior wall finish and interior wall
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decoration. The whole of the walls externally are tiled, which not only gives a permanent sparkling effect but will reduce maintenance to a minimum in an atmosphere laden with dust and other impurities to be found in the port area. The total cost of this tiling amounted to approximately 20, 000 pounds.
Concourse Floor: The floor to the concourse on the ground floor is parquet in local timber of Jarrah and Wandoo.
Air-conditioning System: The building is fully air-conditioned with the heat pump plant system using perimeter induction units and high velocity ductwork. The advantage of the heat pump type air-conditioning plant is that it does not require any cooling towers, boilers, flues and is economical to run.
ASSESSMENT OF CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
The F. P. A. Administration Building has aesthetic qualities that boldly counter the pre-existing character and scale of the wharf and its buildings, and as such, has significance as a technological milestone. Its built form, scale and materials together with the new sciences in building services signifies a radical, ' modern' change in the ports image and operation. The building itself has particular architectural qualities representative of the international style of the time.
The historically close relationship between the City of Fremantle and its port is now visually represented by the manner in which this building dominates the Fremantle skyline. This visual ' monument' to the modernisation of the port was unfortunately at the expense of the integrity of the towns cape both on Victoria Quay and the overall townscape of Fremantle.
Consequently, the significance of the traditional relationship between the City and the Port has been reduced. The significance of the building should therefore be seen in terms of an individual statement of modern architecture and not as a part of a harmonious evolution of Victoria Quay nor as a part of its historic and otherwise visually coherent precinct.
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EXISTING BUILDINGS ON VICTORIA QUAY
BUILDING NUMBER 6
MECHANICAL WORKSHOPS
HISTORY
Plans for the concrete foundations and drainage layout for the mechanical workshops were drawn in November, 1951. The Fremantle Harbour Trust report for the year ending 30 June, 1952 mentions that construction had commenced that year. The reason for its construction was to cope with the 'large amounts of mechanical equipment acquired for the quicker turnover of shipping and avoidance of congestion of cargo on the wharves' .
The next report for the year ending 30 June, 1953 confirms that the workshops were completed and that the building was 'outstanding in its design and layout' . The site of the mechanical workshops occupies part of the location of the Elder Smith Steel Works that was constructed after 1916 and before 1920 (PWD plans 17630 and 17630 revision August, 1920).
CONSTRUCTION
The building consists of four simple bays, each with a gable roof, with external walls clad in corrugated metal sheeting and the roof covered in corrugated asbestos-cement sheets. The workshop has a concrete floor and the window frames and doors are predominantly mild steel.
ASSESSMENT OF CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
The building form and construction is industrial in character and is consistent with other wharf buildings. Its aesthetic value is increased when considering the building in its context and how it contributes positively to the streetscape of Slip Street, (and to a lesser extent Fleet Street), thus creating a narrow street rich in wharf related activities. The building fabric is principally intact and as such, is physical evidence of particular wharf activities, and is also representational of post-war wharf architecture on Victoria Quay.
Historically, the building is physical evidence of the ongoing change in port operations when modernisation of the port progressed from relying on predominantly manual labour to the increase in mechanical equipment, its maintenance and repair.
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EXISTING BUILDINGS ON VICTORIA QUAY BUILDING
BUILDING NUMBER 7
GENERAL/MAIN STORE
HISTORY
Plans for the construction of a general or main store dated 25 November are held by the Fremantle Port Authority North Quay development office. Further plans for proposed roof trusses were drawn in December, 1955 and as the building appears on an aerial photograph dated 8 January, 1957 it can be deduced that the building was constructed in 1956. Mr Stan Limpus (leading hand Fremantle Port Authority) recalled that the building on the site previous to the store was used to house sheep. Archival research shows no other building being on this site besides the Elder Smith Steel Works. It is therefore probable that the Steelworks building was used for this purpose following the closure of the works and prior to the general main store being constructed in 1956.
Mr Stan Limpus also recalled that the eastern and western ends of the building were used during the Second World War before becoming the Electrical Shop in 1954 and Carpenters Shop in 1953.
CONSTRUCTION
The building consists of ten narrow structural bays constructed in timber. The external walls are clad in horizontal corrugated pressed metal, the three western most bays being recently re-clad in custom orb. The saw-tooth timber roof structure is covered in corrugated asbestos sheeting, the older western and eastern bays have been reroofed in custom orb. The original timber joinery is largely intact.
ASSESSMENT OF CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
The building form and construction is industrial in character, consistent with many other buildings on the wharf, and exhibits aesthetic value in its own right. This value is greatly increased when thee building is assessed as part of a group of wharf buildings along Slip Street (and to a lesser extent, Fleet Street).
The building fabric is principally intact and as such is physical evidence of particular wharf activities. The evidence indicates that it is probable that the eastern and western ends of the building were constructed prior to, or during World War Two and used for defence related activities.
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Historically, the building is part of a group of buildings that remain as physical evidence of the ongoing change in port operations when modernisation of the port progressed from relying on predominantly manual labour to the increase in machinery, its maintenance and repair.
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EXISTING BUILDINGS ON VICTORIA QUAY
BUILDING NUMBER 8
BOOM DEFENCE BUILDING 1
History
This building, together with the other Boom Defence Building was constructed during World War Two to provide support accommodation for the operation of the state defence systems in place across the entrance of the inner harbour. This boom defence building was built first in 1941-42 to make and repair torpedo nets. Nets were also made for the overseas market such as the port of Trincomalee in Sri Lanka.
The building later became used for general port related activities and was the Wet Weather Clothing Store in 1964. The history of defence activities on Victoria Quay, particularly in a context of the state wide network of defence facilities, has not been fully researched.
Construction
The building form is very simple and consists of brick external walls supporting a single span arched roof clad in corrugated asbestos-cement sheeting. It has a good standard of detailing and is principally intact.
Assessment of Cultural Significance
The aesthetic qualities of the Boom Defence Building can be appreciated on two levels. Firstly, it is a well proportioned, carefully detailed building, which, although is basically industrial in character, remains an attractive piece of wharf architecture.
Secondly, it contributes positvely to the immediate surrounding character of its location. Although different in style and use of materials its scale and generally utilitarian character adds significantly to the streetscape of Slip Street (and to a lesser extent. Fleet Street), that is rich in wharf activities and operations.
The building, together with buildings 9, 10 and 11, forms part of a unique group and provides a physical evidence of navy use of the wharf during the Second World War, and to this end, remains largely intact. This group of buildings add to the intensity of historic themes of Victoria Quay with the history of its own. This history deserves to be fully researched before the significance of Boom Defence group of buildings and associated structures can be fully determined.
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EXISTING BUILDINGS ON VICTORIA QUAY
BUILDING NUMBER 9
NAVY COMMANDER RESIDENCE
HISTORY
The building was constructed after August, 1941 and before April, 1942 as a residence for the Australian Navy Commander in charge of the boom defence yard. The residence was situated on the first floor and the ground floor used for offices. The Fremantle Credit Union established an office in the building in 1965 but it is unlikely that the Australian Navy used this building following the end of World War II.
CONSTRUCTION
The building is a two storey timber framed construction, of simple form, with the access stairs to first floor on the outside of the building. The roof is corrugated asbestos cement sheeting and the external walls are clad in corrugated asbestos cement sheeting running horizontally. Both floors are of timber construction.
ASSESSMENT OF CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
The simple form and construction of the former Navy residence is a well proportioned and pleasant building. It has an appropriate scale for residential use but retains the more industrial aesthetics of Victoria Quay by the use of similar materials and construction.
The building's fabric is principally intact and as such demonstrates previous naval use of Victoria Quay. Its significance is enhanced by the two brick boom defence buildings which together form the physical evidence of the wartime Navy operations and state defence network.
This group of buildings add to the intensity of historic themes of Victoria Quay with the history of its own. This history deserves to be fully researched before the significance of Boom Defence group of buildings and associated structures can be fully determined.
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EXISTING BUILDINGS ON VICTORIA QUAY
BUILDING NUMBER 10
BOOM DEFENCE BUILDING 2
HISTORY
This building, together with Boom Defence Building 1 (building No. 8) was constructed during World War Two to provide support accommodation for the operation of the defence systems in place across the entrance of the inner harbour.
This Boom Defence Building was constructed soon after the other one, in 1943, to make and repair torpedo nets. These nets were also made for the overseas market, such as the port of Trincomalee in Sri Lanka.
Boom Defence Building 2 was later used by FPA staff as office accommodation prior to the FPA Administration Building being constructed in 1963. It later served as a waterside workers assembly area before being used as an indoor hockey stadium in 1982-85.
During the America's Cup (1986-87) the building was refurbished to become a media centre. The designs were prepared by the BMA with the FPA workforce carrying out the alterations. The building was air-conditioned and contained a photographic laboratory for processing film taken during the races, while journalists in the main hall could view direct television coverage from their desks.
In 198 9work began on converting the building into an annexe for the Maritime Studies Department of TAFE. The complex will provide a second campus for the Maritime College in South Terrace.
Construction
The building form is very simple and consists of brick external walls supporting a single span arched roof clad in corrugated asbestos-cement sheeting. It has a good standard of detailing and although internally refurbished, remains principally intact.
Assessment of Cultural Significance
The aesthetic qualities of the Boom Defence Building 2 can be appreciated on two levels. Firstly, it is a well-proportioned, carefully detailed building, which although is basically industrial in character, remains an attractive piece of wharf architecture.
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Secondly, it contributes positively to the immediate surrounding character of its location that is rich in wharf related activities and operations.
The building, together with buildings 8, 9 and 11 form part of a unique group that is physical evidence of navy use of the wharf during the Second World War. Its 'open plan' design has made it a very versatile and adaptable building giving it many uses and consequently making it richer in historic and social significance.
This group of buildings add to the intensity of historic themes of Victoria Quay with the history of its own. This history deserves to be fully researched before the significance of Boom Defence group of buildings and associated structures can be fully determined.
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EXISTING BUILDINGS ON VICTORIA QUAY
BUILDING NUMBER 11
WORKSHOP/STORE
History
The Workshop/Store was built between 1941 and 1950 on land that formed part of a reserve used by the Navy. It is probable that its construction was instigated as part of the defence operations and used by the Navy during the Second World War. Its proximity to the Boom Defence Buildings and the Residence for the Navy Commander would support this view. The building has since become used for general wharf related activities.
Construction
The Workshop/Store is basically of timber frame construction clad with metal sheet to the external walls and corrugated asbestos-cement sheeting on the roof. It has no refinement of detailing of other wharf buildings but is principally intact.
Assessment of Cultural Significance
The Workshop/Store contributes to the streetscape of Slip Street being sympathetic to the character of the other buildings along the street although it lacks the refined detailing thus the aesthetic qualities represented by other historic buildings of Victoria Quay. Its historical significance, as determined so far, would be limited to the association of past navy activities on Victoria Quay.
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EXISTING BUILDINGS ON VICTORIA QUAY
BUILDING NUMBER 12
WORKS OFFICE
HISTORY
The Works Office first appears on Fremantle Port Authority drawing dated 1966 and does not appear on Port of Fremantle drawing FHT CM/23-5 dated 1961. Joinery elements such as the window would indicate an age earlier than this period and would therefore suggest that certain elements were 'recycled' from older buildings, (possible even the lumpers shelters that were demolished around this time).
CONSTRUCTION
The works office is simple in form and construction consisting of a two-storey, timber framed building with external cladding of corrugated pressed metal sheeting. The joinery is of varying ages and is in a fair state of repair.
ASSESSMENT OF CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
The cultural significance of the Works Office can be seen in terms of its sympathetic aesthetic contribution to the streetscape of Slip Street and how its form, construction materials and detailing are consistent with other wharf buildings in the vicinity.
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EXISTING BUILDINGS ON VICTORIA QUAY
BUILDING NUMBER 13
PLUMBERS WORKSHOP
HISTORY
The plumbers workshop building at its present location on Slip Street first appeared on a photograph dated 1 April, 1954. According to Mrs Stan Limpus (retired FPA maintenance employee) the plumbers workshop was moved to its present site in 1954, and that it was previously located opposite 'A' ramp. The plumbers workshop is shown on PWD plan No. 17630 dated 1916 revised 1920 located opposite 'A' shed and as construction work 'in hand' . The original plumbers workshop is therefore dated c. 1920. However, by comparing similar scale plans, it is deduced that this original shed was significantly smaller than the existing one on Slip Street. It is probable therefore that extra accommodation was required and even though some building posts may have been rescued, at least some 'new' construction was provided for the workshops in 1954. However, site investigation did not reveal any apparent evidence of building extensions.
CONSTRUCTION
The building is a single storey framed construction of simple form, with corrugated asbestos-cement roof cover and corrugated pressed metal cladding on external walls. Concrete floor.
ASSESSMENT OF CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
The simple form and construction of the plumbers workshop has industrial aesthetic qualities that are typical at the seaward end of Victoria Quay. The building contributes positively to the streetscape of Slip Street creating a narrow street rich in wharf related activities.
The building is still used for its original function that dates back to c. 1920, and it is likely that some physical building elements from this date are incorporated in the existing building.
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EXISTING BUILDINGS ON VICTORIA QUAY
BUILDING NUMBER 14
GARAGE/WORKSHOPS/OFFICE
HISTORY
These series of garages, workshops and offices were constructed in 1957-58 to provide accommodation for particular port related trades. They included painter, joiner, sail maker, welder and turner. Vehicle parking was also allowed for in this building, together with basic staff amenities.
The turners accommodation on the east of the building was not fully completed until 1964-65, following the demolition of the 'lumpers pick-up' .
CONSTRUCTION
The building is a simple series of timber framed bays with the western bay having a first floor built in timber. Timber trusses and purlins support a corrugated asbestos-cement roof and the external walls are clad in corrugated pressed metal. The ground floor is a concrete slab.
ASSESSMENT OF CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
The simple form and construction of the garage/workshop/office makes a well proportioned building, and together with its functional component has certain aesthetic value. However, this moderate aesthetic value is greatly increased when the building is considered within its streetscape context. Here, there is variety of architectural forms and construction, of similar scale and character creating a narrow street rich in wharf activities.
The building's fabric, which is principally intact, is representational of wharf architecture of the same period. It is lightweight in construction, quick to erect, and used materials that were easily available.
The building still demonstrates wharf related activities, some of which are the original uses.
Historically, the building forms part of a group that remain as physical evidence of the ongoing change in port operations when modernisation of the port progressed from relying on predominantly manual labour to the increase in machinery, its maintenance and repair.
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EXISTING BUILDINGS ON VICTORIA QUAY
BUILDING NUMBER 15
OFFICE & AMENITIES BUILDING
HISTORY
Plans for the window construction details of the new office and amenities building were drawn on 19 November, 1957. According to Mr Stan Limpus (retired Fremantle Port Authority employee) the building was completed in November, 1958.
Before the Port Authority Building was constructed in 1963/64, the office and amenities building was used by accounting staff (Mr Stan Limpus).
CONSTRUCTION
The building is simple in form, has two stories and is of timber frame construction. The external walls are clad in weatherboard up to first floor, and then in asbestos sheeting. The roof is a simple dual pitch roof covered in corrugated asbestos sheeting.
ASSESSMENT OF CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
The aesthetic value of this building can be seen in terms of its contribution to the streetscape of Slip Street. It maintains a consistent frontage to the narrow street and has a similar scale to the other buildings fronting the street.
Its construction is representative of wharf architecture and the building is still used for wharf related activities, and as such contributes to the historical significance of Slip Street (and vice versa).
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EXISTING BUILDINGS ON VICTORIA QUAY
BUILDING NUMBER 16
F. P. A. FIRE STATION
HISTORY
The exact date of construction has not been fully researched, although present Fire Station appears on a F. P. A. plan dated 1966 but not on a F. P. A. plan date 1961. The east end of Slip Street was considerably changed allowing for the construction of the new F. H. T. of the Administration Building and the location of the Fire Station presumably resulted from this re-organisation.
CONSTRUCTION
The F. P. A. Fire Station is of simple construction consisting of a timber frame structure clad entirely in asbestos cement sheeting, the roof sheeting having a corrugated profile.
ASSESSMENT OF CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
The F. P. A. Fire Station has significance only as a contributory building in terms of it being physical evidence of an on-going port related activity. Through its comparable scale and use of materials it adds to the visual unity and intensity of built forms in the historic precinct of Victoria Quay.
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EXISTING BUILDINGS ON VICTORIA QUAY
BUILDING NUMBER 17
A SHED
In 1925/26 'A' and 'B' Sheds were completely rebuilt to cope with the increase in vessel size and greater tonnage of cargo handled. The original sheds were built c. 1905 and were significantly smaller. 50, 000 more tonnes were handled in the year June 1925 to June 1926, than in the previous financial year (FHT report 30/6/1926). 'A' Shed was said to be practically complete and 7 B7 Shed in a forward condition. They were constructed to the latest design and facilities including electric hoists which could handle up to 5 tonnes. Special attention was also paid to the ventilation of the two sheds based on experience gained with the storage of perishable goods in the older sheds.
In 1988 'A' Shed was converted into a venue for the visual, literary and performing arts. It was developed by Paul Hanna and opened to the public on 5/12/88 and included restaurant facilities.
CONSTRUCTION
'A' Shed is simple in form and construction, consisting of two main longitudinal compartments curving gently with the line of the wharf.
The timber roof trusses are supported on timber columns and clad in a variety of materials. The roof is covered in corrugated asbestos sheeting (the original roof may have been iron or even a timber roofing material as put on 'D' Shed in 1921). The external walls of 'A' Shed are clad in weatherboards up to approximately 3 metres from ground and then in corrugated pressed metal. The original timber joinery is largely intact and in a fair state of repair. A canopy runs the whole length of the building on the land side, which is supported by cantilevered trusses.
A photograph from the FHT Annual Report, 1961/62 showing a superimposed artists impression of the new F. P. A. Building, shows A Shed with lateral dormer roof structures across the length of the building, as can be seen on B Shed today. These have subsequently been removed. The same photograph also shows a window in the western gable of A Shed which no longer exists.
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ASSESSMENT OF CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
The simple form and construction of A Shed is complemented by an unusually high standard of detailing for wharf architecture. The building, in essence, is industrial in character but is also attractive in its own right. It forms part of a group of similar wharf sheds that are constructed along the quayside and as such, are visually significant, both in terms of their aesthetic value and in defining the north western edge of the city centre and its interface with the Swan River.
Historically, the wharf goods sheds have been the most adaptable, and thereby successful survivors of the many buildings that have been constructed on the quay, and are consequently rich in physical evidence of past and present wharf activities. A Shed can therefore be seen as a very significant building on Victoria Quay.
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EXISTING BUILDINGS ON VICTORIA QUAY
BUILDING NUMBER 18
B SHED
HISTORY
In 1925/26 'A' and 'B' sheds were completely rebuilt to cope with the increase in vessel size and greater tonnage of cargo handled. 50, 000 more tonnes were handled in the year June 1925 and June 1926, than in the previous financial year (FHT Report 30/6/1926). 'B' Shed was completed very shortly after 'A' Shed. They were constructed to the latest design and facilities included electric hoists which could handle up to 5 tonnes. Special attention was also paid to the ventilation of the two sheds based on experience gained with the storage of perishable goods in the older sheds.
During the America's Cup (1986-87) an outside broadcasting van was established at 'B' Shed by the ABC to co-ordinate radio coverages for the national network. In 1987 significant improvements were carried out and a substantial area of the building was leased to the West Australian Museum for the purposes of a Maritime Museum.
CONSTRUCTION
B Shed is simple in form and construction, consisting of two main longitudinal compartments, curving gently with the line of the wharf. The double gabled roof is crossed by four upper level dormer roofs. The timber columns and roof trusses are clad in a variety of materials. Weatherboard is used on the lower wall up to window head height, with corrugated pressed metal sheeting above. Similar profile sheeting is also used on the roof. It is probable that the metal sheeting replaced corrugated asbestos which in turn may have replaced cast iron or more weatherboards. The original timber joinery is largely intact. A canopy runs the whole length of the building on the land side, which is supported by cantilevered trusses.
ASSESSMENT OF CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
The simple form and construction of B Shed is complemented by an unusually high standard of detailing for wharf architecture. The building, in essence, is industrial in character but is also attractive in its own right. B Shed is the only shed on Victoria Quay that has surviving dormer roofs intersecting the main roof which adds to its attractiveness. It forms part of a group of similar wharf sheds that are constructed along the quayside and as such, are visually significant, both in terms of their aesthetic value and in defining the north western edge of the city centre and its interface with the Swan River.
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Historically, the wharf goods sheds have been most adaptable, and thereby successful survivors of the many buildings that have been constructed on the quay, and are consequently rich in physical evidence of past and present wharf activities. B Shed can therefore be seen as a very significant building on Victoria Quay.
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EXISTING BUILDINGS ON VICTORIA QUAY
BUILDING NUMBER 19
C SHED
HISTORY
'C' Shed is the oldest existing goods shed on Victoria Quay being built in 1903-04. Originally designated as 'H' Shed (shed constructions and therefore lettering started originally from the east end of the quay) it was redesignated 'C' Shed in 1904-05 following the Commissioners decision to reverse the lettering starting with 'A' at the west end of the quay. Between 1901 and 1906 nine goods sheds were constructed, all of which have since been replaced except 'C' Shed.
In 1912/13 it was extended 150 feet in a westerly direction giving a total length of 480 feet. This extension was made to accommodate the largest of the interstate liners and was made possible by the location of the Immigration Office and Information Bureau to the Railway Reserve at the Market Street bridge.
In 1926/27 the Harbour Trust Commissioners recommended that 'C' - 'F' Sheds be widened to allow for more cargo handling space. This was accepted by the Engineer-in-Chief and provided for in the financial year 1927/28.
The western end of 'C' Shed was reduced in length in 1985 and during the America's Cup (1986-87) the shed was used as a temporary passenger lounge.
CONSTRUCTION
' C Shed is simple in form and construction consisting of three main longitudinal compartments curving gently with the line of the wharf. The timber roof trusses are supported on timber columns and clad in a variety of materials. Weatherboards are used on external walls at lower levels with corrugated asbestos or pressed metal above. The roof cover is corrugated asbestos sheeting.
The original timber joinery is largely intact and in a fair state of repair. A canopy runs the whole length of the building on te land side, which is supported by large, decorative iron brackets.
ASSESSMENT OF CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
The simple form and construction of C Shed is complemented by an unusually high standard of detailing for wharf architecture. The building, in essence, is industrial in character but is also attractive in its own right. It forms part of a group of similar wharf sheds that are constructed along the quayside and as such, are visually significant, both in terms of their aesthetic value and in defining the north-western edge of the city centre and its interface with the Swan River.
Historically, the wharf goods sheds have been the most adaptable, and thereby successful, survivors of the many buildings built on Victoria Quay. This is particularly true of 'C' Shed which is the oldest of the existing sheds and rich in physical evidence of past and present wharf activities, and as such, remains a very significant building on Victoria Quay.
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EXISTING BUILDINGS ON VICTORIA QUAY
BUILDING NUMBER 20
D SHED
HISTORY
'D' Shed, in its present form, dates back to 1928/29 when both 'D' and 'E' Sheds were re-modelled as longer and wider sheds in place of three sheds, 'D', 'E' and 'F', that occupied similar sites. It is likely that parts of these two 'new' sheds, or at least some of their building materials or elements were originally part of the previous sheds and were incorporated into the re-modelling. These alterations were to allow for the better storage of cargo being discharged by larger vessels. It is interesting to note that 'D' Shed has detailing and metal work that matches both 'C' and 'E' Sheds or that conscious design efforts were made to sustain architectural continuity among the goods sheds.
CONSTRUCTION
'D' Shed is simple in form and construction, consisting of three main longitudinal compartments parallel with quayside. The timber roof trusses are supported on timber columns, the roof cover being corrugated asbestos sheeting, and the walls clad in a combination of weatherboards and corrugated pressed metal sheeting. (It is probable that the original materials were weatherboard and corrugated cast iron). An experimental timber roofing was tried out on D Shed in 1920 following the poor performance of corrugated iron roofs on the goods sheds. However, in 1924 the roof was proving unsuccessful due to the shrinkage of the timber boards. An elastic paint was applied to the roof in an attempt to rectify the problem. The original timber joinery is largely intact and in a fair state of repair. A canopy runs the whole length of the building on the land side, which is supported by large, decorative iron brackets.
ASSESSMENT OF CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
The simple form and construction of D Shed is complemented by an unusually high standard of detailing for wharf architecture. The building, in essence, is industrial in character but is also attractive in its own right. It forms part of a group of similar wharf sheds that are constructed along the quayside and as such, are visually significant, both in terms of their aesthetic value and in defining the city centre and its interface with the Swan River.
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Historically, the wharf goods sheds have been the most adaptable, and thereby successful survivors of the many buildings that have been constructed on the quay, and are consequently rich in physical evidence of past and present wharf activities. 'D' Shed - together with E Shed) best demonstrates this ongoing adaptability and wharf use, and remains as a very significant building on Victoria Quay.
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EXISTING BUILDINGS ON VICTORIA QUAY
BUILDING NUMBER 21
E SHED
HISTORY
'E' Shed, in its present form, dates back to 1928/29 when both 'E' and 'D' Sheds were re-modelled as longer and wider sheds in place of three sheds, ' E', 'D' and 'F', that occupied similar sites. It is likely that parts of these two 'new' sheds, or at least some of their building materials or elements were originally part of the previous sheds and were incorporated into the re-modelling. These alterations were to allow for the better storage of cargo being discharged by larger vessels. It is interesting to note that 'E' Shed has detailing and metal work that matches both 'C' and 'D' Sheds or that conscious design efforts were made to sustain architectural continuity among the goods sheds.
CONSTRUCTION
'E' Shed is simple in form and construction, consisting of three main longitudinal compartments parallel with quayside. The timber roof trusses are supported on timber columns, the roof cover being corrugated asbestos sheeting, and the walls clad in a combination of weatherboards and corrugated pressed metal sheeting. (It is probable that the original materials were weatherboard and corrugated cast iron). The original timber joinery is largely intact and in a fair state of repair. A canopy runs the whole length of the building on the land side, which is supported by large, decorative iron brackets.
ASSESSMENT OF CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
The simple form and construction of E Shed is complemented by an unusually high standard of detailing for wharf architecture. The building, in essence, is industrial in character but is also attractive in its own right. It forms part of a group of similar wharf sheds that are constructed along the quayside and as such, are visually significant, both in terms of their aesthetic value and in defining the city centre and its interface with the Swan River.
Historically, the wharf goods sheds have been the most adaptable, and thereby successful survivors of the many buildings that have been constructed on the quay, and are consequently rich in physical evidence of past and present wharf activities. ' E' Shed (together with D Shed), best demonstrates this ongoing adaptability and wharf use, and remains as a very significant building on Victoria Quay.
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EXISTING BUILDINGS ON VICTORIA QUAY
BUILDING NUMBER 22
PASSENGER TERMINAL
HISTORY
Following the Second World War, Fremantle remained a primary 'gateway' for immigrants and there was subsequently a growing pressure for a passenger terminal building to accommodate the services and activities associated with this major port function. More than 150,000 passengers passed through the Port of Fremantle annually in the years, preceding the Passenger Terminals construction in 1960-62, and for many of them the Port was their first sight of Australia.
To facilitate the construction of this new building, two goods sheds, F and G, had to be demolished. Previous to these two sheds, three original sheds built c. 1901 occupied the same site.
In December 1960, the Premier of Western Australia, the Honourable David Brand, MLA, opened the first stage of the new Passenger Terminal, the western end, designated F berth. The second stage, G berth was completed during May 1962.
The building was designed by architects Hobbs, Winning and Leighton and constructed by A. T. Brine and Sons Ltd, of which both firms went on to design and build the Fremantle Port Authority Administration Building in 1963.
CONSTRUCTION
Each berth is equipped with a Customs Hall of 11,250 square feet in area measuring 150' x 75', and with offices and search rooms. The passenger concourse to each berth has an area of 16,800 square feet and is 225' long and 75' wide. Each berth provides a suite of airconditioned rooms for use as a private or V. I. P. lounges, and with a snack bar and rest rooms.
Two lifts and escalators are provided to assist passenger movements between ground and first floor.
The whole two-floor building is of steel frame construction with concrete panels and floors, part of which in the central hall and upper floor is overlaid with timber parquetry. The roof cladding is aluminium. A total of 1,500 tons of steel was used in the steel frame construction, and 5,200 cubic yards of concrete was used in the building. The walls of the cargo transit shed portion are exposed aggregate concrete panels the upper floor is glazed with aluminium windows. The baggage gallery is
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walled with blue enamellised ribbed sheeting. Aluminium framed, heat resistant glass is used on the wharf side for the window and doors. Western Australian hardwoods are used quite extensively in the interior. 'F' berth is lined with wandoo and at 'G' berth with blackbutt. The parquetry floor of the entrance hall and of G berth is in wandoo, while the parquetry floor in F berth is blackbutt. Interior walls are partly dressed with jarrah battens, fixed vertically. Suspended ceilings are of silky oak fixtures over the Customs halls and concourse are of Queensland maple.
There are four murals designed and executed by the artist, Mr H. H. Taylor, two in F berth are of birds and flowers of Western Australia, and two in G berth of trees and animals.
Kiosks, housing banks and other amenities, are of silver ash panels in jarrah frame.
ASSESSMENT OF CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
The aesthetic value of the Passenger Terminal can be best appreciated by considering the high level of joinery detailing and craftwork to the interior design of the building. Externally, the building is generally seen as a sympathetic but a 'modern' structure on the Quay that uses modern building materials and although it is much longer and stylistically different although it keeps a continuity of form with the existing goods sheds along the quayside due to its industrial character and comparable scale, it cannot, at the same time, be readily linked to the heritage precinct in terms of its history nor visually.
The building demonstrates a change in direction in building construction on Victoria Quay utilising the latest technology available at the time, possibly the evidence of the last major effort in expanding the transportation activities of Victoria Quay, before the air transport because the most common choice.
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FIGURE 4.
KEY TO EXISTING SIGNIFICANT STRUCTURES AT VICTORIA QUAY, FREMANTLE, WESTERN AUSTRALIA.
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EXISTING STRUCTURES AT VICTORIA QUAY
STRUCTURE NO. 1
VICTORIA QUAY STRUCTURE
HISTORY
See Part 1 of this study ' History of the Port of Fremantle with Emphasis on Victoria Quay' by David Hutchison for the history of Victoria Quay's structure which includes the land reclamation, wharves, jetties and river corridor.
Assessment of Cultural Significance
The engineering and construction of Victoria Quay as designed by C. Y. O' Connor provided the State of Western Australia with major port facilities and contributed to the rapid growth and prosperity of Fremantle at the turn of the 19th Century.
The structure of Victoria Quay is the fundamental physical evidence of this achievement, and as such, embodies much of the port's cultural significance.
The structure of Victoria Quay has scientific significance on two levels. Firstly, as a significant piece of engineering, as determined by The Institute of Engineers, Australia, which recognised Victoria Quay as nationally significant in 1990. Secondly, as an area with potential archaeological sites for scientific investigations, (see City of Fremantle drawing 'Victoria Quay - location of previous buildings/structures' in Appendix VII).
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EXISTING STRUCTURES AT VICTORIA QUAY
STRUCTURE NUMBER 2
610 TONNE SLIPWAY
HISTORY
This slipway was constructed at the same time as the 101 tonne slipway, (structure No. 3) both being completed and in service in 1958-59.
ASSESSMENT OF CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
The full history of slipways has not been adequately researched and therefore its significance cannot be fully determined. However, by remaining an active working operation on the wharf the slipway contributes to the significance of boat building/ship repair part of traditional operations of the port, thus to the overall significance of Victoria Quay.
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EXISTING STRUCTURES AT VICTORIA QUAY
STRUCTURE NUMBER 3
2000 TONNE SLIPWAY
HISTORY
The construction of this slipway commenced in October 1940 to handle vessels up to 2,000 tonnes. It was completed in September 1942 and the control of this and the old slipway at Rous Head was transferred to PWD.
The construction of the slipway was helped by the US Navy providing extra ' manpower and the Commonwealth Government providing funds through the Department of the Navy.
The first vessel to dock at the slipway was the Chungking on 22 September 1942. After that, the slipway was almost monopolised by US vessels. During the year, as well as later, the Harbour was extensively used for the repair of merchant vessels which had been damaged by enemy action or which had broken down after long periods of service.
ASSESSMENT OF CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
The significance of the 2000 tonne slipway can be seen in two ways. Firstly, being physical evidence of Navy operations and US use of Victoria Quay and how it was constructed under joint effort as a result of pressure generated from the Second World War.
Secondly, as a working primary port activity that contributes to the overall significance of Victoria Quay. However, the full history of slipways has not been adequately researched and It. is recommended that full research be completed before the significance of slipways be fully determined.
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EXISTING STRUCTURES AT VICTORIA QUAY
STRUCTURE NUMBER 4
101 TONNE SLIPWAY
HISTORY
This slipway was constructed at the same time as the 610 tonne slipway, both being completed and in service in 1958-59.
ASSESSMENT OF CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
The full history of slipways has not been adequately researched and therefore its significance can not be fully determined. However, by remaining as an active working operation on the wharf it contributes to the significance of boat building/ship repair part of traditional operations of the port thus to the overall significance of Victoria Quay.
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EXISTING STRUCTURES AT VICTORIA QUAY
STRUCTURE NUMBER 5
BOOM DEFENCE JETTY
HISTORY
The Boom Defence Jetty was constructed as part of the boom defence system built across the entrance to the inner harbour. Work on this defence system had started prior to the outbreak of the Second World War and was completed in December 1939. Post-war uses of this jetty have not yet been determined.
Its construction is basically a timber structure supported on concrete piles thus preventing timber from being in contact with the water.
ASSESSMENT OF CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
Significance of this structure can be seen in terms of it being physical evidence of Victoria Quay being used by the Navy (and US Navy) during the Second World War and as such adds to the intensity of all other historic themes and their physical evidence in the area. It is recommended that full historical research should be completed before the significance of jetty and other surviving Navy structures can be fully determined.
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EXISTING STRUCTURES AT VICTORIA QUAY
STRUCTURE NUMBER 6
C. Y. O'CONNOR MEMORIAL
HISTORY
The C. Y. O'Connor Memorial was unveiled on 23 June 1911. It was designed and sculptured by P. G. Porcelli following a competition for the memorial of which seventeen designs were submitted.
P. G. Porcelli, born in Italy in 1872, was a popular sculptor and was responsible for many public sculptures and memorials throughout the state.
The bronze statue of O' Connor is 10 feet 6 inches in height and has been set on a rising foundation of two feet of concrete, and a pedestal of Western Australian granite, 20 feet high. Four bronze dolphins are designed around the base of the plinth and bronze panels illustrate the engineer's greatest achievements and inscription.
The original location of the memorial was in front of the Harbour Trust Offices as shown on drawing PWD 17630, 1914, however it was later relocated to in front of the 'new' immigration office, near the steps to the Market Street footbridge, in c. 1920. It was then relocated again to be in front of the new FPA Administration Building in 1973/74.
ASSESSMENT OF CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
This statue, erected in memory of the designer of Victoria Quay, is a very significant item on the wharf regardless of the fact that it has been relocated on two previous occasions. It is a fine, well crafted conventional piece of sculpture and represents one of the more major projects by the sculptor, P. G. Porcelli and, as such, remains as an appropriately honourable monument to the brilliant engineer C. Y. O' Connor.
The statue adds an unusual, artistic quality to the industrial townscape of victoria Quay and as such it reinforces the area's identity and its sense of place.
These qualities are partly diminished by the present location of the moment. Close proximity to an overscaled Port Administration Building dwarfs the statue and reduces its potential prominence.
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FIG. 5 KEY TO IDENTFIABLE HERITAGE SITES AT VICTORIA QUAY.
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SIGNIFICANT SITES OF VICTORIA QUAY
ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE NO. I
HISTORY
This is the site of the former railway goods sheds, railway station and port offices at the north end of Cliff Street and Mouat Street.
The former railway goods sheds - one for inward bound and a slightly larger one for outward bound goods - were constructed circa 1903 and were still being used up to the 1960s.
The Harbour Trust Office constructed around the turn of the century was also used up until the 'rationalisation' of port operations and the construction of the Fremantle Port Authority Building in the mid 60s, which necessitated its demolition. The State Shipping Office, constructed circa 1920, was later used by the Fremantle Port Authority and was also demolished for the purpose of constructing the Fremantle Port Authority Building.
This area also includes the former site of the North Jetty that existed at the north end of Cliff Street. Built in 1853 as the main river jetty, it was constructed on the same alignment as Cliff Street and served shipping in the Swan River. It was removed during the earthworks and construction of Victoria Quay in 1896-7. However, it is possible that some physical evidence of this historic structure remains under the superstructure of Victoria Quay.
ASSESSMENT OF CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
Without exploratory archaeological investigations it is difficult to determine if any remains of the original structures survive under the existing ground surface. This is however considered unlikely thus the potential of the area as a resourceful archaeological site is very limited. This is due to two factors:
• The majority of original structures were of timber construction thus they had no substantial footings.
• New developments which subsequently have occurred on the site involved large scale earthworks. It is inevitable that such works have removed all the original soil and its deposits.
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The first Railway Station has been replaced by Custom House and a number of shipping company buildings. The northern end of Cliff Street and the site of the former North Jetty have been completely transformed. Firstly, by the reclamation works associated with the construction of the Inner Harbour. Secondly, by the construction of the eight storey, 1966 port administration building. There is very little chance that any archaeological relics would have survived such a massive earthworks.
However, final determination of the potential scientific value of the site should be confirmed by the exploratory archaeological investigations.
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SIGNIFICANT SITES AT VICTORIA QUAY
ARCHAEOLOGICAL AREA NO. 2
HISTORY
This area at the west end of Victoria Quay would appear to have been a strategically important area throughout the history of Victoria Quay. As illustrated in Figure 5, many buildings previously existed in this area to the ones that remain today and many uses and port related activities took place here.
The original, and smaller, A Shed and B Shed were constructed within this area together with pilots quarters, shipping offices, lumpers shelters, and a wide range of related workshops and stores.
It would appear that buildings were constructed, altered or demolished on a relatively large scale as the needs of port related accommodation changed. Historical research would suggest that these buildings would have been 'lightweight' in construction using materials such as timber, corrugated iron and later, asbestos, all of which are quick to erect and recyclable.
Many of these buildings were demolished after the Second World War and up to the mid 1960s when port 'rationalisation' occurred and mechanisation of port activities replaced a large section of manual labour. Some buildings, or parts of buildings remained and were upgraded to facilitate this mechanisation.
ASSESSMENT OF CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
The site was extensively used in the first phases of the Inner Harbour operations. There is a high probability that archaeological remains of original buildings and relics still survive underground. The structures and hard surfaces which have replaced them did not require major earthworks and might have been simply built on the top of any underground parts of the former buildings and sites.
Any surviving physical evidence of the first workshops and stores, early shipping offices and the original Pilots Cottages is important in demonstrating the function of the 19th Century port based predominantly on manual labour. This potential information would add to the wider understanding of the history of the port, and the site is therefore of heritage significance.
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SIGNIFICANT SITES AT VICTORIA QUAY
NO. 3 - SLIP STREET
HISTORY
The development of Slip Street has been gradual and constant throughout the history of Victoria Quay with a more rapid period of development following the Second World War. Its alignment follows the original railway track that extended from the shunting yard down to South Mole, which formed part of the original planning of Victoria Quay in 1896. Over time, workshops, stores and commercial buildings were constructed along this track taking advantage of this mode of transportation.
By c. 1940 the railway track had been replaced by a road (the track may still exist under road) and after the Second World War Slip Street became the centre for all the port related workshops and stores.
It is likely that Slip Street was used during the war by the Navy and the boom defence operations, the buildings associated with this being located adjacent to Slip Street.
The workshops that were erected and extended after the war were responding to the mechanisation of the port, and are still in use today.
It is worth noting that the construction of these buildings occurred at different times and yet were often built adjoining each other.
ASSESSMENT OF CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
Slip Street forms a unique part of Victoria Quay's heritage precinct as it forms a distinctive and attractive streetscape; very urban elements in an otherwise utilitarian environment of the Inner Harbour. The close proximity and compactness of the buildings contributes to this perception, while at the same time indicates the intensity in which this area is (and has been) used for port related activities. The majority of buildings which form this space have a distinguished character and this is discussed separately in this chapter. The richness and density of buildings which form the streetscape of Slip Street create a setting of a landmark quality which extends to the northern frontage of Fleet Street. The Slip Street setting enhances views from the Arthur Head historic site; from Phillimore Street and from other vantage points of Fremantle and the sea. This group of buildings can be seen as a familiar reference point, a visual manifestation of the distinct townscape of the port located at the strategic location on the foreshore.
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As a site almost entirely redeveloped within a decade after the Second World War Slip Street provides physical evidence of the significant stage in a development of the Inner Harbour when it changed its operations from predominantly manual labour to almost fully mechanised. This can be seen as the final transformation of Slip Street that has adapted to the needs of the port since it was constructed in 1897. In this light, Slip Street can be seen as a microcosm of port activities which has evolved as a continuum throughout the history of Victoria Quay. These qualities determine Slip Street as being of significant heritage value.
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REFERENCES AND SOURCES USED IN COMPILING ASSESSMENTS OF CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES ON VICTORIA QUAY
DOCUMENTS
1. History of the Port of Fremantle - David Hutchison.
2. Report of the Fremantle Harbour Trust Commissioners Fremantle Port Authority.
3. Report on Buildings in the Inner Harbour - L. Stevens, Fremantle Local History Library.
DRAWINGS
1. PWD 26519 dated 1928.
2. FHT ARP Plan of Essential Services dated 1941.
3. PWD 13017 revision 22.2.1913
4. Port of Fremantle FHT CM23-5 dated 1961
5. PWD 17630 Revision 30. 4. 1914
6. Commonwealth of Australia WA/C 3990 drawn cl942/43
7. PWD 17630 Revision August 1920
8. PWD 9421 Revision 16. 9. 1902
9. PWD 6409 dated 1898
10. PWD 17630 Revision 30. 6. 1916
11. City of Fremantle Town Planning Scheme No. 3
MISCELLANEOUS
1. Research of Wharf Buildings - Jack Kent, Architect.
2. Aerial Photographic Collection - Planning Division, Fremantle City Council.
3. Fremantle Port Authority Magazine, from 1959.
This page incorporates material from Garry Gillard's Freotopia website, that he started in 2014 and the contents of which he donated to Wikimedia Australia in 2024. The content was originally created on 16 November, 2022 and hosted at freotopia.org/books/kent1991.html (it was last updated on 20 April, 2024). The donated data is also preserved in the Internet Archive's collection.