The City of Rockingham's efforts in contributing to heritage across the community were formally recognised at the 2021 Western Australian Heritage Awards, with the City crowned as the winner in the Contribution by a Public Organisation category.
Held at the Art Gallery of WA on Friday 19 November 2021, the awards shone a light on the exemplary work being done within the heritage sector by volunteers, heritage professionals, local governments, and community groups as well as public and private organisations.
The City received the award from the Heritage Council of Western Australia for extensive heritage focused efforts in the community, which are guided by the City’s Heritage Strategy 2020 – 2025. The award was presented to the City by Heritage Minister David Templeman and Heritage Council Chair John Cowdell AM.
In winning the award, the City was commended for protecting and celebrating the unique cultural heritage and stunning environment of the region to facilitate an inclusive and contemporary community.
The judges also noted that the award winning Rockingham Beach Foreshore Revitalisation had led to a better appreciation and recognition of heritage values in the community.
City of Rockingham Mayor Deb Hamblin said the award was a testament to the collaborative efforts the City had engaged in with several community groups to deliver heritage related projects.
“The City is a community that is proud of its Aboriginal, European, natural and maritime heritage – and we are thrilled to receive this level of recognition from the Western Australian Heritage Council,” Mayor Hamblin said.
“The Heritage Strategy 2020-2025 has been integral to the City fulfilling its strategic aspiration of planning for future generations. It is particularly pleasing to see how well received the Rockingham Beach Foreshore Revitalisation has been in relation to boosting heritage values.”
Other significant projects contributing to the City’s recognition at the awards include the restoration of the historic abattoir roof and walls in Hillman, the installation of the Houtman and Dedel Commemorative Plaque at St Ives Cove in Warnbro, the Founders’ Memorial 2019, and the City’s support for the replica 155mm M1917/18 Gun at Point Peron.
“We have focused on working closely with groups including the Rockingham District Historical Society (via the City’s Heritage Reference Group) and the Batavia Coast Maritime Heritage Association. “Through the Point Peron Rehabilitation Committee we have also worked with the Rotary Club of Palm Beach, Royal Australian Artillery History Association (WA), Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions and the South West Group to help deliver these important projects. This award also recognises their outstanding efforts in celebrating the City’s heritage values and stories for existing and future generations.”
The City would also like to recognise the contribution of Stephen Carrick, from Stephen Carrick Architects for his role as the City's Heritage Advisor and for his expertise and guidance on the City's heritage projects.
2021 Western Australian Heritage Award Winnersopens in a new windowopens in a new windowopens in a new windowopens in a new windowopens in a new windowopens in a new window
Image: Mike Ross (centre - City of Rockingham Manager Statutory Planning) collected the award on behalf of the City from Heritage Minister David Templeman (left) and Heritage Council Chair John Cowdell AM (right). Picture: Courtesy Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage.