6 minute read
TIME TRAVELLING
EDENVALE HERITAGE PRECINCT
& PINJARRA HERITAGE WALK TRAIL
ENTER EDENVALE HERITAGE PRECINT AND FIND YOURSELF IN A CULTURAL AND CREATIVE HUB OF ACTIVITY THAT TAKES YOU ON A JOURNEY BACK IN TIME.
BY BROOKE EVANS
first establishing itself in Pinjarra in 1974. Browse the handcrafted gifts and eclectic treasures created by a variety of uniquely talented artisans in its retail store.
Time travelling
Adorning the main street of Pinjarra, Edenvale Heritage Precinct is a heritage, arts and cultural landmark, a fun and creative place living its history through storytelling, exhibitions and with a focus on keeping traditions alive.
The precinct is rich in cultural activity, featuring regular markets, twilight markets in summer, and the annual Pinjarra Festival run over the June long weekend. It is dog friendly and a vibrant space for the kids to run and the whole family to explore, while marvelling at a time gone by. Discover it’s various creative and cultural attractions in one action-packed afternoon, before wandering it’s Heritage Walk Trail for a trip back in time.
Edenvale Homestead
Once home to Western Australia’s 17th Premier, Sir Duncan Ross McLarty, the historic Edenvale Homestead was built in 1888, as a grand residence for Pinjarra’s Edward McLarty and his family. Edward McLarty had strong agricultural and political roots in the area. He was an influential member of the Murray Roads Board for nearly 40 years and also held a seat in the Legislative Council for 22 years. His son, Sir Duncan Ross McLarty, followed his father into politics, and held a seat in the Legislative Assembly before becoming Premier of the State of WA from 1947 – 1953.
Today, this elegant, Victorian style homestead forms the heart of The Village at Edenvale Heritage Precinct – a place where Pinjarra’s history, art and culture is celebrated.
Edenvale Heritage Tea Rooms
Set in the award-winning heritage-listed homestead, the café oozes century old charm and offers a number of spots to pause and relax. Enjoy a wholesome lunch in the old dining room, or indulge in scones and a traditional Devonshire tea on the veranda overlooking the Precinct gardens.
Murray Districts Historical Society
Take a walk down memory lane and learn more about the history of the precinct and the Murray region when observing what exhibition is currently on display. The hardworking volunteers of the historical society collect, record, preserve and promote local history and are continually updating heritage displays and exhibition rooms within the Edenvale Homestead.
Pinjarra Arts Hub
The arts have a long time been part of the fabric of Pinjarra and the Precinct with the Murray District Arts and Crafts Society
Liveringa Art Gallery
Lovers of art will enjoy perusing exquisite, ever-changing art displays in the halls of Liveringa Art Gallery – the oldest building within the Precinct. From contemporary to traditional art approaches, Liveringa regularly hosts exhibitions and often runs its Artist in Residency program, supporting local makers within the art sector.
Pinjarra Patchwork and Quilters
Drop in and observe some quilting mastery at the impressive Old School house, located across Henry Street next to the historical society. Members are always keen to welcome you in their space and tell you about the pieces that they are working on. Take home intricate quilts and other handmade goodies available for purchase.
Roger May Machinery Museum
Be amazed by lovingly restored classic machinery – with most still operational, explore an endless display of vintage bits and pieces. The kids will love the vintage tricycles, bicycles and model train from yesteryear and Grannie’s room in the corner of the museum, housing the original laundry of the Edenvale Homestead and vintage kitchenalia.
The Edenvale Heritage Precinct is a much-loved community village, a treasure trove of interesting things and beautifully preserved heritage buildings and provides something for everyone to share and enjoy.
For more information scan the QR code or go to edenvaleheritageprecinct.com.au
Pinjarra Heritage Walk Trail
Take in the rich history and impressive architecture of Pinjarra along the Heritage Trail, an easy 1.3 kilometre walk through the centre of town. Starting and ending at Edenvale Heritage Precinct, the interactive walk takes you past 19 historic locations that had an impact in Pinjarra’s early settlement. As you make your way through the stops, you’ll see it isn’t just about Pinjarra’s history – with a number of sites forming the town’s vibrant new life. Some of the highlights include:
The Court House
The current Court House building dates back to 1935 (the first Court House was built in 1864 and demolished in the mid-1920s due to the building’s state of disrepair). If the Court House walls could talk, they would tell the tales of many petty crimes, and likely fishing offences. The building was closed as a court house back in 2002 and is now used as a collaborative working space, including ‘The Makers Residence’ for creatives to make and sell locally-made items.
The Post Office
The Post Office, built in 1896, was designed by renowned Colonial Architect George Temple-Poole. The Meckering Earthquake of 1968 caused extensive structural damage to the second storey, forcing the level to be rebuilt years later. This historic building and town centre piece still takes pride in place today.
Suspension Bridge
The Suspension Bridge, which goes across the Murray River, is a relatively new addition to the historic town, having been built by the army is in 1985, with an upgrade completed in 2022. It has become a popular tourist attraction and is a great vantage point to view the Murray River.
Exchange Hotel
The Exchange Hotel, built c. 1866, is one of the oldest hotels in Western Australia. An impressive building originally constructed as a dwelling for Dr. Bedingfeld before being converted to a hotel in 1871. A redevelopment expected to be completed by 2024 is set to bring new life to the historic hotel, with contemporary dining, a providore exchange and multipurpose event space. For more information on this development go to: theexchangehotelpinjarra.com.au
St John’s Church
The charming 1860s church boasts stunning architectural elements such as leadlight windows and archways with rich wooden features, and is considered the fifth oldest church in Western Australia. Consecrated in 1863 by Bishop Hale, the building had to withstand disasters, including a fire in 1901, floods, and the Meckering earthquake. In 2019 the church was deconsecrated, and now acts as an event space, offering locals and visitors alike a unique and beautiful venue for their special occasion.
pinjarra HERITAGE walk TRAIL
1 Edenvale Homestead
2 Gilmour’s Garage 3 Copper Kettle 4 Mechanics’ Hall
5 Trinity Church 6 Roads Board Office
7 Court House
8 Post Office
9 Suspension Bridge 10 Exchange Hotel 11 Taylor’s Store 12 Miss Adam’s House
13 Cantwell Park
14 The Weir
15 Traffic Bridge 16 St John’s Church
17 Old Rectory 18 Glebe Land
19 Murray River
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