Special Report: Looking back over 125 years

First published in 1888, the South Western Times this year celebrates its 125th anniversary. In a series of special reports, The Times delves into its archive to bring readers some of the biggest stories, pictures and people of the past . . .

The evolution of a main street

The ever-changing Victoria Street has drawn people into the heart of Bunbury for more than a century.

As these pictures from 1936 and 1992 show there have been some dramatic changes to the city’s main drag since the early 1900s.

One major change is the alteration to the Rose Hotel’s facade.

According to Rose Hotel owner John Drinkwater, the establishment lost its second-level balcony in 1963 because of its age and lack of use.

Another change is the removal of the spire, the pointed structure atop the Hands Building, now occupied by G.J. Gardner Homes.

In the same area cafes and restaurants have taken residence – adding a cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Victoria Street has been the life of the party throughout the years, having played host to a number of colourful street festivals, market evenings, parades, New Year’s Eve and end of war celebrations.

Sadly though, the street has not always been a joyful place to be.

Following cyclone Alby in 1978, the street became a mess with the building materials from Haydar House blown everywhere and in November 2000, tourists and customers were forced to hide in shops as a lone gunman threatened people’s lives and fired shots out of the Sportsmarine shop.

To this day, the street continues to attract people and with this month’s upgrades alfresco dining has now been made possible.

The parking bays have been replaced with an extension to the sidewalk pavement to allow restaurants and cafes additional space, among the trees, for their customers to enjoy their meals or coffee.

Over the past few years there has been a call to do away with the road entirely and turn that section of street into a mall so people may walk the area as they once did.

It seems certain Victoria Street will continue to evolve.

Later this year, the South Western Times will publish a special publication to celebrate 125 years of reporting the news. More details as they are available.