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 day the silos came down

Bunbury set a national precedent for big-scale demolitions in 1992 when the eight grey Marlston Hill silo towers were blasted away.

The dramatic demolition, which required 350 kilograms of explosives, was one of the first of its kind and the biggest in Australia.

Demolition company Hi Tec said the demolition was not permitted in other States at the time and had to seek insurance off-shore.

The insurance was signed a week before demolition from US broker and England-based insurer Generali for $5 million.

A crowd of almost 20,000 curious and excited people turned out to see the event.

They sat on rooftops, on the jetty and lined up along the north shore.

Bunbury Mayor David Smith said he was a minister for the South West and Peel regions at the time when the decision was made to change the whole structure of what is now Marlston Hill.

The decision resulted in the removal of the sewage farm, BP fuel tanks, old lighthouse, Millers timber yard and rail connection, as well as the silos.

Heritage lobbyists wanted all 12 silo bins to remain but instead settled for just the four white silos.

Today, those remaining silos are stylishly refurbished apartments beside the Mantra Bunbury.

Mr Smith said at the time he did not believe the silos would become what they are today.

“I’m impressed by what’s here but I would never have thought anyone could convert the silos into apartments,” he said.

According to Mr Smith, the port redevelopment began in the late 1980s and initially involved an array of plans such as widening the groyne to the old jetty and building channels on the Koombana Bay side for residential purposes.

There was also a plan for residential development off Casurina Drive, on the inside of the Breakwater groyne.

Mr Smith said that work was originally allocated $45 million but it had been reduced to $25 million.

The Koombana North and Marlston North projects are set to finish in the next few years and should generate a hub of life with an influx of residential properties, restaurants and cafes and recreation areas.

Mr Smith said that once the project was finished the council would look to further establish the groyne and Koombana Bay.

“There are suggestions for a marina, but the first marina should be built for the sailing and powerboat clubs,” he said.

“In five years the development should be completed to create a thriving hub.”