City of Bunbury and Shire of Collie nominated for outstanding contribution to preserving heritage

Two South West councils have been recognised for their ongoing commitment to preserving their respective town’s history and culture at a State level.

The City of Bunbury and the Shire of Collie have both been named finalists in the midst of a strong field of nominees for the 2022 Western Australian Heritage awards.

The WA Heritage Awards recognise the outstanding commitment and contribution to heritage conservation, adaptive reuse, interpretation, tourism and promotion within the State.

Both councils have been nominated for the Contribution by a Public or Private Organisation award.

The City of Bunbury was nominated for its continued contribution to the protection and celebration of heritage across the community through collaborative efforts between owners, community groups and officers.

As a custodian of 10 heritage-listed properties, the City has been acknowledged for demonstrating best practice in promotion, preservation, restoration, interpretation and reuse of its heritage places, as well as rallying with the community to deliver programs and events through new and inventive ways to share stories and to bring heritage to life.

City of Bunbury Mayor Jaysen Miguel said the City was “honoured and proud” to be named a finalist in a space it was committed to celebrating and protecting.

“This is an acknowledgement of the collaborative efforts of our residents, City staff, our traditional landowners and community groups,” he said.

“The City is proud to continue to protect, promote and share stories of Bunbury’s cultural heritage, in particular our strong Wardandi Noongar culture.”

The Shire of Collie was nominated for its Just Transition program, which has seen the enhancement of heritage buildings, heritage interpretation of coal mining, a new heritage trail, enhancements along Throssell Street and new cultural heritage murals which form part of the town’s wider objective to revamp the reputation of Collie as a destination of choice.

Along with celebrating the 125th anniversary of its gazettal, the Shire of Collie works with a range of community groups to preserve historic sites and buildings that illustrate the town’s history and culture.

Shire of Collie president Sarah Stanley said the Shire was “extremely proud” to receive the recognition for its collaborative efforts in celebrating the town’s history and sharing it with others.

“The refurbished Throssell Street is now a particular source of pride, along with our mural and heritage trails that tell the stories of our past so beautifully,” she said.

“We look forward to continuing to partner with government, local volunteers and heritage experts as we plan our next phase of exciting projects.”

Winners of the 2022 WA Heritage awards will be announced on November 25 at the WA Museum Boola Bardip.