THE Albanese government has allocated funding to protect and conserve one of Australia’s most significant industrial heritage sites, the No 1 Pump Station in Minderinjy at the foot of Mundaring Weir.

The pump station is significant as it is the first of eight steam-powered stations that pumped water from the Perth Hills 560 km inland to the Kalgoorlie Goldfields – an internationally recognised engineering feat.

Under Round 8 of the Australian Heritage Grants program, the National Trust of Australia (WA) is receiving $41,800 to address urgent conservation issues for the historic building, guided by an updated conservation management plan, so visitors can continue to access the site and appreciate its heritage values.

The funding forms part of the Albanese government’s ongoing commitment to protect, repair and manage Australia’s nationally significant heritage places.

Australia is home to 126 outstanding Indigenous, natural and historic sites on the national heritage list, and the government is working with communities across the country to preserve these places for future generations and ensure the stories they tell continue to be shared.

Bullwinkel MP Trish Cook said the pump station was a hidden gem of history right here in Bullwinkel.

“This funding is warmly welcomed by our community, who embrace the unique heritage of the Mundaring Weir,” she said.

“Every day, families and visitors come to Mundaring Weir to connect with our history. This investment from the Albanese government ensures the pump station remains a safe, vibrant and accessible place where people can continue to learn about the incredible stories that shaped our region.”