04/11/2024
Another project delivered on time and on budget👌
SJC Building Group
The South Perth Road Board was first formed in 1892. Meetings were held in rooms rented in the new (1889) Mechanics’ Institute building, now The Old Mill Theatre. In 1903 a decision was made to build offices for the Road Board and plans were drawn up by local architect and Council Surveyor, Duncan Inverarity.
The successful tenderer was local builder, Fred Stidworthy who built Stidworthy House c1900, now Sopranos Restaurant, as residence and tearooms for his family. He was a first class stone mason who was also commissioned to design and construct stone work at the Zoological Gardens and the Perth Museum.
The first meeting at the new South Perth Road Board building was held on 17 November 1904.
In March 1914, South Perth Road Board decided to install a strong room. After careful research, the services of a Perth safe maker Bela Makutz were sought. Makutz, an Hungarian migrant, operated a steel fabrication works in Coolgardie Street, East Perth. Bennett Brothers won the tender for the construction of the strong room and Makutz supplied the door. The cost of the installation was 44 pounds, 7 shillings and sixpence.
Minor renovations were carried out to the building by GB Puttlich & Son during WWI. When the offices became crowded, two additional rooms were added at the rear of the building in 1937.
In 1989, the South Perth Historical Society was formed, and a decision was made by the City of South Perth to resume the Old Council Offices so they could be used as a centre for historical research by the local community. Extensive repairs were subsequently carried out, and on 7 June 1992, the 'Old Council Offices' were rededicated as 'South Perth Heritage House'. While still owned and maintained by the City of South Perth, this fabulous beautiful building has been home to the City of South Perth Historical Society for many years.