Media release
Thanks to Lotterywest, and a generous donor, some much needed conservation works will be happening at Woodbridge.
While the National Trust of Western Australia will be closing the historic house from 1 July 2019 for these major works, the grounds and Riverside at Woodbridge café will remain open.
The National Trust’s conservation staff have prioritised external conservation works that will include structural remediation, brick repointing and repairs to the large entry tower, gables and chimneys. Universal access has been considered with an upgrade to the existing ramp to allow wheelchair entry into the house.
To ensure the building is continually protected from the weather, drainage works will be undertaken, including rainwater, joinery and roof repairs. Internal plaster repairs will prepare the Billiard room, entry hallway and first floor corridors for a new paint scheme, in line with an updated interpretive approach for the place.
“With all this work going on, it is a great opportunity to review our approach to our collections on display,” said National Trust CEO, Julian Donaldson. “Lotterywest funding has also allowed us to engage the services of a conservator who is preparing an approach to the care of collections at all of our places. Woodbridge is providing her with the chance to do some important monitoring while the house is closed and the rooms locked.”
Future works will also include the coach house which currently houses Riverside at Woodbridge café. It’s a good time to review the way the café works and to update the facilities and the offering. “We are excited to be seeking Expressions of Interest (EOI) for an experienced operator to deliver an outstanding and unique food and beverage offering in a redeveloped café”, Mr Donaldson added. “It’s a beautiful riverside location on the grounds of a unique heritage attraction. The option to lease and adapt an adjacent contemporary cottage also provides additional business opportunities.”
The Trust will continue to share news of important work as it takes place at this significant site. We encourage everyone to continue to enjoy the onsite café and the gardens, which will remain open, and see the progress take place firsthand. We look forward to welcoming you all back later this year.
For further information, please contact:
Anne Brake, Senior Manager, Marketing and Community Services
anne.brake@ntwa.com.au
(08) 9321 6088
