Yarloop Workshops receive carriage-load of attention as site prepares for major reconstruction

Destroyed in the 2016 Yarloop-Waroona bushfires, the famed Yarloop Workshops are receiving a carriage-load of attention as the site prepares for some major reconstruction. The sod was freshly turned at the end of January and Heritage Minister David Templeman visited the site last month after the project received $20,000 from the State Government’s Community Heritage Grant program. The grant aims to celebrate the stories of State-registered heritage buildings, with the funds being put towards the development of an interpretation plan. Mr Templeman said it was important to protect the area’s history. “I’m thrilled about the Community Heritage Grant for Yarloop Workshops. This will help preserve and promote important memories and milestones in our area,” he said. “It is so important that we protect the history of our area. These sites and stories have played special roles in the growth and development of our community.” The reconstruction and restoration of the Yarloop Workshops is set to include a Men’s Shed, site landscaping and adjustments to surrounding waterways. It will be held in three stages that focus on community development, tourism and incorporating the Workshop’s rich history. The first stage is expected to be completed by the end of this year.