The National Trust of Western Australia will re-open the doors to No 1 Pump Station at Minderinjy on Whadjuk Nyoongar Country from Saturday, 19 October to mark National Water Week.
Now that the pumping station’s iconic chimney at the foot of Mundaring Weir has been repaired, we are happy to welcome visitors back and we are also marking the start of National Water Week.
Metal strapping at the top of the 46-metre high brick chimney had deteriorated and broken posing a health and safety risk. The site has been closed since August last year and all visitation to the area restricted. High level work using a crane included removing the deteriorated and loose metal belts, followed with masonry conservation and treatment to the metal elements at the top of the chimney.
“We’re still uncovering new information. During the conservation period, the National Trust discovered the chimney is higher than previously thought. We had to bring in a second crane with a higher lift” Julian Donaldson, the National Trust CEO said.
On Saturday, 19 October 2024, people with connections to the pipeline are invited to bring their own picnics to catch up with each other and share their stories. Many people have connections to the pipeline such as working on the scheme or childhood memories of living at the remote pumping stations. Kalamunda Community Radio will be broadcasting live interviews in No 1 Pump Station with those willing to share their stories.
No 1 Pump Station at Minderinjy will be open for visits from 12pm – 4pm Sunday, 20 October 2024.
The No 1 Pump Station will re-open to the public, kicking off with free ticket entry on Sunday, 20 October, the beginning of National Water Week.
National Water Week occurs in Australia during the third week of October. According to Mr Donaldson, “there’s no better opportunity to understand the value of water than by visiting No 1 Pump Station’s exhibit on the remarkable scheme that supplies water to Western Australia’s arid eastern goldfields.”
On Sunday, families are invited to discover information about CY O’Connor’s engineering masterpiece as well as curious details such as why the chimney is not in line with the pumping station.
National Water Week
National Water Week makes a splash across Australia each year by inspiring communities and organisations to work together on water issues and future fixes. National Water Week reminds everyone that water must be used wisely – and celebrates water innovation and achievements supporting Australia’s sustainable future.
Australian Water Association encourages individuals, communities, schools and organisations to be inspired to promote the importance of water | 21-27 October 2024.