Mary Lindsay Homestead could be redeveloped as arts hub by end of 2017

REDEVELOPMENT designs for the Mary Lindsay Homestead in Yanchep could see it become an arts and culture hub by the end of 2017.

The City of Wanneroo is finalising plans, designed by Hocking Heritage Studio, to redevelop the boarded up structure on Capricorn Esplanade.

It stands on land bought by Mary Lindsay in 1926, about 9307ha that became known as Yanchep Estate.

Her family lived in a tent while the Bunning Brothers built the timber-framed homestead north of Brazier Road and west of Two Rocks Road.

At the Two Rocks Yanchep Culture and Arts Network (TRYCAN) meeting on September 21, the City’s cultural services co-ordinator Alia Parker showed members draft plans that were subject to some minor “tweaks”

“The front door has been made a bit wider so it’s easier for people in a wheelchair to access the building,” she said.

With almost $1.2 million allocated in this year’s budget, Ms Parker said the project had recently gone out for tender and a report on the tender submissions would be presented to the council next February.

She said works should finish in October 2017 and “all being well” the centre would be functioning by the end of next year.

“The City recognises the historical value of the home and the story of Mary Lindsay,” she said

“There’s been a lot of consultation about the plans and how the space is going to be used.

“We’ve managed to come up with a plan that’s really workable for the community.

“It’s going to be a really beautiful working space.

“We have the capacity to showcase your work as well.”

Incoming TRYCAN chair Pam Annesley said committee members attended all the redevelopment meetings with the City.

“What we’ve come up with and the City of Wanneroo is the best that we could envisage, the Mary Lindsay as a cultural centre with an art bias,” she said.

“If there’s an exhibition, there’s concertina doors that could be pushed back.

“The history of the Mary Lindsay Homestead is there for future generations.

“It’s going to be really good for the community.”

Ms Annesley said the project followed in late developer Russel Perry’s footsteps, as he had aimed to see the redevelopment come to fruition and helped set up TRYCAN several years ago.

Asked about storage space, Ms Parker said there would be cupboards above and below the sinks, and the wet area would include a deep sink to wash silk screens and other big items.

Residents also asked about wheelchair access from Capricorn Esplanade, with the plans depicting steps along paths.

TRYCAN vice chair Angie Beck said the location meant the building could be used for louder arts workshops, such as drumming and choir practice.

Ms Parker said school groups would be able to visit the centre as well, so students could learn about the history of the area, or take part in workshops.