Historic zoo and pub recognised in 2025 WA Heritage Awards

The winners of the 2025 Western Australian Heritage Awards have been announced, recognising projects that demonstrate excellence in protecting and reimagining the state's diverse heritage.

Heritage Minister Simone McGurk commented, "The awards highlight the dedication, creativity and passion of those who protect and promote Western Australia's heritage … This year's winners remind us that heritage is not only about preservation, it's about connection, community, and pride of place."

Chair of the Heritage Council of WA Darren Foster added, "Each winner demonstrates how thoughtful conservation and interpretation can make our history accessible and meaningful."

In the Conservation or Adaptive Reuse of a Local Heritage Place category, Perth Zoo (Gibbon Enclosure) was named the winner. Led by a collaborative team, including architects Hassell and Iredale Pedersen Hook with Urbis as heritage architect and interpretation consultant, the project involved a new primate crossing and gibbon enclosure along with the conservation and interpretation of historic structures at the zoo, which is formally recognised on the City of South Perth's Heritage List.

The state government's website notes, "This project underscores the importance of conserving heritage buildings not only for their architectural value but for the stories they carry and the community connections they foster. Through thoughtful design and inclusive interpretation, the adapted structures now serve as engaging educational spaces celebrating the zoo's legacy."

The Gerry Gauntlet Award for the Conservation or Adaptive Reuse of a State Registered Place was won by owner Locals Co, with architects Hocking Heritage and Architecture, engineer Quoin Consulting and builder Colgan Industries, for the restoration of the Rose Hotel and Sample Room in Bunbury. According to the state government's website, "Extensive conservation works stabilised and revitalised the building's historic facade, verandah and masonry … [and] revealed long-hidden details such as ghost signage and cast-iron columns, reconnecting the public with the building's rich past."

Following the upgrades to the building's waterproofing, structure and accessibility, "the restored hotel continues to serve as a vibrant gathering place, fostering local pride and economic activity in Bunbury's city centre," the website reads.

A verandah conservation project at Success Hill Lodge, Bassendean, with works by Stephen Carrick Architects (SCA), was commended in the Conservation or Adaptive Reuse of a State Registered Place category.

The other category winners can be viewed online.