OUR HERITAGE AT RISK -  AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY - 2008

Place:    Yarralumla Brickworks
Threat:  Deterioration and Devaluation of Heritage Values

Significance:

Operational from 1913 to 1976, the brickworks is of historical value as the first industrial manufacturing facility in the ACT, and for its integral role in providing base material used in the construction of the early buildings in the National Capital.  The several different kiln types are of considerable technical value and rarity. The industrial site in its woodland setting, and particularly the brick chimney (S3), Kilns, and quarry, has considerable aesthetic qualities.

Operating as a brickworks from 1913 to 1976, Yarralumla Brickworks is significant as a representative example of a large urban brickworks. Yarralumla Brickworks is significant as one of three initial industrial and service complexes built to facilitate Canberra's construction, the Brickworks provides a tangible evidence of the city's construction.

The Brickworks are significant for the presence in the one location of a number of different kiln types: Staffordshire, Hardy-Patent and Downdraft kilns. Consequently presenting a wide range of firing processes, which are readily comprehensible. The kilns, together with the ancillary brickworks buildings, are important in demonstrating the changing processes of brick and clay production. The Staffordshire kiln was the first of its kind to be used in Australia and is believed to be the only surviving example of this kiln type in Australia.  The Yarralumla Brickworks are significant as one of the few remaining examples of a large urban brickworks, which are becoming increasingly rare both nationally and internationally.

Yarralumla Brickworks

Canberra Brickworks

Statement of Risk:

The brickworks ceased operation in 1976 and since then the kilns and infrastructure have not been used for their original purposes.  Lack of regular maintenance and wilful neglect of the structures by successive government bodies over the years has led to a continual deterioration of the entire fabric of the place.  The ACT Government has called for tenders to develop a management plan for the site, including the brickwork buildings.  The government is considering allowing the selected tenderer to produce a conservation and management plan in accordance with their proposed plan of development, rather than commission an independent heritage assessment and conservation management plan.

Degree of Risk:       Imminent risk - no solution agreed

Threats/Risks:        Deterioration

Fate/outcome          Suffering

Desired Outcome / Vision:

The damaged fabric elements repaired in accordance with their stated heritage values and conservation objectives and regular maintenance be undertaken.  The place be made available for appropriate occupancy and use. 

Bibliography

Lester Firth Associates Pty Ltd 1986 'Old CanberraBrickworks Conservation Plan'
ACT Heritage Council, Citation for Yarralumla Brickworks, Yarralumla