Published on Tuesday, 3 December 2024 at 1:09:17 PM
The Shire of Murray has been recognised at the coveted Western Australian Heritage Awards, winning the category of Adaptive Reuse of a Local Heritage Place for the newly opened Exchange Hotel, Pinjarra.
The awards have acknowledged and celebrated the Shire’s outstanding commitment and contribution to heritage conservation, adaptive reuse, interpretation, tourism and promotion in Western Australia.
Shire President, David Bolt, said it is wonderful for the Shire to receive such an honour alongside Exchange Hotel Operators and Hunt Architects.
“I’d like to thank everyone involved in making the redevelopment of the Exchange Hotel a reality,” said Mr Bolt.
“The project has not only restored the Hotel’s physical fabric, but also revitalised its role in the community as a focal point in the town centre while creating an iconic regional contemporary hospitality destination that celebrates its heritage and encourages tourism,” added David.
The highly anticipated Exchange Hotel, Pinjarra redevelopment was a decade-long project, with the
venue welcoming its first customers in September 2024. The building is one of Peel’s oldest, established more than 130 years ago.
Today’s venue incorporates foundations from 1866, 1871, 1890, and 1925, and is a valued part of the Shire of Murray's Local Heritage Survey.
Its redevelopment carefully embraced the site’s rich history and prime location on the main street and Murray River Foreshore. Central to the project was the adaptive reuse of 19th-century structures, anchoring the Hotel in its historical context while creating a vibrant, contemporary hospitality destination.
The Exchange Hotel’s redevelopment celebrates its heritage through a harmonious blend of old and new, preserving its cultural and historical significance while enhancing its role as a modern destination. The design reflects a genuine dialogue between past and present, with each element maintaining its integrity and contributing to a cohesive narrative.
Interactive displays and historical artifacts further integrate the Hotel’s history, creating an immersive journey through time.
The Fell Bar, named after the 1921 publican, warmly welcomes guests, while historical quotes, key dates, and images adorn walls and floors through interpretive panels and vinyl lettering. A unique display of Guinness bottles, discovered during redevelopment beneath the original doctor’s cottage, intrigues visitors with its mysterious past.
The Shire was also recognised as a finalist in the Heritage Tourism category and congratulates Stories Unseen for being announced the winner in the category.
Heritage tourism is central to the Exchange Hotel, Pinjarra’s appeal, delivering immersive experiences that celebrates its historical and cultural significance through interpretative displays, storytelling and thoughtful design.
Catering to families, locals, tourists and heritage enthusiasts, the Hotel attracts visitors with its rich history, architectural charm, scenic riverfront location and premium food and beverages.
“Over the years, many have been involved in this project including countless Shire staff, contractors and partners. The relationship between the Shire, Publicans Karl and Janine Bullers, Hunt Architects, Devlin Australia and Creative Spaces has been key in achieving this award and on behalf on the Shire, we extend our greatest appreciation,” Mr Bolt added.
The Exchange Hotel, Pinjarra project was co-funded by the Shire of Murray and the operators, as well as a $2.34m investment from the Australian Government’s Building Better Regions Fund.
Notes to editor
The Western Australian Heritage Awards recognise and celebrate the State's diverse heritage projects, innovation and achievements.
They showcase the very best of heritage practices and educate the wider community about the importance of conserving our cultural heritage. They offer the opportunity to promote conservation projects internationally. Winners and commendations may be invited to have their project shortlisted for a UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation.
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