Perth Fire Station and Museum

The Perth Fire Station and Museum, at 25 Murray Street, was commissioned under the authority of the Western Australian Fire Brigades Act of 1899 and was the first purpose-built fire station in Western Australia.  It was designed by Michael Cavanagh (1860-1941), in the Romanesque revival style.  The station operated from 1901 until 1979.  Now refurbished, the old station characterises both past and present emergency services through displays dedicated to the history of the Western Australian fire services and a natural hazards and disasters education gallery.  The building stands as a permanent and majestic reminder of Perth’s rich social and architectural history.  In 2011 the centre earned a High Commendation (WA Heritage Awards) for outstanding heritage interpretation of a place.  The centre showcases a heritage trail offering a history of each room, vintage fire service appliances and exhibition space featuring the history and stories about fire brigades, hazards and emergency responses.  Welcoming over 18,000 visitors a year, the centre houses a large archive of emergency services, historic documents and photographs and a display of vintage fire appliances. The centre is open to the public and offers an interactive, interesting and fun experience for schools, tourists, families and community groups.