Newcastle Gaol

Toodyay

Stephen Carrick Architects began assisting the Shire of Toodyay with a Lotterywest Grant application in 2017 for conservation works to the Newcastle Gaol in Toodyay. The application was successful and the Shire received funding for the conservation works.

The selection of suitable timber and the method for cutting the shingles was a matter strongly considered by Stephen Carrick Architects. Liaison was maintained with the Shire of Toodyay and the Heritage Council of Western Australia.

Works began to the former Gaol in 2019 and were completed in January 2020. The scope of works included:

• Replacing the former shingles with new sheok timber shingles;
• Structural remediation works to stone walls and timber roof frame;
• Introducing new damp proof membranes and rainwater goods to the old gaol complex;
• Introducing new ground water and open air drainage systems to address site drainage and issues relating to rising damp; &
• Repair and replacement of timber effected by termite activity.

Due to the nature of the works, there were unforeseeable structural issues to resolve. The Shire was aware of the likelihood of unforeseeable structural issues and this was allowed for in the overall project budget which was prepared by HWA Quantity Surveyors. The initial cost estimate to secure Lotterywest funding and the final budget were prepared by the Quantity Surveyors.