York Western Australia

York & Heritage Tourism: Sustainability of the Future" (2005)

The case for York, Western Australia, as a sustainable heritage town is strong, having proven in recent times to be capable of weathering significant socio-economic and demographic changes which have shifted its prominence. York is situated 96 kilometres east of Perth on the Great Southern Highway, and was established in 1831, being the first inland settlement outside the Swan River Colony. Many of the very old buildings which still stand today were built by convicts some 150 years ago. It is a heritage that was described in the 1981 Illustrated Register of the National Estate as having “survived largely unchanged, and has retained the atmosphere of a 19th-century village, where the built environment is closely integrated with the landscape.”

Although primarily a farming community which derives its income from a variety of grains, sheep, and to a lesser degree, cattle, the town of York has been able to consolidate its historic visual charm and heritage, turning to tourism as a viable lifeline at a time when some other agricultural towns have witnessed declines. York’s population has more than doubled since 1999; from 2,134 to 4,250 in 2003. This in part can be attributed to the fact that many who have searched for a more tranquil, yet equally rewarding lifestyle have made York their new home. Meanwhile, intrastate, interstate and foreign visitors, meanwhile, inject money and contribute to the vibrancy and growing identity of the community.
 
Tourism is a vital industry in York, with its abundant historic buildings and attractions – many of which have been ‘tailored’ (converted to accommodation, a museum, and a dining space) for the visiting clientele. During each year, some 250,000 people visit from all corners of the world. Although many tourist buses pass through York every week, the main influx is in the spring and autumn. Attractions such as the Holy Trinity Church and the Old Gaol and Court House, exude a part antique-part familiar charm that resonates with most visitors. The church was completed in 1854 and consecrated in 1858; its interior is richly ornamented with stained glass windows designed by famous WA artist Robert Juniper. The original High Alter and Walsingham Shrine feature Juniper's paintings. The Old Gaol (c.1838) and Court House was the work of colonial architect Temple Poole, who was also responsible for the Police Station and adjoining Post Office. Today, the Court of Petty Sessions is still in use, restored by the National Trust.

'Heritage Protection'

The manageable success of the tourism trade in York can be traced to the manner in which the town’s heritage has been used but not exploited beyond repair: not only is it considered a premier Wester Australian historic town, it is one of the best preserved of all such towns in Australia. There are several heritage and local governmental bodies in place to oversee the economic and heritage development of the Shire, whose joint expertise is required – along with the cooperation of residents (many of whom are actively involved in the restoration of their homes) and tourists – to ensure a sustainable tourism industry.

Wei Leon Toh