Restoration of historic Brookton Railway Station begins after years of heated debate, reconciling community

Construction finally kicked off on the historic Brookton Railway Station this week, with the restoration works foregoing a lengthy dispute and marking a reconciliation between the council and community. The Budo Group moved in on the building site on Monday to begin the internal and external refurbishment of the 1927-built station. The heritage-listed building has undergone minimal renovations in its 98 years and suffered severe white ant damage that has destroyed the base and structural integrity of the property. Shire of Brookton chief executive Gary Sherry said there will be an aspect of demolition by removing damaged materials, but new works will maintain the heritage style. The start of construction follows nearly three years of controversy in the town. Councillors first voted to restore the precinct in January 2022, and reviewed three tenders ranging from $1.4 million to $1.98m to complete the refurbishment’s first stage in September 2024. Shortly after, the council revoked their decision under the guise that refurbishment was financially unviable and instead voted to demolish the station. This revocation sparked community outcry and a 1949-signature petition, which eventually put the station’s restoration back on the council’s agenda for its November 7 special meeting. The Budo Group’s $2m tender to restore the station was selected by the council at their August 21 meeting. Surprisingly, the once-vocal community was silent when awarding the tender, according to Mr Sherry, who said there has still been little feedback regarding the restoration. He believes this is because the community had spoken clearly and, now that the council are delivering on their direction, there is no more to discuss. “From a staff point of view, it’s good to be in a position where we’re doing something positive,” he said. “After quite a long period of research and consultation, we went down a few rabbit holes that we had to back out of, it’s good to be in a position where everything’s now solidified. “We’re certain of everything, we’re doing something real, so I suppose there’s relief.” Sharon Williams, who organised the petition and been a long-time advocate for the railway restoration, said community members are thrilled construction is starting. “A lot of people, including myself, are very excited that the restoration work is about to begin,” she said. “We are all watching the station with anticipation. “I am organising, with the help of volunteers, a celebration event which will happen once restoration is complete next year.” Ms Williams said anyone interested in joining can contact her through the Brookton Railway Facebook page.