Whyalla Visitor Centre tour guides Janine Santoyo and Madelyne Parisi; with Visitor Experience Coordinator Ali Sanders in the soon-to-be refurbished Petty Officers' Quarters. Photo and article courtesy Whyalla News / Jack O’Halloran.
Petty Officers' Quarters Funding
Whyalla is set to benefit from Federal Government funding to support restoration works aboard the HMAS Whyalla as part of a nationwide program aimed at preserving Australia’s military heritage.
The funding – received under the Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program – will be used to restore the Petty Officers’ Quarters aboard HMAS Whyalla and open it to the public.
HMAS Whyalla is one of only two surviving Bathurst-class corvette minesweepers from the Second World War and was the first ship built in the city. The Petty Officers’ Quarters, located on the lower deck of the ship, have never previously been included as part of public tours.
Whyalla City Council Visitor Experience Coordinator Ali Sanders said the area was omitted when the vessel was refurbished years ago, but had recently been assessed and found suitable to open following restoration works.
“It’s important not only because it gives visitors something extra to see, but because we’re preserving one of only two of these ships left in the world,” she said.
“The grant is really about protecting our maritime history and making sure future generations can continue to access and appreciate it.”
Ms Sanders said the project would include improved lighting, a professional clean and restoration of original timber features throughout the accommodation area. It will also remain historically accurate, with specialist advice sought on appropriate conservation methods.
Senator Karen Grogan said the funding would help preserve an important part of Whyalla’s history.
“HMAS Whyalla is a vital part of Whyalla’s story,” Senator Grogan said.
“The workers who built her, and the crew who served aboard her, are part of the fabric of Whyalla, and this funding will help bring that story to life for thousands of visitors each year.”
Federal Member for Grey Tom Venning said the restoration was a “win for the Whyalla community” and would ensure the sacrifice of veterans is preserved for future generations.
“The HMAS Whyalla is an iconic local site, and this restoration will give tourists from across Australia even more reason to stop, explore our region’s rich maritime heritage, and spend time in the steel city,” Mr Venning said.
The restored quarters are expected to open to visitors later this year.
This is a condensed version of a Whyalla News article (reproduced with permission) – you can read the full version here.