Old Mill

The Old Mill in South Perth is one of Perth’s best-known landmarks. Built in 1835 and operating until 1859, the mill produced 680kg of flour per day at its peak. Since ceasing production, the site has been used as a hotel, a residence, a wine saloon and a poultry farm.

In 1992, the Old Mill was granted to the City of South Perth to commemorate the centenary of the founding of Local Government in South Perth (1892). The stone buildings and site were repaired and upgraded and were then vested in the National Trust.

Local and state cultural heritage significance

The site has local and state cultural heritage significance due to the Old Mill being the oldest surviving colonial structure in the Perth area. Additionally, the site was used by First Nations peoples for generations as a traditional camping spot, fish trap area and birthing place.

 

During 2024/25, the City facilitated a First Nations Interpretive Materials Project at the Old Mill. The project aim was to gather accurate First Nations historical information about the Old Mill site and surrounds, enhance community knowledge about the site, and support truth telling and healing.

Some of the key project outcomes included:

  • Refurbishment of the former Education Centre building (renamed as the ‘Cultural Hub’), which now features six ‘Indigenous seasons’ decals on the front window. These decals are inspired from the artwork designs provided by local artist, Fiona Reidy. See images below.
  • Installation of 12 new interpretive signs within the Old Mill gardens to acknowledge First Nations and European history. See examples below.
  • Removal of the Old Mill front perimeter fence and installation of bollards to open access to the gardens to optimise public use and encourage more site activation (family picnics etc).
  • Opportunities for community groups and commercial operators to facilitate tourism activities and other cultural initiatives from the site. 
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Related fees

Old Mill

Related Content

A Brief History of the Old Mill

The Old Mill contributes to a sense of place for the community of the City of South Perth. It is a historic place with aesthetic appeal and has considerable community and educational significance.

Expressions of Interest - Mindeerup and Old Mill feature lighting 

The City is inviting Expressions of Interest to activate the South Perth Foreshore or other City parks through the facilitation of temporary recreational activities or associated operations during the 2023/24 financial year.
Old Mill Green
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Old Mill and Cottage
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Old Mill
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Old Mill
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Old Mill 1949
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Old Mill
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Old Mill, Fred Flood c.1930s
Old Mill, Fred Flood c.1930s
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Old Mill Postcard 1920
Old Mill Postcard 1920
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Old Mill Green
Old Mill and Cottage
Old Mill
Old Mill
Old Mill 1949
Old Mill
Old Mill, Fred Flood c.1930s
Old Mill Postcard 1920

Contact the Old Mill

  • Phone 08 9474 0777
  • Opening Hours The Old Mill is temporarily closed. Contact the City of South Perth for enquiries.
  • Address Melville Place, South Perth