This lot was first owned by Edward King who was a baker and worked at the Margaret River Bakery but this property had no house on it until it was sold to the PMG (forerunner to the present Telecom) in 1940 and a one roomed asbestos shed was built to house an automatic telephone exchange in 1940. That was enlarged and used until 1956, when a more larger exchange was built in Town View Terrace and the building was left vacant. In 1985/86 the building was used by the Red Cross as an opportunity shop for a short while but it had since been removed.
If you would like to learn more about the local history of Margaret River, visit The Old Settlement Museum down the river.
The old school, the group settlement house, the blacksmith workshop, and many other buildings with household items, tools and machinery offer an insight into the history of early life in the district and the families that once lived and worked the land.
For opening hours and information, visit mrdhs.com.au
References
Margaret River Town 1894-1984 by Mavis Wise
Margaret River Stories by Guy Jennings, ISBN 9780646575346
A History of the Catholic Community of Margaret River District by Merilyn Hutton
Margaret River & District Historical Society photo collection
John Alferink from my recollections of the town after being in the area for over 68 years, John Alferink 2021