Buildings and the residence behind were built in 1951/2 for the then Rural and Industries Bank which later became known as Bankwest. The original wooden bank building was replaced by a modern brick building in 1965. First manager in 1951 was N. Herbert succeeded by S. East in 1956 and Frank Scruth in 1957, F.King in 1959, Mr Martin in 1963, Des Jennings in 1964, G.Lloyd in 1966, H. Edmeades in 1968 and Greg Montgomery in 1982.
This site has been further refurbished with several small shops plus a smaller Bankwest bank and ATM.
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