History of the Bunbury Women's Club

The Bunbury Women’s Club, located at 19 Prinsep Street in Bunbury, Western Australia, has a rich history intertwined with the city’s development and the empowerment of women in the region.

Origins and History

The history of the Bunbury Women’s Club (BWC) building is a fascinating narrative of architectural evolution, shifting from a 19th-century religious residence to a prominent social hub.

Below is an elaboration on the building's historical timeline based on the provided records.

The Rectory Era (1852–1946)

The building's life began in the mid-1800s as the first rectory for Bunbury.

Foundation and Early Residents: Construction began on Lot 242 in 1852. The first resident was Reverend Henry W. Brown, who moved from England in 1853 and lived there until 1860. During his residency, he married Lucy Clifton.
Succession of Chaplains: Following Reverend Brown, the building housed Reverend John Wright (1860–1864) and Reverend Mears. In 1864, Reverend Joseph Withers, a Trinity College graduate and former convict ship chaplain, moved in with his family.
Architectural Transformation: The building underwent significant changes in the late 19th and early 20th centuries:
- 1880–1899: General repairs were made, and a tennis court was added.
- 1910–1911: Renowned architect E.G. Cohen redesigned the aging structure in a Colonial Federation style for Canon Adams. This included a new veranda in 1911 that overlooked the estuary and served as a local cultural meeting point.

Transition and the Bunbury Women's Club (1947–Present)

By the mid-20th century, the building transitioned from religious to secular use.

Sale and Acquisition: The diocese sold the rectory to businessman Mr. N. Dorsett in 1955.
The Rise of the Club: Mr. Dorsett initially rented rooms to the fledgling Bunbury Women's Club. As their membership surged from 40 to 110, the club secured a loan to purchase the premises. The site (Lot 10) was officially registered to the Bunbury Women’s Club Inc. on February 28, 1961.
Modern Enhancements:
- 1950s: The "Clifton Room" was extended with folding doors to accommodate larger functions.
- 1963–1973: Significant restorations were completed, including a new room and a kitchen renovation.
- 2003: The building was recognized for its historical significance and became state heritage listed, at which point the roof was replaced.
- 2026: Major renovations to the external facade of the building & remedial work for rising damp internally

Evolution and Community Role

Over the years, the Bunbury Women’s Club has evolved to become more inclusive, now welcoming women of all ages and backgrounds. We are a proud partner with ActBelongCommit supporting our members by offering a variety of activities, including bridge, Pony Canasta and mahjong games, social activities and special events.

Heritage Significance

The building’s historical and architectural significance has been recognised with its inclusion on the State Register of Heritage Places. In 2012, it was listed on an interim basis, with permanent registration following in 2013. The building is also part of Bunbury’s Heritage Trail, highlighting its importance in the city’s cultural landscape.

In 2016, during the installation of a historical sign, club members unearthed brick paving buried approximately 60 centimetres below ground level. This discovery, believed to date back to a time when Prinsep Street was at a lower elevation, highlights the site’s archaeological significance.

2026 sees a major renovation of the original façade facing Princep Street, together with some interior renovations to resolve damp issues. With thanks to the supporting grants & assistance from

- Hon. Don Punch, MLA and the WA Labor State Government - $120,000 2025 election commitment
- Heritage Council of WA - $55,000 grant
- City of Bunbury - $45,000

- Donations from members and friends

Today, the Bunbury Women’s Club continues to serve as a hub for social and recreational activities, preserving its historical legacy while adapting to the needs of contemporary women in the community.

Bunbury Rectory cira 1918

Bunbury Rectory 1956

Bunbury Women's Club before 2026 renovations

March 2026 - Early days of the renovations of the 1910 facade

March 2026 - Revealing secrets from under the render - the niche was a lovely surprise (photo courtesy Memories of Bunbury)

May 2026 - progress with renovations, ready for final painting