About our Society

The City of South Perth Historical Society was established in 1989 to stimulate public interest in the history of the district of South Perth, to encourage historical research and publication, and to promote the designation and preservation of historic sites, buildings and stories. The Society was officially incorporated on the 8th October 1990 and the rules of association (constitution) guide our Society.

Our Guiding Rules

The objectives of our Society

• To encourage the study and writing of Western Australian history in general and the City of South Perth’s history in particular.
• To collect, classify and preserve records relating to the history of the City of South Perth; including recordings of audio or video interviews, illustrations, maps, manuscripts and printed material.
• To publish articles and selected records or any other publications approved by the Society.
• To exchange information among members of the Society by lectures, readings, discussions and exhibitions of historical material.
• To promote public interest in and support for the preservation of historical relics, including buildings and sites and the recognition of notable anniversaries in Australian history.
• To operate and manage an historical museum(s) or gallery established within the City of South Perth.
• To found, subsidise or contribute to any institution, scholarships or prizes to give effect to any of the objects specified herein.

Meetings

The Society hosts presentations by guest speakers on subjects generally relating to local history and heritage. The ‘Heritage Matters' series of talks commence each year on the third Sunday March continuing thereafter on the third Sunday of May, July and September. These gatherings take place at the South Perth Bowling Club. Meetings are open to the public and visitors are welcome. An entrance fee of $5 includes Tea/Coffee and light refreshments.

Our Annual General Meeting is held on the third Monday in November at 6:00pm and our final annual function is a much enjoyed Christmas gathering (Members and invited guests).

Getting Involved

The City of South Perth Historical Society is dedicated to preserving the history of the local area that includes the suburbs of Como, Karawara, Kensington, Manning, Salter Point, South Perth and Waterford. As a member you will receive newsletters and updates and also meet with fellow history enthusiasts at our History Matters series of Talks.

Volunteers are the lifeblood of our organisation and volunteering opportunities include:

o Joining the Committee
o Duty Volunteer
o General assistance: administration, cleaning etc
o Developing resources
o Preparing exhibitions and displays

City of South Perth Historical Society members at the Heritage House Plaque Ceremony March 2023.

Image from the Dease Collection, SPME0022. Copyright CoSPHS.