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History of the Railway Workshops

The Midland Railway Workshops were built to serve the West Australian Government Railways as a visionary initiative and played a major role in the State’s development. They were the economic powerhouse of the region for 90 years, and were responsible for skilling generations of Western Australians.

Work first began on the buildings in 1897. The impressive scope and size of the workshops confirmed them as one of the WA Government’s most significant undertakings of the time. The three main blocks were built by 1904, as were the Power House, Pattern Shop, Foundry, the Chief Engineer’s office and various store buildings. By 1905 all machinery and staff had been transferred to Midland from the earlier workshops at Fremantle.

At their peak, the workshops employed over 4,000 people. Workers served in both World Wars, and a full third of production was devoted to the war effort during World War II. New ground was broken when women were employed for the first time as men left to enlist.

The post war period saw major restructuring and a modernisation program. Metal wagons were designed and built for the first time and diesel locomotives became more common and began to replace steam engines.

The Midland Railway Workshops operated until their closure in 1994. Throughout their years, they etched deep and lasting memories in the social, economic and industrial history of the region.

As a place that has always stood for innovation, quality craftsmanship and drive, this site will retain its sense of leadership and its special connection to the Midland community.