In October 2022, the Shire of Merredin held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to re-open Pioneer Park in the heart of town.
This space underwent significant works to highlight views of Merredin’s pioneer history, including the Merredin Railway and Military Museums, and improve access and appeal through new car parking, recreational spaces, landscaping, and drainage.
Merredin’s bronze “Horse at Work” sculpture was protected during construction, then moved into pride of place within the park.
Pioneer Park is the new gateway to Merredin and formed the first stage of the larger $10.5 million CBD Redevelopment project, a vital boost for tourism and local businesses. However, there was one piece of the park’s revitalisation remaining: the refurbishment of the state heritage-listed Merredin Water Tower.
After five years of project development, the restoration works on this iconic landmark began in April 2024. Works included reinforcement of the wooden tower and metal tank to enhance structural integrity and safety, while preserving the tower’s aesthetic for historical accuracy. After receiving approval from the Heritage Council, painters also refreshed the iconic Kalgoorlie Bitter signage.
The Shire hosted a competition in June 2025 for five lucky residents and their plus ones to take in the views of the park and Merredin from the top of the Water Tower. In early September 2025, Merredin welcomed His Excellency the Honourable Chris Dawson AC APM, Governor of Western Australia, and Mrs Darrilyn Dawson, wife of the Governor. Part of the Governor’s tour included a walk through Pioneer Park and a climb up the Water Tower.
The scaffolding was removed in late September and the final sealant applied to the wooden components. The Shire of Merredin looks forward to celebrating the completion of this incredible milestone with the community in the coming weeks.
