History of the East Perth Power Station and its heritage marker ceremony
The program includes a presentation on the history and importance of East Perth Power Station (EPPS) —the first Western Australian Government-owned coal-fired power station, commissioned in 1916, and the first in Australia based on turboalternators under the independent unit principle developed by Charles Merz. Attendees will gain insights into the station’s unique technical and historical milestones, such as its conversion from 40Hz to 50Hz operation, its pioneering floating concrete raft foundation on 1,300 jarrah piles, and its enduring cathedral-like architecture. The event also features the screening of Empire Links (1936), a black-and-white film produced during the construction of EPPS “B.” Following the presentation and screening, the official ceremony will include the awarding of an Engineering Heritage Australia Marker and the unveiling of an Interpretation Panel, which will provide a permanent record of EPPS’s contribution to Western Australia’s engineering and industrial development. The evening concludes with networking and fellowship.
Learning outcomes
By attending this event, participants will be able to:
describe the engineering innovations behind EPPS, including its pioneering use of turboalternators and foundation design
recognise the significance of EPPS in the broader context of Western Australia’s power generation and industrial growth
understand the challenges and technical achievement of converting a 40Hz station to 50Hz operation.
appreciate the heritage and architectural value of EPPS and its role in shaping Perth’s industrial landscape. Reflect on the importance of preserving engineering heritage as part of Australia’s cultural and technical history
About the Speakers
Director, Archer Electrical Engineering Pty Ltd
John is a qualified Electrical Engineering working in the Power Industry for more than 40 years. His significant employment has been with SECWA, Kennedy & Donkin, Western Power, McLellan & Partners and SKM. John started his own company in 2004 providing electrical engineering solutions to utilities and industry throughout Australia.
WA Division President , Engineers Australia
Allison has been an Engineers Australia volunteer since graduating from the University of Western Australia. She is the 2026 WA President, was the 2019 WA Professional Engineer of the Year and 2022 Engineers Australia Medal recipient. Her areas of passion are in diversity and inclusion in engineering, and inspiring future engineering talent. Allison is the Managing Director of Atteris, an engineering consultant specialising in subsea and pipeline engineering. She is a materials engineer with experience in manufacturing, mining and oil and gas industries. Her speciality is in asset integrity and management, including life extension and decommissioning. She has worked in Australia, Indonesia and Thailand.
