Thomas Walker Convalescent Hospital

Item details


Name of item:	Thomas Walker Convalescent Hospital
Other name/s:	Rivendell Adolescent Unit, Rivendell, Joanna Walker Convalescent Hospital
Type of item:	Landscape
Group/Collection:	Landscape - Cultural
Category:	Hospital
Location:	Lat: -33.8328204323 Long: 151.0969253440
Primary address:	Hospital Road, Concord West, NSW 2138
Parish:	Concord
County:	Cumberland
Local govt. area:	Canada Bay
Local Aboriginal Land Council:	Metropolitan

Property description

Lot/Volume Code	Lot/Volume Number	Section Number	Plan/Folio Code	Plan/Folio Number
LOT	1		DP	166721
LOT	1		DP	725129

All addresses

Street Address	Suburb/town	LGA	Parish	County	Type
Hospital Road	Concord West	Canada Bay	Concord	Cumberland	Primary Address

Owner/s

Organisation Name	Owner Category	Date Ownership Updated
NSW Ministry of Health	State Government

Statement of significance:


	The Thomas Walker Convalescent Hospital is of national heritage significance as a rare major institution which has survived along the foreshores of the Parramatta River from the 19th century. Along with Carrington Centennial Hospital, the Thomas Walker Convalescent Hospital is the only other convalescent hospital to have survived from the 19th century. The recreation hall/chapel which is located in the main administration building of the hospital is a very rare, highly decorated intact example of a recreational hall/chapel forming part of a hospital complex. The hospital is important because it reflects Florence Nightingale's influence on 19th century convalescent hospital design principles and their adoption into Australian architecture. It also reflects the influence of Australian hospital administrators and American publications on its design. The Estate is a rare surviving late 19th century major institution of a private architect's design in Australia and is John Sulman's finest work in this country. It features a large number of Italianate motifs and decorative elements which reflect Sulman's first hand experience of Italian architecture as a result of his continental travels. Additionally the buildings reflect Sulman's use of advanced building science concepts including one of the first known uses of 'cavity walls' (or hollow walls) to insulate interiors against harsh summer sun rays. The hospital embodies the late 19th century concept of competition designs for the creation of major institutions. It is important for its social links with women in allowing them to pursue career opportunities. The grounds of the hospital are of national heritage signficance as an intact example of Victorian/Edwardian institutional gardens which have maintained an institution throughout their whole existence. They are a bold, effective piece of institutional gardening, integral with an architecturally exceptionally important late 19th century hospital building and probably designed by its architect, Sir John Sulman. The grounds are of aesthetic value as an important landscape feature on the shore of the Parramatta River. The grounds are featured by elements of high architectural quality such as the Watergate, which is an extremely rare building type in Australia (no other examples have been found to date), and the Landgate, which is probably the most elaborate building type of its kind to have survived in Australia from the 19th century. Other important garden elements of note are the axial driveway and the paths, edged in bricks, and fountains which feature in the courtyards. The grounds of the hospital are also significant for containing rare stands of native Cumberland Plain vegetation. The Joanna Walker Memorial Children's Hospital is a rare survival of a convalescent hospital specifically designed for children. The prime cultural significance of the Thomas Walker Convalescent Hospital estate and its buildings is that it is a 'palimpsest'; a many layered site, which encompasses all of the above mentioned broad and capricious backgrounds from the first Aboriginal habitation, through the spectra of 200 years of white settlement, to that of its latest use by the Rivendell Adolescent Unit. (Otto Cserhalmi & Partners, 1997) The main building is part of the grand architecturally coherent group designed by Sir J Sulman in the Queen Anne style and built by philanthropist Sir Thomas Walker in the late 19th century as a hospital. It is set in notable parklike grounds, a landmark on the Parramatta River. The site is important for its connections with the Walker family and late 19th century philanthropy, its design quality and craftsmanship, its association with the architect John Sulman and its location with other local health and welfare facilities.
	Date significance updated: 20 Nov 98
	Note: The State Heritage Inventory provides information about heritage items listed by local and State government agencies. The State Heritage Inventory is continually being updated by local and State agencies as new information becomes available. Read the Department of Premier and Cabinet copyright and disclaimer.

Description


Designer/Maker:	Sir John Sulman; gardens possibly by the office of/Sir John Sulman
Builder/Maker:	Alexander M Allen
Construction years:	1890-1893
Physical description:	12 hectares,, at Rocky Point, the tip of a north-east facing peninsula in the Parramatta River (south bank), flanked by Brays Bay to the north and Yaralla Bay to the south (Heritage 21, 2015) in the Municipality of Concord on the Parramatta (Eagle Consulting 1993:2). It is a large complex on a large park-like riverside estate, with extensive and prominent landscape plantings, making it a landmark along the river. GROUNDS Architects in Sydney also paid attention to the design of the house and garden as a unified composition. John Sulman's design for the Thomas Walker Convalescent Hospital (1889) took advantage of the frontage to the Parramatta River where a water gate formalised the entry to the symmetrically planned Italianate building. It was echoed on the other side of the building by an equally formally positioned lych gate (Edquist, 2008, 167). An extensive garden principally of trees and lawn, unaltered in layout and adequately maintained, but in need of more careful and sympathetic replanting respecting the strict symmetry of its design. A symmetrical design of sweeping brick edged paths, drives, lawns and specimen planting around a symmetrically planned institution and having considerable frontage to the Parramatta River. A central entrance drive (with borders replanted c.1981), leads to a turning circle planted with an Araucaria pine from which drives lead off on either side to encircle the building. On the river side a central path bordered with Thujas, and palms (jelly palm, Butia capitata); many now removed), slopes from the hospital to its 'water gate'. The water gate is flanked by a symmetrical pair of Cook's pines, (Araucaria columnaris). Further drives extend from the water gate along the shore and then curve up to the extremities of the hospital's wings, enclosing areas of lawn on either side of the central path planted symmetrically with pines, Araucarias, figs etc. Two enclosed grassed, colonnaded courtyards with fountains (replanted c.1981)(RNE). Within the grounds are extensive gardens and subsiduary outbuildings including stables, a gatehouse, the Joanna Walker Memorial Convalescent Childrens' Cottage Hospital and a wharf, including a two storey brick entry building flanked by two towering Cook's pines, (Araucaria columnaris). These buildings are compatible with the style of the main complex. (Bedford 1980) Plantings near the main complex feature mature Cook's pines (Araucaria columnaris) including a pair flanking a riverside wharf entry building, a collection of palms including Canary Island palms (Phoenix canariensis), P. Reclinata, coral trees (Erythrina indica) and others. Planting list from a 1/7/2004 visit: North of the main building: Bunya pine, Araucaria bidwillii Cooks pine, A. columnaris (2 in formal pair near water gate) brush box, Lophostemon confertus Bhutan cypresses, Cupressus torulosa Mediterranean cypress, C.sempervirens Cocos Island/queen palms, Syragus romanzoffianum azaleas, Rhododendron indicum cv.s around bases of buildings box elders, Acer negundo Norfolk Island pines, Araucaria heterophylla Canary Island date palms, Phoenix canariensis jacarandas, J. mimosifolia turpentines, Syncarpia glomulifera camphor laurels, Cinnamomum camphora Qld. Kauri, Agathis robusta (pair of, near river) kaffir plum, Harpephyllum caffrum NZ christmas tree/pohutukawa, Metrosideros excelsa carob, Ceratonia siliqua Aleppo pine, Pinus haleppensis coral tree, Erythrina sp. (probably E.x sykesii) (near water gate) port wine magnolia, Michelia figo (against west wing) Chinese rose, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis cv. (against west wing) Camellia sasanqua cv. To the west: giant golden striped bamboo, Bambusa sp. Funeral cypress, Cupressus funebris Mexican pine, Pinus patula firewheel tree, Stenocarpus sinuatus giant lily pilly, Waterhousia floribunda umbrella tree, Schefflera actinophylla Himalayan cedars, Cedrus deodara Qld. Black bean, Castanospermum australe On drive to south (of main building): red oak, Quercus coccinea lily pilly, Acmena smithii brush box, Lophostemon confertus orchid /butterfly tree, Bauhinia variegata African olive (hedge), Olea europaea var. africana Cocks comb coral tree, Erythrina christa-gallii apple blossom, Abelia grandiflora Cape/Jameson daisy, Gerbera jamesonii cv.s Cotoneaster sp. Sacred/heavenly bamboo, Nandina domestica On the drive: oleander, Nerium oleander cv.s bottlebrush, Callistemon sp/cv.s ?Chir/Himalayan pine, Pinus roxburghii (NB: this specimen could be P.canariensis, Canary Island pine) evergreen magnolia/bull bay, M.grandiflora (2 on either side of north wing) Cocos Island/queen palms, Syragus romanzoffianum (several) (avenue to water gate) Jelly palms, Butia capitata Phoenix reclinata Chamaecyparis lawsoniana cv. NSW christmas bush, Ceratopetalum gummiferum Camellia japonica cvs. Hill's figs, Ficus microcarpa var. Hillii Himalayan cedars, Cedrus deodara silky oaks, Grevillea robusta Courtyard plantings tree ferns, Cyathea sp. (C.cooperi?) Gordonia axillaris (2) I frangipani, Plumeria rubra cv.s (Stuart Read, pers.comm./visit, 1/7/2004) Buildings: MAIN COMPLEX - The main Thomas Walker Hospital complex is of Federation style based on a pavilion format. Each pavilion is planned to retain its functional integrity with the central block for administration and service wings on each side. The two storeyed central block includes an intricately detailed three storeyed tower over the main entrance, an impressive vestibule and an entertainment hall for 300 people. Sandstone wood panelling is found internally and externally. (Bedford 1980) The hospital comprises eight main buildings:- An extensive complex housed in a single symmetrical building of two storeys with an attic level. The main section overlooks the Parramatta River. There is a large central clock tower, flanked by smaller matching towers. Other sections, mostly two storeys are connected by a single storey Recreation Hall. Either side are residential quarters about cloisters, at rear are kitchens and two dining rooms. Other items within the group of State Significance: JOANNA WALKER CONVALESCENT HOSPITAL - A small single storey building of Queen Anne style designed to complement the main building. Features include decorative stonework a timber rear verandah and a central courtyard. The building is brick with a terracotta tile roof. (Schwager Brooks 1992) ADMINISTRATION WING - Basement, ground, first and second floor and a clock tower. RECREATION HALL - Partial Basement and main hall with gallery, raised stage and apse. DORMITORY WING (Pavilion) - Ground and first floor. SCHOOL WING (Pavilion) - Ground and first floor. TWO DINING ROOMS - Each with one level only. KITCHEN - A basement and ground floor SERVICE BUILDING - A ground floor and partial second floor. These eight buildings are interconnected by single level covered walkways. All buildings are of a similar construction. EXTERNAL WALLS - Masonry (clay brick with sandstone portals, piers, cornices and friezes.) INTERNAL WALLS - Generally masonry with some later additions of timber partitions. FLOORS - Generally of timber construction with some wet areas having lightweight concrete (coke breeze) supported by unprotected steel members. Floor coverings include carpet and linoleum in the majority of areas. ROOFS - Timber framed with terracotta tiling to the majority of areas with some metal roofing to the first floor corridors of the Administration Wing. CEILINGS - Set plaster under floor and ceiling joists. INTERNAL DOORS - Generally framed and panelled timber with some having glass panels and others having glazed transoms. The original transom glazing in the cormitory has been replaced with wired glass. (Eagle Consulting 1993: 3-4)
Physical condition and/or Archaeological potential:	Physical Condition - Fair Garden: (1981) unaltered in layout and adequately maintained but in need of more careful and sympathetic replanting respecting the strict symmetry of its design. (RNE). 1/7/2004 water gate - timber balcony first floor - rotten. First floor plaster ceiling falling - rusting steel. Wall arch upstairs also has cracked plaster (Read, S., pers.comm./visit)
Modifications and dates:	1893 - 94 - Joanna Walker Memorial Children's Hospital built. 1900 - Stables built. 1915 - Cottage built. (Schwager Brooks 1992) Just prior to 1939 the Commonwealth Government acquired the land on which the main complex is situated. C.1981 Central entrance drive borders were replanted; Two enclosed grassed, colonnaded courtyards with fountains were replanted 1976+ the hospital houses the Central Sydney Area Health Service's adolescent psychiatric unit, Rivendell. By 1986, when Knox & Tanner had conducted their study of the grounds, minor paths had disappeared, the carriage loop on the front slope was covered with grass and all of the productive functions of the landscape had ceased. Several specimen plantings had been added, particularly in the area of the Joanna Walker Memorial Children's Cottage and on the west side of the main building. (Otto Cserhalmi & Partners, 1997, 54). 1993: An extensive garden principally of trees and lawn, unaltered in layout and adequately maintained, but in need of more careful and sympathetic replanting respecting the strict symmetry of its design. On the river side a central path bordered with Thujas, and palms (jelly palm, Butia capitata); many now removed), slopes from the hospital to its 'water gate'. 2008-11: Carpark in south-eastern corner (servicing adjacent Concord Hospital complex): The arborist recommended the removal of the stringybark tree, which has been undertaken by SSWAHS. The arborist report also recommended the removal of asphalt from around all four sides of tree trunks in S2 car park. "Asphalt removed 0.3 metres two sides and 1.0 metre remaining two sides and soil cultivated to loosen compacted soil in April 2008. " This work has been completed. Pine buffers have been installed at this perimeter to prevent damage to the tree base by cars. The trees within the car park have been slow to recover, however there is evidence of new growth in all but one of the trees within this area. Concerns were also raised regarding possible damage to the Stables and Mortuary buildings on the Thomas Walker Estate from runoff from the car park. In order to mitigate runoff, drainage has been installed along the northern perimeter of the car park. The drains now lead to two pits located adjacent to the Stables building. Since the sealing of the car park, Sydney Local Health Network has developed a restoration plan for several buildings on the Thomas Walker site. These include: * Repair to the main entrance brick wall * Repair to the Stables * Repairs to the mortuary * Repairs to the gate house and main gates * Repairs to the sandstone faade of the main building Repairs to the brick wall at the main entrance are complete, with repairs to the stable expected to complete within the next month. Workers will then move on to the mortuary and gate house repair works. The Sydney Local Health Network is currently applying for funding under the Centenary Stone Program with NSW Public Works. It is hoped that a shared cost model will be accepted as part of the program next financial year.
Further information:	See Dame Eadith Walker Estate/ Convalescent Hospital for more details about the history of the Walker family and Yaralla.


Current use:	Convalescent Hospital
Former use:	Aboriginal land, farm, rural estate, convalescent Hospital

History

Historical notes:

The original Thomas Walker estate at Concord was an area of 390 acres (total)(Concord Heritage Society).
The establishment of theThomas Walker Convalescent Hospital was initiated by a 100 000 pound bequest in the the will of Thomas Walker, who died in 1886. He was a philanthropist, at various times a member of the Legislative Council of NSW, President and Director of the Bank of NSW, a magistrate and a prominent man of commerce.

Walker resided at Yaralla Estate at Concord, later to become known as the Dame Eadith Walker Estate, home to the Dame Eadith Walker Convalescent Hospital (the next peninsula east of today's Rivendell). He requested in his will that a portion of the Estate, known as Rocky Point be set aside for the building of the Hospital. This would fulfil a desire he had been harbouring for some time during his life but had been unable to fulfil due to other pressures.

Today's Rivendell Adolescent Unit was formerly the Thomas Walker Convalescent Hospital. Section 19A of the Walker Trusts Act 1938 provided for the overall control, management and administration of the Rivendell Estate.

To fulfil Walker's wishes, the executors of the will of Joanna Walker, Thomas Walker's sister, A. Consett Stephens and A.J. Mackenzie announced a competition in April 1888 for the design of a convalescent hospital on Rocky Point. The judges were (merchant, banker, pastoralist) Thomas Buckland, (architect) Thomas Rowe and a qualified physician. The winning design was by John Kirkpatrick.

The reasons for (Sir John) Sulman becoming architect are not clear. However, Kirkpatrick's scheme was criticised as being to expensive and in mid 1889 it was announced that although Kirkpatrick's design was to be built, the architectural commission had been given to Messr's Sulman and Power. This led to further criticism.

John Sulman had also been engaged as a consultant during the competition and had been acting as an advisor to one of the Trustees. A new plan was recommended combining features of several competition designs, but the Trustees were under no obligation to appoint the competition winner as architect. This may help to explain his appointment.

Tenders were called for the building of the hospital in August 1889. In December Alexander. M. Allen was accepted with a quote of 65 189 pounds. Work was then sub-contracted out. The final cost of the hospital was 150 000 pounds, the extra 50 000 pounds being contributed by Eadith Walker, Joanna Walker and Anne Sulman, Eadith's childhood companion.

Gas was supplied to the convalescent home in 1892 from the new Australian Gaslight's company at Mortlake. The opportunity was taken to lay mains to supply Yaralla and its grounds as well (Kass 1995: 8)

The hospital was opened on 21 September 1893 and was used for convelescence until World War II. No infectious or terminal cases were admitted to the hospital and all patients were referred by doctors from hospitals such as Royal Prince Alfred, St Vincents, Sydney, Concord and Burwood hospitals. The patients were not charged for their care, Walker's endowment providing for four week stays with a provision for a stay of two months if necessary (Walhaus et.al. 1986: 3-14)

In 1894 the Joanna Walker Memorial Children's Convalescent Hospital was opened in the hospital grounds. It was also designed by John Sulman. The hospital was adjacent to the main building and contained places for 12 children with an airy central courtyard (Schwager Brooks1992)

Mr J. Upton Sen was in charge of the Thomas Walker Convalescent Hospital's grounds for 16 years, a position he resigned to take up the business of carnation growing. Upton Sen was a member of the Horticultural Society of NSW for 34 years. He was a very successful exhibitor of roses and chrysanthemums when in charge of the gardens of the late J.C. Smith, Esq. and the late Mr J.M. Toohey, MLA of Strathfield. Upton Sen was born in England and received his training from experienced head gardeners near Birmingham and was last employed at Perry Hall, South Staffordshire. He arrived in Australia in 1887 (Parsons/RHS NSW, 2012, 26).

In 1897 were the last round of renovations.

In 1920 there was a major subdivision of the Walker estate between Concord Road and the gates of the Dame Eadith Walker Estate (Yaralla), forming much of today's Concord West suburb (Concord Heritage Society)

In February 1943 the military took possession of the hospital under regulation 54 of the National Security (General) Regulatons Act. The use of the hospital for convalesence was discontinued and was run by the Australian Red Cross as the 3rd Australian Women's Hospital until March/April 1946. The Perpetual Trustees regained control of the estate in 1946 and the hospital was again used for public convalescence. In the intervening years, increased affluence and general living standards, the establishment of a broad range of government-funded social welfare provisions and the development of antibiotics meant that many debilitating illnesses such as scarlet fever and tuberculosis were virtually eliminated or at least rendered innocuous. The demand for the facilities offered by the hospital declined from the 1950s. By the 1970s increasing costs combined with declining need rendered continued use of the hospital as a free convalescent hospital impracticable (Otto Cserhalmi & Partners, 1997, 44).

In 1976 the Trustees decided that the use of the site as a convalescent hospital was no longer a viable proposition and entrusted it to the NSW Health Commission on the condition that it be used as closely as possible to Thomas Walker's intentions.

Administration of the site was given to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital who used it for seven years as Rivendell Adolescent Unit, a rehabilitation centre for emotionally disturbed adolescents set up c.1977 (Walhaus et.al. 1986: 3-14). The Joanna Walker Memorial Children's Convalescent Hospital was taken over by the Concord Historical Society in 1972 (Otto Cserhalmi & Partners 1997, 43-4).

In the 1980s the hospital was administered by the Health Commission of NSW, Rivendell, now administered by the NSW Health's Sydney Local Area District Health Service, combines therapy, counselling and school classes for teenagers who board at the centre through the school week, returning to their families at weekends (Otto Cserhalmi & Partners, 1997, 43-4).

In September 2017 the inaugural RIvendell Flower Show was held, as fund raise for a gymnasium for Concord Hospital's Geriatric Unit Strong program. The Royal Horticultural Society of NSW and others partnered to present the show. Rivendell Patron, The Hon Dame Marie Bashir AD CVO officially opened the event (RHSNSW, 2018, 10).

*FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE WALKER'S AND THEIR ESTATE SEE THE DAME EADITH WALKER ESTATE/ CONVALESCENT HOSPITAL SHR entry/history.

Historic themes

Australian theme (abbrev)	New South Wales theme	Local theme
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Gardens-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Other open space-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Changing the environment-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Cultural: Rivers and water bodies important to humans-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Cultural - Coasts and coastal features supporting human activities-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Landscapes demonstrating styles in landscape design-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Landscapes of institutions - productive and ornamental-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Health-Activities associated with preparing and providing medical assistance and/or promoting or maintaining the well being of humans	Caring for the sick in hospitals-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Health-Activities associated with preparing and providing medical assistance and/or promoting or maintaining the well being of humans	Operating private and religious hospitals-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Health-Activities associated with preparing and providing medical assistance and/or promoting or maintaining the well being of humans	Operating convalescent and rehabilitation hospitals-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Health-Activities associated with preparing and providing medical assistance and/or promoting or maintaining the well being of humans	Encouraging public recreation in parks-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Health-Activities associated with preparing and providing medical assistance and/or promoting or maintaining the well being of humans	Sanatoria-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Health-Activities associated with preparing and providing medical assistance and/or promoting or maintaining the well being of humans	Drug rehabiliation provision-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Health-Activities associated with preparing and providing medical assistance and/or promoting or maintaining the well being of humans	Doctor's office and clinic-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Health-Activities associated with preparing and providing medical assistance and/or promoting or maintaining the well being of humans	First Aid post-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Health-Activities associated with preparing and providing medical assistance and/or promoting or maintaining the well being of humans	Health related research-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Health-Activities associated with preparing and providing medical assistance and/or promoting or maintaining the well being of humans	Providing nursing training-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	Building settlements, towns and cities-National Theme 4
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	Country Homes-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	Victorian era offices-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	Adapted heritage building or structure-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	gate-house-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	A Picturesque Residential Suburb-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	Housing medical staff-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	Housing for farm and station hands-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	Housing for farm and station hands-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	Housing public servants and officials-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	Accommodating workers in hostels-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal	Administering and alienating Crown lands-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal	Changing land uses - from rural to suburban-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities.	Landscaping - Federation period-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with Thomas Rowe, architect-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with Dame Eadith Walker, heiress, philanthropist-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with Sir John Sulman, architect and town planner-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with Governor the Hon. Dame Dr Marie Bashir AD CVO, 2001-2014-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with Thomas Walker, industrialist, banker and philanthropist-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with J. Upton Sen, professional gardener, successful exhibitor of roses and chrysanthemums-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with John Kirkpatrick, architect-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with Annie Sulman, nee Masefield, gentlewoman-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with Joanna Walker, gentlewoman-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life	Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups	Associations with Thomas Buckland, merchant, pastoralist and banker-

Assessment of significance


SHR Criteria a) [Historical significance]	The place is important for its connections with the Walker family of Yaralla and especially with Thomas Walker whose importance in Australia's commecial, social and political development should not be forgotten. (Walhaus et.al. 1986: 75)
SHR Criteria c) [Aesthetic significance]	Thomas Walker Convalescent Hospital is an outstanding example of Sulman's work. The elegance of the design and quality of craftsmanship evidenced by the stonework, brickwork, joinery, plasterwork and carpentry set it apart from many buildings of its time. The building has been well maintained and is virtually unchanged from its original form. The Hospital and its associated buildings and landscape form a vital part of the Parramatta River foreshore. The building has an oustanding sense of place, dominating the immediate part of the river. (Walhaus et.al. 1986: 75)
SHR Criteria d) [Social significance]	Thomas Walker Convalescent Hospital is one of the finest examples of late 19th century philanthropy, an important aspect of society at that time. (Walhaus et.al. 1986: 75)
SHR Criteria e) [Research potential]	Forms an important group of health and welfare facilities along with the dame Eadith walker Convalescen Hospital and Concord Repatriation Hospital. (Walhaus et.al. 1986: 75)
Assessment criteria:	Items are assessed against the State Heritage Register (SHR) Criteria to determine the level of significance. Refer to the Listings below for the level of statutory protection.

Recommended management:


	Exercise great care to protect and recover high cultural significance. Conservation planning and assessment required. (Schwager Brooks: 1992)

Recommendations

Management Category	Description	Date Updated
Recommended Management	Review a Conservation Management Plan (CMP)
Recommended Management	Prepare a maintenance schedule or guidelines
Recommended Management	Carry out interpretation, promotion and/or education

Procedures /Exemptions

Section of act	Description	Title	Comments	Action date
CMP-Endorse	Conservation Plan submitted for endorsement	Conservation Plan		Feb 15 1998
CMP-Endorse	Conservation Plan submitted for endorsement	Conservation Plan		Feb 15 1998
57(2)	Exemption to allow work	Standard Exemptions	HERITAGE ACT 1977 ORDER UNDER SECTION 57(2) TO GRANT STANDARD EXEMPTIONS FROM APPROVAL I, Penny Sharpe, the Minister for Heritage, on the recommendation of the Heritage Council of New South Wales and under section 57(2) of the Heritage Act 1977: revoke the order made on 2 June 2022 and published in the Government Gazette Number 262 of 17 June 2022; and grant an exemption from section 57(1) of the Act in respect of the engaging in or carrying out the class of activities described in clause 2 Schedule A in such circumstances specified by the relevant standards in clause 2 Schedule A and General Conditions in clause 3 Schedule A. This Order takes effect on the date it is published in the NSW Government Gazette. Dated this 29th day of October 2025 The Hon Penny Sharpe MLC Minister for Heritage For more information on standard exemptions click on the link below.	Nov 7 2025

Standard exemptions for engaging in or carrying out activities / works otherwise prohibited by section 57(1) of the Heritage Act 1977

Listings

Heritage Listing	Listing Title	Listing Number	Gazette Date	Gazette Number	Gazette Page
Heritage Act - State Heritage Register		00115	02 Apr 99	27	1546
Heritage Act - Permanent Conservation Order - former		00115	09 Jan 81	5	0188
Heritage Act - s.170 NSW State agency heritage register	NSW Dept.of Health preliminary S170 register		01 Feb 92
State Environmental Planning Policy	Concord REP		05 Jun 90
Local Environmental Plan	Thomas Walker Convalescent Hospital complex	155	01 Dec 00
Register of the National Estate			21 Mar 78

Study details

Title	Year	Number	Author	Inspected by	Guidelines used
Preliminary Heritage and Conservation Register Vol 3.	1992		Schwager Brooks and Partners	16/7/7/1000 & 1002	No
Preliminary Heritage and Conservation Register Vol 3.	1992		Schwager Brooks and Partners		No

References, internet links & images

Type	Author	Year	Title	Internet Links
Tourism		2007	Thomas Walker Convalescent Hospital Precinct	View detail
Written	Alexander Lloyd Mitchell Gibb Architects	1992	A Dilapidation Survey of the Thomas Walker Hospital, Concord
Written	Alexander Lloyd Mitchell Gibbs Architects	1993	Proposed reconstruction and adaptation work to the Laundry Building, Thomas Wakler Hospital, Concord
Tourism	Attraction Homepage	2007	Thomas Walker Convalescent Hospital Precinct	View detail
Written	Concord Heritage Society		Thomas Walker Memorial Hospital for Convalescents, Rivendell - the past; the present; the future (sic)	View detail
Written	E.Walhaus, P.Martin, R.Ellis.	1986	Conservation Policy - Thomas Walker Convalescent Hospital, Concord NSW
Written	Eagle Consulting Group	1993	Fire & Life Safety Survey. Thomas Walker Hospital Concord
Written	Edquist, Dr. Harriet, in Pioneers of Modernism: the Arts and Crafts Movement in Australia	2020	'Garden Craft'
Written	Eric Bedford	1980	Media Release by the Minister for Planning and the Environment Mr Eric Bedford. Thomas Walker Convalescent Hospital.
Written	Heritage 21	2015	(draft) Conservation Management Plan - Thomas Walker Estate, Hospital Road, Concord West NSW
Written	Morris, Colleen	2002	'Hospital Gardens' (entry)	View detail
Written	Morris, Colleen	2002	'Sulman, John' (entry)	View detail
Management Plan	Otto Cserhalmi & Partners Pty Ltd	1997	Thomas Walker Estate Conservation Management Plan
Written	Parsons, Ralph & Robyn	2012	From our gardens - The Royal Horticultural Society of NSW (Inc.) - celebrating 150 years, 1862-2012
Written	Royal Horticultural Society of NSW	2018	'Rivendell Inaugural Flower Show, September 2017'
Written	Schwager Brooks and Partners	1992	NSW Dept. of Health - Preliminary Heritage and Conservation Register	View detail

Note: internet links may be to web pages, documents or images.

(Click on thumbnail for full size image and image details)

Data source


The information for this entry comes from the following source:
Name:	Heritage NSW
Database number:	5045693
File number:	EF14/4542; S90/6034 & HC 30356

Every effort has been made to ensure that information contained in the State Heritage Inventory is correct. If you find any errors or omissions please send your comments to the Database Manager.

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