South West Regional Broadcasting Station
History
During 1935, work began on the aerial for the radio station 6WA, including a 230m mast and a cooling system. On 25 August 1936, a high wind wrecked the top section of the mast and 210m of it crashed to the ground.
On 7 December 1936, 6WA was officially opened and an inaugural program held in the Wagin Town Hall.2 The opening speech of the Postmaster General, Mr McLachlan, was relayed from Canberra. The importance of the station is apparent in the press coverage given to the opening, in the local newspaper:
The place that this new Station, which is recognised to be the most powerful in the Southern Hemisphere - plays in our national life is fully appreciated by those who reside in country districts, and particularly those who are separated from the city of Perth, where all but two of our West Australian broadcasting stations exist, by the long length of the Darling Ranges.
Work was first commenced on the site on May 28th. 1935, when the preliminary work of marking the foundations etc., was carried out. Since that time, the work on the new Station has been pursued with the best speed compatible with the great care needed on such an intricate and elaborate construction.3
A description of the site was also provided in the local newspaper:
Viewed from the Main Wagin Road, the completed Station presents a substantial edifice to modern engineering skill and careful lay-out. Two massive gate-posts, upon which the monogram of the new Station. "6WA", is lettered, guard the sweep of gravel which leads to the main entrance. Two carved pillars help to support the porch which abuts from the main entrance, and lends an air of solidity to the whole construction. Looming at the rear of the main building is the towering 650 feet Mast, surmounted by its queer shaped umbrella-like top, the actual size of which is quite misleading when viewed from the ground.4
In 1957, 6WA became the most powerful in Australia with the addition of a new 50 kw transmitter which made its output five times as great as previously. The cost of the new equipment was £50 000 and the building alterations amounted to £1 500.5 The more powerful transmitter made a great difference to people's lives in the country areas of Western Australia. During its construction, it had a large impact on the local community as it provided additional work for locals and an increase in social activities.6
In 1996, the site is no longer used.
The Cache
The cache is a small container hidden across the road from the building. No need to go in the building (its locked up anyhow) and no need to go near the RMB or any part of the wall.