State Heritage Listing Honours Greek Migrant Legacy

• Historic Northbridge precinct added to State Register of Heritage Places
• Precinct captures early to mid-20th century migrant history and includes Kakulas Brothers continental grocery store
• Addition to the register reflects the significance of the contributions of interwar migrants to Western Australia’s social and cultural fabric
• Cook Labor Government protecting and restoring WA heritage

A historic precinct within the Northbridge entertainment and commercial district has been recognised in the State Register of Heritage Places for its significance as a social, cultural, and commercial hub for interwar Greek migrants.

Located on Aberdeen and William streets, the precinct comprises of three Victorian and Federation-era houses, owned and occupied by Greek immigrants since the 1930’s and the 90-year-old Kakulas Brothers continental grocery store which, although altered over the years, still reads as a small-scale community store.

Entry onto the State Register recognises the importance of this precinct to the history of Western Australia and its Greek population.

During the interwar years, many migrants settled in the Northbridge area, particularly from Greece and southern Europe, becoming a place where members of this emerging new community could find familiarity and shared experiences.

When the Kakulas family established a continental grocery store in 1929 this further bolstered the appeal of the precinct for European migrant families.

The Register entry identifies the place as a rare example of a family-run business that has continued to operate at its original location, managed by the founding family, for over 90 years.

For more information about State heritage places visit www.wa.gov.au/government/the-state-register-and-other-heritage-listings

As stated by Heritage Minister Simone McGurk:

“Western Australia’s rich cultural fabric has been shaped by generations of migrants, whose contributions have made our State the vibrant and diverse community it is today.

“Northbridge stands as testament to this multicultural heritage, having been enriched by many cultural traditions, stories and communities over the past century.

“Among these, the Greek community has played an enduring role, with many Greek migrants making Northbridge their home during the interwar years.

“Together with the nearby Cathedral of St Constantine and St Helene, the Kakulas Brothers and Greek Residential Group buildings embody the Greek migrant experience and their inclusion on the Register will ensure that this legacy is honoured and protected.”