UWA Benches Project

This collection of images of UWA’s iconic benches was compiled in 2022 as part of a summer project undertaken by Joan Pope, Margo Warburton and Marc Tennant, in conjunction with the UWA Historical Society.

The collection is now held by the University Archives on behalf of the UWA Historical Society and the intention is to expand the collection as more benches associated with UWA buildings and artworks across the UWA campuses are located.

The Bench Donation Scheme was initiated in 1985 in response to a lack of furniture on the University grounds. University members had voiced their concerns that their campus, while beautifully adorned with secluded courts and rich greenery, lacked places for them to sit.

Backed by the University’s Landscape Architect, Mr Tony Morgan, and the university Property Services Office, the Bench Donation Scheme was set up to remedy the issue. The scheme invited University members and members of the public to donate towards the purchase of traditionally designed benches made of teak wood. Each bench was inscribed with the donor’s name and year of donation, along with a short message or dedicated written by the donor. Donors were also given the opportunity to suggest a location for the bench to be placed.

Over the years donors have included university members, city councils, international ambassadors and members of the public. Donations have been made in memorial of former staff, in celebration of milestones and as gifts to loved ones.

Collection summary: A collection of images of UWA’s iconic benches, compiled in 2022