Warburton Sanitarium and Hospital (former)
25 Donna Buang Road Warburton, YARRA RANGES SHIRE
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Statement of Significance
In 1910 the Seventh-day Adventist church established a health sanitarium at Warburton and as patronage grew it was moved the present site in 1912 where a new building was constructed. Tree planting in the grounds using exotic ornamental species was also commenced at this time. As the centre continued to grow in popularity the original 1912 building was extended and new buildings were added. The sanitarium specialised in the holistic practices developed by Dr John Harvey Kellogg in the United States and, although all branches of medicine were embraced, the emphasis was on fresh air, sunshine, exercise, rest and diet, and hydrotherapy was an important part of the service offered. The church sold the property in 2000 and ceased operations in early 2001. The following buildings and features contribute to the significance of the place.
. The original 1912 building, as extended during the 1930s.
. The Barkley Bell building, constructed c.1962.
. The Hydrotherapy building, constructed in 1959.
. Pine Lodge.
. The two houses in Upper Blackwood Avenue.
. The mature exotic trees across the site.
Buildings other than specified above do not contribute to the significance of the place.
It is historically significant for its association with the development of Warburton. It operated as a health care centre for nearly ninety years and is one of three major sites that demonstrate the decisive influence the Seventh-day Adventists had on the development of Warburton. It is also significant for its association with the growth of health resorts and associated nature tourism accommodation in Victoria during the early twentieth century. It reflects the historical view of the health benefits of resorts in mountain areas, which were made accessible through the development of the country rail network. Many people associated with the church were employed at the complex and the houses in Upper Blackwood Avenue are representative of housing constructed in the surrounding area for staff and members of the congregation. (Criterion A)
It is of aesthetic significance for the picturesque landscape character created by the mature trees. Though the buildings have been altered, the way in which they respond to their setting also contributes to the aesthetic qualities of the place. Together, the buildings and mature trees are a landmark within the local area. (Criterion E)
It is associated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church, as a place that demonstrates the early development of the church in Victoria and its close connections to the Warburton area. The rural setting reflects the holistic health philosophy that is a defining aspect of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and provides some insight into the historical importance of the church's missionary work and its role in the development of the Australian health industry.
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Heritage Study and Grading
Yarra Ranges - Shire of Yarra Ranges Heritage Study
Author: Context Pty Ltd
Year: 2000
Grading: LocalWarburton Sanitarium and Hospital (former) Heritage Study
Author: David Helm
Year: 2020
Grading:
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SANITARIUM HEALTH FOOD COMPANY AND SIGNS PUBLISHING COMPANYVictorian Heritage Register H0619
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Cedrus atlantica f. glaucaNational Trust
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Cement Creek Tramway InclineYarra Ranges Shire
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