Media release

9 April 2010

April Architectural walking Tour a tribute to Frederick Menkens

In a tribute to the architect Frederick Menkens on the centenary of his death, the Newcastle branch of the Australian Architecture Association will take people on a walking tour of several Menkens buildings.

The walk will take place during the National Trust’s Heritage Festival for 2010 and will include:

·         St. Andrews Church

·         Baptist Tabernacle

·         Frederick Ash Warehouse

·         Garrett and Son Warehouse.

Other aspects of architecture will be discussed during the walk including adaptations or the re-use of historic buildings, the urban landscape and public art.

The tour will be led by heritage architect John Carr and Brian Suters.

Frederick Menkens was born in 1855 in Germany. After gaining his qualifications he travelled extensively throughout Europe before arriving in Adelaide in 1878. By 1882 after first working in Melbourne, Sydney and Maitland he settled in Newcastle where he became one of the region’s most prolific and leading architects.

Sunday 18 April

10.30 – 12.30

Payment accepted on the day

Register at the Lock-Up at 10.15am on the day

90 Hunter Street Newcastle

Phone 4925 2265 

For information or interview:

Brian Suters 0418 498 778

The Australian Architecture Association (AAA) is dedicated to increasing public awareness of modern architecture. AAA pursues this mission through a comprehensive program of tours, lectures, exhibitions and special events. The AAA has developed a series of tours of some of Newcastle's most important buildings in and around the city. The group of dedicated volunteer tour leaders have undertaken research and training to develop and present these tours.