Type 2 Residences, West Island facts for kids

The Type 2 Residences are a group of six special houses on West Island. This island is part of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, which belong to Australia. These houses are considered important because of their history and design. They were added to the Australian Commonwealth Heritage List on June 22, 2004. This list helps protect important places in Australia.

History of the Type 2 Houses

These "Type 2" houses were built in the 1950s. They were part of a bigger plan to create homes for people working for the Australian Government. These employees helped manage the Cocos (Keeling) Islands. The houses were built as part of the new West Island housing area. Originally, there were eight of these houses, but now only six remain.

What the Houses Look Like

The "Type 2" houses are on the eastern side of the West Island living area. They face the airstrip. These houses are built high off the ground. They are covered with a material called asbestos cement. Their design is perfect for the warm, tropical weather of the islands.

House Layout and Features

The houses have different shapes, but they are all based on a similar design. Some houses were made longer than others. Most of them have unique sloped walls at the ends. Inside, the houses usually have three bedrooms, a kitchen, a bathroom, and a living room. A large hallway leads to a front porch. There is also a separate laundry room located outside the back of the house.

Location and Condition

The six Type 2 Residences are found on specific plots of land. These are Lots 128, 191, 121, 122, 127, and 129 on Air Force Road, within the West Island Settlement. In the year 2000, these homes were checked and found to be in good condition. Some houses have been changed a little over time. Small extra buildings like carports and storage sheds have also been added to some properties.

Why These Houses Are Important

The Type 2 Residences on West Island are very important. They show how housing was set up for Australian Government workers on the Cocos (Keeling) Islands. The government's presence helped the local Cocos Malay people have more control over their own future. These houses also played a big part in the growth of the West Island settlement. This area became more important after the main government office moved there in 1953.

Design Suited for the Climate

These elevated houses are good examples of Australian Government housing on the islands. Their design and layout were made to fit the local weather conditions. This makes them special and well-suited for the tropical climate.