The Benson Memorial fountain is back in action after refurbishment by the City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters. Visit this State Heritage Listed gem on the corner of High Street and Portrush Road to quench your thirst for water and local heritage! Dr John Benson served the community of Kensington and Norwood for ten years and became much-loved by the community. Following Dr Benson’s untimely death from pneumonia in July 1877, aged just 39, the community erected the fountain in his memory with funds raised by public subscription.
KRA successfully lobbied for the repair, restoration and landscaping of the fountain and surrounds, as part of the Portrush Road widening in 2004. Local architect Michael Pilkington prepared the landscaping plans. The paint colours honour the original colour scheme determined from paint scrapings of the structure. The plumbed water fountain component has been absent for over 12 months, but Council have now completed repairs. Stop by for a sip of refreshing water and have a close look at this local treasure – the detail is fabulous.