We are saddened to receive news of the death of Willys Keeble on the 28th of August after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Willys was the Heritage Architect who oversaw the conversion of Willsmere from a hospital to the wonderful place we now call home and we all owe her a debt of gratitude.

Many at Willsmere will remember the talk Willys gave when she visited in April 2017 and shared her rich store of knowledge about both the original building and the processes involved in ensuring protection of its heritage fabric. She worked closely with Dorothy Le Claire on the buildings and grounds and with Holly Mitchell in designing a garden which reflected the style and character of the original plantings. She spoke of the research behind her work, the old plans, the paint scrapings, the innumerable details needing attention. Her watchful eye actually saved much from destruction at the hands of unaware tradesmen. Such was her dedication that she emailed us the next day with a few points she had overlooked.

She was adamant that as much of the heritage fabric as possible be maintained and preserved. She chose the colours, the main entry carpet and established the archive center.

Willys

Location

Willsmere is located at 1 Wiltshire Drive Kew VIC 3101. Visitor access is via Yarra Boulevard.