docThe eastern wheatbelt - Australias Golden Outback
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The eastern wheatbelt - Australias Golden Outback
The eastern wheatbelt western australia - a visitors’ guide Beacon | Bencubbin | Bruce Rock | Corrigin | Dowerin | Hyden | Kellerberrin | Kondinin Koorda | Kulin | Lake Grace | Merredin | Mukinbudin | Narembeen | Nungarin | Quairading Southern Cross | Tammin | Trayning | Westonia | Wyalkatchem www.wheatbelttourism.com See where Transwa can take you r u o ut ffs! o % are o b a sk A 5d0iscount f Transwa connects more than 275 destinations within Western Australia. To see where Transwa can take you, and to find out more about the 50% discount fares for seniors, WA concession card holders and students, visit Transwa.wa.gov.au or telephone 1300 662 205. Alternatively contact your nearest Eastern Wheatbelt Transwa accredited booking agent, locations and contact details for all agents can be found on the Transwa website in the bookings section. 1 Kirkalocka Station Northampton Mullewa Pindar Gwalia Lake Barlee HOUTMAN ABROLHOS Lake Ballard GERALDTON Mingenew Paynes es Find FFi Fin Menzies ghan Ninghan Station Perenjori Mongers ngers Lake ake Three Springs Lake Moore Yarra Yarra Lakes WHEATBELT NORTH EAST Wubin allinu Dalwallinu Watheroo Badgingarra Jurien Bay New Norcia York Yorrk Midland 25 50 75 MANDURAH The Bre Breakaways eakaways Karlgarin Kondinin Kulin Yealering Yeealering Wickeppin in Wickepin Harr Har Ha rrirismi ismiith Harrismith Williams W ms Narrogin Darkan k COLLIE Duranillin Duranni Arthur River Widgiem WHEATBELT CENTRAL Rockk Brucee Rock Corrigin ddanning ningg Quindanning BUNBURY Boorabbin Boora Nat. Park Marvel Marv vell LLoch och Cuballing a ling all INDIAN OCEAN g and Old Kids - Youn y bales! love the ha South So uthern Cross ut Southern Westonia W We essttoonnia Narembeen Wandering ering riing Pinjarra Bullfinch Kellerberrin Kell Ke lller erbe berri rrin in K Kok kerb erbi rbin in R ock Kokerbin Rock Brookton BBrookt kttoonn Pingelly Pingel g llyy 100 Scale in Kilometres Tammin Tammin Tam Quairading QQuuuai aira ai radi d ng Armadale 0 Mukinbudin Koorda Koorda Cunndder Cu erdiinn NORT RTHAAM Cunderdin NORTHAM 8 Koolyanobbing KKo ool olya lyano nobbbbing Ro occkk Elachbutting R Rock Bencubbin u Cadoux Caaddooux Meckering M Me e errinn eckering yay Toodyay PERTH BBallidu du opp Trayning Kununoppin Nunng Nu ngar arin in Nungarin Dowerin Dowerinn Do Wyalkatchem Wyyal alka lkkkaatctche hem hem Goomalling Goom om malling m lli Merr Me rred edin Merredin Lancelin Sealed Major Road Sealed Minor Road Unsealed Road Track ie Rock Roocck Bonnie Mollerin l Lake Wongan Hills Moora Beacon Kalannie Kalannie Miling Cervantes Ni Gormley Sculptures Morawa Dongara Morapoi Station KKukerin Ku uke k riin ke Du ng Dumbleyung W Wagin Cape Naturaliste Wave Rock Hydenn THE OPEN WHEATBELT FFra Frank rank nk H ann Hann Nat t. P ark Nat. Park Lake Lake Lak ke Grace Gra race ce Newdegate Pea Nat. Kinng Lake King Raav e Ravensthorpe Nyabing Kataann Katanning Gnowangerup Jerramungup Fitzgerald River National Park Munglinu S Na welcome to the eastern Wheatbelt Busselton Nannup Margaret River Ongerup Augusta Hopetoun Bridgetown Manjimup Bremer Bay Cape Riche Mt. Barker Pemberton Cape Leeuwin Denmark Community members of the 19 Shires of the Eastern Wheatbelt Walpole ALBANY invite you to explore a wonderland of surprises within a 2 hour drive from either Perth or Kalgoorlie. Discover vistas of open SOUTHERN OCEAN farmland, walk wildflower trails, climb magnificent granite rocks, and enjoy delightful small country towns. Join the friendly locals and experience their market days and unique events. Be entertained at the many theatre settings and visit local museums and galleries. Treat yourself - stay a while and wake up to the magic of the Eastern Wheatbelt. By Coach / Train: Transwa operates coaches to many Eastern Wheatbelt towns and the Prospector passenger rail service between Perth and Kalgoorlie stops in Tammin, Kellerberrin, Merredin and Southern Cross. Ring 1300 662 205 or www.transwa.wa.gov.au for services available and bookings. PERTH BEACON WYALKATCHEM WESTONIA TRAYNING TAMMIN SOUTHERN CR QUAIRADING NUNGARIN NAREMBEEN MUKINBUDIN MERREDIN LAKE GRACE KUNUNOPPIN KULIN KOORDA KONDININ KELLERBERRIN HYDEN DOWERIN CORRIGIN BEACON By Road: The Eastern Wheatbelt can be accessed by self-drive visitors on a good network of sealed roads. Delightful self-drive trails offer a number of interesting routes along which to explore the region. PERTH How to get here BRUCE ROCK Dowerin Field Days BENCUBBIN Go Exploring! Kojonup 320 273 243229 157 339203 278 237284 248 355 260293 281 268165 370 181 236 311 192 320 43 201265160311141277 82301 92 37215280 22311220226116480203124 BENCUBBIN 273 43 157221 116268 97 234 38 257 49 328109 37 179 68 158 217 120 37 160 80 BRUCE ROCK 243201157 65 20112758 93 192117108188 50127 39 88 77 157 81 121100165 CORRIGIN 229265221 65 211 109128 49 22054 173 144 114192 73 153 66 222 121186165 175 DOWERIN 157 160 116 201 211311 121 277 81 264 92 385 152 153 223 112 144 260 98 80 203 36 HYDEN 339 311 268 127 109 311 191 60 303 83 219 98 159238 88 199 175 262 239232 205 275 KELLERBERRIN 203 141 97 58 128 121 191 151 132175 73 245 57 134 97 93 61 165 23 61 108 85 KONDININ 278 277 234 93 49 277 60 151 268 24 185 95 125203 54 165 115 228 170197 171 241 KOORDA 23782 3819222081303132268 292843631447521410415425210671 19544 KULIN 284 301 257 117 54 264 83 175 24 292 209 71 149227 78 189120 252 175221 195 265 KUNUNOPPIN 24892 49108173922197318584209 2796055131201341689612 11156 LAKE GRACE 355372328188144385 98245 95 363 71 279 220298149259209323264292266336 MERREDIN 260 152 109 50 114 152 159 57 125 144149 60 220 MUKINBUDIN 29380 37 127192153238134203752275529878 1493819518715773130117 78 71 40 119 109 80 72 51 116 NAREMBEEN 281 223 179 39 73 223 88 97 54 214 78 131 149 71 149 NUNGARIN 268 112 68 88 153 112 199 93 165 104189 20 259 40 38 111 154 148 116 32 91 76 111 115 174 120143 117 187 QUAIRADING 165202158 77 66 14417561 115154120134209119195115154 227 55122169109 SOUTHERN CR 370261 217 157222260262165228252252168323109187 174148227 189181 75 225 TAMMIN 181 164 120 81 121 98 239 23 170 106175 96 264 80 157 120 116 55 189 TRAYNING 236 80 37 121186 80 232 61 197 71 221 12 292 72 73 143 32 122 181 83 124 44 83 131 62 WESTONIA 311 203 160 100165 203 205108 171 195 195 111 266 51 130 117 91 169 75 131 124 168 WYALKATCHEM 1921248016517536275852414426556336116117187761092256244168 Country rail line 2 Welcome to Country A “Welcome to Country” is the unwritten rule that Aboriginal people are still using and have done so for thousands of years. This acknowledgement pays respect to the Traditional Owners, ancestors and the continued cultural, spiritual and customary practices and rights of Aboriginal people. It also provides an increase in awareness and recognition of Australia’s Aboriginal peoples and cultures. The Njaki Njaki Nyoongar people traditional lands cover the towns of Nungarin, Trayning, Kununoppin, Doodlakine, Hines Hill, Kellerberrin, Merredin, Westonia, Carrabin, Bruce Rock, Corrigin, Hyden, Kalgarin, Kondinin, Kulin, Muntadgin, Shackleton, Narembeen and Moorine Rock. It has become protocol for all Aboriginal people and the standard by which is used by all Australians to acknowledge, recognise and pay respect to the Traditional Owners of the lands. This is a thousand year old standard of behaviour that shows respect to each other and continues to be practiced to this very day. It is an acknowledgement for Aboriginal groups to carry on their cultural responsibilities for their traditional lands. The Ballardong Nyoongar people traditional lands cover the towns of Tammin, Wongan Hills, Dowerin, Wyalkatchem, Cunderdin, Meckering and Quairading. cers Njaki Njaki Dan The Gubrun people traditional lands cover the towns of Bencubbin, Koorda, Mukinbudin, Moorine Rock, Beacon and Southern Cross. through a continued relationship that spans over thousands of years. The map below will show an appreciation of the traditional Aboriginal cultural governance landscapes that continue to this day. It will highlight the different traditional Aboriginal groups that have maintained their connections to their lands, waterways and culturally significant sites. These are the Aboriginal groups who have and continue to maintain their cultural responsibilities within their country for their culturally significant places. These places have been as much a part of the landscape, entwined with the different geographic areas with ecological distinctions that shape the identity of Aboriginal groups to the spectacular places and scenery that many visitors choose to visit. We wish you a safe journey as you travel through our lands. As a visitor, we ask that you pay respect to the land and the places you choose to visit. Please remember and respect the cultural values of these significant places and understand that Aboriginal people continue to have strong connections and a spiritual relationship not only to the places but also the ecological and geographical environment. The many granite outcrops, waterways, land formations and flora and fauna within the region holds much cultural significance to the Traditional Kuwarra Owners The Wheatbelt region is home to 3 distinct Aboriginal groups as follows: • The Njaki Njaki Nyoongar • The Ballardong Nyoongar • The Gubrun “Please remember that each step you take today, is in the footprints Wangkathaa of our Ancestors”. Amangu Gubrun Yuat Ballardong Wajuk Malpa Njaki-Njaki Pinjarup Bibbulman Wudjari Goreng Kaniyang Wardandi Njaki Njaki Men and boys at a significant site Wilmen Minang Information and photos supplied by Njaki Njaki Nyoongars/Traditional Owners Map of Australian Aboriginal Tribal boundaries by Tindale/Horton. 3 Beringbooding Rock Hole, Gubrun Country Enterprise Agriculture When first viewed by early explorer John Septimus Roe in the 1830’s, the area now known as the “Wheatbelt” was considered arid and inhospitable. Surveys by Charles Hunt in 1864-66 established a track linking waterholes in the area. Pastoral leases were taken up in the district but the first land clearing is thought to have occurred at Mindabooka around 1889. The coming of the railway and the growth on the goldfields encouraged agricultural development. Today’s explorer encounters open farmland vistas that change with the seasons. Yellow fields of canola and green fields of wheat, oats or barley in winter and spring give way to the golden hues of early summer and the patchwork quilt of ploughed fields in the autumn. You will see that the Wheatbelt’s primary enterprise is the growing and transport of grain. Broad acre dry land farming is the backbone of the Eastern Wheatbelt. Around 40% of the States grain harvest comes from the region. Livestock, particularly sheep, also play an important part in profitable farming systems in the Eastern Wheatbelt. Agriculture Field Day The CBH Grain Storage and Transfer Depot at Merredin is capable of storing up to 470,000 tonnes of grain which is the biggest inland receival point for grain produced in the Eastern Wheatbelt. Each town or siding has its own wheat silos and rail network linked with Merredin. Research into wheat varieties, agronomy and agricultural pests and diseases is a continuing process. The 100 year old Dryland Research Institute at Merredin operated by department of Agriculture and Food WA, is the major agricultural research organisation in the region. The region holds many heritage sites and museums that illustrate the evolution of the grain industry, the machinery used and the dedication of generations of farmers and railway people in establishing the efficient industry there is today. The Narembeen’s Grain Discovery Centre is a state of the art interpretive centre which tells the story of a region growing on grain. The Eastern Wheatbelt also holds one of the largest machinery field days in the state, ‘The Dowerin Field Days’ which is held in Dowerin over two days in August each year. Ready for harvest l Calendar Agricultura Mid April - June Seeding: cember November - De Harvesting: arch M y ar nu Mid Ja Main Shearing: July - October umn) April-May (Aut Lambing: ter) in (W e un -J May ctober O r be Septem Hay Baling: liant ities are very re Farming activ ing of tim d an er on the weath rains” the “opening Green Power Generation Mining Collgar Wind Farm Travel south off the Great Eastern Highway between Merredin and Burracoppin to drive through one of the largest wind farms in Australia. An interpretive display shelter is located on Bulls Head Road. Collgar Wind Farm is a site of 18,000ha and contains 111 turbines which generate enough power to supply 125,000 homes. It will displace 700,000 tonnes of carbon which is equivalent to taking 160,000 cars off the road each year, making a major contribution to WA’s greenhouse gas reductions. The project location was selected for its unique topography, world class wind resource, favourable community rapport and proximity to the power grid. Although there were reports in the early days of small amounts of gold found in the Eastern Wheatbelt, it was really the Yilgarn, Coolgardie and Kalgoorlie goldfields that led prospectors in the 1880’s to travel through the Wheatbelt region towards the fields following the freshwater lakes, rock water catchments and wells along the way. The Edna May mine at Westonia was opened in the early 1900’s and has been an active mine several times since. It is currently a fully operational gold mine, having reopened in 2010. The recently opened Lookout at the Edna May provides spectacular views of the pit and mill in operation. A number of the old prospecting areas throughout the Yilgarn Shire at Bullfinch, Koolyanobbing, Marvel Loch and other areas are now providing an additional employment base for some of the communities. Lambs feasting on the green clover Wind Turbines, Collgar Wind Farm, Merredin Edna May Mine, Westonia 4 Self-Drive Trails Go Exploring! For whichever direction you are travelling, there are recommended or dedicated self-drive trails to link up with and enhance your journey. Detailed Eastern Wheatbelt maps, brochures and some self-drive trail guide books are available free of charge. These can be obtained before your journey or en route from regional Visitor Centres, Community Resource Centres and Shire offices. Contact the Central Wheatbelt Visitor Centre or visit www.wheatbelttourism.com our virtual office. Suggested Wheatbelt self-drive trails (2-5 day) Discover something new on a self-drive trail Pathways to Wave Rock Duration: 3 days+ Distance: 760km Road Conditions: Sealed QUAIRADING BRUCE ROCK PERTH NAREMBEEN KONDININ BROOKTONN CORRIGIN KULIN WAVE ROCK HYDEN LAKE GRACE Make your journey to Wave Rock an experience to remember. Enjoy country hospitality, natural bushland with wildflowers in season, spectacular night skies and an agricultural experience. Travel along the Mt Walker road with its colourful wildflowers and onto Hyden. Allow time to explore Wave Rock, see Hippos Yawn and The Humps, wildlife park and other attractions. Your Wheatbelt experience begins as you leave Perth on the Great Eastern Highway, travelling to WA’s first inland town York. Enjoy the motor museum, historic buildings, cafes and restaurants. Travel 68km east to Quairading then on to Kokerbin rock, a massive monolith with great views and picnic area, in the Bruce Rock Shire. Continue to Bruce Rock and a further 38km south east to Narembeen and browse their Grain Discovery Centre. Take alternative routes south through Lake Grace’s salt lake country and Kulin along the Tin Horse Highway or west through Kondinin, Corrigin home of “The Dog in a ute” and west along the Brookton Highway. Accommodation: Bed and breakfast, farmstays, motels, hotels, caravan parks, RV-friendly towns and free camp sites. The Tin Horse Highway The Tin Horse Highway is a laughing matter! In the paddocks lining the 15km stretch of road east of Kulin, is a gallery of bright, quirky, community creations. What started as an authentic community marketing campaign to promote the annual Kulin Bush Races has become one of Western Australia’s most popular self-drives. You will also find some impressive steeds on the western side of Kulin and in town. The Tin Horse Highway provides a seriously entertaining drive and a fun alternative route 3 hours east of Perth en route to iconic Wave Rock. The Tin Horse Highway is FREE and OPEN all year round. 5 Visitor Information and Souvenirs Kulin Community Resource Centre, Johnston Street, KULIN Tel: (08) 9880 1021 Email: [email protected] Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 9.00am - 4.30pm Golden Pipeline Heritage Trail Duration: 3 to 5 days Distance: Mundaring to Kalgoorlie 650km Road Conditions: Sealed road with short stretches of maintained unsealed road. KALGOORLIE-BOULDER COOLGARDIE MERREDIN SOUTHERN CROSS NORTHAM PERTH (Mundaring Weir) Hit the road to adventure as you follow the route of a really impressive engineering feat, C.Y O’Connor’s pipeline stretching from Mundaring Weir near Perth through Eastern Wheatbelt towns of Tammin, Kellerberrin, Doodlakine, Merredin, Westonia and Southern Cross to Kalgoorlie. The Golden Pipeline was built at the dawn of the 20th Century. It was the most ambitious water supply scheme ever built, even bigger than anything the Romans did. It is still the longest freshwater pipeline in the world and it is still working! There are 26 special interest sites with interpretation signs along the way. Together they tell the story of the land, the people and the Pipeline. Visit the old pump stations, one with heritage machinery, one a museum and others are beautiful stabilised ruins. The Trail is well signposted so you won’t get lost, even though it takes you off the ‘beaten track’ on many occasions, it is suitable for driving in a conventional family car. A guide book has been produced by The National Trust and is available at many places along the Pipeline. For more information visit www.goldenpipeline.com.au Accommodation: Bed and breakfast, farmstays, motels, hotels, caravan parks, RV-friendly towns and free camp sites. Pioneers’ Pathway Duration: 2 to 4 days Distance: One way Perth to Merredin 292km Return via Bruce Rock – York 271km or Golden Pipeline Heritage Trail 260km Road Conditions: sealed road. Some unsealed to nature reserves. DOWERIN GOOMALLING WYALKATCHEM TRAYNING NUNGARIN MERREDIN A visit to the National Trust Homestead of Mangowine near Nungarin will take you back to the early days, while World War II history comes alive at the Nungarin and Merredin Military Museums. From April through to October there TOODYAY NORTHAM PERTH BRUCE ROCK YORK Take this delightful scenic route from Perth through Toodyay or Northam to enjoy bushland trails at Goomalling and historic Slater’s Homestead for refreshments on weekends. At Goomalling have a picnic at Oak Park Lake and visit a school museum. At Dowerin visit the Pioneering Homestead Museum and the Tin Dog Creek walk trail. Wyalkatchem has a 1930’s wheat bin museum where bulk handling of grain began. are wildflowers in a variety of reserves including Billyacatting at Trayning, Eaglestone Peak and Talgomine at Nungarin and Merredin Peak at Merredin. Whether you are travelling east or west there are opportunities to take alternative tranquil routes through the Wheatbelt and off the busy Great Eastern Highway. Drive the trail taken by the Goldfields’ pioneers, follow the Golden Pipeline Heritage Trail or the Pathways to Wave Rock. For more information visit www.pioneerspathway.org.au Accommodation: Bed and breakfast, farmstays, caravan parks, motels, hotels, RV-friendly towns and free camp sites. The Wheatbelt Way Duration: 3-5 days or more Distance: Approximately 800km-1000km depending on route taken Road Conditions: Sealed roads with stretches of good unsealed road to rock and bushland features. BEACON KOORDA DOWERIN GOOMALLING BONNIE ROCK BENCUBBIN MUKINBUDIN TRAYNING WYALKATCHEM NUNGARIN TOODYAY WESTONIA MERREDIN NORTHAM To start your Wheatbelt Way adventure travel through the Avon Valley to Dowerin 2hrs east of Perth or turn off the Great Eastern Hwy at Carrabin (10km south of Westonia) 3.5hrs east of Perth. The Wheatbelt Way self-drive trail will lead visitors on an adventurous interpreted journey to 24 dedicated sites highlighting natural attractions, historical and heritage sites and landscapes in the North East Wheatbelt. Each site offers opportunities to stay and experience 9 unique Wheatbelt Communities where you can experience good old-fashion hospitality while exploring at your own leisure. For a copy of the FREE 50 page Wheatbelt Way Self-Drive Trail Guidebook and 2 Audio CD set with dramatised stories to guide you on your journey through the north eastern Wheatbelt. Call 1300 736 283 or (08) 9041 1666 to request a copy to be posted to you or download from the website www.wheatbeltway.com.au Accommodation: Bed and breakfast, farmstays, motels, hotels, caravan parks, RV-friendly towns and free camp sites. CARABBIN PERTH Granite Woodlands and Discovery Trail Duration: 2 days Distance: 302km Road Conditions: Unsealed (all weather) NORSEMAN Wave Rock HYDEN The Breakaways ESPERANCE Linking Hyden (Wave Rock) in the Eastern Wheatbelt to Norseman in the Goldfields, explore pristine landscape – home to one of the world’s greatest untouched temperate woodlands, with 16 interpretive sites. Some of these sites have walk trails, picnic sites and/or camping facilities. Heading east from Hyden stretching 300km to Norseman, the trail offers an alternative route to or from Kalgoorlie, Esperance and the Eastern States. Travelling the Wheatbelt section of the trail follows 53.2km of open Wheatbelt to the State Barrier fence and then 4.8km to the Holland Track intersection through low sandy heathland. From this point it is 7.1 km to the intersection of Forrestonia Road which can take you back to Southern Cross or follow the trail east another 46.5km to the Shires of Kondinin and Dundas boundaries. The remainder of the trail continues in the Dundas Shire east to Norseman. For a copy of the map or more information contact the Wave Rock Visitor Centre on (08) 9880 5182. Information: Many sites en route have only picnic and/or camping facilities and walk trails. 6 wheatbelt north east Cement St Westonia The real country Breathe in the fresh country air as you find yourself surrounded by a vast timeless land of bright skies and big horizons rich with the sights and sounds of nature. Take in the contrasting landscapes of open paddocks, green belts of trees and rugged rocky outcrops. The woodlands are transformed with blankets of wildflowers in spring and a profusion of bird and animal life. These north east towns lie along the Pioneers’ Pathway and the Wheatbelt Way self-drive trails and offer alternative routes to or from the Avon Valley, Coral Coast and Northern Goldfields. Mangowine Beacon and Bencubbin Dowerin Shire of Mt Marshall is known as the Sandalwood Shire and the towns of Beacon and Bencubbin service this most northern shire of the North East Wheatbelt. Located 156km north east of Perth and with a population of approximately 700 Dowerin is home to the annual GWN7 Machinery Field Day, the biggest rural event in WA held over the last Wednesday and Thursday of August. Both towns have a range of services including country clubs, hotels, co-ops and cafés. Sandalwood cutters and graziers were the first Europeans to settle in this area and a newly established Sandalwood Interpretive Centre at Bencubbin recognises this history. Situated south east of Bencubbin is Marshall Rock a popular camping site and a few kms along on private property, the Pergandes sheep yards, are the remains of one of the original homesteads and sheep yards. Constructed from local granite slabs, it shows the initiative of early settlers and how they made use of what materials were readily available. Dowerin Dray 7 Homestead East of Beacon is Datjoin Rock on the Bonnie Rock Road and north of Beacon is Billiburning Rock which is part of the large Karroun Hill Nature Reserve in the far north east of the shire beyond the Vermin Proof fence. Following the lake Moore salt lake system north on the Mouroubra Road is an alternative unsealed route through to Paynes Find in the north east Goldfields. Rusty the Tin Dog stands guard at the western entrance to town proudly representing the spirit and ingenuity of this small rural community. Join Rusty on an adventure throughout his home, Tin Dog Creek and take the long or short walking trail for a stroll through some of the last stands of untouched bush in the Wheatbelt. At Namelkatchem Reserve, 17km east of Dowerin you can see where wagon wheel tracks made by pioneers as they travelled to the Goldfields are still visible today. Nearby Minnivale was once a thriving local community where a new history is now emerging with the development of the Wheatbelt Heritage Rail project. Although in its early stages, work has commenced to transform the former Minnivale Wheat bin into a Heritage Rail Interpretative Centre. Expected completion of this project is in 2014. Dowerin has a range of shops, services and accommodation for the visitor. Koorda A small town 250km north east of Perth, Koorda has a population of approximately 480. In 1836 the Surveyor General, John Septimus Roe, led an expedition to the east of the Avon Valley in a search for pastoral land. One of his camps was located a few miles north of the present town of Koorda. Hardy settlers of the Avon Valley moved sheep and cattle out to make use of grasses and fresh water. By the 1860’s a few pastoral homesteads were set up at favourable places. The Koorda Museum is continually adding to the historical exhibits and has an excellent display of old medical equipment. There are local natural rock formations that are well worth a visit when there are wildflowers in abundance. These provided essential water catchment for the early travellers and settlers of the district. The Koorda Native Flora Reserve has been established to showcase the flora native to this area and there are camping facilities available including a composting toilet. Mukinbudin Located 296km north east of Perth with a population of approximately 650. Mukinbudin is a vibrant community in a wheat and sheep farming area. Situated on the Wheatbelt Way (www.wheatbleltway.com.au) Mukinbudin boasts loads to see and excellent facilities for the travelling visitor such as two banks, Cafe, Hotel well stocked IGA Supermarket, Hairdresser, Tyre Shop, 24 hour fuel, Community Resource Centre, Post Office, Gift Shop, Steel Fabricator, Newsagency, Hardware and much more. The Recreation facilities are second to none and include a synthetic bowling green and tennis courts, golf course and a recently refurbished Olympic size swimming pool. An excellent caravan park with a unique Shearing Shed theme Campers Kitchen and a new ablution block boasting industry leading ensuites are available for the traveller. The 1950’s working farm shed is situated in the middle of town where a passionate community group work to retain their heritage. Restored machinery is on display and this is located close to the Unique Heritage Grain Silo which is an amazing engineering feat from times gone by. Come and explore the massive granite outcrops of Mukinbudin including Beringbooding Rock, which has one of the largest rock water catchment tank in Australia, built in 1937 and holding two and a quarter million gallons. Beringbooding has an amazing balancing boulder, a huge gnamma hole and some of the Kalamaia tribe’s paintings of hands in a cave at the rear of the rock. Nearby is Elachbutting Rock; explore this massive granite outcrop with its spectacular waves, tunnel and cavern, prospector’s well and superb wildflowers during the season. An Annual four day Art Festival in September brings the town alive (www.wheatbelttourism.com/ events) starting with wine and cheese opening on Wednesday evening, days packed with workshops, displays, 50’s farm machinery demos Granit Rock Tours and Fireworks culminating with a market day on Saturday full of stalls, loads of entertainment children’s entertainment, Muka Mile foot race and car exhibition. Free entry has visitors returning annually amazed at the friendly fun filled event. For information contact (08) 9047 1102. or www.mukinbudin.wa.gov.au Nungarin This small wheatbelt town with a shire population of less than 300 makes up for its lack of size as a hub of attractions for history and community activity. The first Sunday of each month from March through to December the town swells in population for the famous Nungarin Wheatbelt Markets where stalls sell everything from chooks to machinery. Historic Old McCorry’s Hotel accommodation and caravan park provides lunches on Nungarin Market days. An enviable and extensive collection of military and agricultural memorabilia are on display at the Nungarin Heritage Machinery and Army Museum which is the largest timber ex-army vehicle workshop constructed in 1942-43 as part of the WWII defence. About 14km north of town, the National Trust property, Mangowine Homestead is a must see of family life and enterprise on the districts earliest pioneer farm which hosts an annual (October) music event called Mangowine Concert. Trayning The town is named after the original pioneer “Trayning Well”, a word which is derived from the Aboriginal interpretation “Duranning” for “snake crawling in the grass near camp site”. These early watering holes were part of a series of wells dug along the early goldfields track that extended from the Avon Valley to the Yilgarn Goldfields. The wells were of such great importance to the early pastoralists that they lined them with natural stone to ensure their durability. The town has first-rate Recreation, Caravan Park, Campers Kitchen, Playground and BBQ facilities. The towns have a range of shops and services. The Shire of Trayning services two other towns, Kununoppin known for its bushland setting with walk trails, a particular delight in spring and Yelbeni with its small heritage museum. Mukinbudin Caravan Park Ideally located adjacent to swimming pool, recreation oval, golf course and a short walk to the main shopping area. 11 powered sites, 3 fully self contained air conditioned park homes, 4 comfortable cabins, one 3 bedroom house, NEW shearing shed themed campers kitchen, NEW ablutions with leading industry ensuites. Wireless broadband access available, BBQ facilities and free swimming pool entry (in season). Dump point facilities available. Mukinbudin Tel: (08) 9047 1103 Email: [email protected] Website: www.mukinbudin.wa.gov.au Westonia Located just 3 hours’ drive east of Perth and 10km north of the Great Eastern Highway from Carrabin. The town owes its beginnings to the discovery of gold in the area by a prospector and sandalwood cutter Alfred David Weston. Agricultural industries also developed in the area in the 1920’s. The heritage buildings constructed in the town during this period have been maintained by the Shire of Westonia and all new buildings on the main street have been constructed in a similar historic style. The proposed Hood-Penn Museum will be housed in the impressive historic style Club Hotel building and should be open for public exhibition by March 2014. Relics from the town’s mining and agricultural past sit comfortably amongst the town’s streetscapes and gardens. The currently operating Edna May gold mine can be viewed from a new mine lookout. Today agriculture is the primary industry, though the reopening of the Edna May gold mine in 2010 has also provided other employment opportunities in the region. Westonia is surrounded by 5,600 ha of eucalypt reserve which includes salmon gum, morrell and gimlet. Westonia Common Woodlands are accessible by a 4km Woodlands and Wildflower trail. Wyalkatchem Located 194km from Perth with a population of 523. The gateways to the town are historical grain elevators that mark the regions claim to fame as “The Cradle of Bulk Handling” being the very first place where bulk wheat was collected in Western Australia. Mr H Threfall was the farmer who made the first delivery to the bulk system at Korrelocking. The Wyalkatchem Agriculture Museum is housed in an early 1936 preserved wheat bin. Wyalkatchem is a great place to retreat in relaxed and peaceful surroundings and has a medical centre, a variety of shops and cafés’ and sports and leisure facilities. Enjoy picturesque nature walks and reserves or play a round on the golf course. Today’s community proudly honours the Traditional Custodians who had names for and used the early water sites such as Wyalcatching and Korrelocking and the early pioneers who contributed to the current quality of life in rural Wyalkatchem. Watson’s Way Country Stay & Tours One of the Wheatbelts’ most popular B & B’s located on the ‘Wheatbelt Way’ self-drive trail and close to the massive scenic granite outcrops of Beringbooding and Elachbutting. •4 self-contained cottages with priv. facilities, kitchen, TV, heater, fans, elec blankets, books, patio, BBQ area •Cooked b/fast, other meals avail. •Rock and farm tours available. 2001 Winner Heartlands Regional Tourism Awards “Caravan & Camping Category” RAC Rating 3 1/2 Stars Mukinbudin Tel: (08) 9047 0008 1487 Cunderin Rd, Mukinbudin WA 6479 E: [email protected] Web: www.watsonswaybb.com 8 The Woolshed Hotel, Nungarin Henry’s Hideaway B&B The Woolshed Hotel offers friendly service and cold beer with stylish dining and accommodation. Browse the shearing memorabilia or relax by the fire or in the shady beer garden. Ask about our Weekend and Pamper Packages. We have function facilities available. Nungarin Tel: (08) 9046 5084 58 Railway Ave, Nungarin Email: [email protected] Westonia Caravan Park Take a step back in time in Westonia and view historic facades, walk amongst the nature trail through 4,000ha of natural woodlands or take a picnic at one of several nature reserves with spectacular rock formations or view an operational mine from the Edna May lookout. RV friendly, budget accommodation. Westonia Tel: (08) 9046 7063 Fax: (08) 9046 7001 Corner Kaolin & Wolfram St, Westonia Email: [email protected] Wyalkatchem Travellers Park Shauna & Russ invite you to ‘Stay -a -Wyal ‘ in their Travellers Park 8 roomy, drive through ensuite sites. 10 roomy, drive through sites and camping. Camp kitchen, a beautiful new ablution block including disabled facilities, fire pit, laundry, lawn area, pets welcome, shade, walking distance to town, local information available, dump point. 9 Melissa welcomes you to a quality farmstay B&B. Luxurious rooms with comfortable queen size beds in modern homestead on 100 acres of picturesque hills, valleys, trees and rock outcrops. Magnificent views, sunsets and sunrises with only nature to be seen. Full house facilities (inc WiFi) are at your disposal. Cook your own meal, have one cooked or dine in town. The famous camp fires under brilliant starry skies are popular. Add to the experience with a camp oven dinner, damper, billy tea/coffee, mulled wine, games, bush dance and songs. Wander the many trails to explore wildflowers, majestic gum trees, kangaroos, echidnas, gnamma holes and other flora and fauna. Wyalkatchem Tel: Mel 0488 099 053 Lot 6307 Nungarin-Wyalkatchem Rd, Korrelocking Email: [email protected] Wyalkatchem Tours Melissa and Shauna of Wyalkatchem Tours offer you the opportunity to experience our fantastic Wheatbelt lifestyle through one of the following tours: • Working farm (seasonal) • Historical - experience the old ways • Nature Tour - Flora and fauna • Pamper your body, mind and soul • Sporting , against local teams • Arts of any medium • Fit farm - healthy food and exercise • Wildflower (Late Sept & Oct) • Local Aboriginal Culture (limited) • Team building for any group • Events - check website for details Come and experience our quiet, relaxing and spacious park for yourself. Visit www.wyalkatchemtravellerspark.com, read our guestbook page, phone us and make a booking! All include experiencing our special Wheatbelt lifestyle - campfires, starry skies, campoven dinners, damper, mulled wine, local produce, wine and cheese at sunset, bush dance and song, open quiet and picturesque surrounds - all subject to seasonal conditions. Wyalkatchem Tel: Shauna 0427 814 042 or Russ 0429 814 042 Hands Drive (Goomalling-Merredin Rd) Email: [email protected] Web: www.wyalkatchemtravellerspark.com Wyalkatchem Tel: Shauna 0427 814 042 or Mel 0488 099 053 Email: [email protected] Web: www.wyalkatchem.com.au WT pathways to wave rock the open wheatbelt The Pathways to Wave Rock Trail links the towns of Quairading, Bruce Rock, Narembeen, Hyden, Lake Grace, Kulin, Kondinin and Corrigin. The pathways offer alternative routes to and from Perth, the Great Eastern Highway and to or from the South West. These self-drive trails featuring massive granite outcrops are surrounded by natural bushland offering spectacular views from their summits and are havens for bushwalkers and the wildflower enthusiast. Follow quirky trails and whichever way you travel the Open Wheatbelt guarantees the unexpected. Narembeen Gra in Discovery Centre Bruce Rock Corrigin Hyden Bruce Rock has many surprises including a fantastic Amphitheatre that provides a venue for performing arts and an adjoining sculpture park which is a unique place for a picnic or stroll. Centennial Pathway, a community project celebrates 100 years of initiative with a Mosaic Wall that extends along the main street. Memorials in front of the amphitheatre acknowledge Veterans from all military forces that meet annually for a Back to the Bush Reunion. Only 235km on Brookton Highway from Perth, Corrigin was once known as the town of the windmills until a town water scheme in 1960. It is now famous for its tribute to “Mans Best Friend” at the unique dog cemetery and is the world record holder for Dogs in a Ute event. Hyden has traditionally serviced wheat, sheep and cattle farms and mining interests. However in the past 30 years the Kondinin Shire’s easternmost town of 200 residents has embraced a new industry – tourism. The modern Aquatic and Recreational Centre provides the community and visitors with sporting facilities, water slide, spa and river pool, gymnasium, skate park, BBQ and picnic facilities all conveniently located near the Caravan Park. The township of Shackleton boasts ‘the smallest bank’ a 3mx4m weatherboard building that closed in 1997 and a unique art and sculpture park. Nearby is Kokerbin Rock, a commanding monolith 122m high with picnic area and designated walk trails through the bushland to the summit and a dry-wall well constructed in the early 1900’s. Ardath features a restored circa 1925 heritage style hotel and dining room restaurant with a country pub atmosphere. The town is nestled at the base of Corrigin Rock and to experience Corrigin on foot the town offers a variety of dedicated tracks and trails. The town’s history is reflected in the windmill entry statement and is showcased at the Pioneer Museum and RSL Memorial Lookout. Corrigin offers all the necessary services and facilities including an adventure playground and swimming pool. Each year approximately 110,000 visitors converge on Hyden to visit Wave Rock situated 4km east of town. Most people come to Hyden to see Wave Rock but there are many other great sights and activities to enjoy in Hyden’s historical townsite and 280ha bush reserve. While Wave Rock is the most famous feature it forms only one part of the massive granite outcrop known as Hyden Rock. There are several other “wave” granite rock formations in the surrounding bushland. In a joint initiative with Kulin, Kondinin and Narembeen Councils, Corrigin has the first mobile glass crusher in WA increasing glass recycling in the region. The glass will be used for a wide range of civil construction purposes in place of natural sand, such as in asphalt and concrete pavements, kerbing and guttering, pole footings, pipe bedding and road base. Corrigin Dog Cemetery 10 Kondinin Lake Grace Narembeen Located approximately 277km east of Perth Kondinin is known as the Gateway to Wave Rock. With a population of 300 the town is surrounded by natural woodland, granites and sheep, wheat and canola farms with hi-tech grain silos. With a population of around 650, Lake Grace is the largest of 5 communities that make up the Shire of Lake Grace and include the towns of Varley, Newdegate, Pingaring and Lake King. Located strategically between Wave Rock and the Great Eastern Highway and only 286km east of Perth, this predominantly agricultural town is named after its aboriginal heritage as the “place of the female emu”. Pioneer Surveyor General J.S. Roe’s importance in the selection of land for the early pioneer farmers is reflected in the J.S. Roe Heritage Trail which includes a magnificent mural depicting his epic journey, a replica well (Condinin Well) and the picturesque Yeerakine Rock which provides 360 degree views. The townsite features many restored heritage buildings and store fronts, a pioneer cemetery, Women’s Suffrage gazebo and garden featuring winning creations from the annual Iron Man Sculptures Art Prize. Other walk trails include the Heritage Trail of the Bush Schools and a natural bush walk trail near town where you can see Eucalyptus kondinensis (Black Butt or Stocking Tree). Kulin Located 283km south east of Perth, Kulin is renowned as the home of the Kulin Bush Races held on the first weekend in October annually. Another equine attraction is the “Tin Horse Highway” which is now a significant part of the Kulin community’s identity and cultural heritage. These creative tin horses provide a great source of amusement to travellers passing through Kulin and have to be seen to be believed. Kulin facilities include a 172m long, 18m high water slide, new aquatic centre and state of the art recreation centre. Nestled among an ancient river system, the Shire of Lake Grace is home to many shallow salt lakes of brilliant white and varying shades of pink, green, tan and mauve. Amazing to see no matter what the time of year, the lakes provide a scenic experience that visitors are sure to remember. In spring, the country comes alive with unique and delicate wildflowers which make for a wonderful time to picnic or hike through some of the numerous nature reserves. In 1893 John Holland and his partners cut the now famous Holland Track which crosses through the Shire from Broomehill en route to the Goldfields. The cartwheel ruts of their wagons can still be seen in some areas of uncleared bushland near the Lake Grace/ Newdegate Road. Take a step back in time and visit the AIM Hospital Museum in Lake Grace and the Hainsworth Building in Newdegate. The Lake Grace Visitor Centre (the Restored Station Masters House) has a large variety of locally made products and visitor information maps and guides. Relax at the local winery or cafe with friends and take in the local art at the ‘Artspace’ on Stubbs St. Scattered throughout the Shire you will find a range of accommodation available - caravan parks, hotels, motels, and B&B’s, along with good services, sporting and recreation facilities. 11 Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the undisturbed beauty of surrounding reserves with nature trails that take in tall salmon gums, native animals, and during spring, splendid wildflowers. Attractions include Roe lookout, Roe Dam, Anderson Rock and Hidden Hollow. Local craft works are created and sold from the Narembeen Community Shed which houses the Men’s Shed, Arcadian Concepts timber furniture and the Narembeen Arts and Craft Inc. Quairading A farming community of approximately 1,200 people, Quairading is on the York to Merredin Road. The town name derived from the Aboriginal word ”Kwirading”, meaning the home of a small brush kangaroo. “Kwirading Spring” is just 6.4km south of the town and was used by Aborigines as a stopping place. Quairading was first recognised as an agricultural area in the early 1860’s and developed as a rural centre for the ever expanding wheat and sheep industry. Today the region produces cereal and grain crops, wool, sheep and cattle. Immediately west of the townsite is Quairading Nature Reserve with walking trails where 527ha have been set aside for flora and fauna conservation and environmental studies. The natural salt lakes in the district, Kevill’s Lake and Lake Mears often hold vast expanses of water which are popular for waterskiing. 30km east of town lie the massive granite outcrops of Mount Stirling, Mount Caroline and the monolith Kokerbin Rock. These granites are of particular significance to the local Aboriginal community. Visit the Macrocarpa Walking Trail 1km west of the town which showcases the Shire of Kulin’s floral emblem, Eucalyptus macrocarpa. From Kulin, follow the Tin Horse Highway on the Holt Rock Road and 15km east is Jilakin Rock and Lake which has a lovely picnic spot. Buckley’s Breakaway is where erosion has formed spectacular white cliffs and gullies through the orange laterite. This interesting geological site is 70km east of Kulin. The Grain Discovery Centre, a modern interpretive museum, tells the story of WA’s grain industry from the paddock to the plate. There is also a special exhibition dedicated to farmers, their role in the agriculture industry and the seasonal calendar. Salt Lake, Lake Grace Kulin Bush Races Lake Grace Visitors Centre The Lake Grace Visitors Centre is the information point for the Shire of Lake Grace, which encompasses the townships of Pingaring, Varley, Lake King, Newdegate and Lake Grace. Historical buildings, local art, wildflowers, granite outcrops and salt lakes are just some of the attractions the shire has to offer. Call in to the Visitors Centre for information on things to do, brochures for surrounding areas, souvenirs and locally sourced gifts and wares. Or head to our website www.lakegrace.wa.gov.au/tourism.html for information on accommodation.  Find us on Facebook Lake Grace Tel: (08) 98 652140 19 Stubbs St Email: [email protected] Web: www.lakegrace.wa.gov.au/tourism Corrigin Windmill Motel Situated 230kms SE of Perth along the wildflower route. Comfortable, affordable accommodation with great facilities and amenities for business travellers, holiday makers and families. We offer various types of rooms inc. twin rooms, double rooms, queen rooms and a family room. All rooms contain digital TVs & rev/cycle air conditioning. Corrigin Tel: (08) 9063 2390 Fax: (08) 9063 2710 10 Kunjin St, Corrigin 6375 Email: [email protected] Web: www.corriginwindmillmotel.net Lake Grace sunrise Wave Rock Hotel, Caravan Park & Resort Why not stay the night at Wave Rock & see it all! Experience comfortable rooms, spas, cold beer and top local steaks! • Stay at the comfortable and popular Wave Rock Motel with pool, guest lounge, open fire and grand piano – Group bookings welcome! • Stay at the Wave Rock Resort in one of 14 modern luxurious cottages, near Lake Magic – group bookings welcome! • Wave Rock Caravan Park offers new facilities including private ensuites and pool – internet access also available. Hotel: Tel: (08) 9880 5052 Email: [email protected] Web: www.waverock.com.au Resort & Caravan Park: Tel: (08) 9880 5022 Email: [email protected] Web: www.waverock.com.au Newdegate Myriadena Motel & Caravan Park •Air conditioned refurbished units - TV, microwave, coffee making facilites •Fully self contained 2 bedroom cottage •Shady powered drive through sites •Self contained cabins and onsite vans •Disabled freindly •Fully equipped laundry •Parking for big rigs •Onsite RV dump point •LPG gas dealer •Service with a smile Newdegate Tel: (08) 9871 1685 201 North Newdegate Rd Email: [email protected] John & Anne welcome you! 12 wheatbelt central the golden heart Enjoy the patchwork of woodlands, wildflowers, sweeping farmlands and salt lakes through their seasonal colour changes. Lying on the major east-west rail and the Great Eastern Highway road transport systems these towns have thriving communities and services. These towns are also part of the Golden Pipeline Heritage Trail which runs from Mundaring Weir near Perth to Kalgoorlie. Take a break from your journey and look beyond the highway to find out that makes these towns tick. Kellerberrin Merredin 200km east of Perth with a population of around 1,250, Kellerberrin has a history of farming and the manufacture of agricultural machinery. Merredin is the largest regional centre in the Eastern Wheatbelt strategically located 259km east of Perth and 334km west of Kalgoorlie on the Great Eastern Highway. A drive to Kellerberrin Hill provides panoramic views of the town and surrounding region. The heritage walk trail takes you through town past charming historic buildings, churches and the museum. Centenary Park provides a children’s playground, pergolas and BBQ facilities. Town services include cafes, butcher shop, supermarket and hotel. Kellerberrin is at the heart of many natural attractions including Mt Stirling and Mt Caroline 25kms south, offering magnificent views of these giant granite outcrops. With the newly developed Caravan Park, Kellerberrin makes for the perfect stopping point to see the great views that the Wheatbelt has to offer. Kellerberrin Hill lookout 13 Merredin has a population of around 3,000 but services a hinterland of over 15,000 people. It is the regional base for government and commercial organisations and supports quality facilities for business, education, health, transport, sport, recreation and tourism. The town is a thriving regional centre with strong community ties that has a lot to offer both locals and visitors. Wimmera Hill Look out, Yilgarn Historic Cummins Theatre has regular shows and history buffs will enjoy the Railway and Military museums and the WWII Military Hospital site. There are walk and cycle trails, Merredin Peak granite rock and historic water catchment scheme all within the town site. Offering a range of accommodation and places to eat, Merredin is the perfect place to explore the region. The Shire of Merredin also encompasses the farming settlements of Hines Hill, 20km west along the Great Eastern Highway and Muntadgin, 56km south east of Merredin. Cummins Theatre, Merredin Banner on Barrack Merredin Walk & Cycle • Merredin Peak Reserve – Cycle the Bush Trail and walk the Heritage Rock Trail. A moderate level of fitness is recommended. If walking both, allow 1.5hrs. • Tamma Parkland - Enjoy a 30 minute walk trail amongst natural bushland. There are flora and fauna interpretative panels and a trail map and picnic table. This site is well worth a visit to see orchids, everlastings and flowering shrubs during wildflower season. • Pioneer Cemetery - (off Cohn St) Where Merredin and districts pioneers are laid to rest. Stroll around the old headstones and enjoy the natural wildflower display when in season. • Apex Park - Let the children have fun playing on the swings. Enjoy a break while cooking a family BBQ. • Roy Little Park and Long Tan Vietnam Memorial - Roy Little Park provides a paved walking or cycle trail, playground and picnic seats and a home for the other two legged locals - the ducks. Nearby to the north of the Shire administration centre, is the Long Tan Vietnam Memorial pond which is a dedication to the soldiers and their service during the Vietnam War. Roy Little Park, Merredin Southern Cross Tammin A mixture of Wheatbelt and Goldfields, 368km from Perth the Shire of Yilgarn has a population of approximately 3,000. Tammin is located 184km east of Perth on the Great Eastern Highway. Southern Cross has a vibrant agriculture and flourishing mining industry to sustain it through boom and bust cycles. Visitors are drawn to the gold mining ghost towns throughout the shire. The building that houses the Yilgarn History Museum is where Arthur Bayley registered his Coolgardie claim and Paddy Hannan took out his Miners Right. • Totadgin Conservation Park and Historic Hunts Dam - 14km south of Merredin on the Bruce Rock Road. Interpretive walk trail and a mini rock wave. A great picnic spot with wildflowers in season. The Shire of Tammin including the settlements of Bungulla and Yorkrakine has a total population of 469 and covers an area of 1087m2 and its economy is primarily agriculture based. It is a classical Wheatbelt town with huge concrete silos dominating the town’s skyline, which were one of the first built in Australia. Karalee Dam which is 50km east of Southern Cross is part of the early water storage reservoir including a rock catchment, aqueduct and Hunts Soak built for the railway development and is now a popular camping spot for travellers. Kadjininy Kep is a dual purpose area hosting a hydrology model which is also being used as a performance space for shows and concerts. It is located within the town site behind the Town Hall with shaded grass slopes surrounded by running water and a water feature. The Shire of Yilgarn services the towns and mining centres of Bodallin, Moorine Rock, Marvel Loch, Yellowdine, Koolyanobbing and Bullfinch and hosts an annual motocross event called “King of the Cross”. The town streets and salt lakes are named after stars and constellations. The hydrology model exhibits an educational model which aims to educate about the causes and effects of the salinity crisis facing much of WA’s rural regions. It consists of two submodels. The first model shows an undisturbed environment where all systems are considered to be in equilibrium. This model comprises an undulating, fully natural vegetated landscape where ground water levels are kept in check by the transpiration of the trees. The second model, depicted by extensive clearing, displays how ground water continues to build, causing water logging of ground surfaces with salt laden water. Hunts Well is a historical site located a few kilometres south of Tammin. The explorer Charles Hunt camped in this area in 1864 and returned in 1865 with men to construct a well as part of a string of wells and soaks at intervals along the route to Southern Cross and Kalgoorlie Goldfields. It is worth stopping to see this important part of the state’s history and a pleasant spot for a picnic utilising the tables provided. Further down the road is Charles Gardener Reserve (14km south) encompasses 600 hectares of natural vegetation. The reserve is ablaze with wildflowers during winter and spring and contains a variety of species. Wide open sp aces Tammin Kadjininy Kep 14 MERREDIN Merredin Motel & Gumtree Restaurant Tourist Park Luxury & Budget Accommodation Nestled amongst giant gumtrees and off the main highway our motel and restaurant offers guests a quaint, rustic country experience. Services include: restaurant, swimming pool, BBQ facility, Foxtel, reverse cycle airconditioning & WiFi. Merredin Tel (08) 9041 1886 Fax: (08) 9041 1336 30-34 Gamenya Avenue, Merredin WA 6415 Email: [email protected] Web: www.merredinmotel.com Southern Cross Caravan Park & Motor Lodge Run away to country freedom and stay where the Southern Cross shines. Plenty of room to lie back and chill out. If you feel the need for excitement then we will rock you. Become a gold-digger, you may get lucky. Go bush for a day to experience life on the edge where civilization ends and wilderness begins. Whatever you choose, we have a warm, comfy bed and a hot shower waiting when you return. Southern Cross Tel: (08) 9049 1212 Great Eastern Highway, Southern Cross Email: [email protected] Web: www.sandalwoodmotorlodge.net.au 15 Merredin Bed & Breakfast Established 2007 this beautiful Art Deco former bank building and residence is in the heart of the Wheatbelt and historic World War II sites. Set in lovely gardens with 2 additional self-contained apartments. Merredin Tel: (08) 9041 4358 Mob: 0417 221 909 30 Bates St, Merredin 6415 Email: [email protected] Web: www.merredinbedandbreakfast.com Maison d’Avril Tammin Wheat Silos RV Friendly Towns & Destinations RV Friendly Towns in the Eastern Wheatbelt An RV Friendly Town™ is one that happily provides amenities and services for the mobile traveller. Bruce Rock Visitor Information Bruce Rock Community Resource Centre, Johnson St. Phone: (08) 9061 1687 Casual Parking: (near retail centre) Johnson St Short Term Parking: SW end of Bruce Rock Sporting Complex, $5 per van/per night Long Term Parking: NE end of Bruce Rock Sporting Complex Dump Point: Dunstal St, Bruce Rock C’van Park Dowerin Visitor Information Dowerin Community Resource Centre, 13 Stewart St. Phone: (08) 9631 1662 Casual Parking: (near retail centre) Stewart St Short Term Parking: Self contained vehicles, Field Days site, Memorial Ave, (48hr), Field Days excluded Long Term Parking: Minnivale Dump Point: Stewart St, Dowerin & Minnivale Campground (12km) Kondinin Visitor Information Shire administration centre 11 Gordon St. Phone: (08) 9889 1006 Casual Parking: (near retail centre) Jones St (opp Town Hall) Short & Long Term Parking: Kondinin C’van Park 32 Gordon St, Phone: (08) 9889 1006 Dump Point: Kondinin C’van Park 32 Gordon St, Phone: (08) 9889 1006 Kulin Visitor Information Kulin Community Resource Centre, Johnston St. Phone: (08) 9880 1021 Casual Parking: Johnston St, South side Short & Long Term Parking: Between Kulin Community Resource Centre & Kulin Hostel Kulin Bush Races, Jilakin Rock North Rd, (14km) Dump Point: Johnston St Mukinbudin Visitor Information Shire administration centre, 15 Maddock St. Phone: (08) 9047 1102 Casual Parking: (near retail centre). Strugnell St Short & Long Term Parking: Mukinbudin Caravan Park, 25 Cruickshank Rd, $7.50 per van/per night, unpowered, (6th & 7th night free), this includes use of ablution facilities. Dump Point: Mukinbudin Caravan Park, 25 Cruickshank Rd, Phone: 08 9047 1103 Nungarin Visitor Information Nungarin Community Resource Centre, Railway Ave. Phone: (08) 9046 5400 Casual Parking: (near retail centre) Railway Ave Short Term Parking: Merredin Rd, (opp Railway Ave) Long Term Parking: Shire Recreation Ground, $5 pvpn unpwr, $15 pvpn pwr, booked & payable at the Shire Office. Dump Point: Merredin Rd, opp Radcliffe Park Quairading Visitor Information Shire administration centre, Jennaberring Rd Phone: (08) 9645 1001 Casual Parking: (near retail centre) Heal St Short Term Parking: Greater Sports Ground, Travellers Rest Area, $5 per night, (96hr), permit from Shire administration centre, Jennaberring Rd Quairading Caravan Park, McLennan St Long Term Parking: Several ‘Rock’ locations nearby. Enquire at Shire administration centre, Jennaberring Rd Dump Point: York Rd, Quairading, (behind public amenities block) Trayning Visitor Information Shire administration centre, Railway St Phone: (08) 9683 1001 Casual Parking: Railway St and Twine St, Trayning administration. Short & Long Term Parking: Trayning Caravan Park,Kellerberrin Rd / Bencubbin Rd & Sutherland St, unlimited parking, 7 sites avail, full facilities, $7.70 pvpn unpwr, paid to Shire of Trayning administration centre. Dump Point: Trayning Caravan Park, Kellerberrin Rd / Bencubbin Rd & Sutherland St RV friendly Whea Photo courtesy tbel t CMCA Member Anita Flynn Q2119 . RV Friendly Destinations in the Eastern Wheatbelt An RV Friendly Destination™ caters for destinations, such as a tourist attraction, homestead or country pub that is friendly towards all mobile travellers. Westonia Contact Information Visitor Information Centre, Wolfram Street Phone: (08) 9046 7063 Casual Parking: (near retail centre) Wolfram Street Short & Long Term Parking: Rectangular grassed area on Diorite Street adjacent to Rec Complex. $5 per van/per night, unpowered & $10 per van/per night, includes use of ablution facilities. Mangowine Contact Information Karomin Rd, Nungarin. Phone: (08) 9046 5149 Short & Long Term Parking: $5 per van/per night for self contained vehicles on site, extra $2 for power, (48hr), length of stay negotiable, vehicles under 12m only Opening Times: Mon to Fri: 1pm-4pm Sat to Sun: 10am-2pm and 1pm-4pm Opening times can be subject to change, confirm with the property or National Trust Headquarters in Perth. Phone: (08) 9321 6088 For more information www.cmca.net.au Bruce Rock RV overflow 16 accommodation Stay a while in the wheatbelt Ardath Ardath Hotel Beacon Beacon Caravan Park & Barracks Bencubbin Bencubbin Caravan Park Bruce Rock Bruce Rock Caravan Park and Backpackers Bruce Rock Hotel/Motel Carrabin Carrabin Roadhouse Hotel/Motel (08) 9065 1046 0488 025 853 (08) 9685 1202 (08) 9061 1377 (08) 9061 1310 (08) 9046 7162 Corrigin Corrigin Caravan Park Corrigin Windmill Motel 0427 632 515 (08) 9063 2390 Dowerin Dowerin Bed & Breakfast (08) 9631 1008 Hyden Wave Rock Caravan Park & Cabins Wave Rock Country Cottage Wave Rock Hotel Motel Wave Rock Resort 17 The Eastern Wheatbelt offers a range of accommodation from the old style country pub (some with motel rooms), farm stays, bed and breakfasts and caravan parks in pleasant settings. The larger towns such as Southern Cross, Merredin and Hyden have a range of motels and well equipped caravan parks with on-site accommodation and self contained cabins or units. The region boasts many RV friendly towns and destinations as listed in this visitor guide. (08) 9880 5022 0400 488 821 (08) 9880 5052 (08) 9880 5400 Karlgarin Tressie’s Caravan Park (08) 9889 5051 Kellerberrin Judi’s Place Homestay Kellerberrin Caravan Park Kellerberrin Hotel Kellerberrin Roadhouse Motel The Prev (08) 9045 5850 (08) 9045 4006 (08) 9045 5000 (08) 9045 4007 (08) 9045 5195 Kondinin Kondinin Caravan Park & Chalets Kondinin Roadhouse Motel Koorda Koorda Caravan Park & Yalambee Units (08) 9889 1006 (08) 9889 1190 (08) 9684 1219 Kulin Kulin Caravan Park Kulin Hostel (08) 9880 1053 0428 882 022 Lake Grace Lake Grace Hotel Lake Grace Roadhouse Motel Lake Grace Saltbush Inn (08) 9865 1219 (08) 9865 1050 (08) 9865 1180 Lake King Lake King Tavern Motel (08) 9874 4048 Merredin Abby’s Bed & Breakfast Heritage House Merredin Bed & Breakfast Merredin Motel Merredin Oasis Motel Merredin Plaza All Suites Northside Tavern Merredin Tourist Park (08) 9041 3499 0413 004 414 (08) 9041 4358 (08) 9041 1886 (08) 9041 1133 (08) 9041 1755 (08) 9041 1635 (08) 9041 1535 Moorine Rock Moorine Rock Hotel (08) 9049 1235 Mukinbudin Mukinbudin Caravan Park Watsons Way Country Stay (08) 9047 1103 (08) 9047 0014 Muntadgin Muntadgin Hotel (08) 9062 5047 Holland Track Far m Narembeen Narembeen Caravan Park Newdegate Hollands Track Farm Bed & Breakfast Myriadena Motel and Caravan Park Nungarin Nungarin Caravan Park The Woolshed Hotel Quairading Quairading Caravan Park (08) 9064 7308 (08) 9871 9032 (08) 9871 1685 (08) 9046 5006 (08) 9046 5084 (08) 9645 1001 Southern Cross Nulla Nulla Farm Retreat 0428 498 010 Railway Tavern (08) 9049 1030 Southern Cross (08) 9049 1416 Accommodation Village Southern Cross B&B/Hampton (08) 9040 4034 View Farmstay Southern Cross Caravan Park (08) 9049 1212 & Motor Lodge Southern Cross Motel (08) 9049 1144 Trayning Trayning Caravan Park Trayning Hotel Motel (08) 9683 1001 (08) 9683 1005 Westonia Westonia Caravan Park Westonia Tavern (08) 9046 7063 (08) 9046 7012 Wyalkatchem Hendry’s Hideaway Bed & Breakfast Wyalkatchem Hotel Wyalkatchem Travellers Park 0488 099 053 (08) 9681 1210 0427 814 042 places to eat Bencubbin Trace’s Place Monger Street (08) 9685 1165 Carrabin Carrabin Roadhouse Great Eastern Highway (08) 9046 7162 Corrigin Mallee Tree Café & Gallery Dowerin Dowerin Bakery Campbell Street (08) 9063 2384 Trace’s Place Lake Grace Lake Grace Hotel Stubbs Street Lake Grace Roadhouse Stubbs Street (08) 9865 1219 (08) 9865 1050 Lake King Lake King Tavern Motel Varley Road (08) 9874 4048 Merredin Café 56 Chicken Treat Olive Grove Café Shed Restaurant Subway Barrack Street Great Eastern Highway Barrack Street Bates Street Barrack Street (08) 9041 5000 (08) 9041 1530 (08) 9041 1713 (08) 9041 1635 (08) 9041 4607 Muntadgin Muntadgin Hotel Stewart Street (08) 9631 1031 Lynch Street Marshall Street (08) 9880 5052 (08) 9880 5068 Crosslands Street (08) 9062 5047 Wave Rock Road (08) 9880 5182 Kellerberrin Kellerberrin Hotel Kellerberrin Roadhouse Succulent Foods Narembeen Narembeen Club Thomas Street (08) 9064 7265 Massingham Street Massingham Street Massingham Street (08) 9045 5000 (08) 9045 4007 (08) 9045 5350 Quairading BP Roadhouse Quairading Club York Road Avon Street (08) 9645 1230 (08) 9645 1070 Kondinin CC’s Coffee & Cakes Kondinin Roadhouse Jones Street Graham Street (08) 9889 1818 (08) 9889 1190 Southern Cross Dunnings Caltex Railway Tavern Great Eastern Highway Spicia Street (08) 9049 1168 (08) 9049 1030 Koorda Koorda IGA Allenby Street (08) 9684 1322 Kulin Kulin Woolshed Café Trayning Frankies Diner/Deli Trayning Hotel Motel Railway Street Railway Street (08) 9683 1091 (08) 9683 1005 Johnston Street (08) 9880 1275 Westonia Westonia Tavern Wolfram Street (08) 9046 7012 Hyden Bush Bistro/Sandalwood Restaurant Hyden Roadhouse Wildflower Shop Country Kitchen 18 granite outcrops Millions of years in the making! Granite outcrops are either inselbergs, (isolated rock hills or knobs) or monoliths, (a single massive stone or rock). Erosion usually exposes these geological formations, which are often made of very hard and solid metamorphic or igneous rock made from granite. Rising abruptly from the gently sloping or level surrounding plain they dominate the surrounding bushland. Early Europeans saw the water catchment potential of many of the granite features when looking for water storage for railway use. These catchment schemes were particularly prominent in close proximity to the railway line as a permanent source of water for the steam engines. Many have a series of permanent rock walls and aqueducts which channelled the rainfall run off into catchment dams and weirs. These outcrops create a variety of microhabitats for lichens, mosses and ferns. In hollows, trees and shrubs take hold and provide seasonal resources and refuge for a range of animals. These areas thus have rich biodiversity and many endemic species. There are many significant sites that tie in with Aboriginal cultural heritage in the Eastern Wheatbelt. Pools of rainwater, known as gnammas often form in depressions on granite outcrops. These provide habitat to aquatic invertebrates and provide freshwater to other inhabitants. Gnammas and water soaks associated with granite rock outcrops were sources of fresh water for Aboriginal people. The cultural and spiritual connection between the many granite outcrops, waterways, lake systems and Aboriginal people have been maintained for thousands of years. In the past, these land formations provided many elements of survival in the form of shelter, food, water, camping, ceremonies, graves, and paintings and dreaming stories. All these cultural elements continue to remain integral to the cultural domain that shape the way Aboriginal people continue to live and are essential to the survival of the oldest living culture in the world. 19 Amazing Elachbut ting Rock The following granite outcrops have significance to the Aboriginal country regions listed below. Njaki Njaki Nyoongar country: Anderson Rocks, Billyacatting Rock, Bruce’s Rock, Burracoppin Rock, Danberrin Hill, Eaglestone Hill, Gorge Rock, Jilakin Rock, Keokanie Rock, Kokerbin Rock, Merredin Peak (Rock), Mt Walker Rock incorporating (Anderson Reserve, Twine Reserve & Roe Dam), Sandford Rock, Talgomine Rock, Totadgin Dam, Wave Rock (Hyden), Westonia & Boodalin Soak and Yeerakine Rock. Gubrun country: Baladjie Rock, Beringbooding Rock, Billiburning Rock, Datjoin Rock & Well, Elachbutting Rock, Frog Rock & Dam, Hunts Soak, Karalee Dam, Keokanie Rock, Marshall Rock, Sandford Rock, Westonia & Boodalin Soak and Yanneymooning Reserve. Ballardong Nyoongar country: Yorkrakine Rock Anderson Rock, Hidden Hollow, Twine Reserve and Roe Dam > All located off the Narembeen – Mt Walker Road east of Narembeen. Abundant flora and fauna, ideal for picnics and bushwalking. Baladjie Rock > A popular picnic spot for locals and visitors, Baladjie Rock is located on the Koorda-Bullfinch Road 42km north east of Westonia The extensive granite outcrops are situated in attractive woodland adjacent to Baladjie Lake. A climb up the main rock provides a spectacular view of the nearby lake system and surrounding landscape. Baladjie Rock Beringbooding Rock !B Located on the corners of Beringbooding Road and Cunderin Road north east of Mukinbudin, has the largest rock water catchment tank in Australia. Beringbooding has an amazing balancing boulder, a huge gnamma hole and some of the Kalamaia Tribes paintings of hands in a cave at the rear of the rock. Two early pioneer wells are nearby. Billiburning Rock !B This outcrop 35km north of Beacon provides excellent views of both cropping and pastoral country. Billiburning Reserve displays its beauty in spring with masses of wildflowers. There is also a pioneer well and gnamma hole. Billyacatting Hill B> Located 9km north of Kununoppin within the Billyacatting Reserve. This large granite outcrop has two interpreted walk trails. One loop trail around base of the rock and one to the peak for amazing views. Picnic and toilet facilities. Bruce’s Rock > Situated 2km from town in a nature reserve on the Bruce Rock East Road. There are two old wells located at the picnic site at the foot of the rock and good walks are to be enjoyed over the rock outcrop. Barbecue and picnic facilities are available. Burracoppin Rock > Situated 2km south of Burracoppin and is a popular picnic area. In the lee of the large rock are the remains of an old house. Danberrin Hill Reserve !B A pleasant drive approximately 20km from Hines Hill past Fisher Rock, north on the Nungarin Road, this is a mass of wildflowers in season. Datjoin Rock and Datjoin Well ! Also known as Brockman’s Hide Out where Brockman, his wife and twelve children took cover under these rock formations when he broke parole and was on the run from police in the 1960’s. A popular picnic spot with an abundance of orchids in good seasons. Travel 18km east of Beacon on the Burakin-Wialki Road to the narrow track entrance to the well and camping areas. No caravan access. Eaglestone Rock !B A spectacular natural granite rock and cave formation north east of Nungarin. Enjoy great views over Lake Brown (see salt lakes). A good picnic area with BBQ facilities. Elachbutting Rock !B Located 100km north of Westonia or 70km north east of Mukinbudin on the Echo ValleyElachbutting Road. The name Elachbutting means “big thing standing”, a prominent landmark which has excellent views from the top. It has two spectacular colourful waves, a 40m tunnel “Monty’s Pass”, caused by a rock slide and a large acoustic cave named “King’s Cave”. A popular camping and picnic spot surrounded by natural bushland, it has a unisex toilet, picnic tables and BBQs. Visitors encouraged to bring own firewood and take their rubbish with them. Kokerbin Rock B> Situated 40km west of Bruce Rock, reputedly the third biggest monolith in Australia. Explore the natural bush tracks to discover a wave wall, Dog Rocks, caves and panoramic views. Picnic, BBQ and toilet facilities are available. A free camping/caravan area is being developed at Kwolyin with toilets, small camper’s kitchen, BBQ and covered seating areas. Gorge Rock Natural Pool Hunts Soak Located at Lake Koorkoordine, 8km north of Southern Cross on the Bullfinch Road, on the Golf Club Common. One more of the remarkable daisy-chain of wells and rock soaks which provided the Goldfields Track with water until O’Connor built his pipeline. Jilakin Rock > 20km east of Kulin on Holt Rock Road (follow the Tin Horse Highway). An easy climb to the top provides spectacular views of Jilakin Lake and surrounding Wheatbelt. Wildflowers form a wonderful display in season. Jilakin Rock boasts the most isolated known stand of jarrah (150km from the main jarrah belt), surviving on the water run off and quarry soils at the base of the rock. A shady picnic spot at rock base. Karalee Dam !B The Karalee reservoir, rock catchment and aqueduct is located 7km off the Great Eastern Highway 50km east of Southern Cross. A natural rock formation adapted to maximise the catchment, delivery and storage of rainwater that was essential in railway development to the Goldfields. It’s now a popular picnic and camping spot on the Golden Pipeline Heritage Trail. Merredin Peak Reserve and Railway Dam > Off Benson Road Merredin follow the Golden Pipeline signs. A rock wall was built around the contours of the peak which led to a 100m channel and into a 25 million litre capacity storage dam. This water catchment scheme provided water for both the town and railway. Two walk trails and a popular picnic spot with shady trees. Mollerin Rock !B Located 50km north of the Koorda townsite on the Kulja-Mollerin Rock Road, it has picnic and camping facilities including picnic tables and a toilet. During late winter and spring this nature reserve has a picturesque display of wildflowers and beautiful panoramic view from the top of the rock. Newcarlbeon Rock !B Located 20km north of Koorda on Newcarlbeon Road, during late winter and spring this nature reserve have a picturesque display of wildflowers, a beautiful panoramic view from the top of the rock and an enjoyable picnic area, camping and toilet facilities. Sandford Rocks Nature Reserve > Located 10km north east of Westonia along Boodarockin Road. This reserve protects 806ha of granite outcrop with pools, wildflowers, scrub and woodland. Picnic facilities. Talgomine-Mt Moore !B Situated 12km east of Nungarin a large open rock area with picturesque valley between rocks. A great wildflower spot in season with BBQ facilities. Frog Rock and Dam > Situated in the Yilgarn Shire off Great Eastern Highway 25km south east from Moorine Rock. A small dam is located beneath a wave rock formation. Frog Rock is a popular picnic spot. Gorge Rock > Located 20 kilometres from town, Gorge Rock is a natural rock pool which was once the local swimming hole, (before an Olympic pool was constructed in the townsite). It offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding farmland and countryside around Corrigin. Enjoy the short walk through the picturesque bushland to get to the rock pool. Marshall Rock !B Located south east of Bencubbin on Marshall Rock South Road on the way to Pergandes sheep yards. There are 360 degree views of the surrounding productive cropping land. Karalee Dam Keokanie Rock Located 25km north of Bodallin on the Bodallin North Road. A stop off place on the way to Baladjie Rock further north. An easy climb to the summit is rewarded by great views. No facilities. Wave Rock & Hyden The face of Wave Rock appears ready to crash onto a pre-historic surf, now frozen in time it stands an impressive 14m high and 110m long. a little longer, it is also worth seeing the rock at different times of the day, as the changing sunlight alters its colours and appearance. Believed to have formed over 2700 million years ago, Wave Rock is part of the northern face of Hyden Rock. The shape of the wave is formed by gradual erosion of the softer rock beneath the upper edge, over many centuries. There are actually several examples of such “waves” in the Hyden area, and if you have the time, it is well worth the effort to see some of the other smaller, but equally spectacular waves. In addition to being an impressive tourist attraction, the rock has been utilised for a catchment for the town’s water supplies, with a foot-high concrete wall around the upper edge of Hyden Rock directing rainfall into a storage dam. The colours of the Wave are caused by the rain washing chemical deposits (carbonates and iron hydroxide) down the face, forming vertical stripes of greys reds and yellows. If you can stay Mulkas Cave B> Located around 30km from Hyden’s Wave Rock, the name Mulka comes from an Aboriginal legend believed to be associated with the cave. Excellent walking trails with interpretation. Toilets available. Wave Rock The Humps B> 20km north of Hyden along the Lovering Road, is a large granite rock formation using this rock feature as a water catchment. King Rocks Outcrops of granite with wonderful views from the top of the surrounding country side. Located east of Hyden following Hyden East Road then King Rocks Road. 20 Toapin Weir and Rock Catchment > Located 12km north west of Quairading on Toapin Weir Road. This weir was listed on the State Register of Heritage Places in 2012. It was the largest and most comprehensive privately constructed reservoir and water scheme in Western Australia. Built around a natural granite outcrop and rock basin it offers picnic areas, BBQ and great views. Totadgin Dam and Conservation Reserve > 16km south west of Merredin on the Bruce Rock Road. Large run-off dam and soak well is part of the Golden Pipeline Heritage Trail. Walk trails and picnic facilities. Yanneymooning Reserve Located on the corner of Elachbutting and Echo Valley Roads 75km north of Westonia, Yanneymooning is a 513ha reserve comprising granite rock formations and bushland. The abundant, ornate dragon lizard (Ctenophurus ornatus) is an entertaining feature of the Yanneymooning Rock. Yeerakine Rock > Situated 12km from Kondinin. From the top of the rock outcrop you can enjoy the expansive views and appreciate the workmanship in the rock catchment scheme established in 1927 to provide water for Kondinin. Yorkrakine Rock B 26km north of Tammin on the Wyalkatchem Road and standing 341m at highest point, this solid outcrop provides walkers and climbers with a scenic view of the surrounding country. Picnic and toilet facilities. Wave Rock, Hyden B> See separate section on Page 20. Westonia Common and Boodalin Soak The Westonia townsite is nestled inside a common of approximately 5,600ha of remnant bushland. Boodalin soak is situated approximately 6km west from the Westonia townsite. This historical sight was a resting place for travellers from York to Kalgoorlie. The well is fenced and the stonework is an example of a circular dry stone wall construction. Rock Cave Salt Lakes Geologically the Wheatbelt is an ancient stable area with a very low drainage profile. The rain that falls is slow to get away and is held in large shallow depressions. This leads to lots of evaporation and the formation of lakes of salt. Unless the rainfall is very heavy over a number of seasons many of the lakes are dry for most of the year. Even in their dry state they offer stunning scenery and great photo opportunities. The following salt lakes have significance to the Aboriginal country regions listed below. Njaki Njaki Nyoongar country: Baandee Lake, Lake Magic, Kondinin Lake, Jilakin Lake, Lake Grace, Wakeman’s Lake, Lake Brown and Lake Campion. Ballardong Nyoongar country: Dowerin Lakes and Pink Lake. Doodlakine Lake Baandee B> A popular ski lake 25km east of Kellerberrin and east of Doodlakine off the Great Eastern Highway. The Inland Water Ski Club have created a pleasant picnic and BBQ area, with swimming and skiing possible for some months of the year. The Shire of Kellerberrin has provided ablutions and shower facilities. Kondinin Nungarin Kondinin Lake A large salt lake 5km west of town and after sufficient rain there is an abundance of water birds and ski and sail boat activities. No facilities. Lake Brown !B Accessible off the Lake Brown South Road, north east of Nungarin. When full, it is used for waterskiing. Eaglestone Hill is on the north shore of Lake Brown. Kulin Jilakin Lake > 20km east of Kulin on Holt Rock Road (follow the Tin Horse Highway), you will find a shady picnic spot at the base of Jilakin Rock. Lake Grace These two interconnecting salt lakes are located 8km from the townsite. The lakes provide an amazing sight for onlookers, particularly when viewed from the lookout. Narembeen Wakeman’s Lake B> Located on Soldiers Road, 13km north east of Narembeen this lake is an ideal waterskiing lake after a wet winter. Picnic and toilet facilities. Lake Campion and Plaster Works Located on Stock Road 40km north east of Nungarin is an everlasting wildflower spot in season. No facilities. Quairading Pink Lake Situated 11km east of town, this lake is regarded locally as a natural phenomenon. At certain times of the year the left side of the lake has a distinctive pink colour, whereas the right side remains blue. No facilities. Wyalkatchem Cowcowing Lake Lies 26 km to the north of Town on the Wyalkatchem Koorda Road. The Lake gives it name to the Cowcowing siding and covers an area of 15,000 hectares. No facilities. Dowerin Dowerin Lakes These were an ephemeral fresh water lake system based upon early accounts and was the site for the original settlement of the town because fresh water existed for grazing and farming. Today Dowerin Lakes illustrates the impact that land clearing, rising water tables and salinity have on farming land. No facilities. Hyden Lake Magic This lake is situated about 1km to the north of Wave Rock. The water in the lake is clear but salty and the lake base is made of gypsum and is surrounded by beach sand around the perimeter. No facilities. 21 Lake Brown wildflowers See the wheatbelt come alive! The wildflower season is one of the Eastern Wheatbelt’s most precious natural treasures attracting visitors, wildflower groups, and scientists annually. Woodlands are transformed in spring following significant winter rain as trees, shrubs and annuals produce a spectacle of colour and scent. To appreciate these remarkable displays there are many nature reserves with walk trails throughout the region which are rich in flora species. Season extends July-October. Verticordia near Hyden to a great variety of flora species of which many are now only confined to nature reserves and roadside verges in these habitats. For information on likely areas for wildflower exploring throughout the region have a look at our website and follow the links to wildflowers. Over 980 species have been recorded in the Shire of Merredin alone. Species of Acacia and Eucalypt make up the majority but also included is some 47 species of orchids and numerous species of Hakea, Grevillea, Verticordia and other varieties of shrubs. As flowering of the flora is very dependent on seasonal conditions and rainfall, please check closer to the date of your planned visit. For updates for the current years “wildflower hot spots” contact the regional visitor centres or visit www.wheatbelttourism.com.au The best times for wildflowers in this region are from mid July through to late October with different species putting on their displays over the season. Some orchids and wattles flower as early as April and May. The mosaic of habitats in the Eastern Wheatbelt range from open woodland, granite outcrops, sand plain country and extensive salt lake systems. These give rise 22 heritage sites history abounds Numerous heritage and military sites throughout the region tell of its rich history. Explore World War II sites, visit sections of the Rabbit Proof Fence and follow trails to the goldfields taken by prospectors and explorers. Fascinating stories in each town await discovery. Pioneer Park, M erredin Rabbit Proof Fence The Rabbit Proof Fence was conceived in an attempt to prevent rabbits entering the agricultural areas of the State. And what a fence it was! When finished it stretched 1,827km from near Hopetoun in the south to Cape Kenaudren, north of Port Hedland. Work commenced at Burracoppin in 1902 and that town was a major depot for the boundary riders employed to maintain the fence. Gates through the fence were numbered in miles from Burracoppin. There were heavy penalties for travellers caught leaving the gates open (72 days in prison if the fine was not paid) and for anyone found travelling along the fence maintenance track (100 pound fine). A fence west of fence Number 1 was constructed later and its line is crossed just east of Cunderdin. Number 3 fence was later built out of Geraldton to meet Number 2 fence to deter emus from invading the agricultural areas. By 1907 the 3 fences were looked after by a staff of 35, of which 25 of these were fence runners who had to look after hundreds of miles of fence line. Their service vehicles were drays pulled by two camels. They had to clear fallen trees, replace rotted fence posts and repair damage to the netting. Water was obtained from wells and an occasional rain tank. It was virgin bush before farming and very few roads. Merredin Australian General Army Hospital Located off Benson Road, The remains of the former field Hospital that was relocated to Merredin from Gaza Ridge, Palestine in 1942 can be viewed in native bushland adjacent to Merredin Peak. Extensive interpretation on site. Aviation Fuel Tanks These tanks can be viewed from the car park of the BP Roadhouse on the Great Eastern Highway. Part of a home has been built on top of the aviation fuel tanks which sit partly above and partly below ground. The tanks held six million litres of fuel used at the Cunderdin Airfield. 23 RAAF No. 10 Stores Depot Located on the Nungarin-Merredin Road. These igloo shaped hangars were part of the RAAF supply stores built in 1943. The depot held bulk and technical stores, especially radar and radio spares. Sheets of tin placed on the ground helped camouflage the site as a salt lake. RAAF personnel lived in nearby houses with vegetable gardens and flowers beds rather than barracks, also as a camouflage technique. The former officer’s mess is in Bates Street, with the original kitchen still intact. Vietnam Veteran’s Reflection Pond Memorial Located in Roy Little Park, adjacent the Shire of Merredin administration building, this monument constructed by Wheatbelt Vietnam Veterans was dedicated on Long Tan Day, August 18th 2006, to mark the 40th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan. Nungarin HF/DF Installation Located on Merredin-Chandler Road in the paddock (private property) is the High Frequency Direction Finding Installation. Its role was to give advance warning of an impending invasion. It is believed to have been completed in February 1945. Ammunition Dumps Located on Nokanning East Road (gravel road), are scattered rows of rounded concrete buildings set in the paddocks (private property). The 46 concrete igloos were constructed to house a wide range of munitions. Today you can still make out the numbers on some doors. The area would have been guarded by personnel who lived in approximately 40 timber framed buildings hidden amongst the trees. Military Museum Located on the Great Eastern Highway this museum contains memorabilia from all major conflicts since World War 1 and is a great place from which to start your exploration of the military history of the Eastern Wheatbelt. Merredin Military Museum Mukinbudin Men’s Shed Situated on Strugnell Street, Mukinbudin call in and see the “yesteryear on display” with the many restored agricultural machinery pieces. Just further along Strugnell Street, marvel at the innovation of the West Australian farmer and view the home made 4WD tractor and the relocated heritage silo. Vietnam Vetrans Reflection Pond Memorial No. 4 Pump Station This commanding red brick building was one of the eight water pumping stations used to pump water from Mundaring near Perth to Kalgoorlie in the Goldfields. It is now a stabilised ruin and one of many of the Golden Pipeline Heritage Trail interpretation sites. Pioneer Park A large bronze statue of an early settler with his Clydesdale horse and dog from pioneering days gone by. A great place to unwind, have a picnic in the shade and get an insight into the history of the regions farming and social community. Mukinbudin Goodchilds Gateway Located 9km north of Mukinbudin on the Mukinbudin-Wialki Road. This gateway was constructed in 1947 by Stan Goodchild, the then property owner, in memory of his son Harold who was killed in action in December 1944 while serving with the RAAF. The two 32 volt lights were originally powered by wires from the distant homestead. The gateway was restored in 2003 with the cooperation of the present owners AL and ME Shadbolt and family and the Shire of Mukinbudin. No. 5 Army Base Ordnance Depot (5BOD) This facility was constructed in 1942-43 as part of Australia’s defence in World War II. It was considered one of the largest storage facilities for Army Ordnance in Western Australia at the time and cost in the vicinity of ten million pounds. Incorporated in the facility were the Army Vehicle Workshop (now the Shire depot and Military Museum), tank workshops, 5 huge storehouses, powerhouse, post office, administration block, medical facilities, other workshops, shelters, offices and vehicle parking areas. The red brick fire walls of the storehouses remain and can be viewed in the paddocks to the west of the town. Nungarin Heritage Machinery and Army Museum Located in part of the army vehicle workshop building, the museum has an array of military memorabilia including a 10th Light Horse collection. There is a rare Dingo scout car, Stuart tank, Bren–gun carrier and various army vehicles and trucks on display and undergoing restoration. Southern Cross WW2 Warplane Crash Site Located in the Shire of Yilgarn south of Southern Cross along the Emu Fence Road is a RAAF Vultee Vengeance dive-bomber crash site. The plane’s engine was buried ten feet in the earth and the wreckage strewn over ten acres. The pilot survived, the navigator has never been found. More information is available in the publication ”Vengeance of the Outback”. New Interpretive Centre Bencubbin Sandalwood Interpretation Centre Sandalwooding was the pioneering industry for the North Eastern Wheatbelt region. The Sandalwood Interpretation Centre is located at the Bencubbin Community Resource Centre in the main street of Bencubbin. Call in to find out about the history of Sandalwood in the area and how the wood is used to make a variety of products. There is also a great range of Sandalwood products available for purchase if you want to take home a souvenir. alwood Bencubbin Sand ntre Ce ion Interpretat Address: Bencubbin Community Resource Centre, Monger Street, Bencubbin Phone: 9685 1007 Open: Monday 9:00am-2:30pm Tues 9:00am-4:00pm Wed 10:00am-4:00pm Thurs 9:00am-5 :00pm Friday 9:00am-2:30pm Admission: Free 24 museums & collections A past never forgotten A strong thread of history connects the Eastern Wheatbelt towns from the very early days of exploration, surveying and the traversing of the region by sandalwood cutters and prospectors on their way to the goldfields. Today there is a wealth of history to be explored where towns and railways sprung up to service the early pioneers. Bruce Rock Hyden Bruce Rock Museum Exhibits feature district lifestyle in the old bank building. Wander through the grounds to a blacksmith’s shop, an authentic one-teacher school and a replica mud brick cottage with pre 1940’s furnishings. The Lace Place This collection dates back to the 1600’s. It features hand-made and machined lace, antique gowns and a wedding dress collection, including an off-cut from the 1981 wedding veil of the Princess of Wales. Address: Johnson Street, Bruce Rock Open: Mon to Fri 2pm-4pm Admission: Free Corrigin Corrigin Pioneer Museum The collection of tools and restored farm machinery includes tractors in working order. See the blacksmith’s shop, the old one room school, the shearing shed and a collection of district photographs and other memorabilia. A wall at the entrance commemorates early settlers. Address: Entry from Brookton Highway Phone: (08) 9063 2246 Open: Sun 2pm-5pm, Wed 1pm-4pm or by request Admission: Entry fee applies Dowerin Dowerin District Museum View how settlers lived between 1915-1930’s in a house furnished from the period and artefacts from the district. A saddlery shop front contains early business memorabilia and pioneer history. Address: Cotterell Street, Dowerin Phone: (08) 9631 1202 Open: On request at the Shire Office Admission: Entry fee applies 25 Address: Wildflower shop and Visitors Information Centre, Hyden Phone: (08) 9880 5182 Web: www.waverock.com.au Open: Daily 9am-5pm Admission: Entry fee applies Pioneer Town - Yesteryear Memorabilia Museum Situated near the base of Wave Rock is the Pioneer General Store, where there are a variety of displays, including a General Store of the early 1930’s with such items as tobacco tins, cigars, pipes and general grocery items. Address: Wave Rock Road, Hyden Phone: (08) 9880 5022 Web: www.waverock.com.au Open: Daily 8:30am – 6pm Admission: Entry fee applies Miniature Solider Museum This amazing collection of over 10,000 pieces made with original moulds and collected by Alex Smith displayed in series of the great wars of the eras including a 6mt long display of the 1953 coronation of Queen Elizabeth. See soldiers at battle including the Napoleonic war, the Zulu War, the American civil war, the Pacific War, the Russian War, World War 1 and World War 2. Marek Brothers Garage, Kellerberrin Wave Rock Wildlife Park The wildlife park houses a wide range of Australian animals and exotic birds in a natural bush environment. See white kangaroos, golden possums, hairy nosed wombats and get up and personal with the friendly koalas. Family friendly with a children’s play area near the Koala enclosure. Address: Wave Rock Road, Hyden Phone: (08) 9880 5022 Web: www.waverock.com.au Open: Daily 9am – 5pm Admission: Entry fee applies Kellerberrin Marek Brothers Garage A former Blacksmith shop come Holden dealership from the 60’s to 2004. Now houses a small collection of Holdens, garagenalia and memorabilia from days gone by. Address: 126 Massingham Street, Kellerberrin Phone: 0409 528 289 Open: On request, generally daily Admission: Donations Encouraged Pioneer Museum A folk museum featuring local memorabilia is located in the old agricultural hall (built 1897). A key can be obtained from the shire office. Pioneer Park has a display of farming implements and machinery. Address: Cnr Leake & Bedford Street Phone: (08) 9045 4006 Open: Mon to Fri Admission: Free Address: Wave Rock Road, Hyden Phone: (08) 9880 5022 Web: www.waverock.com.au Open: Daily 9am – 5pm Admission: Entry fee applies Merredin Museum Railcar Karlgarin Nungarin Nungarin Heritage Machinery and Army Museum Inc Tenth Light Horse military armoured vehicles and many items that support an army in the field are displayed in Western Australia’s only remaining WWII No. 5 Army Base Ordnance Depot. In addition to militaria, dolls and matchbox toys are featured and an outstanding agricultural equipment collection reflects early settlers’ lives. Tressie’s Museum A collection of pioneer farming tools and equipment. A working display of gramophones and 78 records is also a feature. Open: 8am-5pm. Park resident’s tours at 8:30am and 4pm daily. Admission: $3 per person Address: Military Drive, Nungarin Phone: (08) 9046 5108 Open: Mon to Fri 9am-12pm and 2pm-5pm. Weekends by appointment. Admission: Entry fee applies Karlgarin Tel: (08) 9889 5043 Tressie’s Caravan Park reception 4313 Kondinin-Hyden Road Koorda Koorda and Districts Museum Housed in the old hospital buildings the museum features displays of medical instruments and hospital equipment. Early settler personal effects and equipment, photographs and machinery are also on display. Address: Ninghan Road, Koorda Phone: (08) 9684 1219 Open: By appointment Admission: $1 Kulin Butler’s Garage (Kulin Museum) Built in the 1920’s and originally operating as Butler’s Garage, it has been restored to house the town’s museum. Address: 77 Johnstone Street, Kulin Phone: 0429 801 024 Open: By appointment Admission: Free Lake Grace Australian Inland Mission Hospital Museum One of three remaining Australian Inland Mission Hospitals and the only one in WA, this museum will take you back to some of the old style medical wards and artefacts of an early twentieth century rural hospital. Address: Parking off Stubbs Street, next to Apex Park, Lake Grace. Walk, following the Penny Pathway to the Museum. Phone: (08) 9865 2140 Open: By appointment Admission: Entry by donation Lake Grace Australian Inland Mission Hospital Merredin Merredin Railway Museum An extensive display of railway memorabilia and rolling stock including the 1897 locomotive that hauled the Kalgoorlie Express. You can also see the early history of the Merredin area including the Pioneer Women’s Room and Memorial Rose Garden. Merredin Military Museum A fine collection of memorabilia, uniforms, vehicles and equipment, some restored to working order relating to most conflicts from World War I. Address: Great Eastern Highway, Merredin Mobile: 0429 411 204 Open: Mon to Sat 10am-3pm Sun by appointment. Admission: Entry fee applies Narembeen Grain Discovery Centre A modern interpretative discovery centre focusing on the story of WA’s grain industry from the paddock to the plate. It features brilliant visual and interpretive displays, interactive touch screens, ipads and audios on the agriculture industry. Address: In the Narembeen Roadhouse Phone: (08) 9064 7315 Open: Mon to Sun 9am - 5pm Admission: Gold coin donation Narembeen Historical Society A family history centre with family files and photos, a machinery display centre and R.S.L Hall (opposite Narembeen Community Shed) and the Church Museum. Address: Narembeen CRC, Churchill Street Narembeen Phone: (08) 9064 7055 Open: By appointment, Narembeen Community Resource Centre or Narembeen Road House. Phone: (08) 9064 7055 Admission: Entry by donation Newdegate Hainsworth Museum The Hainsworth Building houses the Newdegate Pioneer Museum. The building was commissioned by Charles Hainsworth, its first owner, and was built by Ted Freeland, originally a ships carpenter, during 1933/34 as a general store and tearoom. The building operated as a General store from 1934 until 1972 and had several owners during that period. The museum is a great example of early settler life in the area. Address: Corner of Mitchell and Collier Streets, Newdegate Phone: 0409 606 207 Open: By appointment Admission: Gold coin donation Mangowine Homestead /National Trust of Australia (W.A) Once an important wayside stop for the travellers to the goldfields this settler homestead is one of the best preserved complexes of early farm homesteads (c.1876) in the Eastern Wheatbelt. An interpretive walk trail takes you from the homestead to a wayside inn, cellars, wells and the site of an old barn and family grave. Caravans and camping welcome. Address: 737 Karomin North Road Phone: (08) 9046 5149 Open: Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri 1pm-4pm & Sat, Sun 10am-4pm Admission: Entry fee applies Southern Cross Southern Cross and Yilgarn Districts Historical Museum Walk through the 1890’s courthouse and mining registry buildings where Paddy Hannan took out his Miner’s Right and Arthur Bayley registered his reward claim for Coolgardie to absorb the rich history of this gold mining and farming district. You will see the working model of a gold battery, a camel wagon, the local burial register and a fascinating collection of minerals, machinery, photographs, documents and domestic memorabilia. Address: 28 Antares Street, Southern Cross Open: Weekdays 9:30am-12pm and 1:30pm-4pm, Sat 9:30am-12pm Admission: Entry fee applies Wyalkatchem Wyalkatchem CBH Agricultural Museum Housed in one of the few 1936 type wheatbins that have been preserved along with a collection of agricultural, transport and railway exhibits. Two general purpose sheds house a collection of restored and working order tractors such as a rare Marshal MP 6 and an American Waterloo Boy and vehicles from the 1920’s. Address: Railway Terrace, Wyalkatchem Phone: (08) 9681 1036 Open: Mon to Sat 10.30am - 3.30pm Sun 10.30am - 4.00pm Guided Tours: Bookings required Yelbeni Centenary Museum Developed in 2002 the museum is an informative collection of local history through photos, plaques and vintage farm machinery. Address: Twine Street, access through the Yelbeni Store. Phone: (08) 9682 5012 Open: Shop opening hours. Admission: Free Address: Great Eastern Highway, Merredin Phone: (08) 9041 3370 Open: Weekdays 10am to 1pm, Sat 9am-12pm and Sun 11am-2pm Admission: Entry fee applies Hainsworth Museum, Newdegate 26 arts & culture Creativity at its best The vast Wheatbelt landscape, history and natural environment has inspired many regional artists and crafts people. The Eastern Wheatbelt boasts many arts and crafts groups, annual art prizes, repertory clubs and community sheds providing hubs of creativity. Cultural venues like Cummins Theatre, Bruce Rock Amphitheatre and other regional outdoor entertainment centres host many annual live productions and films. Tin Horse Highwa y Cummins Theatre - Merredin This heritage listed theatre on Bates Street has been a proud fixture in Merredin’s cultural history since it was relocated from Coolgardie in 1927. Originally for film screening, Cummins Theatre was one of the first venues to show “talking” pictures in the Commonwealth and for many years was considered state of the art in its field. The theatre owes its existence in Merredin to James Cummins, who was the Mayor of Kalgoorlie and owner of both the Merredin and Kalgoorlie breweries. Mr Cummins purchased the Tivoli Theatre, which had been built in Coolgardie in 1897, and had it dismantled and sent in pieces to Merredin by train. Here, the thirty year old theatre was rebuilt where it stands today on Bates Street. Renamed in honour of its founder, Cummins Theatre opened to the public on 10th October, 1928. Cummins Theatre had extensive conservation work completed in September 2010 and now holds a wide variety of touring productions, theatrical and musical performances. Weekday tours of the theatre can be arranged with the manager. For event info and bookings www.cumminstheatre.com.au 27 Lake Grace Regional Artspace Drop into the Lake Grace Regional Artspace and immerse yourself creativity with the current major exhibition or view quality regional art in the window box exhibition. Admire and purchase original artworks for your family and friends from our artist’s gift shop. Have a chat with interesting local artists and members of the Lake Grace Artists’ Group each Tuesday or join in and learn some secrets with an art experience workshop. We are located on the main street (right next to the visitor centre) and are open daily 10am-4pm during exhibitions. To find out what’s on now, go to www.facebook.com/ LakeGraceRegionalArtspace or check out our website www.lakegraceartspace.org Arts & Crafts arts & crafts Kulin Ga llery and Studio Bruce Rock Kulin Narembeen Bruce Rock Craft Shop Local arts and crafts. Kulin Gallery and Studio Managed by artist in residence Carol Griffin. Narembeen Art and Craft Call in for a visual delight of local arts and crafts. Address: 36 Johnson Street, Bruce Rock Phone: (08) 9061 1753 Open: Mon to Fri 9:30-4:30pm and Sat 9am-12 pm Corrigin Corrigin Craft Shop The craft shop sells local hand made crafts. Address: Goyder Street, Corrigin Phone: (08) 9063 2117 Open: Thu and Fri 10am-4pm and Sat 9am-12pm Hyden Wildflower Shoppe The centre has a wide range of Australiana souvenirs for sale, including emu, tea tree and lanolin oils, Iron ore jewellery, wool products and clothing. Address: Wildflower shop and Visitors Information Centre, Hyden Phone: (08) 9880 5182 Web: www.waverock.com.au Open: Daily 9am-5pm Kellerberrin Black Ant Gallery Artwork by local artist Sean Conway. Address: Massingham Street, Kellerberrin Open: Viewing by appointment. Phone: (08) 9045 5639 Admission: Free Old With Style Antiques and collectables. Address: 54 Massingham Street, Kellerberrin Phone: (08) 9045 4738 Open: Wed to Sun 10am-4pm Address: Kulin Railway Station, Old Williams Kondinin Road, Kulin Phone: (08) 9880 1081 (Carol Griffin) Open: Fri 10:30am-4pm Admission: Free Tin Horse Highway Australia’s most unique open air gallery. Experience arts and culture of a very equine kind as you marvel at over 70 quirky tin horses built by local farmers. Location: Stretches 15 kms east from Kulin along the Kulin-Holt Rock Rd Phone: 08 9880 1021 (Kulin Community Resource Centre and Visitor Information) Website: www.kulin.wa.gov.au Facebook: www.facebook.com/ TinHorseHighway Open: All year round! FREE Lake Grace Lake Grace Visitor Centre Housed in the delightfully restored Station Masters House, the Lake Grace Visitor Centre showcases an exquisite range of locally made products and artworks. Address: Stubbs Street, Lake Grace Phone: (08) 9865 2140 Open: Mon to Sun 9:30am-4:30pm Admission: Free Merredin Central Wheatbelt Visitor Centre Seasonal display with a selection of enticing regional arts, crafts, produce, jewellery and publications from people with a passion for their crafts. Address: 85 Barrack Street, Merredin Phone: (08) 9041 1666 or 1300 736 283 Open: Mon to Fri 8:30am – 4:30pm, Open Sat and Sun April - October Website: www.wheatbelttourism.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ CWVCMerredin Address: Narembeen Community Shed and Gallery, 30 Churchill Street, Narembeen Phone: 0488 441 910 Open: Mon to Fri and Sat Mornings Admission: Free Nungarin Sisterbloom Arts & Crafts Homemade flower baskets, gift baskets, natural soaps & candles including toys, gifts and clothes Address: Railway Parade, Nungarin Phone: 0467 322 545 Open: Mon to Fri 10am-4pm and Sat 10am -1pm Shackleton Steve’s Art Studio & Sculpture Park Browse through the studio, wander around the newly established gardens to view Paintings, Garden Art and Sculptures created by local artist Steven Van den Ende. Sit and enjoy a cuppa at Floe’s Place while taking in the beautiful surrounding countryside. Address: Cnr Jermyn & Parry Streets, Shackleton Phone: 0408 162 688 Facebook: Steve’s Art Studio & Sculpture Park Official Opening Times Studio: Thurs - Sun 9am-5pm (Light refreshments available) Sculpture Park: 7 days a week. Admission: Free Wyalkatchem Wyalkatchem Cottage Craft Local Arts and Crafts. Devonshire teas available. Address: Cnr of Railway Terrace & Riches St Phone: (08) 9681 1461 or (08) 9681 1370 Open: Fri 10am-1:30pm or by appointment 28 safety tips Travel safely Outdoor activities can be hazardous and suitable safety precautions should be taken at all times. For a safe and enjoyable trip please consider the following travel tips and information. Driving Tips Self driving through the Eastern Wheatbelt may take you into some remote areas where forward planning is extremely important to ensure your experience is safe, enjoyable and memorable. The following is a list of safety tips to assist you: Road Trains Road trains are common along many regional Western Australian highways and in particular the mining and agricultural areas. Road trains can often have up to four trailers and on the open road can travel at speeds up to 100kph. • Always tell someone where you are going, your return dates and your itinerary. • Make sure your vehicle is in top mechanical condition. • Check road conditions before departure. Rain can make some tracks and roads impassable. When travelling on unsealed roads, exercise caution and ‘read’ the road well ahead of the vehicle. • Carry extra food, water, fuel and vehicle spares if you are travelling on remote tracks. • In event of a breakdown in a remote location, remain with your vehicle. • The outback can be very hot in summer so if you are travelling at this time of the year make sure you are carrying plenty of drinking water. • Roads and tracks on private property should not be used without the landholder’s permission. Leave gates as you found them. • Take care at all railway crossings. Train movements can be irregular and not all crossings have flashing lights. • Large slow-moving agricultural machinery may be encountered on highways and local roads, so take care when overtaking. • Dust can obscure vision when travelling or passing on dirt roads. • Beware of wandering livestock and wildlife, especially at dusk and dawn when visibility may be poor and they become more active. • Be prepared! Pack a first-aid kit. • Slow down on corrugated dirt roads and always drive at a speed suited to the prevailing conditions. Railway Crossings In the Eastern Wheatbelt there are many public railway crossings for motorists to negotiate. The density and frequency of rail traffic often depends on the size of the grain harvest and the economic climate. This increased activity makes an impact in the safety stakes. Do not become blasé about the likelihood of encountering rail traffic. The main thing to remember is that trains always have right of way. Allocation of protection is based on frequency of road and rail traffic, and visibility on approach to the crossing, these include: • Give Way signs; • Stop signs; • Flashing Lights; • Boom Barriers and • Bridges or Tunnels. Potable Water Granite outcrops and lakes do not guarantee water and if there, the quality of the water cannot be assured. Always carry ample fresh water for drinking and camping. 29 Always drive safely And it’s worth remembering that trains run 24 hours a day to get their product to port as efficiently as possible. So don’t put your life on the line - watch out for trains. Travelling with Pets Some caravan parks do not accept pets. Be sure to contact caravan parks in advance to identify those that are pet friendly. Domestic pets are not permitted in most national parks, conservation parks, nature reserves, marine parks and marine nature reserves. 1080 Baiting Please be advised that baiting programs using 1080 poison are carried out across pastoral leases and Department of Parks and Wildlife (DPaW) parks and reserves to control wild dogs, foxes, feral cats, feral pigs and rabbits. Exercise caution when visiting these areas. Domestic pets should be kept close and under control at all times. Owners may consider the use of muzzles for their domestic pets. Nature and Wildlife When bushwalking or visiting nature reserves and parks do not disturb wildlife, remove plants, rocks or aboriginal artefacts. In warmer months watch out and stay clear of snakes. Always have a well equipped first-aid kit nearby and know how to use it in case of emergencies. Disclaimer Whilst every care has been taken in compiling this publication, the publishers and the sponsoring shires accept no responsibility for any errors or omissions that may occur, or any loss, damage and inconvenience caused by errors and omissions. The information set out was correct at the time of printing and can be subject to change without notice. Mobile Phones Telstra – there is still no total coverage for Telstra Next G on the Great Eastern Highway between towns or on country roads in the Eastern Wheatbelt. Website for feedback www.telstra.com.au/mobile-phones/ coverage-networks/coverage-feedback/) Please be aware there is still very limited or no range for other mobile phone providers outside the capital cities. Local Radio 1098 AM, 105.1 FM For Emergencies Only Call 000 more information Visitor Centres throughout the region are great sources of local information. If you’d like to know more about the region for your travel plans contact: Central Wheatbelt Visitor Centre 85 Barrack Street, Merredin WA Phone: (08) 9041 1666 or 1300 736 283 Email: [email protected] Website: www.wheatbelttourism.com Bencubbin Community Resource Centre (08) 9685 1007 [email protected] Mukinbudin Shire Offices (08) 9047 1102 [email protected] Community Resource Centre (08) 9047 1129 [email protected] Bruce Rock Community Resource Centre (08) 9061 1687 [email protected] Narembeen Community Resource Centre (08) 9064 7055 [email protected] Beacon Beacon Visitor Centre (08) 9686 1014 [email protected] Corrigin Community Resource Centre (08) 9063 2778 [email protected] Dowerin Community Resource Centre (08) 9631 1662 [email protected] Wave Rock Visitor Centre (08) 9880 5182 [email protected] Kellerberrin Community Resource Centre (08) 9045 4991 [email protected] Kondinin Shire Offices (08) 9889 1006 [email protected] Koorda Koorda Visitor Centre (Community Resource Centre) (08) 9684 1081 or (08) 9684 1219 [email protected] Kulin Community Resource Centre (08) 9880 1021 [email protected] Lake Grace Lake Grace Visitor Centre (08) 9865 2140 [email protected] Drop into the shop at Central Wheatbelt Visitor Centre, Merredin Contact the Central Wheatbelt Visitor Centre on (08) 9041 1666 Shire Offices (08) 9064 7308 to obtain a range of brochures, [email protected] maps and guides to plan your Nungarin Community Resource Centre visit to the Eastern Wheatbelt. (08) 9046 5400 [email protected] Quairading Visitor Centre (08) 9645 1001 Southern Shire Offices Cross (08) 9049 1001 [email protected] Tammin Shire Offices (08) 9637 1001 [email protected] Trayning Shire Offices (08) 9683 1001 [email protected] Westonia Shire Offices (08) 9046 7063 [email protected] Wyalkatchem Wyalkatchem CRC and Visitors Centre (08) 9681 1500 [email protected] The Eastern Wheatbelt Visitors’ Guide was printed in November 2013. 30 Kellerberrin: Highway1 : Route 94 The perfect venue for meeting, eating and sleeping, and an ideal base from which to experience and explore the Eastern Wheatbelt. Historic 1928 built venue Accommodates 45 guests. Includes self contained, wheelchair friendly Hillside Cottage. Large deck seats 120 guests looking out the majestic Kellerberrin Hill by day and the sparkling Milky Way by night. 5 tranquil acres nestled beside Kellerberrin Hill, an awesome nature reserve and ‘playground’ with views to delight. Ideal for functions and seminars or individuals on their own journey of exploration. A place to relax and rejuvenate. Innovative and flexible catering using the best local ingredients including produce from The Prev’s orchard and kitchen garden. Group tours available. Farm, Cultural, Granite Outcrops, Picnics. Prospector train service runs daily to Kellerberrin from Perth and Kalgoorlie. 1 George St Kellerberrin | Tel: (08) 9045 5195 | Mobile: 0427 063 638 | www.theprev.com.au Photos courtesy: Angie Roe Photography and 28 Productions
