Wildflowers by Chris Morton
We are spoilt with choice in Western Australia when it comes to spectacular landscapes. The juxtaposition between such different landscapes that seem almost to be welded into a giant patchwork quilt offers wanderers a nearly unlimited palette of colours and textures from which they can paint their next adventure.
The largest state in Australia offers adventurers one of the most diverse wildflower collections anywhere on earth. More than 12,000 different species are blooming, and 60% are not found anywhere else. The wildflower season in WA begins around June and extends to the south coast, where the colourful display of nature dies off around November. Consult the visitor centres in the area you plan to visit for more information. Station stays are ideal for those who plan to explore the area in their car. They are located north of Perth, along the Coral Coast and Gascoyne/Murchison. There are also a number of tour operators who will guide you and even transport you if you do not have the necessary equipment.
Yalgoo Region
The best time to go is traditionally between July and September when the landscape will be everlasting. Please spend some time at Mellenbye Station (or Gabyon Station) or Melangata Station to explore the station country, either with your hosts on guided trips or independently around their property. Both Mullewa and Yalgoo offer a glimpse of our pioneering history with heritage buildings and interpretation signage that tell the stories of yesterday. Learn about the architectural achievements of Monsignor Hawes, which are spread across the region. Discover the Court House Museum and dive into Jokers Tunnel. Walga Rock is a gallery of indigenous art. Take your time and try to spot the sailing vessel depicted in the rock. The country is awash with colour. Spend some time at Paynes Find, the only gold battery that still works in the state. It was established in 1911. Explore the displays and museum.
The next two trips are not necessarily 4WD destinations, but they do include a few places where a 4WD would be recommended.
Coast Country
This can be a short trip of up to 3 days. Consider a meandering along Indian Ocean Drive up to Green Head if you prefer the coast. The Three Bays Walkway includes Dynamite Bay, South Bay and Anchorage Bay. The chosen route was designed to allow visitors to experience the beauty and history of the landscape. A boat charter tour will allow you to see the endangered seal colony up close. Camping on Milligan Island is a great option for those who are self-sufficient. This short-term camping area is in nature and equipped with gas BBQs, picnic tables, and long drops. This camp is located just a few minutes walk from Billygoat Bay and offers views of the nearby islands. The camp charges $20 per night per vehicle on a first-come, first-served basis and allows a maximum stay of three days (or four during the long weekend). Visit:
Head east from Green Head towards Coorow. Stockyard Gully Caves is a worthwhile stop if you have time. The small cave system was named after a drover’s stop used by stockmen on the North Road Stock Route. Take some time to explore the historic Coorow Farm. Locals manage this community-driven project. The property has been divided into two halves, one for harvesting and the other left untouched to encourage wildflowers. For those who want to get some exercise, there is a 1.2km Bart Mailey memorial walk that takes you through bushland. Pink fairy orchids are among the many species that grow on this farm. The Macpherson homestead, the oldest building in Carnamah and listed as a state heritage, is a must-see. It was built in the late 1860s. Explore the grounds.
Various vehicles and machinery. Over 180 bird species have been recorded in the area. Visit the following website for more information:
Three Springs, located in the north of this tour, is your final destination. Robinson Road is a scenic drive that will never disappoint, with an abundance of wildflowers. Three Springs also has the rare Eucalyptus rose malle, which can be seen at the Three Springs Hospital Grounds and on Sweetman Road 18km southwest of the town. A historical walk through the city is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the history of the area. A local RSL has an APC (Armoured Personnel Carrier) that a local member used during the Vietnam War on display. Mica Mine Thicket, also located 18km southwest of town, is an area of natural bushland which can be explored by foot. You will often see wreath flowers on Bateman Road, 20km north of town (between August and October).
The Talc Mine is located 10km east of the town and is the second-largest mine in the world. The open pit and the overburden piles can be seen from a lookout. A variety of colours and soil types also make for great photos. From Mingenew Hill, you can see the colours dance across the landscape. Wildflower Way
The Wildflower Way should be a seven-day road trip to do it justice.
Day 2
Moora is your starting point for this seven-day adventure. It sits on the Moore River at the intersection of two botanical districts. Due to the geology of the area, soils are diverse and produce very different plant communities. Formerly dominated by traditional sheep-and-wheat farming, the region has now diversified to include wildflowers and cattle, as well as other grain crops. Discover the historic buildings and points of interest in the town as you stroll along the Moora Town Walk. The clock is also a highlight. The bronzed draught horses and kelpies are a memorial to these animals who were instrumental in the development of this country.
Day 2
They were the first to settle in the area of Dalwallinu. The shepherds used to run flocks of sheep over vast pastoral leases using shepherding techniques before they were forced out by broadacre farming in the early 1900s. The wildflowers are at their best from July to October. Wubin is a small town located 20km north of Dalwallinu. Everlastings are in full bloom between August and September following the winter.
Rains. You may also see Leschenaultia Macrantha (the wreath flower) if you are observant. Wubin Rocks, 6km east of town, is a great place to picnic. Spend some time at the Heritage Wheatbin Museum, which is located next to modern storage bins. Perenjori has more pink, yellow and white everlasting displays between July and Oktober, as well as some examples of wreath flowers. In the area, you can also find a variety of native spring orchids. Perenjori was founded in 1916 and is a wonderful place to park under the shade of a powered site or grab a cabin at the caravan park. The end of September is also the time for Blues in Bush. Monsignor John Hawes worked in the Midwest and Murchison, including at the Church of St Joseph. Before you go too far, don’t forget to visit the Perenjori Tourist Centre & Pioneer Museum.
Coast Country 3 Day Drive
The Wildflower Way 7-day drive
The Rothsay Heritage Trail leads you through mining and pastoral country to the John Forrest Lookout. It’s worth the trip to see the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Historic graves can be found in the Rothsay townsite, abandoned mine and surrounding area. Caron Coal Stage, a heritage site, takes you back in time to the steam train era. The Caron Rail Trail also features a railway dam.
Day 3
There are so many options. Koolanooka Spring, Canna Museum, Monsignor Hawes Heritage Trail, and Morawa Museum are all worth your attention. The Coalseam Park is located between Mingenew & Mullewa and is a mecca for wildflowers. The acacia bushland, named after the coal seams visible in the riverbed and the shrubland that grows there, is alive with wildflowers even after heavy rain. Along the Irwin River Heritage Trail, you can find marine fossils. Camping is allowed here.
Day 4
The Mullewa Wildflower Show takes place in early or late September. It is a great way to experience life in the bush. This town is known for its beautiful architecture, and it never fails to impress when it comes time to see wildflowers. This area is known for its wreath flowers. Two designated wildflower drive routes are available north and south of town. You can see sunlit paddocks that stretch across rolling hills. Bindoo Hill and the historic Butterabby Gravesite should also be visited. Visit the Visitor Centre.
Day 5
Geraldton is a great place to base yourself for day trips and enjoy all the water activities available. It is worth visiting the HMAS Sydney Memorial and taking some time to reflect on sacrifices. On the Midland Route, you should visit Ellendale Pool, Burma Road Nature Reserve, and Tracking Station. Depot Hill Reserve offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a picnic and see wildflowers while overlooking the Irwin River. Mingenew Hill, if you’re anywhere near Mingenew at sunset, is a wonderful place to finish the day.
Day 6
Three Springs offers an array of places to visit and is a place that you should not miss. Arrino Gardens
It’s a good place to learn about bush food and native plants. Tathra National Park, located 25km west of Carnamah, is an amazing place to see wildflowers. Tathra, which means ‘beautiful in Nyungar’, is a place that lives up to its name. Carnamah Historical Museum is located in a historic building in the town. The town is also home to three huge murals. Landmark buildings in the city include the post office, St Andrews Church, another Monsignor Hawes design, and The Uniting Church.
Day 7
Coorow was first settled in the mid-1800s. Its agricultural past is contrasted with the wildflowers and gardens of today. Town Park is located on the main street and is a great place to stretch out your legs. Waddi Well is also a popular picnic area. The well was used to rest the horses of passing drovers before continuing. You should be on the lookout for wildlife and wildflowers in Alexander Morrison National Park during spring. Green Head is found by heading to the coast. It is a place with pristine beaches that are perfect for swimming, snorkelling and fishing. On a Sea Lion tour, you can visit the Australian Sea Lion colony at Fisherman’s Island. You can explore the secluded beaches along the coast on foot before returning to Perth.
INFORMATION BAY
Before you hit the road
It is a terrible feeling to plan a trip, pack your car and leave, only to find out that the flowers are taking a week off. Even worse is arriving at a destination only to hear that you “shoulda’ been there last week”.
It is best to get the inside scoop from locals. Before you hit the road, contact the Visitor Centre of the area that you will be travelling to. www.wavisitorcentre.com.au
Wildflowers can be affected by seasonal changes and weather conditions.
TERRAIN
Combination of sealed and gravel roads
BEST TIMES TO VISIT
From June to October, depending on where you are.
