The charming township of Waroona is located 1.5 hours South West of Perth in a district that stretches across majestic forests to coastal plains and lakes and onto the pristine waters of the Indian Ocean.
In the heart of the township you’ll find character buildings, antique bargains and art and craft galleries tucked side by side along Waroona’s quaint main street. The region is also home to horse riding trails leading through bushland along the Darling Range escarpment. From here you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over the surrounding landscape.
Towards the coast, you’ll find the natural haven of Yalgorup National Park. This 12,888 hectare park contains eleven coastal lakes, wetlands and stands of rare tuart eucalypt trees and the amazing thrombolite living fossils. The lakes are often home to hundreds of migrating birds which fill the air and water with their colour and song. Many of these birds travel great distances to breed around these beautiful lake systems. Kangaroos and emus are also plentiful throughout the park and wildflowers burst into dazzling displays of colour after winter rains.
Preston Beach at the Park's southern end offers white sandy shores popular for swimming, beach fishing and four wheel driving. Throw in a line for a catch of herring, tailor, whiting or salmon when they run.
Top Local Attractions
Drakesbrook Weir
Gently undulating hills provide a picturesque backdrop for the cool clear waters and the grassed area is a popular picnic spot with its shaded tables and free gas barbecues. Recreational activities include swimming, fishing and canoeing (no power boats). Or stroll through natural bush to the rock face wall of the weir where nearby a bronze plaque commemorates the first known specimen of WA's remarkable Atrichornis clamosus (noisy scrub bird). Public toilets.
Lake Navarino (Waroona Dam)
The Waroona Dam was built on the Drakes Brook with work completed in 1966. The reservoir known as Lake Navarino covers an area of 145 hectares with its primary use being irrigation. It is also used extensively for recreational activities such as water skiing and freshwater fishing. The surrounding forest provides beautiful displays of wildflowers in season. Bush walking is a popular pastime for many visitors and part of the old Bibbulmun Track is still in existence and has been reopened for public use as part of the Munda Biddi Trail.
Upcoming Events
Waroona Agricultural Show (11th October)
The Waroona Agricultural Society presented the first show on 2nd December 1925 and the tradition continues today. The Show is held on the 'second Saturday' in October and is a great opportunity to enjoy a relaxed country atmosphere. A wide range of displays, entertainment and activities. Sideshow alley, fireworks and entertainment continue into the evening. A fabulous day out for the whole family.
British Auto Classic (26th October)
Classic British car display. Fresh produce market showcasing WA wine and cheese,crafts, stalls & all-day entertainment. Great country food and fun for the whole family. Free entry.
All Australian Car Day (12th April 09)
Features a huge display of classic Australian built cars plus a quality craft and harvest market and an expo showcasing WA wine, cheese and produce. Great country food, children's fun and games, all-day variety show. Free entry. (A similar event, the British Auto Classic, is held in October.)
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