Plan your tour through wildflower country

Wander through the

Wildflowers By Chris Morton

Living here in Western Australia, we are spoilt for choice when it comes to spectacular landscapes. The juxtaposition of such differing landscapes, seemingly almost welded together in a titanic patchwork quilt, offers those wandering an almost endless palette of colours and textures from which to paint their next adventure.

Australia’s biggest state offers adventure seekers one of the biggest wildflower collections found anywhere in the world, with more than 12,000 species springing into bloom, 60% not found anywhere else. WA’s wildflower season commences in the north around June, extending to the south coast where nature’s colourful exhibition dies out around November. Rainfall and temperature are the mitigating factors that will affect each wildflower season and you should consult with the visitor centres in the areas you intend to visit before heading out. If you are planning to head out in your own vehicle, the station stays found north of Perth scattered through the Gascoyne/ Murchsion and along the Coral Coast are ideally suited to offer accommodation options and somewhere to base yourself as you explore. Of course, there are a multitude of tour operators that will also guide you or even transport you if you are not so equipped.

Yalgoo Region

Traditionally the best time to visit is between July and September, when the landscape is carpeted in a cacophony of everlastings. Base yourself at Mellenbye Station, Gabyon Station or Melangata Station and spend some time exploring the station country either with your hosts or on self-guided trips around their properties (where appropriate). The towns of Mullewa and Yalgoo both offer glimpses of our pioneering past with heritage buildings and interpretive signage telling the stories of yesteryear. Spend some time getting to know the story of Monsignor Hawes and his architectural achievements spread throughout the region. Plunge into Jokers Tunnel and discover the Court House Museum. Discover an indigenous art gallery at Walga Rock, taking your time to see if you can spot the sailing ship depicted on the rock wall. The surrounding country bursts into colourful life. Take some time exploring Paynes Find and the only working gold battery in the state (established in 1911). Tour the museum and displays.

These next two suggested trips, although not 4WD destinations, consist of a few spots where having a 4WD is recommended.

Coast Country

(This can be as short as a 3-day drive). If you are more of a coastal person, then consider meandering up along Indian Ocean Drive to Green Head. Explore the Three Bays Walkway which includes Dynamite, South and Anchorage Bays. The route chosen has been designed to immerse visitors in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape and its history. There is an endangered seal colony, which can be seen up close by taking a boat charter tour. For anyone who is selfsufficient, consider camping at Milligan Island. This is a nature-based, short-term camp ground, equipped with several long drops, gas BBQs and sheltered picnic tables. The camp is only a short walk from Billygoat Bay with views to the nearby offshore islands. $20 per night, per vehicle on a first come, first served basis and a maximum of three day stay (or four during long weekends). For more information, go to:

www.coorow.wa.gov.au/coast-to-coorow/ visitor-information-camping.aspx

From Green Head, head east towards Coorow. If you have the time, divert to Stockyard Gully Caves. This small cave system is a favourite for many exploring the area and was named after one of the drover’s rest stops used by stockman using the North Road Stock Route. Reaching Coorow, take some time at the historic Coorow Farm, a community-driven project which is managed by local farmers. Half of the property is sown for harvest, with the remainder left wild, encouraging wildflower growth. There is also a short, 1.2km Bart Mailey Memorial Walk that winds its way through bushland for those wanting to stretch their legs. The farm is known for its pink fairy orchids, everlastings and many other species. Moving onto Carnamah, the state heritagelisted Macpherson Homestead, the first building in the district, built in the late 1860s demands a stop. Explore the grounds and

various vehicles and machinery. The area is also well-known for its diverse bird life, with over 180 species having been recorded. For more information, go to:

www.carnamah.com.au/homestead

Heading north, Three Springs is the final stop on this short tour. A scenic drive along Robinson Road will not disappoint with usually an abundance of wildflowers on display. Three Springs is also home to the rare Eucalyptus Rose Malle, which can be viewed at the Three Springs Hospital Grounds and on the Sweetman Road, 18km southwest of the town. The historic walk trail through town will tell the story of the town and is a great way to completely immerse yourself. The local RSL have an Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) on display that was operated by one of the local members during the Vietnam War. The Mica Mine Thicket (Dookanooka National Park), also 18km south-west of town, is a natural pocket of bushland that can be explored on foot. 20km north-east of town, you will quite often come across wreath flowers along Bateman Road (between August and October).

The Talc Mine, 10km east of town is the largest in the southern hemisphere and the second largest in the world. A lookout offers views across the open pit and overburden heaps. The range of soil types and colours also offer opportunities for some great images. The perfect way to end the day is from Mingenew Hill, watching the colours dance west across the landscape. Hit the Wildflower Way

To do it justice, the Wildflower Way is a 7-day road trip.

Day 1

Moora, your start point for this 7-day adventure, sits astride the Moore River and is the junction between two distinct botanical districts. The diverse soil types, a result of the region's geology, produces very different plant communities. What was once an agricultural area dominated by traditional wheat-sheep farming, the area has diversified into wildflowers, cattle and other grain crops. Wind your way through the town along the Moora Town Walk, discovering the town’s historic buildings, points of interest and the Moora Town Clock. The bronzed draught horse and kelpie provide a life-like memorial to the animals that were key in developing this country.

Day 2

The first group to settle the area around Dalwallinu were Benedictine monks from New Norcia. They ran flocks of sheep across vast pastoral leases, using shepherding methods before being forced out in the early 1900s by broadacre farming. July to October is the best time to see the wildflowers in bloom. 20km north of Dalwallinu is the small town of Wubin. Between August and September, you will be greeted with everlastings in full bloom following winter

rains. If you stay observant, you could also spot Leschenaultia Macrantha, the wreath flower. A great little picnic spot can be found 6km further east of the town at Wubin Rocks. The Heritage Wheatbin Museum is worth spending some time looking around and sits next to the modern storage bins. More pink, yellow, and white everlasting displays can be found around Perenjori between July and October as well as more examples of wreath flowers (September to October). There are also a wide variety of rare native spring orchids to be found in the area. Perenjori, founded in 1916, is also a great place to park up under the shade on a powered site, grab a chalet at the caravan park or stay in a room at the historic hotel. They also hold Blues in the Bush at the end of September. The Church of St Joseph is another example of Monsignor John Hawes' work through the Midwest and Murchison. Don’t forget to call into the Perenjori Tourist Centre and Pioneer Museum before venturing too far.

Coast Country 3-day drive

The Wildflower Way 7-day drive

The Rothsay Heritage Trail takes you through pastoral and mining country, leading you to the John Forrest Lookout. The impressive views across the surrounding countryside are worth it. The Rothsay townsite and abandoned mine features historic graves. The heritage-listed Caron Coal Stage takes you back to the age of steam trains and following the Caron Rail Trail there is an example of a railway dam.

Day 3

You are spoilt for choice here. Koolanooka Springs, Canna, the Morawa Museum and the Monsignor Hawes Heritage Trail are all worthy of your attention. Coalseam Conservation Park, located between Mingenew and Mullewa is a wildflower mecca. Named after the visible coal seams that can be seen in the riverbed, the acacia shrubland springs to life with everlasting wildflowers after a good rain. The Irwin River Heritage Trail reveals marine fossils along the banks. Camping is permitted here.

Day 4

The Mullewa Wildflower Show is held in August or early September and is a real showcase for life in the bush. The town has some beautiful architecture and never disappoints when it comes to a wildflower display. The area is also known to reveal wreath flowers. There are two designated wildflower drives, taking you north and south of town, where you can enjoy vistas of sunlit paddocks stretching across rolling hills. Bindoo Hill and the historic Butterabby Gravesite are also worth a visit. Make sure you call into the Visitor Centre.

Day 5

You can head into Geraldton and use this as a base for day trips or enjoy the multitude of water-based activities on offer. The HMAS Sydney memorial is well worth a visit and an opportunity for some silent contemplation of sacrifices made. Back out on the Midland Route, calling into Ellendale Pool, the Burma Road Nature Reserve and the Tracking Station are all warranted. Depot Hill Reserve is a great spot to see more wildflowers as well as enjoying a picnic, overlooking the Irwin River. If you are anywhere near Mingenew towards sunset, then the Mingenew Hill is a great place to end the day.

Day 6

Three Springs, as already previously discussed, offers a unique charm and a host of worthy locations to visit. Arrino Gardens

is a great spot to learn about native bush tucker and native plants. 25km west of Carnamah, Tathra National Park is a spectacular location for wildflowers. Nyungar for 'beautiful', Tathra befits its name. The Carnamah Historical Museum is located in one of the town’s historic buildings and the town also boasts three giant murals. The post office, St Andrews Church (another Monsignor Hawes creation) and the Uniting Church are all historic buildings around town deserving your attention.

Day 7

Coorow, first settled in the mid 1800s boasts a contrast between its agricultural past and the current wildflowers and garden displays. Town Park, located in the main street is a pleasant place to stretch your legs as is the popular picnic spot at Waddi Well. It was used by passing drovers to rest their mounts before pushing on. The Alexander Morrison National Park is well-known for more wildflowers during the season and you should keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife. Heading to the coast will bring you out to Green Head. Pristine beaches, suitable for swimming and snorkelling, it is also a great place to wet a line. The Australian Sea Lion colony, located at Fisherman’s Island, is accessible by jumping on board a Sea Lion viewing tour. The various little secluded bays found along the coast are great to explore on foot before heading back to Perth.

INFORMATION BAY

BEFORE YOU HIT THE ROAD

There is nothing worse than planning your trip, packing the car, and heading out, only to discover that the flowers have decided to take the week off. Worse still, is getting to a location only to be told that “you shoulda’ been here last week”.

We recommend getting the local goss from the people on the ground. Contact the Visitor Centre for the area you are travelling into before you put pedal to the metal. www.wavisitorcentre.com.au

Remember that wildflowers are subject to seasonal variations and weather conditions.

TERRAIN

Combination of sealed roads and formed gravel roads.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

June to October, depending on the area you are visiting.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

wildflowercountry.com.au australiasgoldenoutback.com/page/outback-wildflower-trails