Ilfracombe

From the moment you arrive in Ilfracombe you’ll feel a strong sense of community and pride. It was founded as a transport hub for the historic Wellshot Station, one of Australia’s greatest sheep and wool producers. Read on to discover why you need to visit...

Reminisce And Discover

Walk through the swinging saloon doors of the Wellshot Hotel for a blast from the past. This gem of a pub stands exactly as it was some 120 years ago. Sidle up to the wool-press bar and gaze up at the ceiling covered with money from across the globe. There’s also an impressive display of well-loved Akubras and historic photos lining the walls. Time your visit for a hearty pub lunch or dinner that won’t disappoint.

Just outside you’ll spot a mind-blowing lineup of machinery, aka Machinery Mile. Inspect the handywork of our Aussie tradesmen and appreciate the enormous skill required to build these prized machines back in the day. Eyeball the 1917 Ruston Proctor Tractor, one of only three left in the world, and a big Excavator driven by a three-horse powered steam engine. This outdoor museum is definitely one of a kind.

Collect Some Classics

Do you have a passion for Victorian glass and Antique Banquet Lamps? The creators of Ilfracombe Antiques and Collectables love and cherish the work of historical artisans. You’ll discover many one-of-a-kind items sure to be a talking point when you return home. Before you visit, it’s recommended that you check opening hours.

At the Jackson Collection you’ll discover a collection of treasures by brothers Hilton and Ike Jackson. There’s literally thousands of bottles and other rarities on display. More than 30,000 bottles form Hilton’s collection and more than 120 weapons, flags, uniforms and helmets have been assembled by Ike. While not for sale, these are certainly a classic collection!

Capture The Water

A great example of bush craftsmanship ingenuity can be seen at The Twelve Mile, just 12 miles (20km) south of Ilfracombe. Thousands upon thousands of naturally formed flagstones were carefully sorted and meticulously placed together to form a leak-proof reservoir guaranteed to retain precious water. Just imagine the time and patience needed to construct this stone pitched overshot back in the 1890s. It’s believed that Chinese tradesmen may have contributed special skills and worked on this project. The site was favoured by the Cobb and Co run as a watering stop for tired horses.

Soak In The Artesian

It’s not every day that you get to soak in a prehistoric spa. By this we mean water from the Great Artesian Basin, one of the largest underground fresh-water reservoirs in the world. There is strong scientific evidence to prove that these waters are ancient, possibly millions of years old. Imagine the therapeutic benefits of these mineral waters. And, the good news is that you can try it for yourself at Ilfracombe’s Artesian Spa in Memorial Park. Bring the family and enjoy the swimming pool, children’s playground and barbecue facilities.

Engage With The Community

At the heart of every great town is a tight-knit community and Ilfracombe is no exception. Visitors are invited to join in local activities and events while in the region. Consider testing your skills on the 18-hole golf course or perhaps a round of clay target shooting at the monthly meet. If the sport of Kings is more your style, save the date for the Ilfracombe Races held annually in July. It’s a full day’s entertainment with Country Races, Fashions on the Field, an Undie Run (only in the outback) and live music until late.

20 Main Avenue Ilfracombe

P 07 4658 2106

E thewellshothotel@gmail.com wellshothotel.com.au

 Amazing family atmosphere with accommodation available

 Our beer is the coldest in the West, our service is friendly and our beer garden is pet friendly (come meet the Wellshot’s own pets)

 Live entertainment most weeks

 We have our own blend of speciality co ee

 Ask about the cash thrown up on the ceiling (for charity) or our ‘famous’ hat collection

 Our stools will make you look like a real cowboy, a horse or a cheeky bummed chick

 Courtesy bus (available up to 50km for bookings of 10)

 Keno, Fox Sports, Eftpos & Free Wi-Fi with Jag the Joker 5-7pm Friday night

 Take a step back in time & be enthralled by the collection of memorabilia

Favourite Things To See And Do

Explore the Barcoo Way adventure drive www.barcooway.com.au

Catch a Yellowbelly in the Barcoo River

Picnic by the tranquil Yuranigh Pond

Float your boat on the Oma Waterhole

Join in the fun at Isisford Ross Cup Races