Wildflower Holiday Guide Western Australia Your holiday guide to Western Australia’s wildflowers

Wildflower Guide 2009

wildflowerswa.com Couple in field of wildflowers

Western Australia’s Wildflowers

Mention wildflowers and most people think of Western Australia – and it’s no wonder. With up to 12,000 species found within its borders and many unique to the state, Western Australia’s wildflower season draws visitors from all over the world.

The wildflower season ranks as one of Western Australia’s most Fields of these lollipop-shaped flowers in yellow, pink and white fascinating and precious natural treasures. For several months of are found in various inland areas, often along road verges. each year, wildflowers are scattered across 2.5 million square The 186,000ha Kalbarri National Park teems with wildflowers kilometres of terrain. As diverse and colourful as the locals, the and visitors can expect to see kangaroo paws, Banksias, eucalypts uniqueness and natural beauty of the wildflowers attract and Grevilleas. thousands of tourists and scientists every year. Australia’s Coral Coast is home to the pristine Shark Bay World Rain and sunshine greatly influence the timing of the wildflower Heritage Area. As well as rugged outback terrain and pure white season, causing it to span over several months and regions. In the beaches, visitors can also see a large variety of wildflowers, some north of the state, wildflowers will appear in July with early rains of which are unique to the area. Wattles, Hakeas, Dampiera, hastening their arrival. As late as November a blaze of wildflower purple peas and Shark Bay daisies are common. colour will take over the south, where the warmer weather The Pilbara, in Australia’s North West, produces yellow native produces a totally different collage of species. hibiscus, bluebells, sticky cassia, mulla mulla, native fuschias and While the north is home to many species of coastal and inland many more. wildflowers, it is best known for its everlastings. To the east is Australia’s Golden Outback with its fields of everlastings as well as Acacia, Hakea and Sturt’s desert pea.

2 Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com Cowslip Orchid Grass trees and Cats Paw

Purple Enamel Orchid

Scarlet Banksia

Bright Podolepis, Wooleen Station

Australia’s South West is home to a wide While a tour of regional areas is a popular range of rare and unique flora. Dainty way of experiencing wildflowers, visitors to flowers such as orchids, milkmaids, Perth in September need only go as far as honeypots, green kangaroo paws and Kings Park in the heart of the city to view mountain bells give colour to green fields. a stunning selection. More than 150 species of orchids are known The Kings Park and Botanic Garden to inhabit the area, along with grass trees Wildflower Festival is an annual event such as Kingia australis, scented plants like which showcases the best of Western brown Boronia and more than 165 species Australia’s wildflower varieties and of eucalypts. draws more than 50,000 visitors. The south also boasts 80 species of The Park’s 400ha Botanic Garden has carnivorous plants such as the Albany more than 1,700 native species. pitcher plant. Mistletoes including the amazing Western Australian Christmas tree With warm daily temperatures around are also found here. 20°- 25°C, springtime is perfect to enjoy the incredible and unique beauty of nature Areas such as Esperance, Pemberton, in Western Australia. Denmark, Northcliffe, Albany and Margaret River, are popular wildflower areas and most celebrate the season with wildflower events.

Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com 3 Wildflowers near Wave Rock, Hyden The Bird Flower

When and where do the Planning your holiday wildflowers bloom? This guide contains a range of suggested Most Western Australian wildflowers bloom itineraries, as well as some accommodation in late winter or early spring, from July until options. September. Some species require more Before setting out on one of the wildflower warmth for growth and therefore bloom in drives contained in this guide, it is advisable late spring during the months of October to contact the Western Australian Visitor and November. Centre (contact details on the next page) The wildflower season, beginning in the or visit wildflowerswa.com. Pilbara in July, commences slightly later as It is also worth stopping at visitor centres you head south, concluding in the southern and shire offices in towns around the regions in November. The season is subject state for additional information about to weather variations, but generally specific wildflower blooms and local wildflowers can be seen in profusion in road conditions. Western Australia from July until November. The maps in this brochure are intended Each of the trails covered in this brochure as a handy guide only. More detailed maps Please protect the flora boast unique wildflower species due to containing accurate directions, distances To conserve the native flora and fauna for variances in environmental elements such and other important information are future generations, no domestic animals are as soil type, local fauna, the broader plant available from the Western Australian permitted in national parks. The picking of system, geological structure and, most Visitor Centre, most service stations, wildflowers is prohibited by law throughout importantly, the weather. motoring organisations and visitor centres. Western Australia.

Go online to see where the wildflowers are blooming

Visit wildflowerswa.com to find out more information about the wildflower trails, regular wildflower updates by locals in the specific regions and other things to see and do on your wildflower holiday in Western Australia.

4 Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com Contents: Pilbara Trail

Perth Trail 8

Jarrahland Trail 13 Cape Range Trail Trail locations Southern Wonders Trail 19 in Western Australia Wave Rock Trail 24 Northern Explorer Trail

Esperance Trail 27 Everlastings Trail Goldfields Trail 30 Granite Loop Granite Loop Trail 33 Trail

Everlastings Trail 36 Goldfields Trail

Northern Explorer Trail 39 Perth Wave Rock Trail

Cape Range Trail 43 Esperance Trail

Pilbara Trail 45 Jarrahland Trail

Southern Wonders Trail

Published by Western Australian Tourism Commission Australian Tourism Accreditation Western Australian (Tourism Western Australia) Visitor Centre Whilst all care is taken in the compilation, preparation and This tick could make the Corner of Forrest Place presentation of the information, data, representations, opinions difference to your stay in WA. and statements (in each case Material) which are expressly or 469 Wellington Street impliedly contained in this publication: The display of this symbol Perth, Western Australia 1. It remains the responsibility of any person reading or relying upon indicates an Accredited Free Call: 1300 361 351 the brochure to ascertain for himself or herself the correctness, Tourism Business. reliability, accuracy, and validity of any of the Material expressed or Fax: 08 9481 0190 When selecting a business with implied herein and, where necessary, appropriate or reasonable to Email: [email protected] do so, to obtain independent professional or other advice in the ‘tick’, you are entitled to expect: respect of any such Material or this brochure generally; and Website: westernaustralia.com • Professional customer service 2. Neither Tourism Western Australia nor any employee or agent International Callers: +61 8 9483 1111 thereof warrants the truth, accuracy, completeness or • Accuracy in advertising correctness of any Material expressly or impliedly contained in • Sound environmental practices this publication; and • Compliance with health and safety regulations 3. This brochure is made available on the basis that Tourism Western • An appropriately licensed and Australia nor any of its employees or agents shall be liable, in negligence or howsoever, for any loss, damage or injury: qualified operator (A) Arising from any incorrect, invalid, misleading, inaccurate, Accredited operators have a commitment incomplete, or out-of-date Material expressed or implied herein; and to professionalism and ethical conduct in Accredited Visitor (B) Incurred by any person in consequence of having relied upon any all areas of their business. You can choose Centres Material expressly or impliedly contained in this publication. an accredited operator with confidence. To get the most out of your wildflower holiday Printed February 2009. in Western Australia, speak to the experts at Main cover photo: Couple in everlasting a local Visitor Centre. Look for the blue and wildflowers near Murchison. yellow ‘i’ sign while on your travel trail.

Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com 5 Meelup Beach Road, near Dunsborough

Experience the Wildflowers up close Walk the Bibbulmun Track Touring Suggestions 8 -DAY ‘BEST OF THE BIBB’ HIGHLIGHTS TOUR There are numerous options available for you to 14 - 21 September 2009 • Fully Guided Tour experience Western Australia’s wildflower season. • Spectacular coastal, forest and wilderness areas Coach touring, rail tours, hire cars, air packages and Bibbulmun Break Escapes • Self-guided walking & guided walking tours are featured in this guide. accommodation packages Day Walk Map Packs • Six South West locations Also featured throughout this guide are a range of accommodation options including camping grounds, chalets, hotels, farm-stays, For more info contact the Bibbulmun Track Foundation on station stays, and bed and breakfasts. (08) 9481 0551 or [email protected] www.bibbulmuntrack.org.au WAWA COACHCOACH TOURSTOURS Large range of coach tours throughout WA. Call 1800 999 677 for full All inclusive packages from South West to the Kimberley. tour details and itinerary.

CASEY AUSTRALIA TOURS 1800 999 677 | caseytours.com.au

ABN 14092360430. Lic 9TA937

6 Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com

KIngs Park, Perth Perth Trail

Begin your journey in the heart of Perth at SPECIAL EVENT 1 Kings Park and Western the much-loved Kings Park and Western Kings Park and Botanic Garden Australian Botanic Garden, Perth Australian Botanic Garden, alive with Wildflower Festival Features: Kings Park is a wonderful starting colourful plant and bird life. Tuesday 1 September - point to familiarise yourself with Western Follow nature trails or relax in tranquil Monday 28 September 2009 Australia’s abundant and diverse flora. picnic surroundings as you savour Perth’s Forrest Drive, Kings Park, West Perth The park covers 400ha of natural bushland spectacular floral treasures. Make sure you Open: Daily 9.00am to 5.00pm with lush parkland areas. The main entrance via have your camera for the Park’s natural Tel: (08) 9480 3600 Fraser Avenue is an enchanting drive through vantage point offering sweeping views As a showcase for Western Australia’s towering lemon-scented gum trees. across the city and Swan River to the Wildflowers abound and can be found within spectacular wildflowers, the Festival gently rising Darling Escarpment which the Botanic Garden or in the bushland areas. frames Perth’s eastern horizons. draws thousands of people each year. Display gardens and demonstrations The Lotterywest Federation Walkway should It’s a pleasant drive up the Sunset Coast, are presented alongside a wealth of not be missed with its enthralling tree top with its white beaches, to Yanchep. Then a botanical information about many of walk that provides picture-postcard views of short journey east takes you into the the beautiful Swan River and the city skyline. forested hills of the Darling Range, known the 12,000 species that grow wild The Pioneer Women’s Memorial Fountain is as the Perth Hills, where several national within the state’s borders. a great place for a picnic. There are several parks and reserves are situated among picnic areas scattered throughout the park, towering jarrah and marri trees. as well as free barbeques. En route take in the picturesque Swan Valley – Perth’s premier food and wine An Aboriginal art gallery is located beneath destination and Western Australia’s oldest the lookout on Fraser Avenue, or browse wine region. In addition to award winning Aspects of Kings Park - a gallery featuring the wines, the Swan Valley produces a wide works of local artists. range of delicious fresh produce and there To really appreciate the amazing range of flora are an endless number of breweries, in Kings Park, enjoy a free guided walk. distilleries, restaurants and art galleries for These occur every day at 10am and 2pm. you to visit. You can find out more from the Visitor For snorkelling and pristine beaches, take a Information Centre on Fraser Avenue. ferry day trip to the unique environment of Flora: At the Botanic Garden, wildflower Rottnest Island. enthusiasts can see more than 1,700 native species of wildflowers in a 17ha area. Darling Range

8 Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com Hovea Pink Everlastings Kangaroo Paw

There’s also an endangered flora garden, and no visit is complete without seeing the Acacia Steps, the Banksia Gardens and the Water Garden.

2 Yanchep National Park 51km north of Perth Features: Known as Perth’s natural and cultural meeting place, Yanchep National Park offers daily tours of Crystal Cave, Aboriginal cultural experiences, boat tours on Lake Wagardu, a stunning array of spring wildflowers and cultivated native gardens. Enjoy barbecue and picnic facilities, row boat hire, scenic walk trails, koalas, kangaroos and an abundance of other native animals and plants. Entry fees apply at Yanchep National Park. Flora: Tuart trees, Banksia, one-sided bottle-brush, yellow buttercups, blue flowering Hardenbergia, parrotbush, honeymyrtle, grass trees and the Yanchep rose.

Perth Trail Must see and do - Stroll the Lotteries Federation Walkway in Kings Park - Walk the Swan River foreshore - Watch a sunset from Cottesloe Beach - Walk sections of the Bibbulmun Track - Climb the DNA Tower in Kings Park for city views - Meet the black swans at Lake Monger - Go wine-tasting in the Swan Valley, Bickley or Carmel Valley - Visit Caversham Wildlife Park - Take a ferry ride to Rottnest Island - Explore the jarrah forests of the Perth Hills - Wander across the historical Mundaring Weir wall - Experience native marsupials at the Perth Hills National Parks Centre

Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com 9 Hibbertia

3 Whiteman Park Recreation 4 Noble Falls – and Conservation Reserve Walyunga Drive (53km) 18km north east of Perth Travel the Perth - Toodyay Road. Turn left Hundreds of Features: Located just a short 25 into O’Brien Road. Travel 16km to Walyunga minute drive from the centre of Perth, Lookout accommodation this reserve is picturesque bushland Features: Enjoy sweeping views from covering an area of more than 4200 the lookout and a walk trail to the Avon options right across hectares (over 10,000 acres) with nearly River before continuing on to Clenton and half of this classified as high value Berry Roads. Turn right at Toodyay Road Western Australia conservation bushland or wetland. to Noble Falls. An extensive network of trails Flora: Discover 12 beautiful orchid species, • Hotels • Motels • Apartments complete with interpretive notes as well as Hakeas, Grevilleas, Isopogons, • Houses • Bed + Breakfasts enables those on foot or using Petrophiles, triggerplants, and Verticordias. pedal power to cruise the park. • Farmstays • Caravan Parks A wide range of activities are available 5 F.R. Berry Drive • Tours • Attractions such as playgrounds, sporting facilities, Travel east along Toodyay Road for 38km picnic shelters and BBQ facilities. towards Gidgegannup. Turn left into Reen www.staywa.net.au Road, travel 8.5km to F.R. Berry Reserve, Watch artisans at work while browsing which is signposted on the left the variety of shops in the village or Ph: (08) 9324 1574 Features: There are beautiful walk trails and enjoy a train ride through native bush, picnic facilities, as well as granite outcrops over bridges and down to Mussel Pool. and waterfalls which flow in winter. To reach Visit the Caversham Wildlife Park the Noble Falls Picnic Area, travel 5.5km and Western ustralia which is located within the reserve, turn right into Berry Road, then right into ccommodation & Tours Listing to see and touch native animals Toodyay Road. such as Australian Koalas and Please send me a FREE copy Kangaroos in their natural habitat Flora: Discover several vegetation communities including wandoo, NAME Flora: Marri, jarrah, pricklybark marri, jarrah and paperbark. Wattles, and Banksia, together with hibbertia, blue Lechenaultia, Melaleuca, Hibbertias and grass trees. Grevillea, Darwinia, Hovea, kangaroo paw ADDRESS and orchids are all common. Gidgegannup Trails The Swan Valley and Eastern Region Visitor 6 John Forrest National Park Centre, corner Meadow and Swan Streets Travel 28km east of Perth on the Guildford, has an excellent free wildflower Great Eastern Highway Post this coupon to: trail guide. Tel: (08) 9379 9400 or visit Features: Sweeping views across to COUNTRYWIDE PUBLICATIONS www.swanvalley.com.au. the city can be enjoyed from an PO Box 680 West Perth 6872

10 Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com Twining Fringe Lily Cottesloe Beach, near Perth

excellent lookout area, and you’ll be 8 Ellis Brook Valley and amazed at the wonderful mix of Sixty Foot Falls wildflowers in bloom all year round.  Travel 17km south east of Perth on Tonkin  The interestingly named twenty-eight Highway. Turn left into Gosnells Road East  parrots are regularly seen in the park. and follow signs to Ellis Brook Valley on Visits to Hovea Falls, Rocky Pool and Rushton Road National Park Falls are recommended. This is the state’s oldest National Park. Features: Hidden Valley has four  separate walk trails from wheelchair Flora: Towering jarrah and marri access to challenging trails. See a rich    dominate the upland areas, with wildflower display with more than 550   flooded gums and paperbarks along species of flowering plants, plus 116   Jane Brook. The understorey is a bird species including the blue wren and  treasure trove of Banksia, wattle, wedge-tailed eagle. The Sixty Foot Falls Hakeas, Grevilleas, Dryandras, Pimelea,   are spectacular after winter rains and offer  myrtles, triggerplants, kangaroo paws fantastic views of the city and coastal plain. and blue Lechenaultia.   Flora: Each trail has a different  7 Perth Hills experience and the heathland and The Darling Range – 30 minutes east wandoo woodland ecosystems create of the city a striking palette of colour with mass Features: Forest areas with jarrah, marri, displays of Verticordia, Lambertia,  Nuytsia (Christmas tree) and orchids. flooded gums and forest life abound in   this popular region for nature lovers. The  9 Wireless Hill Park Perth Hills area incorporates five National   South of Perth, off the Canning Highway Parks including John Forest National  towards Fremantle Park. Worthwhile places to visit include  Features: This 40ha of natural bushland is Lake Leschenaultia, Mundaring Weir,   full of wildflowers in spring. From here it’s a Kalamunda National Park and Lesmurdie  short drive down the Canning Highway to Falls National Park. Walk and cycle trail the historic and lively port city of Fremantle, maps are available from Mundaring Visitor with its distinctive architecture, markets, Centre, and guided wildflower walks are and vibrant café lifestyle. conducted during September and October. Flora: Stroll among kangaroo paws, Flora: Discover a profusion of wildflowers catspaws, Lechenaultia and grass trees. such as grass trees, kangaroo paws, Hakeas, Grevilleas, wattles, orchids and peas.

Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com 11 Fish Hook Bay, Rottnest Island

Darling Range walk and bike trail

10 Rottnest Island Many tours and activities operate A ferry trip from Perth, Fremantle throughout the day, or hire a bike or Hillarys Boat Harbour and head off around the island. Features: Rottnest, or Rotto to the Rottnest Island is ideal for a day trip, or locals, is 11km long and 4.5km wide stay longer in a range of accommodation. and is home to the famous small Flora: About 1,500 native species marsupial, the quokka, unique flora flourish on the island, including the Blue and some of the world’s finest beaches Rottnest daisy, Rottnest Island pine and and bays, providing a spectacular Rottnest Island tea tree (Melaleuca). venue for snorkelling, scuba diving, surfing and swimming. Set off from Perth on one or more of the many Western Australian regional trails detailed in this guide.

Donkey Orchid

Pink everlasting PURE GOLD Experience the rush of pure gold at the • See how prospectors of the early 1900s historic Perth Mint. lived and mined gold. • Handle $400,000 worth of pure gold bullion. • View the world’s largest collection of pure gold bars. • Watch 200 ounces of pure gold being poured to form a gleaming, solid gold bar. • Discover the value of your weight in gold. 310 Hay Street, East Perth WA | OPEN 7 DAYS • Marvel at Australia’s largest display • Shop for pure golden treasures. Telephone: 08 9421 7223 | www.perthmint.com.au of natural gold nuggets.

12 Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, near Margaret River

Jarrahland Trail

Wind your way through an SPECIAL EVENTS countryside during the festivals which awe-inspiring corner of Western 84th Busselton Wildflower Exhibition take place in autumn and in spring. Australia, be dwarfed by giant Thursday 17 – Friday 18 September 2009 Greenbushes – New Zealand karri trees, surrounded by Uniting Church, Kent St, Busselton Gully Wattle Walk sun-drenched vineyards and Open: Thursday 9.00am to 6.00pm, August 2009. The date is yet to be captivated by coastal vistas. Friday 9.00am to 5.00pm confirmed in order to take advantage of Tel: (08) 9755 8001 full blossom. Tel: (08) 9761 1740 Follow bushland and forest walks The rich floral diversity of the south-west Web: bridgetown.com.au. to discover a myriad of orchid and corner comes to life in this annual show that wildflower species that thrive in the Margaret River Region – features individual specimens, beautiful region. Go back in time as you wander Wildflower and Orchid Season orchid displays and massed bowls of flowers. beneath the towering karri, jarrah, Celebration and Tours Festival of Country Gardens Specialist guided tours run from marri and tuart trees of ancient forests. Balingup, Bridgetown, Manjimup September to the end of October. Cool and peaceful picnic areas along and Nannup Open: Caves open from 9.00am to 5.00pm the way encourage you to take a break Autumn Delights – Friday 1 and (Wildflower tour times TBA). before marvelling at the rich natural Sunday 3 May 2009 Admission: Wildflower Tours $15 pp. Prelude – Friday 9 - Sunday 11 environment and unique heritage of Max 20 pax per tour. Special Offer: October 2009 the region’s many national parks. Cave Entry, Wildflower Tour and Main Festival – Thursday 5 November - book only $30. On the spectacular western Sunday 8 November 2009 coastline from Cape Leeuwin Tel: 1800 001 357 and (08) 9761 4475 Bookings essential - (08) 9757 7411 or to Cape Naturaliste, discover Web: countrygardens.com.au [email protected] unspoilt beaches washed by the Location: Lake and Mammoth Caves, Gardens will be open for viewing in waters of the Indian Ocean. Caves Road (20 minutes South of Augusta). the four towns and in the surrounding

Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com 13 Firewood Banksia

Yellow Buttercup and Common Clematis

1 Jarrahdale and the with various walking trails from Wellington Serpentine National Park Dam in Wellington National Park that offer South Western Highway views over the Collie River. The scenic drive Features: Take a trip to the heritage listed close to town, or Mornington Mills Road out town of Jarrahdale where you can enjoy the to the historic settlement of Worsley, many walk and hike trails or join guided present wonderful wildflower drives. walks held on weekends. Continue to Collie Visitor Centre has more details. Serpentine Falls and Serpentine Dam Flora: Blue Lechenaultia, white Clematis, through the Darling Range for spectacular coral vine, wattles, morning iris, purple scenery of jarrah forests and water features. enamel orchids, kangaroo paws, milkmaids, Flora: Wattle, kangaroo paws, Hakea, Hovea and cowslip orchids. Hardenbergia, Chorizema, Verticordia 5 Boyup Brook and orchids. Travel south on Collie Preston Road 2 Dwellingup and the Features: Many orchid varieties are to be Scarp Road Oakley Dam found in the town reserves and surrounding areas of the district. Contact the visitor Depart Jarrahdale along Kingsbury Road, centre for up-to-date information. rejoin South Western Highway to North Dandalup, left onto Del Park Road Flora: A spectacular wildflower area that Features: At Dwellingup visit the Forest includes Thomasia, Daviesia, Hibbertia, Heritage Centre and its Australian School of Bossiaea linophylla, Pimeleas, blue Fine Wood. Contact the Dwellingup History Lechenaultia as well as painted lady, and Visitor Information Centre for the best sundew, basket and curry flower. places to see beautiful wildflowers. 6 Balingup Flora: Blue squill, tiny star and donkey Travel towards Greenbushes to Balingup orchids, golden Dryandra, sea-urchin Features: Balingup’s Golden Valley Tree Hakeas, yellow and pink Verticordias, Park, just south of the town. red bottlebrush and orange/lemon scented Darwinia. Flora: A profusion of wildflowers can be seen including sarsaparilla, coral vine 3 Harvey and holly flame pea. South Western Highway Features: Wildflower picnic sites and 7 Bridgetown Hoffman’s Mill are all near Harvey, offering Travel south on the South Western bush walking through jarrah country. One Highway of the world’s greatest trails, the Bibbulmun Features: In the jarrah/marri forests Track, passes through the region. surrounding the town, there are several walk trails where orchids and kangaroo Flora: Grass trees, Acacia, kangaroo paws, paws abound. Hakea, Hardenbergia and orchids. Flora: Wattles, buttercups and Bossiaeas, 4 Collie Hakea, the blue native wisteria, native South Western Highway via bluebells, Dampiera and the orange/red Coalfields Highway peas (Kennedia). Features: There are several picturesque drives in the surrounding jarrah forest, Karri trees, near Denmark

14 Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com Jarrahland Trail Must see and do - View the amazing corals and marine life from Busselton Jetty Underwater Observatory - Go wine-tasting - Taste a variety of fresh local produce including cheese, chocolate and fudge Blue China Orchid - Climb the Diamond Tree near Manjimup - Browse extensive local galleries - Go land-based whale and dolphin watching (June to December) - Cycle the Munda Biddi Bike Trail - See the friendly dolphins of Koombana Bay on a boat cruise

8 Manjimup South Western Highway Features: Travel through karri forest to the Four Aces and One Tree Bridge area, 23km west of Manjimup. Travel 3km east of Manjimup to the King Jarrah tree, estimated to be 600 years old, where there is a signposted walk trail. Flora: A profusion of sarsaparilla, coral vine, holly flame pea, morning iris and Lomandra pauciflora - a grass-like plant with small cream bell-shaped flowers.

9 Pemberton Travel South Western and Vasse Highways Features: The town is adjacent to the Gloucester National Park (entry fee applies). Enjoy one of several walk trails, beginning at the famous Gloucester Tree, or take a leisurely drive to discover the park’s prolific birdlife. Visit The Cascades, 100 Year Forest and drive the Rainbow Trail. When passing through Pemberton, visit Botanica Gallery which displays works from a range of artists who documented the subject of Western Australia’s unique and diverse native flora and fauna, with scientifically accurate and visually appealing works of art. Open 10am - 4.30pm daily, except Tuesdays. Flora: Karri trees with Kennedia, tree Hovea, orchids, coral vine and Clematis.

10 Northcliffe Travel south on Pemberton Northcliffe Road Features: Travel via Great Forest Trees Drive and Snake Gully Boardwalk to Northcliffe Forest Park which is famous for its hollow butt and twin karri trees. The rare Queen of Sheba orchid can be seen at the granite outcrop of Mount Chudalup. Flora: Crowea and Hovea intertwine with the unique karri pea flower, and yellow Hibbertia and red Kennedia are visible on the forest floor.

Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com 15 Margaret River Wildflower Tours Swamp Bottlebrush Cranbrook Bell

11 Windy Harbour 14 Nannup Travel south on Wheatley Coast Road Travel north west on Vasse Highway and to Windy Harbour Road Brockman Highway Features: D’Entrecasteaux National Park Features: The Kondil Recreation Park at (entry fee applies) and the Tookalup Nannup offers an easy walking trail through Lookout. There is a spectacular 6km coastal wildflowers. St John Brook Conservation drive to Point D’Entrecasteaux which has an Park is also ideal for spotting wildflowers access friendly cliff top walk, providing and provide popular swimming areas. grand views of the coastal vegetation. Flora: Hibbertia, purple flags, Acacia, an Flora: Wisteria, coral vine, Clematis, shark interesting range of trees including jarrah, tooth Acacia, buttercup and Melaleuca can marri, sheoak and Banksia. be seen around Tookalup Lookout. 15 Scott National Park 12 Warren National Park Take Brockman Highway from Nannup, Head north towards Pemberton, then left then left into Scott River Road into Old Vasse Road Features: This park is home to one of the September - October Features: Experience dramatic views of the world’s most diverse collections of Warren River while on the Heartbreak and cordrushes. This park is only accessible by Discover the incredible Maidenbush Trails. At the Dave Evans foot or boat. Bicentennial Tree visitors can relax with a Flora: Swamp bottlebrush and the superb wildflowers and orchids of the picnic or the more adventurous visitor can climbing triggerplant. Margaret River region with climb the tree. An entry fee applies at specialist guides. Warren National Park. 16 Cape Leeuwin (near Augusta), Flora: Magnificent stands of virgin karri Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park After your tour visit the stunning forest with wisteria, coral vine and Clematis. Take Bussell Highway to Augusta and Lake, Mammoth and Jewel follow the main road through to the 13 Beedelup National Park Caves and Boranup Forest. Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, then Skippy 17km west of Pemberton on the Vasse Rock Road scenic drive. Bookings Essential. Highway Features: Take a captivating walk along the Features: Famous for its beauty of majestic southern end of the Cape to Cape Track karri trees, this park’s understory is lush and Contact Caveworks which starts at Cape Leeuwin, the dramatic the atmosphere damp and often misty. meeting point of the Southern and Indian (08) 9757 7411 Walk along Beedelup Falls Trail to view the oceans. This trail is filled with spectacular beautiful falls, which are in full flow during [email protected] coastal scenery, fascinating geology and winter and spring. Enjoy the views from www.margaretriver.com sensational wildflowers and orchids many natural lookouts or take a walk on the (especially in spring). Venture further north suspension bridge. An entry fee applies at to admire the majestic karri trees in the Beedelup National Park. Boranup Forest and the intricate formations Flora: An interesting range of trees of close by Jewel Cave. including karri, jarrah, marri, sheoak, Flora: Discover over 20 different species of Banksia and snotty gobble. orchids including the Augusta Bee orchid (unique to the region), Funnel Web Spider

16 Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com Kingia Australis Red Flowering Gum

Orchid and Vanilla Orchid. Also see climbers 19 Cape Naturaliste, Leeuwin- and creepers such as coral vine, wisteria, Naturaliste National Park clematis, coastal pimelea and fan flowers Continue on Caves Road via Yallingup (scaevola). to Dunsborough, then onto Cape Naturaliste Road 17 Boranup Forest, Leeuwin- Features: Stop for a picnic at Meelup Beach Naturaliste National Park which is surrounded by beautiful natural Take the Boranup Scenic Drive off Caves bushland and scenic walk trails. Many birds Road, between Augusta and Margaret including the honey eaters are attracted to River this area. Continue to Cape Naturaliste Features: Journey through towering karri Lighthouse, where numerous walk tracks forest and explore some of Australia’s most provide spectacular coastal views over the impressive and youngest limestone caves ocean and across to Sugarloaf Rock. that lie beneath the Leeuwin Naturaliste Flora: Coastal heath growing on limestone Ridge. Lake Mammoth and Cave are easily cliffs shaped by strong, salt-laden winds. Bottlebrush accessible and close by. Features one-sided bottlebrush, Naturaliste Flora: Deep blue karri hovea, trailing Nancy, Dunsborough spider orchid, Cape clematis, yellow cone bushes and patersonia spider orchid and Bussells spider orchid. and orchids such as forest mantis, cowslip, common donkey and pink fairy. 20 Busselton Travel east along Bussell Highway towards 18 Margaret River Walk Trails Busselton, then south into Queen Various walks can be accessed from the Elizabeth Ave Bussell Highway and Carters Road. Features: Ambergate Reserve which has an Boranup State Forest, near Margaret River Features: There are several easily accessible, easy wildflower walk trail with 170 plant pleasant walks central to the town of species in just 70ha. Margaret River, including the Margaret River Flora: Blue smokebush, Boronia, wattle, Heritage Trails, Rails to Trails, and the red Grevillea and white myrtle. The Carters Road walk trails. Maps and signage Busselton Visitor Centre has a brochure onsite or stop at the visitor centre for more for more information. information. Flora: A mix of karri and jarrah wildflower 21 Tuart Forest National Park Willy Bay Resort is centrally located in the heart of species such as hovea, hibbertia, wattles, the Margaret River wine region and is surrounded by Located between Busselton and Bunbury wineries and fantastic local attractions. yellow and purple patersonia (or flags), Features: Tuart Forest National Park Our beautifully appointed rammed-earth chalets have flame and brown peas and a diverse range protects the largest remaining pure forest of all you need for a romantic break or fun with friends. of native orchids (in spring) including flying tuart in the world. It has the tallest and duck orchid, king-in-his-carriage and largest tuart trees, some as high as 33m. rattle beaks. $225 - $275 The forest adjoins the Vasse-Wonnerup Per night for 2 adults Additional charges for extra adults/children applies. Estuary – an internationally important wetland that supports thousands of Phone: 08 9755 7575 | www.willybayresort.com [email protected] waterbirds. Walk the Possum Night Spotlight Trail and visit the Malbup Bird Hide.

Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com 17 For forests, wildflowers and stunning coastal scenery,

Amberley Estate winery, Margaret River

you should see us now! With an abundance of restaurants, cafes, wineries and shopping opportunities, the cosmopolitan city of Bunbury is your ideal starting point to explore our region’s many

natural wonders. As well as enjoying easy Blue Lady Orchid Boronia access to magnificent wildflower displays, you can also experience our unique tuart forest and coastal eco systems including friendly dolphins. The park presents a number of beautiful Also on display in the region are a variety Accommodation and tours are a breeze tourist scenic drives. of orchids including cowslip, donkey, green with our Visitor Centre’s free booking Flora: See tuart trees that are between hood, jug, clubbed spider, white spider, service. The Centre can also advise you of blue enamel and pink fairy. the best wildflower viewing locations. 300 and 400 years old. 22 Bunbury 23 Yalgorup National Park Travel the Old Coast Road to Preston Freecall: 1800 BUNBURY Rejoin the Bussell Highway, turning left Beach Road www.visitbunbury.com.au from Ludlow Road. Follow through to Features: Occupying a narrow strip of Tel: 08 9792 7205 Bunbury (approx 48km) coastal land, this park protects 10 lakes, Email: [email protected] Features: Favoured wildflower locations are which harbour a large variety of bird life Manea Park, the tourist rest area, Ocean Bunbury Visitor Centre Drive and Crooked Brook Forest, located in and amazing thrombilite living fossils. Carmody Place Bunbury WA 6230 COB011 the Ferguson Valley. Contact the Bunbury The park has several easy walks, and is Visitor Centre for more wildflower known for its spectacular variety of information and reports during the season. vegetation and diverse geographical features, Flora: Commonly seen varieties include towering tuart trees, limestone ridges and buttercups, kangaroo paws, Dampiera, blue wetlands. It is a paradise for birdlovers and Hovea, egg and bacon bush, wattle, running wildflower enthusiasts alike. postman, Hibbertia, pepper and salt bush, Flora: Hibbertia, pink fairy orchids blue Lobelia, Hakeas, purple tassels, blue and cockies tongue. Squill, cotton heads, blue Lechenaultia, white Return to Perth via Mandurah and and pink myrtle and beard heath. then through the historic port city of Fremantle.

18 Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve, near Albany

Southern Wonders Trail

From tall, shady trees and gently dappled SPECIAL EVENTS display of wildflowers including orchids and Banksia and featuring the beautiful woodland areas, journey through the Albany Wildflower Festival Cranbrook Bell. sweeping mountain vistas of the Stirling Wednesday 23 - Saturday 26 and Porongurup Ranges, and on down September 2009 to the spectacular southern coastline. St Johns Church Hall, York St, Albany Kojonup Spring Wildflower Festival Open: 9.00am to 6.00pm (Wed-Fri), Friday 25 September - Wednesday 30 September 2009 You’ll marvel at the vibrant contrast 9.00am to 1.00pm (Sat) Kojonup Visitor Centre, Albany Highway of natural colours among the rich Admission: Adults $3, children free Open: 9.00am to 5.00pm and diverse flora along the way. Morning tea and light lunches available Admission: Fees apply Tel: (08) 9842 4545 Native birds like the red-tailed and Tel: (08) 9831 0500 Featuring district vases, beautiful orchids white-tailed black cockatoos, peregrine and massed displays of wildflowers from Magnificent wildflower displays feature falcons, emus and blue wrens can the area covering Denmark to Bremer Bay more than 400 local species and be observed in their natural habitat, and north to Mount Barker, this festival organised bushwalks. along with kangaroos and wallabies. offers approximately 500 named specimens on display. Mount Barker Celebration The southern coastal area from of Wildflowers Albany to Walpole is rugged and Cranbrook Wildflower and Art Display September - October 2009 dramatic. Here you’ll enter cool forests Saturday 26 September - Sunday 27 Banksia Farm, Pearce St, Mount Barker of jarrah and marri trees and walk September 2009 Open: Daily 9.30am to 4.30pm high up amongst the lofty tingle Art Centre, Old Railway Station, Tel: (08) 9851 1770 trees that shade the forest floor. Cranbrook Named orchid displays, photographic Open: Daily 9.30am to 4.30pm displays, named species, scenic Rich colours blend with stunning Admission: Gold coin donation scenery to create a trail of contrasts bushwalks with named species, orchid Tel: (08) 9826 1008 and wildflower hotspot information and true natural beauty. Situated at the western end of the Stirling sheets, fine botanic artworks, books, Range National Park, Cranbrook will craft, food and beverages. provide visitors with a spectacular

Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com 19 View from Bluff Knoll, Stirling Range National Park, near Albany

1 Sullivan Rock Take the Albany Highway south of Perth via Armadale Features: Sullivan Rock Trail is a comfortable one hour walk with picturesque rock pool views. The area forms part of the popular Bibbulmun Track, a walking trail which extends from Mundaring near Perth, to Albany. Flora: The base of the rock is home to granite honey-myrtle, tiny cream Trymalium masses, eye-catching mauve Calytrix and pink and blue Andersonia.

2 Crossman Reserve Continue down the Albany Highway past Bannister to reach the Reserve Features: Crossman Reserve is home to a wide range of orchids, including the rattle beaks, which only flower after fire. Flora: Look out for orchids such as the donkey, jug, star, blue china, rabbit ears, hammer and bird.

3 Woodanilling/Katanning Road Travel south on Albany Highway, then turn left onto the Woodanilling/Katanning Road Features: The area abounds in rich vegetation including heath, sheoak thickets and York gum woodland. Flora: Yellow wattles, pink and yellow Verticordia, parrot bush, ground level honeypot Dryandra.

4 Martup Pool and Boscabel Shady picnic areas are located on the Southern Wonders Trail Albany Highway just 1km south of the Woodanilling turn-off and another 12km Must see and do south, opposite the Boscabel turn-off - Take in the sights and scenery of Torndirrup National Park Features: At the first picnic area, take a - Enjoy a picnic on the Nornalup Inlet, near Walpole short walk to Martup Pool, which is - Explore the wineries around the Porongurup Range, Mt Barker and Denmark shaded by paperbark trees. Look for several varieties of ducks and water birds - Enjoy a wide range of fresh produce including berries and marron sheltering in the reeds. - Go whale watching from June to September Several species of honeyeaters may also be - Learn more facts about whales at Albany’s Whale World seen gathering nectar from Dryandra flowers - Step out onto the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk at the Boscabel turn-off area. - Visit the Manjimup Timber Park

20 Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com Swamp Bottlebrush

Coneflower Queen of Sheba Orchid

Flora: The Boscabel turn-off picnic spot Flora: Look out for Kojonup’s floral boasts jarrah trees, gravel-loving plants emblem - the red Lechenaultia. Gravel BANKSIA such as yellow Hibbertias, kangaroo paws, areas of the Reserve are home to displays FARM of the bright blue Lechenaultia, the Verticordias, white starbush and pea plants. Pearce Street, Mount Barker white candle flowers of the Stackhousia, TEL: (08) 9851 1770 5 Australian Bush Heritage Reserve numerous orchids as well as four species March 1 - June 30 5 acre scenic Travel 5km south, left into Cherry of the brilliant orange Gastrolobium peas. Open: 9.30am - 4.30pm wildflower garden. Tree Pool Road, continue 11.7km Monday – Friday 8 Stirling Range National Park August 1 – November 30 All 77 banksia on a sealed road, then onto Open: 9.30 - 4.30pm daily and most Dryandra Travel south to Cranbrook, then east on gravel, left into Mission Road B&B accommodation ALL year. species. Salt River Road. Continue right onto Red Features: Bird lovers should keep their OPTiONS (fees apply) Gum Pass Road and Stirling Range Drive Garden Walks • anytime. eyes peeled as the reserve is the habitat for Fully Guided Tours - 10.30am & 2.00pm daily. some 80 species of native birds, including Features: Unique and abundant Celebration of Wildflowers - Sept 1 - Nov 30 the rare crested shrike-tit, the peregrine wildflowers, plus the brooding beauty of the mountain landscape, makes this park Great coffee – tasty light lunches falcon and Carnaby’s black cockatoo. and luxurious B&B in our one of the South West’s popular stone homestead. Flora: Mostly wandoo woodland with destinations. The pathways and impressive open scrubland, Melaleuca thickets, cliff faces of the park provide challenges to Email: [email protected] www: banksiafarm.com.au herbs, heaths, sedges and orchids. bushwalkers, climbers and abseilers. Formby South Road towards Mount Trio is a 6 Myrtle Benn Sanctuary Flora: Magnificent wildflower displays favourite spot for wildflowers, as is the trail Return to Albany Highway, travel towards proliferate through the park and include around Bluff Knoll. The Stirling Range Kojonup. Just before Kojonup, turn right the Queen of Sheba orchid, mountain Retreat has details of guided wildflower or into Robinson Road which leads to Soldier bells, Banksias and Dryandras. orchid bus tours which depart from there. Road, then right into Tunney Road The park is home to more than 1,500 9 Porongurup National Park Features: The Sanctuary offers nine species of native plants, 87 of which aren’t Travel south on Chester Pass Road wonderful walking trails, where you can found anywhere else in the world. to Porongurup Road and Tourist catch a glimpse of various birds and small Route 252, turn right and enjoy the animals. Pick up a map at the car park or at Entry fees apply at Stirling Range National many wilderness walks or drives the Kojonup Visitor and Interpretive Centre. Park. travelling west to Mount Barker Flora: A rich diversity of orchid species, Features: Pathways lead through marri, including the red-tongued spider, mantis, Stirling Range Retreat jarrah and karri forest to reach the summits clubbed spider, white spider and pink of weathered granite domes. From here enamel. Other floral species that abound there are panoramic views of the coastline, here are myrtle, cats paws, Dampiera, nearby Stirling Range, surrounding farmland Lechenaultia, everlastings and parrot bush. and vineyards. View the majestic granite 7 Farrar Reserve domes and sweeping views of the Leave the Kojonup Visitor and Porongurup Range, covered by giant karri Interpretive Centre and take Variety of cosy accommodation. Spacious trees. Early in 2007 a bushfire passed caravan park. Bird chorus on your doorstep. Walk the immediate right off Albany to National Park. Breakfast basket available. through a section of the park, so visitors Highway into the Boyup Brook/ Springtime activities will see the parks regeneration. Kojonup Road for about 8km Wildflower & Orchid Bus Tour departing 9am daily, 15 Aug - 31 Oct. Numerous signed walk trails lead to Features: The Old Railway Dam is home Birdwalks from Mid Sept - 31 Oct. spectacular lookouts. Animals found here to numerous water birds, frogs and the Stirling Range Retreat, Chester Pass Road include wallabies, the yellow-footed (opposite Bluff Knoll turn-off), Stirling Range long necked tortoise. Outcrops of granite antechinus, the southern brown bandicoot offer interesting collections of mosses, Phone: (08) 9827 9229 Fax: (08) 9827 9224 (quenda) and grey kangaroos. Email: [email protected] lichens, flowers and many orchids. www.stirlingrange.com.au

Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com 21 2007 Western Australian Wildflower Holiday Guide Approval Sheet

Please check the proof below carefully and if all ok please email or fax your approval. If alterations are required please email [email protected] or phone 9262 1767 or fax 9262 1735. Your prompt response will be greatly appreciated.

Bibbulmun Track near Denmark Firewood Banksia

In addition, more than 70 species of birds Visit the wetlands in winter for another Flora: Pink Pimelea ferruginea and Pimilea can be seen including the rare red-eared unforgettable surprise. Main entry and rosea, blue Scaevola nitida, as well as the firetail finch. enquiries at Porongurup Shop and striking white, five-petalled flower of the Entry fees apply at Porongurup National Tearooms. sticky tailflower with its distinctive perfume Park. are abundant in the heartlands in spring. 11 Albany and Torndirrup Flora: Visit the Banksia Farm at Mount National Park Barker. Look out for the vibrant colours of Travel south of Albany on the yellow Acacias and purple Hoveas that Frenchman Bay Road are visible under the tall karri trees in the Features: A well signposted circular National Park. walk at Stony Hill meanders past granite Porongurup Road, Porongurup WA 6324 outcrops. Nestled in extensive gardens, historic Karribank 10 Twin Creeks has wonderful vistas to the Porongurup Conservation Reserve For great wildflower photo opportunities, National Park and is central to stroll on the well-established paths and flora & fauna walks and most local attractions. Just 3km from the Porongurup Shop boardwalks at the Windfarm in Sandpatch. Choose from beautifully restored and Tearooms on Knight Road historic rooms with spas or standard chalets. Delicious food, local wines. Features: This 511ha reserve offers visitors The powerful Southern Ocean has magnificent views of the Porongurup and sculptured spectacular coastal features Phone (08) 9853 1022 Web www.karribank.com.au Stirling Ranges, hundreds of wildflowers known as “The Gap” and the “Natural - some flowering all year round, eighty bird Bridge” along Torndirrup National Park’s species and a diverse range of other fauna. buffeted coastline. Windswept Banksias lie inland from granite headlands, limestone Look for the many orchid species cliffs, sandy slopes and beaches. proliferating in the spring, and the resident wedge-tailed eagle family.

amazingalbany explore. discover. relax. Over half of WA’s wildflower species are found within a short drive of your holiday base in amazingalbany, and are easily discovered from walking trails. Spring is when you see the flowers at their striking best. You might spot a whale too!

albany visitor centre amazingalbany_wa_eps bookings: (08) 9841 9377 information: (08) 9841 9290 www.amazingalbany.com❐ Approved Signed Date ❐ ...where everyChanges road is arequired scenic drive

22 Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com Firewood Banksia

Tree Top Walk, Walpole-Nornalup National Park, near Dwellingup

12 West Cape Howe National Park 14 William Bay National Park Take time to do a picturesque drive through Travel west towards Denmark Approximately 15km west of Denmark the Walpole-Nornalup National Park. Features: Shelley Beach is a popular spot Features: This park, protecting a stunning Entry fees apply at Valley of the coastline and forest, is renowned for its and can be reached by a scenic gravel road. Giants Tree Top Walk. windswept granite rocks, which have Flora: In season, the forest is ablaze with Flora: The rich and abundant coastal heath a striking primeval appearance. Inside Crowea, orchids, purple native hovea, of this area is home to Banksia, Dryandra, the reef, sheltered pools, channels and wisteria and green kangaroo paw. Hakea and plants from the Myrtaceae granite terraces create a fascinating From here, return to Perth, or family. The area is also a habitat for the seascape for beachcombing. join the Jarrahland Trail found The white blossoms of the sticky tailflower insect trapping Albany pitcher plant. on page 13. You’ll also find many varieties of orchids can be found on the rugged and rocky coastline of this scenic southern area. at Ocean Beach, south of Denmark. Flora: Dense scrub dominates the 13 Mt Lindesay National Park vegetation here, with a thick covering From Denmark travel north on Scotsdale of Dryandra and peppermints. Road then turn right onto Mt Lindesay Road 15 Valley of the Giants Features: North of Denmark along the - Tree Top Walk Scotsdale Road is Mount Lindesay. A Journey further west to reach this spectacular 9km walking track climbs legendary area through profuse wildflowers into granite Features: Discover WA’s famous forest domes to give you sweeping views across the of gigantic tingle trees which can be Wilson Inlet, Bennet Range, Mt Frankland, seen in the forests surrounding the 420m Walpole Wilderness and Porongorups. long Tree Top Walk. This spectacular Flora: Tree Hovea, Acacia lightweight bridge, a world-renowned and numerous orchids. attraction, soars gently upwards, 40m into the tingle foliage, before descending to the Ancient Empire Walk.

Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com 23 Wildflowers at Wave Rock, Hyden

Wave Rock Trail

The central wheatbelt area of Australia’s Golden Outback is a wonder waiting to be enjoyed. Its massive granite outcrops Wave Rock Trail with spectacular views, charming country towns, unique rock formations and changing Must see and do landscapes are well worth the visit. - Visit the York Motor Museum - Pack a picnic and visit the bird watching You will find numerous nature reserves paradise Roe Dam, near Narembeen with walk trails, that are rich in flora and also fauna. - Drive the 35km Old Prospector’s Trail starting in Narembeen A highlight is one of Australia’s most - Discover Hyden’s Wildlife Park and other town attractions famous landforms - Wave Rock. Situated - Visit the Corrigin and Bruce Rock Pioneer Museums just near the town of Hyden, and at 15m - Explore the Macrocarpa Trail, high and more than 100m long, Wave Rock 1km west of Kulin looks like a giant surf wave of multicoloured - Pick your favorite horse along the 20km Tin Horse Highway, Kulin granite about to crash onto the bush below.

24 Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com 1 York An excellent example of a rock Take the Great Southern Highway water catchment can be found at east to York Toapin Weir, built in 1912. Features: First settled in 1831, the Flora: A wide variety of wildflowers, historically significant town of York was including some declared and priority WA’s first inland settlement. Drop into species of Lamiaceae shrubs, Acacias, the York Visitor Centre, located in the Hakeas, rubiaceae, and Proteaceae. historic town hall, to pick up a local The rare Banksia cuneata flower can be found from September to October. wildflower brochure for directions to Wallaby Hills Reserve, St Ronan’s Reserve and Mokine Reserve. 3 Bruce Rock Travel east 77km from Quairading Flora: An impressive variety including pygmy sundew, yellow Hibbertia, rosy Features: Travel to Kokerbin Rock, cheeked donkey orchids, climbing 45km west of Bruce Rock. Enjoy impressive fringed lily, mouse ears and Damperia. views, picnic spots, rock formations and caves. Flora: Orchids amid the tea trees, 2 Quairading sheoaks, sandalwood, Verticordias, Dampiera, Travel 68km east from York Banksia, Acacias, Hakeas, quongdongs, Features: A 572ha Community Reserve, orchids and poker Grevillea. Also visit the offering walk trails, has been set aside small town of Babakin, where the rare for conservation and environmental studies. underground orchid is a challenge to find. Couple in wildflowers, near Hyden

York... www.yorkwa.org Accommodation Things to See & Do Eating Out Elsinore Retreat B&B 9641 2637 Avon Valley Ballooning 1800 468 886 www.avb.net.au Imperial Hotel 9641 1255 www.imperialhotelyork.com.au Faversham House 9641 1366 www.favershamhouse.com.au Grandhouse 9641 2880 www.yorkwa.org/grandhouse Beverley Tourist Bureau 9646 1555 www.beverleywa.com Settlers House 9641 1096 www.settlershouse.com.au Hope Farm Guest House 9641 2183 Daisy Hill Farm Yard 9641 1482 www.daisyhillfarmyard.com.au The York 9641 2188 www.theyork.com.au Imperial Hotel 9641 1255 www.imperialhotelyork.com.au Residency Museum - Brooke St 9641 1751 Kookaburra Accommodation 9641 2936 www.kookaburradream.com.au The Old Albion Inn 9641 2608 www.oldalbion.com.au Lavendale Farm 9641 4131 www.lavendalefarm.com Beauty Retreat YORK VISITOR CENTRE Moondyne Caravan 9574 2534 www.toodyaycaravanparks.com.au/ Windward Balloon Adventures 9621 2000 www.windwardballooning.com Bookings & Enquiries 9641 1301 Park & Chalets moondyne Settlers House 9641 1096 www.settlershouse.com.au Wellness & Healing Centre 9641 2720 www.uryourdreams.com Calendar of Events • Heritage Walk Trails • Sunset Serenity B&B 9641 1418 York Wines 9641 2228 www.yorkwines.com.au Festivals • Mount Brown Lookout • Historic Tipperary Church Lodgings 0439 965 275 www.tipperarychurch.com Churches • Swing Bridge • Ruined Piano The Old Albion Inn Accom. 9641 2608 www.oldalbion.com.au Sanctuary • Town Hall (1911) • Cabaret The York 9641 2188 www.theyork.com.au Toodyay Caravan Park 9574 2612 w w w . t o o d y a y c a r a v a n p a r k s . c o m . a u Concerts • 8 Self Drive Tours (York & Surrounds) York Cottages 9641 2125 www.yorkwa.com.au/yorkcottages

History older than Melbourne just an hour from Perth... come and see for yourself why a billion stars can’t be wrong.

Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com 25 Tin Horse Highway, near Kulin

Verticoridia and Beaufortia

4 Narembeen Flora: Over 2,500 varieties grow in the 7 Kulin Travel 38km south east from Bruce Rock Wave Rock area. Orchids found around 23km south west from Kondinin Features: Wadderin Wildlife Reserve is Wave Rock include ant, bee, blue sun, Features: Collect a wildflower brochure located 8km north of town. Mt Walker Rock candy, china, cowslip, dragon, donkey, at Kulin Shire Council or the service is found on the Hyden road which heads spider, yellow and sun. Granite outcrops are station for directions to Hopkins Nature east from Narembeen. scattered throughout the area. Surrounding Reserve, Jilakin Lake, Rock Reserve and these rocks are stands of Verticordi, Banksia, Flora: Donkey orchids, cowslips, Buckley’s Breakaway. You will also travel mulla mulla, Grevillea, sheoaks, salmon Queen of Sheba orchid. part of the Tin Horse Highway. gum, moral, borree gimlet and mallee trees. Flora: Hakeas, Grevilleas, pink boronia, 5 Hyden From Hyden it is possible to travel Isopogon, several varieties of Verticordia, Travel 87km east on Mt Walker Road, the Granite and Woodlands Discovery numerous orchids, Eucalyptus macrocarpa, then south to Hyden Trail through to Norseman (or Melaleucas, Hibbertia, Dryandra, thyanotus Features: Visit the famous Wave Rock in reverse if you are traveling fringed lily and gastrolobium spinosum. or nearby Mulka’s Cave, The Humps from the Eastern States). 8 Corrigin and Hippo’s Yawn. Here you will find 6 Kondinin bird life in abundance and native fauna Travel 62km north west from Kulin From Hyden travel 59km west to Kondinin which are easy to spot at dusk. Enjoy Features: Local attractions include Gorge Features: Visit Yeerakine Rock and the spectacular sunsets from the top Rock, Dog Cemetery and Wildflower Drive. the 50ha Kondinin Bushwalk Trail. of Wave Rock after a day of exploring Flora: Red toothbrush Grevillea, one- Flora: A diverse range of flora including the breathtaking wildflowers. sided bottlebrush, cauliflower Verticordia, Eucalyptus kondininensis (blackbutt). fringed mantis orchid, wild foxglove, Calytrix brachyphlla, pop flower and trigger plants. Return to Perth via Brookton. Lazy D Wildflower Farm Lazy D Wildflower Farm is situated 27km east of Hyden on a private property owned by Denis & Sheenagh Collins. In spring the road verge as an entrance to the farm is a show of colours to greet you. The bush land you can see is on sand plain country and produces the most spectacular display of wildflowers, boasting over 2500 varieties. Other attractions to see during your stay in Hyden are; the famous Wave Rock, Hippos Yawn, Mulkas Cave, the Humps, Wave Rock Wildlife Park and Lake Magic. For accommodation please contact the Wave Rock Hotel Motel on (08) 9880 5052.

26 Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com Bay of Isles, Esperance

Caley’s Banksia

Southern Cross

Esperance Trail Teasel Banksia

SPECIAL EVENTS Ongerup and Needilup District Museum The drive from Perth to Esperance will Open: Daily 9.00am to 4.00pm take you through some truly spectacular Ravensthorpe Wildflower Show Admission: Adults $3, children free rural scenery that ends with the reward Saturday 5 - Saturday 19 September 2009 Tel: (08) 9828 2282 or 0428 282 282 Senior Citizens Hall, Morgans St, of one of Australia’s most stunning Ravensthorpe This display features some of the region’s coastal regions. Along the way you Open: Daily 9.00am to 4.00pm 400 varieties of wildflowers. Visit the will encounter a number of historically Admission: Adults $3, children free natural history museum which includes significant Wheatbelt towns in the Tel: (08) 9838 1277 or (08) 9838 3183 an Aboriginal bush foods display. There Australia’s Golden Outback region. is also a delightful picnic park here. Features include an incredible display of Esperance and its surrounding areas over 700 wildflowers, many of which will provide the visitor with a myriad are unique to the Ravensthorpe area. of outdoor experiences that go way The region’s orchids will be on display. Discover Woody Island beyond the region’s striking wildflower Esperance Wildflower Festival displays. This is where you can also Wednesday 9 - Saturday 12 & Esperance’s Bay of Isles observe sea eagles, whales, dolphins September 2009 and seals in their natural habitat. Anglican Parish Centre, The nearby Cape Le Grand National Andrew St, Esperance Park will also present nature lovers Open: Daily 9.00am to 5.00pm with an unforgettable opportunity Admission: Gold coin donation to experience one of WA’s most Tel: (08) 9083 1555 pristine coastal environments. The indoor display features over 400 identified wildflower species. Explore In the Fitzgerald River National Park, the native garden displays. Morning, nearly 20 per cent of the State’s plant Over 130 identified native specimens species can be found and it is popular afternoon teas and lunches are available. Day trips and overnight accommodation available Access via scenic wildlife cruise for bird and whale watching. Ongerup Wildflower Display View seals, dolphins and sea eagles Wildflowers are generally blooming Monday 14 September - 71 The Esplanade, Esperance • (08) 9071 5757 until the end of October. [email protected] • www.woodyisland.com.au Sunday 4 October 2009

Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com 27 Esperance Trail

Esperance Trail Must see and do - Walk the Moorambine Heritage Trail, Pingelly - Enjoy the scenic drive down Magdhaba Track to Roe Hill lookout, Lake King 1 Boyagin Rock - Look out for whales, seals and dolphins From Perth head to Brookton (via on a cruise of the Recherche Archipelago Albany Highway, Brookton Highway - Take in the stunning coastal scenery of and the Great Southern Highway) 4 Harrismith Cape Le Grand National Park Features: Travel 10km past Brookton Travel east on Yilliminning Road - Take the 40km Great Ocean Drive and turn west to Boyagin Rock. The from Esperance Features: Drive south of town out to reserve provides a picnic area with a - Go fishing, windsurfing or walking the old Harrismith airstrip, or explore magnificent backdrop of wildflowers. around Hopetoun the Harrismith wildflower walk trail, - Explore early settlement areas along Flora: Range of orchid, Dryandra, which starts at the Oasis Hotel. the Williams Heritage Trail Drummond’s gum, Grevillea, Kunzea, - Learn about sheep shearing at the Hakea, Isopogon, Petrophile, Leucopogon Flora: Dryandras, Banksias, Verticordias, Williams Woolshed and Hibbertia. Grevilleas, Isopogons, Petrophiles, Eucalyptus and Calothamnus. 2 Dryandra Forest 54km south west of Pingelly 5 Kukerin – Tarin Rock Features: The 27,000ha Dryandra Nature Reserve Forest is a haven for wildlife and also Travel east on Stock Route Road, head features an abundance of plant life. south on the Rabbit Proof Fence Road Flora: Golden dryandra, prickly and then east along the Dumbleyung Lambertia, purple tangled Grevillea, - Lake Grace Road to Kukerin pink and lemon rainbows (Drosera) Features: Just past Kukerin is the Tarin and a profusion of orchids. Rock Nature Reserve. One species of particular interest in this area is the compass 3 Narrogin bush – named because of the fact that Wildflower Information 197km south east of Perth it always grows in the same direction. at the Lake Grace Shire Visitor Information Centre Features: Take a walk around the base Flora: Lechenaultia, native foxglove, Phone: 9865 2140 or of Yilliminning Rock and discover the Shire of Lake Grace cats paw, mallees, honeymyrtles and Phone: 9890 2500 many orchids that grow around the area Dampiera. In October, watch out for Pick up or email for a free or enjoy the walk trails in Foxes Lair. copy of the Ocean to Outback the delightful purple and gold flower Lakes Self Drive Brochure. Flora: Spider, rabbit, cowslips and donkey of the Queen of Sheba orchid. orchids. The surrounding reserves are a [email protected] great place to look for other wildflowers. [email protected]

28 Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com 6 Greater Lake Grace Area – home to a diverse species of flora and to 3m. Qualup Bell, Sepulcralis, Weeping Lake King Road, Emu Rock native birds. Enjoy beautiful bushlands gum, pincushion Hakea, woolly Banksia, and Old Water Tanks and lakes dotting the coastal landscape, possum Banksia and Grevillea macrostylis, 325kms south east of Perth – approx walk trails and picnic facilities. four-winged mallee, Barrens Regelia, 175kms on the main route from Perth to Flora: Blue Mallee, Red Kangaroo Isopogen, several Verticordia, orchids, Esperance lies in the Shire of Lake Grace Paw, Christmas Tree, Showy Banksia, tinsel lily, red kangaroo paw, fringed lily, Pincushion Hakea, Four Winged Mallee painted lady and oak - leaved Dryandra. Features: Rifle Range Hill (5km east of Lake Grace), Holland Track (traverses 13 Quaalup the Lake Grace Newdegate Rd), Roe RAVENSTHORPE Heritage Trail (23km south of Lake King) Travel via Hamersley Drive back to and Maghaba Track and the Rabbit WILDFLOWER SHOW the South Coast Highway. Head Proof Fence (30km east of Lake King). west, then right into Quiss Road and 5 - 19 September 2009 Pabelup Drive into the western side Flora: Early varieties include many species of Fitzgerald River National Park of orchid, Sundews, Hakea, Grevillia, tea trees, wax flowers and many species of Features: Regular stops on Pabelup Drive wattles. Mid spring the Dampiera and are recommended. There are walks at Lechenaultia colour the road verges along Twertup Field Study Centre. Travel into with a host of other varieties. Later the Point Ann for whale watching (July to verticordias, cyanostegia, adenanthus and November) and then on to West Mount the lachnostachys are found in the area. Barren for spectacular coastal and inland views. The Park is gazetted as a UNESCO 7 Peak Charles National Park World Biosphere Reserve. For a unique Leave the Lake King-Norseman Road MORGANS STREET, RAVENSTHORPE experience, stay at the heritage listed about 150km east of Lake King to find a 9am-4pm daily | Devonshire teas | Over 700 named Quaalup Homestead Wilderness Retreat, bush camp at Peak Charles National Park specimens | Adults $3 | Children free situated in the heart of the Park. Nearby Features: This ancient granite peak and it’s For details go to: www.wildflowersravensthorpe.org.au Bremer Bay is also worth a visit. companion Peak Eleanora provide visitors Flora: The 1,800 species include the with superb views of the dry sandplain unique curly grass, Qualup bell (Pimelea heaths and salt lake systems. Continue on 11 Ravensthorpe Range physodes), royal Hakea, pincushion to Salmon Gums or visit Helms Arboretum, 10km east of Ravensthorpe Hakea, Baxters Banksia, cauliflower Hakea, located 18km north of Esperance. Features: Drop by the Ravensthorpe Visitor Ashby’s Hakea, coneflowers, starflower, Flora: In the Peak Charles National Centre for information on local scenic drives smokebushes and numerous orchids. Park, search out the unique tuberous and attractions in the area. The town is From here, it is a five hour return rooted one-sided bottlebrush. located amid stately salmon gums. Travel to to Perth or you may continue on the Archer Drive and Ethel Daw Lookouts. your journey along the Southern 8 Cape Le Grand National Park Flora: Look out for Ravensthorpe Wonders Trail. Details on page 19. 60km east of Esperance bottlebrush, nodding Banksia, Beaufortia, Features: Wild coastal scenery, rugged blue Scaveola, Lechenaultia, one-sided granite peaks and sweeping heathlands bottlebrush, Verticordia grandiflora, claw characterise this park. Look for wildlife featherflower, everlastings, Qualup bell such as pygmy honey possums, and Dryandra, and poached Dampiera. bandicoots and mobs of grey kangaroo. 12 Fitzgerald River National Park Flora: There is an abundance of coastal wildflowers including Banksia From Ravensthorpe, journey to speciosa and Banksia pulchella. Hopetoun and then west along Hamersley Drive to see one of the 9 Stokes Inlet National Park most flora rich areas in WA. The Park is about 80km west of Features: Within 3km of Fitzgerald Esperance on the Ravensthorpe Road River National Park’s entry (admission Stay in the fee applies) you’ll discover dramatic The Esperance Visitor Centre Fitzgerald River headlands with 180 degree views of the has further information. National Park coastline and the park. There is a walk Your perfect gateway to see the wildflowersand Flora: Yate, swamp yate, paperbarks trail and lookout at East Mount Barren the whales at Point Ann. Enjoy the wildflowers and bell-fruited mallee. and Sepulcralis Hill. Visit The Southern and birdlife on 40 acres surrounded by the Park, Ocean Discovery Centre at The Deck in close to West Mount Barren & Gairdner River. 10 Monjingup Lake Reserve Hopetoun (small admission fee applies). Enjoy our guest lounge with fireplace and café. 10km West of Esperance Accommodation options include s/c units, Flora: This area is world famous for Royal chalets, camping and onsite vans. Features: Monjingup Lake Reserve is only Hakeas (Hakea Victoria) with its colourful Ph: (08)98374124 Email: [email protected] 10kms from the Esperance township and veined leafy bracts and stature of up Web: www.whalesandwildflowers.com.au

Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com 29 Exchange Hotel, Kalgoorlie

Goldfields Trail

From Perth, journey through 1 Merredin Features: Discover a variety of Australia’s Golden Outback region Travel 257km east of Perth wildflowers in this 806ha reserve made via Merredin and on to Kalgoorlie- Features: Call into the Central up of interesting granite outcrops and Boulder. Through Eucalypt woodlands Wheatbelt Visitor Centre for the latest pools set in scrub and bushland. Look and sand plains, the past is ever- wildflower information and drives. for purple peacock beetles here. present in the landscape creating the Morning wildflower coach tours Flora: Silver mallee grow in the Reserve. character that many believe is at the operate in season, and an evening Stop in Southern Cross (at the roadhouse heartland of Australia - the Outback. town tour operates every day. or shire office) on your way through and pick up a leaflet showing walking While towns and settlements here have Enjoy the Merredin Peak, Tamma trails and wildflowers of the Yilgarn. been shaped by both history and fanciful Parkland , and Totadgin Conservation legends of the gold rush, the harsh and Parks bush walks. The area has a 3 Boorabbin Rock unforgiving environment is constantly diverse range of flora suited to granite Take the Great Eastern Highway to softened by the natural and recurring outcrops, sand plains and salt lake Boorabbin Rock, at the eastern end beauty of its wildflowers, trees and country which all surround Merredin. of Boorabbin National Park plant life. Flora: Verticordia, cricket ball Hakea, Features: The water reserve here is a Venture north of Kalgoorlie to small wattle, a variety of orchid species, fascinating example of hand-built dams, towns, heritage dams and even ghost everlastings and salmon gum woodland. aquaducts and catchment areas that towns whose time has come and gone Visit wheatbelttourism.com for a list provided water for steam trains and for the leaving strong reminders of a pioneering of 980 species found in the area. early colonial settlements. See the remains and determined spirit. of the Number 8 Pump Station where 2 Sandford Rock Nature Reserve Against the backdrop of history, water was once pumped from Mundaring, From the Great Eastern Highway, turn take the journey slowly, stopping east of Perth, to Kalgoorlie-Boulder. off at Carrabin Westonia Road, head to appreciate the changing scenery Flora: The increase in soil moisture to Westonia then take Booderrockin and the spectacular seasonal displays around the base of Boorabbin Rock Road and continue 10km north-east of of wonderful wildflowers. brings a diversity of plant life here, and Westonia townsite to find the Reserve the rare granite rock poison plant with its reticulated leaf is visible near the aquaducts.

30 Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com Hakea Parakeelya wildflowers, Riverside Sanctuary

Firebush, a low purple flowering shrub Kalgoorlie-Boulder requires time for with hairy leaves, is common in the sightseeing. Include Karlkurla Bushland area, as is the Goldfields York gum with Park and visit the Department of Goldfields Trail its smooth, bronze-coloured bark. Environment and Conservation Arboretum Must see and do to see a range of Goldfields trees. 4 Caenyia Rock - Visit the Merredin Museum and Turn north 1km west of the Bullubulling Flora: Between Coolgardie and Kalgoorlie, historic Cummins Theatre Rock Hotel. Accessible by four wheel drive in the Eucalypt area, 15 different species - Visit the Coolgardie Exhibition Museum can be found. Beautiful gimlet and salmon vehicles only - Take in superb views of Kalgoorlie gums are common with their bark varying in Features: Notice the sudden environment and learn about the CY O’Connor colour from rich dark copper to pale pink. change from Eucalypt to heathland at water pipeline from Mt Charlotte Caenyia Rock. The Banksia variety found 6 Goongarrie Siding - See the 51 Antony Gormley here, known as swordfish Banksia, was first and Comet Vale sculptures at Lake Ballard, Menzies discovered by the Elder Expedition in 1891. Heading north of Kalgoorlie-Boulder - Look out for local birdlife at Flora: Grass trees and swordfish Banksia. Features: Goongarrie Siding 90kms Malcolm Dam, Leonora north of Kalgoorlie is salt lake country - Drive the Golden Quest Discovery 5 Kalgoorlie-Boulder to the east and Comet Vale features trail north of Kalgoorlie Continue east on Great Eastern red sand and spinefex country - Visit the Leonora Gwalia Museum Highway, through Coolgardie flora which flower Nov-Dec. - Pan for gold at the Propectors and Features: With its gold-mining history, Miners Hall of Fame, Kalgoorlie adventurous character and legendary Flora: Look out for the tree Grevillea tales of fortunes made and lost, Juncifolia and its large bright orange flowers at this time of year.

Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com 31 Featherhead wildflowers

Pincushion Hakea

Pink and Grey Galahs

7 Menzies 8 Leonora - Gwalia Travel The Goldfields Highway to Menzies, A good gravel road to Malcolm via Be introduced to the the Jeedamya Flats then off the highway Kookynie and bitumen across to Leonora wildflowers of the Wheatbelt to Niagara Dam and Kookynie and onto and Gwalia Half day wildflower coach tours operate from Merredin in the Wildflower season. An evening Malcolm on a good gravel road. Features: Malcolm Dam is home to a good coach tour of the town operates every day. Features: Aprox 35 kms north of Menzies supply of gilgies (yabbies). At Gwalia, the see the sprawling Jeedamya Flats covered in museum and historical district are well a variety of Saltbush and Blue Bush species. worth visiting. Recommended camping, The Kookynie road to Niagara Dam and however no facilities. Kookynie is both bitumen and good gravel Flora: Subject to good rain fall road often abounding in flowering Mulga annual wildflowers can be seen tree species and perennial shrubs. throughout the district. Heritage Listed Niagara dam has Choose one of several interesting Call 1300 736 283 • www.wheatbelttourism.com two walk trails with some amazing routes back to Perth: via Kalgoorlie- Barrack Street, Merredin WA 6415 - Ph: (08) 9841 1666 [email protected] plant species often in flower. Boulder; via Mt Ida, Lake Ballard and Flora: Subject to rain, colourful annul Coolgardie, Sandstone, Mount Magnet, everlastings, purple and green mulla Paynes Find and Wubin; or south to mulla, perennial sennas, eromophilla, the coast via Esperance and Albany. hop bush and mulga species.

Outback touring

32 Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com Ruins of the Glenfield Homestead, Katrine Heritage Trail, near Toodyay Granite Loop Trail

SPECIAL EVENTS The journey is a memorable contrast 2 Goomalling 3rd Annual Wongan Hills - of picturesque farmlands, colossal Travel the Toodyay – Goomalling Road Reynoldson Reserve Festival rocky outcrops, vibrant floral displays (48km) Fri 7 November – Sun 9 November 2009. stretching into the distance, tranquil Features: 15km north of Goomalling, Wongan Hills Visitor Centre: 08 96711973 picnic spots and a profusion of bird Oak Park Reserve is a particularly attractive E: [email protected] and animal life. Be touched by nature picnic area during spring when wildflowers Exhibition Opening: while taking the time to travel through are in abundance. The park supports a 5.00pm Friday: - Wine and Cheese, this truly fascinating region. variety of wildlife and a distinguishing Photography, Arts and Crafts. aspect is the presence of gnamma holes Open all weekend. Devonshire teas, 1 Toodyay (holes made by Aboriginal people for breakfast, live entertainment and Travel Toodyay Road 85km from Perth the collection of water in earlier days). stalls. Features: Before reaching Toodyay, Flora: The rest area adjacent to the Reynoldson Reserve and Mt Matilda turn left into Sandplain Road then travel Mortlock River (12km before Goomalling) guided walks: along Racecourse Road and Drummondi is an attractive stopover for a variety of orchids and Verticordias late in Spring. Saturday - BYO BBQ and live music at Drive. Stop in the parking area next to the Mt O’Brien from 5.00pm. racecourse. High on Drummondi Drive there 3 Namelcatchem Nature Reserve Sunday - Thanksgiving Service with is a pull over bay. Take a walk and discover Goomalling – Dowerin Community Voices Choir, BYO basket a delightful display of many varieties Features: Namelcatchem Nature supper or BBQ 7.00pm. of flowers including everlastings. Reserve is approximately 10km east of Dowerin between Dowerin and Pelham Reserve in the townsite is a Wyalkatchem. Dowerin is home to Experience the striking beauty of rare example of York gum/jam tree massive granite outcrops rising Western Australia’s largest regional woodland and provides a great view of impressively out of the landscape farming and agricultural shows. While in the town. Toodyay has over 10 parks, that is uniquely Australia’s Golden Dowerin, enjoy the Tin Dog Creek Trail Outback. An abundance of natural drives and reserves for seeing a great to view birds and plants of the area. vegetation is waiting to be discovered variety of wildflowers in the area. Call Flora: Blue Lechenaultia, grass trees around these complex rock formations into the Toodyay Visitor Centre for a and yellow Dryandra line the route from Perth. The reserve is a wandoo woodland where wandoo, salmon gum, dense wildflower map for further information. with many native orchids in season. honey-myrtle and tea tree thickets Flora: You will find specimens of at least give way to flowering granite four different kinds of orchids including 4 Wyalkatchem Kunzea with their gnarled shapes. donkey and cowslip orchids, purple tassel, 191km north east of Perth Marvel at the fascinating gnamma Hibbertia, kangaroo paw, trigger plants Features: The rare and endangered native holes developed by Aboriginal people and more amongst wandoo trees. foxglove is found in the main street flower to collect precious water. Attempts to gardens. Wyalkatchem Reserve, with its keep rabbits from the crops are visible in interesting open heathland, is a good the remains of the Rabbit Proof Fence. location for flowering shrubs.

Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com 33 Parakeelya

Flora: Wandoo, Eucalyptus, Melaleuca, 7 Talgomine Rock 10 Chiddarcooping sheoak trees and Verticordias. Talgomine Reserve Road Nature Reserve Features: This huge granite outcrop 40km round trip from Weira 5 Korrelocking Nature with its two historic pioneer wells Features: This untouched 5,000 ha granite Reserve and Trayning was the turning point for airforce rock and bushland teems with wildlife is for Continue east from Wyalkatchem training flights during World War II. Features: The reserve is heavily timbered the enthuisast that doesn’t need tracks and Flora: Look beyond Talgomine Rock for and contains some of the best Salmon signage. Gums to be seen in the Shire. As well as fantastic views of seasonal everlastings. being a sanctuary for grey kangaroos, With 90 bird species and 33 native orchids echidnas, skinks and other forms of animal 8 Mukinbudin documented. The creek bed walk along the Travel north via Cornish Road and bird life indigenous to this part of Echo Valley rewards visitors with prolofic Features: The Pioneer Botanical Walk and the wheatbelt, it is also a very popular wildflower sightings, including the wild picnicking place especially during spring rare species garden is a must visit location. form of the silver princess tree. when it abounds with wildflowers. Salmon Flora: A number of local indigenous plants gums, York gums and gimlet can be Flora: Swordfish Banksia are found near the are found in the rare species garden. found in this open woodland on a walking parking area, and native orchids, Pimelea, trail or see the gnamma holes. Tables, 9 Weira Reserve toilets and parking facilities is provided. View the Tree Library at Trayning. Travel east on Koorda Road to Weira. Travel Quanta-Cutting Granite Loop Trail Flora: Enamel, china, fairy, spider and Road and Morrison Road Must see and do donkey orchids add colour, and pink - Visit Toodyay’s intriguing Old Gaol Features: Sheoak, wattle and everlastings carpet the ground. and Museum hop bushes surround barbecue - Take in the stunning country gardens, and picnic facilities at Weira. 6 Billycatting Rock lavender fields and olive groves Yelbeni - Kununoppin The bush trail is an excellent habitat of Toodyay Features: Many interesting rock for birds, and native orchids can - Step back in time at the School House formations and numerous wildflowers, be discovered in damp areas. Museum, Heritage Town Walk and tracks and facilities can be found Old Railway Station, Goomalling Flora: Quandong and Hakea trees, in this 2,500ha reserve. - Explore the Tin Dog Creek Walk and bronze, glossy, twisted gimlets and the Bird Hide near Dowerin Explore the Rock on the red-flowered mallee with its powdery - Wyalkatchem’s Agricultural Museum interpretative walk trail. white trunk and bright red flowers. showcases over 400 items Flora: Native orchids, hibbertia, Zigzag wattle is common closer to kunzea and flowering shrubs. - Visit Beacon’s pioneer wells – Tampu Chiddarcooping Nature Reserve and Datjion Wells provide beautiful picnic spots during wildflower season - Stroll the 2km Koorda Heritage Trail

34 Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com Pincushion Hakea

Flame Grevilea

pink and yellow everlastings, triggerplants Burakin Road, to Wialki and Beacon via Cadoux to Wongan Hills and buttercup Hibbertia abound on the Features: Kangaroos and bobtail Features: Wongan Hills Nature Reserve valley walk. skinks are often seen in the Kuser is home to numerous plant species, Road area. Dwarf grass trees and many including five rare and numerous species White Lechenaultia offer generous Pityrodia can be seen around Wialki. of priority flora in addition to 16 species displays amongst desert poplar trees, Flora: Purple Cyanostegia augustifolia, of plants unique to the area. It offers and the sand plain is a colourful mass of naturalists a fantastic opportunity to yellow Glischocaryon and gimlet thicket. blue Dampiera, golden flame Grevillea, observe it’s beauty year round. yellow snakebush and tea tree. 14 Billiburning Reserve Hike the Mt Matilda Trail or take a leisurely 11 Elachbutting Rock Take North Beacon Road from Beacon, drive to Mt O’Brien Lookout which will reward you with a variety of wildflowers Travel north east on Elachbutting Road turn left at Kuhl Road, then right into Bimbijy Road and spectacular views on the way. Features: Take the track around this gigantic granite outcrop or drive to the Features: Largest rock outcrop in the Christmas Rock Walk, adjacent the town area. Provides excellent opportunities site, includes wattles, one sided bottlebrush top for awe-inspiring views. A popular for birdwatchers with good sightings of and everlastings. Late in the year the camping spot, the Rock’s amazingly wedge-tailed eagles, budgerigars, black Reynoldson’s Reserve, 15km north of the coloured wave (similar to Wave Rock cockatoos, purple-crowned lorikeets, town, is ablaze with wonderful varieties at Hyden) has a 30m tunnel and an Major Mitchells and mallee fowl. of Veritcordia. The Visitor Centre conducts unusual cave-like amphitheatre. Close proximity to Karroun Hill Reserve, wildflower walks during the season. Flora: Masses of donkey orchids are a popular picnic and camp spot. Flora: Dryandra, Mircocorys, Acacias, found on the east side, and poverty Good rainfall results in pink and white Hakea and Grevillea, everlastings and everlastings carpeting the ground. bushes and Kunzea are common on the Verticordia, Isopogon, Eucalyptus, orchids, top. Eucalyptus orbifolia, granite rock Flora: One-sided bottlebrush and pea flowers and egg and bacon. box (Eucalyptus petraea), wattles, native interesting orchids such as the sun Return to Perth via Goomalling grasses and reeds are also plentiful. and yellow spotted donkey varieties. or Calingiri. 12 Beringbooding Rock 15 Mollerin Rocks Take Elachbutting Road, left at Masefield Return south, turn right at Kuhl Road. Road, left at Rabbit Proof Fence Travel west to Bimbijy Road then left Road, right at Beringbooding Road and south to Burakin Bonnie Rock Road. Continue west turning left at Koorda Features: This engineering feat of 1937 Mollerin Road and left again on Kulja is one of the largest water tanks in the Mollerin Road to Mollerin Rocks. southern hemisphere. Look for its amazing Features: Wildflowers of countless varieties balancing boulder, a huge gnamma hole proliferate in the Koorda district, with and indigenous Kalamaia tribe paintings. dazzling colour displays along roadside Flora: The area is a treasure-trove of flora, verges. Many are particularly well adapted including pink tea tree, Eucalyptus orbifolia, to dry conditions, with leafless branches, Acacia, Grevillea, Hakea, Eremophila, needle-like or waxy leaves and deep roots. quandongs, sandalwood, native orchids, Flora: Koorda rose (Darwinia purpurea), tinsel granite Kunzea and one-sided bottlebrush. lily (Calectasia grandiflora) and many orchids.

13 Bonnie Rock, Wialki through 16 Wongan Hills to Beacon Botanical Walk Travel south to Koorda from Mollerin Travel to Bonnie Rock, right into Rocks, then take the Koorda – Kuser Road then onto Bonnie Rock- Wongan Hills Road to the west

Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com 35 Roadside Everlastings, near Three Springs

Everlastings Trail

Special Events Chittering Wildflower Show this region. The stirring sight of vast Mullewa Wildflower Show Thursday 17 - Saturday 20 September 2009 displays of massed radiant colour Sunday 23 August - Bindoon Town Hall among trees and bushland is a common Sunday 30 August 2009 Open: 10.00am to 4.00pm occurrence on this interesting journey. Mullewa Town Hall Admission: small fee Wildflower lovers and keen Open: Daily 9.00am to 5.00pm Tel: (08) 9576 1100 photographers will go home with Admission: Adults $5 / Pensioners endless exquisite memories. and Seniors $3 Plenty of attractions including a massed wildflower display, around 200 named Tel: (08) 9961 1500 specimens, guided tours, teas and wildlife 1 Brand Highway and www.mullewatourism.com.au marquee. Indian Ocean Drive More than 200 species of the mid-west From Perth travel the Great Northern region’s spectacular wildflowers Highway and the Brand Highway. including the wreath flower are Enter one of the state’s most spectacular Alternatively, drive through Banksia featured in this well-known show. wildflower areas when you take this woodlands via Wanneroo/Lancelin Road, Dalwallinu Wattle Week Festival leisurely drive north. This is a wonderful Military Road, Gingin Brook Road opportunity to experience the Indian Saturday 5 - Saturday 12 Features: Drive under a canopy of large Ocean Drive that meanders up the September 2009 - Events daily red gums along Dewar Road and see the coast from Perth to Cervantes, Jurien red and green kangaroo paw display at the Tel: (08) 9668 10 10 or (08) 9661 1001 Bay and Leeman. Another option is to Gingin Cemetery or enjoy a picnic among Activities are organised each day in an travel via the inland Brand Highway paperbark trees at Granville Park by the area with some of the most diverse route. The Everlastings Trail makes its Gingin Brook. From October, see the unique Acacia species in the world. way through areas ablaze with colour, golden bloom of the Western Australian Included are bush walk tours, bush often stretching lazily as far as the breakfast, vintage machinery, horizon. For many, this is the wildflower Christmas Tree in Moore River National Park biennial art show and more. viewing they’ve always imagined. and stop for a picnic under flooded gums along the Moore River, at Regan’s Ford. A wildflower show at Wubin is also part Visitors travelling inland will marvel of this festival. at the wide variety of everlastings in

36 Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com Everlastings Trail Must see and do - Walk amongst The Pinnacles – unique limestone formations rising up to 5m tall in Nambung National Park - Take a tour to see the sea lions at Fisherman’s Island, south of Green Head - Walk the Dongara-Denison Heritage Trail and the Irwin River Nature Trail - Visit the Fisherman’s Lookout at Port Denison of sweeping ocean views - Discover Mullewa’s giant, colourful murals which adorn the townsite - Explore the Morawa Museum with it’s old gaol and courthouse and a collection of windmills - Look out for a wide selection of native birds at Perenjori and have a relaxing picnic at the man-made lake - Take in the wildflower and farming views at Buntine Rocks, 16km north of Wubin - Take a New Norcia guided walking tour - Explore the Chittering Valley Wine trail, a 76km loop passing through Bindoon

Flora: Find open-branched Dryandra conservation in WA with much of its kippistiania under wandoo woodland exceptionally diverse flora found nowhere Charming Sunray at Red Gully. else in the world. Embark on a scenic drive or walk trail to Mount Lesueur to discover 2 Badgingarra National Park the wildflowers and magnificent views. North on the Brand Highway An 18km one way sealed loop road is accessible off Cockleshell Gully Road. Features: Overlooking low undulating plains with scattered scrub, this park boasts Flora: There are 11 regionally endemic plants. extensive wildflowers in spring. Experience Look out for honey bush (Hakea), cork mallee, the unusual propeller Banksia, large magenta this wonderland on the interpretative starflower and the Lesueur Hakea. 2km Badgingarra Nature Trail, located on the eastern side of the park. Pick up 4 Lake Indoon details at the Badgingarra Roadhouse. 10km west of the Brand Highway Flora: Black and yellow kangaroo paws, Features: The reserve surrounding this purple starflower and mottlecah – the popular freshwater lake features elegant largest Eucalypt flower. Travel west to Banksia with lime-yellow flowers. Cervantes to join the Indian Ocean Drive Wildflowers abound alongside the Brand or head north on the Brand Highway. Highway between Eneabba and Dongara. Guided wildflower walks leave from Western 3 Lesueur National Park Flora Caravan Park, 22km north of Eneabba. Travel to The Pinnacles, near Cervantes, The well-known Banksia hookeriana from then north to Jurien Bay, Lesueur National this area is exported worldwide. Park and Green Head Flora: Orange Banksias, umbrella and Features: This 27,000ha park ranks as white plumed smokebushes, and red hairy one of the important reserves for flora Lechenaultia around the Arrowsmith River.

Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com 37 Roadside wildflowers, Coalseam Conservation Park

Pink Everlasting

5 Depot Hill Reserve Flora: Sprawling carpets of sensationally Travel from Eneabba north towards coloured everlastings continue to delight Dongara, then east to Mingenew travellers along this route. Native foxglove Features: Located north west of proliferate beneath yellow wattles. Mingenew, from August to November, this reserve’s wildflower displays 8 Victoria Plains make for a colourful stopover. Features: Old Plains Road, from south of Flora: Dense shrubland, softening in New Norcia to the north of Toodyay, has the Splendid Everlasting spring with the pretty pink and white reputation as one of the most picturesque flowers of Thryptomenes and Scholtzias. and pleasant rural drives in the state. Flora: Many wildflowers can be Western Flora 6 Coalseam Conservation Park Caravan seen, including blue Lechenaultia, Between Mingenew and Mullewa Park grass trees and yellow Dryandra. Features: This park’s acacia shrubland, with its sparse understorey, comes alive with ‘everlasting’ wildflowers after good winter 9 Bindoon rains. Named for the coal seams that can be 86km north of Perth on Great seen in the riverbed, marine fossils are Northern Highway exposed along the banks of the Irwin River. Features: Bindoon, in the beautiful A wildflower experience in 160 acres, with 12kms Flora: Wildflowers of all varieties are in Chittering Valley, boasts an array of of walking tracks. 4.30pm Guided Wildflower abundance, and wattle shrubs shade everlastings beautiful wildflowers. There are tours, walks Jul-Nov. 4x4 tag a long tours. Dining facilities. A true nature based experience with all that include the brilliant pink Schoenia. bush walking and arts and crafts. the facilities. Chalets with ensuite $95.00. Twin View the rare and endangered sun b/room $65. On site van $70 (linen inc). Powered 7 Mullewa - Wubin Road star orchid (Thelymitra stellata) at site $23. Unpowered site $21. All twin share. Travel from Mullewa to Tardun, Canna, the Chittering Wildflower Show. Owned & operated by your hosts Allan and Lorraine Tinker. Morawa, Perenjori to Wubin Flora: Spider orchids, Lechenaultia, Brand Highway, Eneabba North, 6518 (22 km North of Eneabba) Features: Drop into the Canna Landmark fringe lilies, kangaroo paws and Banksia. Phone: 08 9955 2030 • Facsimile: 08 9955 2003 for local wildflower information. Email: [email protected]

38 Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com Wildflowers, near Murchison Settlement

Northern Explorer Trail

From the Everlastings Trail, journey SPECIAL EVENT Flora: Colourful wildflowers of many further north to experience a sensational Thursday 10 – Sunday 13 varieties can be seen on roadside areas show of wildflowers that cling to the September 2009 along this drive. vast landscape, adding brilliantly vivid Wubin Town Hall, Arthur Street 2 Gregory colour to a harsh environment. Open: 9.00am to 5.00pm Admission: Adults $3, children free Take Yerina Springs Road, which runs off Travel the Indian Ocean Drive towards Tel: (08) 9664 1021 or 0427 553 622 Port Gregory Road, approximately 35kms the white sands and crystal waters of View a display of over 200 wildflowers west of Northampton Geraldton, up past the breathtakingly from the area. Features: Profuse display of orchids along high coastal cliffs of Kalbarri, to where with a diverse selection of wildflowers. the sleek and magical dolphins of 1 Greenough Flora: Orchids found include donkey, Monkey Mia swim peacefully in the Head north on the Indian Ocean Drive or bee, cowslip, spider and the blue, shy Shark Bay World Heritage Area. Brand Highway past Dongara and vanilla sun orchids, with the rare sighting of the endangered Northampton Past historic settlements and across Features: Make a stop at the historic midget greenhood orchid. rugged, outback landscapes, the Trail Greenough Hamlet and the new takes you on to the colossal and Greenough Visitor and Interpretation challenging Mount Augustus. Centre (open 9.00am to 5.00pm) Kangaroo Paw situated on the Brand Highway. From there you may choose a return route to Perth, crossing vast and Northwards lies Geraldton – known as the capital of the mid-west region – expansive sheep stations through a sea home to the Western Australian of colourful and dazzling wildflowers Museum, which pays tribute to the – often stretching to the horizon. area’s rich natural and cultural heritage.

Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com 39 Cattle Pool campsite, near Mount Augustus Bright Podolepis, Wooleen Station

Marvel at nature’s ability to carve the Flora: Carpets of everlastings, pompoms landscape, explore the depths and and other annual flowers can be seen in a heights of the river gorges and sea variety of colours - white, pink, mauve and cliffs, admire the floral beauty of the yellow. A spectacular array of Thriptomene, Rainbow Jungle rolling sand plains and discover the Grevilleas, Hakeas, Verticordia, Calytrix (star intriguing cultural history of the area. flowers) and many more can be seen from The Australian Parrot Breeding Centre, Kalbarri WA August. Kangaroo paws, Kalbarri catspaws, A Genuine Touch of Magic Magnificent wildflowers set the landscape trigger plants, up to six varieties of Banksias, ablaze with colour from July to November. Rainbow Jungle is regarded as Australia's most beautiful parrot various flowering Eucalypts and the habitat. This unique complex offers a touch of magic with it's Deep gorges on the Murchison River pathways through landscaped tropical gardens, waterfalls, Murchison clawflower are commonly found. fountains, stained glass windows, gargoyles and lily ponds. contrast with sand plain country. Entry Come enjoy these surroundings where you will be amazed fees apply at Kalbarri National Park. at our vast and colourful array of parrots. Walk through the 5 Shark Bay World Heritage Area largest parrot free flight aviary in the country and then enjoy Flora: River gums, gold and orange – Denham and Monkey Mia morning or afternoon tea in the tranquility of the Banksias, Grevilleas, kangaroo paws, Travel north on North West Coastal Rainbow Jungle. featherflowers, starflowers, smokebushes Highway and west on Shark Bay Road and Eucalypts are widespread. Features: For a chance to befriend Open every day (except Christmas Day) enchanting bottlenose dolphins, a visit to Phone: 08 9937 1248 4 Riverside Sanctuary Monkey Mia Reserve is a must. The dolphins www.rainbowjunglekalbarri.com Head east to the North West Coastal are famous for their almost daily ritual of Highway, travel north for 12km and turn visiting the shore to interact with humans. right into Coolcalalaya Road and follow Francois Peron National Park is a mere 3 Kalbarri National Park for 5km 4km from Denham and offers rare and Travel the coast road via Gregory to Features: Visit Riverside Sanctuary to spectacular coastal scenery of red cliffs, blue Kalbarri experience beautiful bush landscapes, water, white beaches and vivid wildflowers. Features: Kalbarri is located at the mouth spectacular seasonal wildflowers, dazzling The Peron Homestead can be accessed of the Murchison River. Kalbarri National night skies and knowledgeable guides. by 2WD and has an interpretative display Park covers an area of over 180,000ha Take a guided wildflower tour on the in the old station overseer’s quarters, a and includes breathtaking coastal cliffs farm in some of the 10,000 acres of self-guided walk trail, picnic facilities and a and dazzling wildflower viewing. remnant bushland and waterways. hot tub where visitors can soak in artesian

Dolphins are just the beginning… Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort is the only place to meet the dolphins of Monkey Mia. Absolute beachfront accommodation in the heart of Shark Bay World Heritage Area, the Resort includes accommodation options for all travellers with a variety of rooms from backpackers to luxury villas. A range of onsite facilities includes swimming pool, artesian spring hot tub, bar and restaurant.

Monkey Mia, Shark Bay Western Australia 6537 or PO Box 119 Denham 6537 WA Phone: 08 99481320 • FREECALL 1800 653 611 [email protected] • www.monkeymia.com.au

40 Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com Couples in field of wildflowers

water. A high clearance 4WD is needed to Features: This park offers breathtaking Touring near Mt Augustus explore the wilderness area north of the scenery of gorges and precipitous homestead. Entry fees apply at Monkey Mia rock faces. The area still retains a Reserve and Francois Peron National Park. wilderness feeling. Visitors to the park Flora: Wattles, Hakeas, Grevilleas, can enjoy a series of walks through Stay at all seasons Geraldton Dampiera, purple peas and the Shark Bay the craggy cliffs and gorges. rooms from daisy are commonly found in the region. Flora: Seasonal wildflower varieties. 8 Mount Augustus National Park $110 6 Carnarvon Travel along the North West Coastal Travel north and branch east after Highway approximately 90km Features: The road to Carnarvon Features: At two and a half times makes its way through many wildflower the size of Uluru (Ayers Rock), Mount varieties, including seasonal everlastings. Augustus rises impressively over the A drive further north of Carnarvon on park. 1105m tall, Mount Augustus is one Ideally located on Brand Highway, only 100m the North West Coastal Highway will also of Australia’s most amazing peaks with from the beach. Rooms feature flat screen TVs, reward you with outstanding displays. ancient rock formations, Aboriginal art free in house movies, room service and tea and sites and a range of short and full day Flora: Parakeelya, purple vetch, northern coffee facilities. Relax by the pool and enjoy the walks. Embark on a challenging climb to casual ambience of Fitzgerald’s Restaurant. bluebells and the green birdflower. the top and be rewarded with incredible 7 Kennedy Range National Park views over the park. Accommodation Take the North West Coastal Highway then is available adjacent to the park. Reserve now on allseasons.com.au turn right, to Gascoyne Junction, approx. Flora: Purple mulla mulla carpet the or (08) 9921 2455 177km, then 60km north to the Park surrounding area in spring and early summer.

Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com 41 2007 Western Australian Wildflower Holiday Guide Approval Sheet

Couple in field of wildflowers Pink wildflowers, near Wooleen Station Please check the proof below carefully and if all ok please email or fax your approval. If alterations are required please email [email protected] or phone 9262 1767 or fax 9262 1735. Your prompt response will be greatly appreciated.

Lilac Hibiscus

11 Goodlands to Wubin 12 Murchison Settlement Continue south from Paynes Find on the and Roadhouse Great Northern Highway to Goodlands Travel south west to Murchison Road (1km north of the boundary of via Carnarvon – Mullewa Road Yalgoo/Dalwallinu Shires). Features: The Murchison Settlement In season there is a magnificent display and Roadhouse. While here, visit the of Wreath Lechenaultia just 20km off Murchison Museum Herbarium and highway. Botanical Walk. Further south at Wooleen Riverside Sanctuary Station (35km on the Meeberrie Road) Features: The old Rabbit Proof Fence is Visit us to experience beautiful bush landscapes, still visible just past the Jjibberding Rest daily wildflower tours and walks are spectacular seasonal wildflowers, uninhibited night Area. At Wubin there is a Wheatbin/ conducted. Homestead or rammed earth skies and knowledgeable guides. We offer inspiring guesthouse accommodation is available at guided wildflower tours on the farm in some of the Machinery Museum. Wooleen Station. Also further south, on 10,000 acres of remnant bushland and waterways. Flora: Everlastings and Blue Cornflowers Seasonal Wildflower Tours (July - October) - the Carnarvon - Mullewa Road is Wandina $55 per double are found at Jibberding, and Everlastings Station, which provides accommodation Accommodation - camping from $22, and orchids (amongst the rocks) at and station tours for travellers. self contained from $99. Wubin Rocks (6km north of Wubin.) Tel/Fax: (08) 9936 1021 Mobile: 0402 112 155 Flora: Carpets of everlasting wildflowers Email: [email protected] and bright Podolepis add colour and texture to the landscape. From here, continue south to Mullewa, 9 The Murchison Region Northern Explorer Trail New Norcia and Perth. Travel south east of Mount Augustus to Must see and do Meekatharra - Photograph Greenough’s amazing Features: After good winter rains, leaning trees wildflowers are prolific and spread for - Enjoy a tour of Geraldton’s lobster factory hundreds of kilometres in this region. - See the daily pelican feeding in Kalbarri Flora: Abundant white, pink and yellow - Explore the Murchison River in Kalbarri everlastings appear from July in this area, National Park by boat or canoe as well as a vivid spread of golden billy buttons, mauve Velleia, magenta - Marvel at the vivid colours of white Parakeelya and blue pincushions. beaches, turquoise waters and rust red dunes of the World Heritage listed 10 Paynes Find Shark Bay area Travel from Meekatharra through to - Meet the friendly dolphins at Monkey Mia Cue, Mount Magnet and Paynes Find on Eurardy Reserve ❐ Approved Signed Date- Walk along the One Mile Jetty, Carnarvon Bush Heritage Australia the Great Northern Highway - Explore Mt Augustus on the 49km Visit Bush Heritage’s 30,066 hectare Eurardy Reserve ❐ Changes required Features: Historic Cue, The Granites at for a unique outback experience. Bordering Kalbarri circuit Burringurah Drive NP, this working conservation reserve is home to Mount Magnet and the Paynes Find Gold many birds, animals and plants. Our peaceful solar- Battery and Museum. - Explore the heritage buildings powered setting offers beautiful day and night time at New Norcia landscapes all year round. Flora: Massed displays of white, Accommodation, caravan, camping, tours and self guided walks. pink, cream and yellow everlastings (08) 9936 1038 | [email protected] www.bushheritage.org.au can be seen along the roadside.

42 Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com Charles Knife Gorge, Cape Range National Park, near Exmouth

Cape Range Trail

The breathtaking landscape of Cape Flora: Featherflowers, starflowers, 5 Exmouth Gulf Range is a compelling backdrop for Grevilleas and Hakeas on the dunes. Features: The coastal plain is the bright, colourful and fascinating Banksias and wattles cap the ridges. predominantly wattle shrubland plant life that proliferates in the interspersed with occasional stands region. For a semi-arid area with a 2 Coral Bay of mallee near dry creek beds. Bright calcium rich soil, the North West Located off Minilya-Exmouth Road red yulbah flowers are visible in Cape nurtures an unusually large Features: Visit popular tourist destination, summer, and in winter there’s the variety of flora. More than 630 species Ningaloo Marine Park, and witness unspoilt golden hue of spring wattles, often have been recorded here to date. natural beauty of the pristine park first infused with purple mulla mulla. hand. The plains area between Minilya and Fringed by the wonders of Ningaloo Flora: Arid wattle, native tomatoes, Lyndon River is good for spotting the shiny Reef on the west and protected by Hibbertia, hairy pepperflowers and dark green leaves and white trumpet the Exmouth Gulf on the east, Cape Sturt’s desert peas. Range is a true nature lover’s paradise. flowers of the Minilya lily. From the unmistakable deep red sand Flora: Spinifex, kurara, Cape Range 6 Charles Knife Canyon dunes of the rugged outback, down Grevillea, Thryptomene and Melaleuca. Turn left opposite the Kailis prawn factory to the pristine sands of secluded bays, Features: This steep climb between 3 Giralia Station the region will amaze and delight two deep canyons boasts a sweeping Off Burkett Road, 127km from Exmouth visitors in its surprising contrasts. view of the gorges and Exmouth Features: The former sheep station The Cape Range Trail will treat you Gulf. The return trip is 24km and the makes an interesting overnight stop, to stunning coastline and an unspoilt road is not suitable for caravans. with camping, farm-stay or “donga” environment brimming with a wealth accommodation in the shearers’ quarters. Flora: Cape Range Grevillea, of flora in a rainbow of colours. Cape Range kurrajongs and Flora: The area’s fertile red soil relies several species of Verticordia. 1 Minilya on autumn rains to produce abundant Located on the North West Coastal colourful masses of wildflowers in spring 7 Shothole Canyon Road Highway (Following from the Northern Further 7km north Explorer Trail on page 39) 4 Learmonth Civil Airport Turn right to Wapet Creek Features: The 24km return trip winds Features: South of Minilya, deep red sand through the base of the canyon and dunes are home to spectacular shows of Features: Enjoy exploring this small area of mangrove and salt marsh. is one of the rare places on the Cape wildflowers. The riverbanks at Minilya offer where larger trees are found. the shade of river gums and coolibah trees. Flora: Observe how the plants have adapted to tidal floodings.

Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com 43 Sturt’s Desert Pwwwwea

Cape Range National Park, near Exmouth

Flora: Cream-white Eucalypt flowers Centre (about 12km south of the entrance) contrast with the fire-engine-red houses a library with great local flora flowers of their parasitic mistletoe. and fauna reference resources. Entry fees apply at Cape Range National Park. 8 Exmouth’s North About 5km north of Exmouth, just before Flora: Along Milyering Road verge is Harold E. Holt Naval Base a wonderful selection of Sturt’s desert peas, Dampiera, Ashburton peas, hairy Features: A wonderful 4.7km walk and pepperflowers, Indigofera, Yardie Creek cycle track winds its way south through morning glory, daisies and many annual fragrant Eucalypts. herbs. Discover occasional stands of Flora: Rattlebush, green birdflower bloodwoods and rock figs growing and small clumps of toucan flowers. with native fuchsia and pituri.

9 Coastal plain, north of the Naval 12 Yardie Creek Gorge Base Features: Marvel at the many rock Features: Following good winter rains, figs which are precariously rooted on you can expect to see everlastings, native the sheer rock faces of the gorge. A fuchsias, fanflowers and Dampiera. highlight of any visit is a trip on the scenic Yardie Creek boat tour. Flora: Wattles and purple mulla mulla. Flora: Sturt’s desert pea, 10 Vlamingh Head Parkeelya and Thryptomene. Lighthouse signposted, left off the main road Features: Enjoy striking views of distant Cape Range Trail red sand dunes parallel to the Cape Range. Must see and do In well drained positions, you’ll find the - Head down to the beach at Coral Bay beautiful Ashby’s Banksia which is rich in each day at 3.30pm to feed the snapper nectar. See the newly renovated Vlamingh - Visit the reef shark nursery just 20 Head Lighthouse at the spectacular minutes walk from Main Beach, Coral Bay North West Cape and journey south for - See all the underwater wonders at Coral a further 20km on this coastal road. Bay without getting your feet wet aboard a glass bottom boat Flora: Featherflowers, starflowers, - Hire a quad bike and discover for yourself broombushes, pituri, silky Pimelea and all the Coral Bay region has to offer the fascinating green birdflowers. - Witness the unspoilt natural beauty of 11 Cape Range National Park Ningaloo Marine Park Features: Enjoy spectacular rocky gorges - Snorkel from the beach to stunning carved by ancient rivers that adjoin one of Ningaloo Reef the most pristine and beautiful coastlines in - Swim with the world’s biggest fish – the the world. See Acacia dominated shrubland whale shark from April to July each year scattered with Cape Range kurrajongs - Take advantage of some of the best Whalesharks are just the beginning… just inside the park. The white Minilya game fishing in the world at Coral Bay and the North West Cape Absolute beachfront accommodation - the ideal lily may be seen in the Pilgramunna area - Learn about the marine turtles at Jurabi place to experience Ningaloo Reef in Coral Bay. after good rains, while coastal dunes are Turtle Centre, just south of Vlamingh Robinson Street, Coral Bay 6701 WA • Phone: 08 9942 5934 dotted with daisies, Portulaca and the FREECALL 1800 795 522 • Email: [email protected] Head Lighthouse www.ningalooreefresort.com.au purple Lotus australis. Milyering Visitor

44 Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com Millstream-Chichester National Park, Pilbara Pilbara Trail

Over half a million square kilometres 1 Onslow breathtaking gorges, with crystal clear rock of mangroves, off shore islands, deep 81km off the North West Coastal Highway pools and waterfalls. The area is steeped in gorges, mountain ranges, desert Features: Detour 82km towards indigenous culture. Maps outlining sand dunes and river pools ensure Onslow and look for yellow flame incredible walk trails through Karijini can be the Pilbara’s flora is as diverse as Grevillea and Robinson’s desert rose. collected at the award winning Karijini the landscape. Vibrant floral shades The landscape changes to red sand National Park Visitor Centre. contrast with the dusty red earth dunes littered with termite mounds At first glance the ancient Hamersley and golden spinifex grass. The and after rain the vivid magenta Ranges are covered in spinifex grass, desert Pilbara’s flora is yours to explore. ground cover known as Parakeelya. bloodwood and snappy gum, however Plants and flowers in the Pilbara Flora: The fragrant apple bush and closer inspection reveals northern bluebell, have evolved unique adaptations the unique green birdflower adorn mulla mulla, native tomato and limestone to survive in an arid climate that the landscape. Cassia. Permanent water from the gorges receives most of its rainfall during nourishes the common rock fig, lemongrass summer by way of tropical cyclones. 2 Road to Paraburdoo and silver cadjeput. Entry fees apply at Watercourses are lined with river Travel east from Nanutarra Roadhouse for Karijini National Park. red gums, coolibah, silver cadjeput 276km Flora: Acacia, including the prolific mulga, and desert bloodwood trees. Gorges Features: As the impressive Hamersley desert poplar, Robinson’s desert rose, contain permanent water supplies to Range begins to appear you know you are slender Petalostylis and Ashburton pea are support moisture loving plants like the nearing Karijini country. Disturbed roadside often seen from the vehicle window as the common rock fig and rock kurrajong. soil and collection of rainfall often causes seemingly endless kilometres melt past. the Sturt’s desert pea and bush tomato to From July to September wildflowers flower extensively. 4 Road to Port Hedland of all colours, sizes and shapes, like Travel north from Newman for 458km the unmistakeable Sturt’s desert pea, Flora: Poison morning glory, burra fluffy mulla mulla, the tall majestic (Eremophila frazeri) and northern Features: Range country dominates Ashburton pea or any number of bluebell are common here. the landscape until Auski Roadhouse the 65 species of Acacia (wattle) can where the land begins to flatten be seen throughout the region. 3 Karijini National Park and endless horizons become the Travel from Paraburdoo, Tom Price to view until reaching Port Hedland. For the local Aboriginal people the Karijini National Park to Newman plants and flowers of the Pilbara The parasitic harlequin mistletoe, an Features: The second largest national park provided much more than just aesthetic attractive bright red tubular flower in WA, Karijini is one of the most qualities, and are still used today for relies on host plants like wattles, spectacular sights in the Pilbara. Set in the food, medicine and ceremonial use. Cassias, native Hibiscus and royal Hamersley Range, walk trails lead deep into mulla mulla for support.

Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com 45 Pilbara Trail Must see and do - Explore the colourful marine wonderland of the Mackerel Islands - Witness turtle nesting on pristine beaches - Drive to the top of Mount Nameless for the view of a lifetime, Tom Price - Take a day tour to marvel at the Pilbara Iron Ore Mine, Tom Price - Explore the dramatic gorges, secret canyons and enticing rock pools of Karijini National Park - Have a swim and explore the natural beauty of Newman’s waterholes - Check out local indigenous artists at work in Cossack - Wander along the Onslow Boardwalk for spectacular sunrises and sunsets - Catch the breathtaking views from Koombana Lookout, Port Hedland

Flora: Spotted emu bush, desert Located along the Fortescue River 7 Cossack poplar, yellow flame Grevillea, is the Millstream oasis, a haven for Travel to Roebourne. Cossack twinleaf mallee and coolibah are birdlife. It has a landscape of rolling lies just 11km away stand out features along the trail. hills, impressive escarpments and Features: Make a stop at the fascinating winding tree-lined watercourses. restored pioneer settlement and visit the 5 Marble Bar first pearling port in Australia’s North West. Travel 193km from Port Hedland to Marble The Chichester Range rises sharply from Bar via the sealed Marble Bar Road the coastal plain and includes rocky peaks, Flora: Shore stability is maintained tranquil gorges and hidden rock pools. Features: A flat landscape dotted here by coastal plant species such occasionally by the odd hill slowly becomes No trip would be complete without as ocean bean, holly leafed Grevillea more dramatic as the road approaches the a swim at the memorably named and 7 species of mangroves. Python Pool, before traveling on to Gorge Range just north of Marble Bar. The 8 Roebourne to Karratha Millstream Homestead which houses road twists and winds across the Coongan and Dampier River and through Doolena Gap. the national park visitor centre. Travel west 40km from Roebourne to Flora: Statuesque river red gums and Entry fees apply at Millstream- Karratha Coolibah can be spotted along the drive. Chichester National Park. Features: Look for quartz outcrops The Aboriginal people would cut the Flora: The rare Millstream fan palm with coastal caper, Sturt’s desert thick bark from the coolibah to make (Livistona alfredii) is found on the walk trail pea and rock kurrajong. dishes for carrying. Keep an eye out for to Chinderwarriner Pool. Bright golden Flora: A long living wattle called the fluffy yellow flowers of the Acacia. sticky Cassia, rock kurrajong, lace flower, snakewood grows well on the Sturt’s desert pea, Robinson’s desert 6 Millstream-Chichester flats leading into Karratha. rose, morning glory, tall mulla mulla, National Park Spinifex, snappy gum and the common Port Hedland to Millstream-Chichester rock fig feature in the landscape. National Park Features: River crossings dominate the road south from Port Hedland, so keep an eye out for river red gums, coolibahs and the yellow flowers of the candlestick Cassia. The desert walnut is common around South Hedland and south to the Turner River. Whilst passing through the hills near Whim Creek look for the beautiful flowers of the corkwood tree. Millstream-Chichester National Park Karijini National Park

46 Wildflower Holiday Guide 2009 | wildflowerswa.com

AustrAliA’s south West australias southwest.com

Discover the wildflowers Down South

Australia’s south West is home to over 8,000 wildflower species including 150 different types of orchid, many of which are unique to the region. Wildflowers can be found all year round with the peak flowering time between september and November when the weather warms and the region blooms with colour.

recommended viewing locations include Porongurup, stirling range, leeuwin-Naturaliste, Fitzgerald river, torndirrup, D’entrecasteaux, Wellington and West Cape howe National Parks and the Walpole Wilderness Area. A variety of wildflower festivals and events throughout the region provide visitors the opportunity to see a great variety of specimens.

Australia’s south West is a naturally diverse region encompassing magnificent coastline, superb forests and remarkable ranges. Match this with superior food, wine and local hospitality and you have the perfect wildflower escape.

For more information including species, flowering times, vegetation zones, the best viewing locations and where to stay, go to australiassouthwest.com