To enjoy your stay with us even more, we have put together a list of TESTED sights and activities within the region.
NORTH OF DONGARA – PORT DENISON
There is a lot to see for history buffs as well as for lovers of technology and nature: Dongara-Denison’s best kept secrets!
Central Greenough Historic Settlement – The town was established from 1863 to 1913 and is a must see, especially the school and the police station. The café is renowned for scones and tasting local whiskey. Monday to Saturday 9am – 4pm and Sunday 8am – 4-pm. On the Brand Highway 45kms north of Dongara. 08 9926 1084
Greenough Leaning Tree – The one an only! On the Brand Hwy, just after the turn off to the Wildlife Park.
Greenough Museum & Gardens – A great example of pioneer living, surrounded by beautiful gardens with history from Aboriginal times to today. Saturday to Thursday 8.30am – 3.30pm Friday 8.30 – 12.30pm. Phillips Road, Greenough on the Brand Highway 50kms of Dongara. 08 9926 1890
Greenough Wildlife & Bird Park – Wildlife sanctuary with great holiday activities. For opening times check their website or call 08 9926 1171 / 449 Company Rd, Greenough
Greenough River Trail – This 17-kilometre flat loop offers a mix of coastal vegetation and beautiful river views. Allow at least four hours and take plenty of water. Signage shows maps of the route at various points. Mountain bikes permitted – Greenough River Road, Cape Burney. 55km north of Dongara.
Walkaway Station Museum – Impressive museum of great interest to any rail enthusiast or historian. 45km north of Dongara, turn off just south of Greenough.
Walkaway Alanta Windfarm – Between Walkaway and Ellendale Pool on Nangetty-Walkaway Road. 50km north of Dongara, turn off just south of Greenough onto Showground Road.
Ellendale Pool – Stunning water hole formed along the picturesque Greenough River. It is surrounded by magnificent gum trees and a rocky gorge. BBQ and picnic facilities available.
62km north of Dongara, turn off just south of Greenough.
Hawes Heritage Trail – Follow the footsteps of one of WA’s great pioneers and his spiritual and architectural legacy. The Monsignor Hawes Heritage Center at Cathedral Avenue in Geraldton is a great starting point. For detailed trail info check out www.monsignorhawes.com. The following trail can be done in one hit or in parts:
- Dongara to Geraldton 65 km – St Francis Xavier Cathedral, The Hermitage, San Spirito Chapel, St Lawrence Church
- Geraldton to Kojarena 30km – St James Chapel
- Kojarena to Mullewa 70 km – Lady of Mt Carmel Church, Priest House Museum and Mass Rock
- Back to Dongara via Mingenew 140km
- Mullewa to Yalgoo 125 km – St Hyacinth’s Chapel
GERALDTON
Geraldton is only a 40-minute drive away from Dongara with great museums, public art, eateries and shopping facilities. Great alternative to beat a couple of windy days.
Geraldton Visitor Centre & Regional Art Gallery – Situated 24 Chapman Road, Geraldton, has a variety of art projects and exhibitions. Open Monday to Saturday 10am-4pm. Gold coin donation. 08 9956 6750
HMAS Sydney II Memorial – recognised as a National Memorial for the loss of famous naval ship, HMAS Sydney II off of our coastline 80+ years ago. Situated 7 Gummer Avenue, Open 24hrs, tours daily 10.30am, gold coin donation. 08 9956 6600
Museum of Geraldton – Celebrates the rich heritage of the land, sea and people of the Mid-West region. The free 3D underwater movie about the wrecks of HMAS Sydney II and its predator, the German Kormoran, are truly spectacular. A great add on to the memorial overlooking the city. Open daily at 2 Museum Place, Geraldton / 08 9431 8393
Old Geraldton Gaol & Craft Centre – The cells are occupied by local artisans. The Craft Group act as custodians of the Old Gaol to allow access to the public. Closed Sundays. 84 Chapman Road, Geraldton / 08 9921 1416
Monsignor Hawes Museum & St Francis Xavier Cathedral – Situated 56 Cathedral Avenue began being constructed in 1916-1938. Open daylight hours. Tours Sun, Mon and Wed 2.30pm and Fri 4pm. Cost $5.00 – tickets next door at museum. 08 9921 3221
Horizon Sphere – find Horizon, the city of Geraldton‘s newest #Instaworthy location, on the Beresford Foreshore at the bottom of Dean Street, Geraldton.
Geraldton Foreshore Park from Town to Champion Bay Beach – this place is littered with playgrounds, cafes, public open space and very cool container restaurants. A sheer delight to explore!
Platform Markets – Fresh produce, hand-made goods, and gifts. Every Sunday morning at the old Railway station, 65 Chapman Rd, Geraldton. 0429 906 812
Orana Cinema – Regular and Gold Class available with all the latest movies screening regularly. 229-235 Marine Tce, Geraldton – 08 9965 0568
The Tin Heads (Tin Museum) – The collection is amazing and nostalgic. It shows how storage has changed through the ages. 80 Beattie Rd, Geraldton
Chapman Valley & Northampton
Burnt Barrel – Visit a Kansas City-Style Smokehouse that specialises in low and slow cooked meats. They even brew beer onsite! It’s located in the Chapman Valley. 305 Nanson-Howatharra Road, Nanson
Chapman Valley Fishing Park – You can hire fishing rods and try and catch your own freshwater fish from their dams. They also have a cafe. 388 Hickety Road, Nabawa
Family Store & Sewing Machine Museum – 219 Hampton Road, Northampton
Nabawa Valley Tavern – This great little country pub only recently reopened with new owners. 3354 Chapman Valley Road, Nabawa
Nanson Museum – Chapman Valley, it’s a ripper! 100 East Terrace, Nanson
Oakabella Homestead – Great little spot for coffee and scones on the weekend. On the way to Northampton, 423 Starling Road, Bowen
Shearing Shed Cafe – Famous for its vanilla slices, 222 Hampton Road, Northampton.