Welcome to Greater Geraldton

GERALDTON

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Geraldton

Geraldton boasts a vibrant city centre yet retains the laidback feel of the country. And the best part? It is sprawled alongside the dazzling waters of the Indian Ocean.

The result is a mix of city, coast and country – a place where you can breathe in the scent of bush wildflowers during spring or smell the fresh salty air of the ocean on the coast. You can dine in a waterfront city restaurant or stroll barefoot on the beach.

The heart of this regional hub is sprawled along the foreshore adorned with grassy parklands, playgrounds, public art, and foot and cycle paths. This is the ideal place to while away an afternoon with a picnic by the ocean, or swim, cycle, jog or walk soaking up the area’s warm Mediterranean climate.

Embracing the foreshore is the Geraldton city centre. Few cities in the world boast such close proximity to the ocean. This vibrant hub is abuzz with activity as shoppers cruise the shopping strip and people fill bars, cafes and restaurants. Colourful art flags flap in the sea breeze and palms add a tropical feel to this seaside city centre.

But it is not just the city centre that impresses visitors. Be sure to visit some of the coastline where activities such as swimming, surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, diving and snorkelling are popular.

The city of Greater Geraldton is a four and a half hour drive north of Perth and is the heart of Australia’s Coral Coast.

Our city’s beaches and Mediterranean climate make it a hot spot for water sport enthusiasts and visitors looking to soak up the sun on pristine beaches and enjoy our family friendly atmosphere.

Geraldton is also the launching pad for exploring the spectacular Houtman Abrolhos Islands.

More commonly referred to as “the Islands” this coral fringed archipelago is described as the Galapagos of the Indian Ocean and a must for anyone visiting the Batavia Coast.

The region of Greater Geraldton extends to the historic Greenough Flats and settlement, noted for its pioneering history, restored heritage buildings, iconic leaning trees and the beautiful Greenough River.

Inland, the town of Mullewa lies deep in the heart of wildflower country and is a favourite with those wishing to view the best of the region’s dazzling wildflower displays.

South-East of Geraldton is the quaint town of Walkaway with its fascinating Station Museum.

Take a short drive from Walkaway to Ellendale Pool, a stunning naturally formed water hole along the picturesque Greenough River.

Yamaji (or Yamatji) is the name used to collectively identify Aboriginal people from the Midwest, Murchison and Gascoyne regions of Western Australia.

Be it dreamtime stories, legends or Indigenous art become immersed in the culture during your stay.

With so much to discover and experience in the Midwest we know you are going to love your time in Geraldton.

City of Greater Geraldton

Welcome to Greater Geraldton! The only city along Australia’s Coral Coast, Geraldton has established itself as a contemporary coastal hub of cafés, shops, street art and galleries.

Things to See & Do

• Watch the sun rise or set from the stunning HMAS Sydney II Memorial.

• V isit the Esplanade offering fantastic views of the city, landscaped walkways, a viewing platform and interpretive signage.

• L ight a candle at St Francis Xavier Cathedral while taking in the guided tour.

• L earn the full story of heroism and mutiny of the Batavia tragedy at the Museum of Geraldton.

• Take a drive to the historical Greenough area to find out how the pioneers lived and see the famous leaning trees.

• Discover the region’s own barrier reef with a fly-over or day trip to the Abrolhos Islands.

History & Heritage

• G o back in time at Bluff Point Lighthouse Keepers Cottage.

• Browse the local art galleries and reap bargains at the weekend markets.

• G et spooked at Oakabella, the most haunted Homestead of the West.

• Take a day or night dive on the South Tomi wreck.

• V isit Pink Lake in the morning or at sunset.

• See the stunning wildflowers throughout the Midwest.

• Stargaze in Mullewa.

• E xperience the Skywalk at Kalbarri National Park.

• E xplore your surrounds on one of the terrific walk trails.

In 1629, two Dutchmen were marooned on the coast by Francisco Pelsaert for their part in the Batavia Mutiny. Despite the events surrounding the wrecks of the Batavia (1629) and Zuytdorp (1712), including some of the most treacherous and blood-thirsty episodes in the annals of maritime history, the Dutch had no major impact on the region’s development.

Later, French voyagers also passed by the coast, however the first official visit to the area was made by a British Captain Phillip Parker King in 1822. In 1839, Lieutenant Grey and a party of 12 men were shipwrecked in Gantheaume Bay, forcing them to return to Perth on foot.

The following year HMS Beagle chartered Champion Bay and, in 1849, John Septimus Roe surveyed the town site. The town was named after the Governor of the colony, Sir Charles Fitzgerald.

The Geraldine Lead Mine was also named in his honour. It was the need to establish facilities for the export of lead from the Geraldine Lead Mine that resulted in a port being built at Champion Bay. In 1860, a jetty was constructed to improve port facilities.

In 1879 a railway was constructed linking the mineral mines at Northampton and agricultural produce from the Greenough Flats with the Port of Geraldton.

Following the discovery of gold on the Murchison another jetty was built, new businesses opened, industry commenced and Geraldton prospered. In 1894, Geraldton was finally linked to Perth by rail from Walkaway to Midland, via the Midland Railway Line. By the 1930s the port had been modernised and bulk handling facilities constructed to handle increased grain shipments.

HMAS SYDNEY II MEMORIAL

Located on Mount Scott in Geraldton, this memorial commemorates the men on board the HMAS Sydney II when it sank off Shark Coast while engaging the German raider Kormoran. This amazing structure, the final 5th element of which was completed in 2011, is well worth a visit. The Geraldton Voluntary Tour Guides Association runs daily tours commencing at 10.30am.

Although most archaeological evidence suggests Aboriginal settlement of the Geraldton region extends back at least 40,000 years, it was probably not until the 17th century that Europeans took an interest in this area.

This stunning region offers an array of holiday attractions and activities to suit every possible taste.

ST FRANCIS XAVIER CATHEDRAL

Located on Maitland Street and built in stages from commencement in 1916, this cathedral of Byzantine style architecture was one of the masterpieces of Monsignor John Hawes who, before joining the priesthood, was an architect in England.

THE LIGHTHOUSE KEEPERS COTTAGE

Located on Chapman Road, this beautiful cottage was built in 1876 for the Geraldton Lighthouse Keeper and his family. Now housing the Historical Society, history buffs can view an array of historical photographs and memorabilia. Open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 10am - 3.30pm.

OLD VICTORIA HOSPITAL

From 1887 to 1966, these buildings were part of the Victoria District Hospital, and were then used as a regional prison until 1984. After major restoration the complex was reopened in 1988 and is now managed by the National Trust. Guided tours are Tuesday and Thursday at 10.30am and 2.30pm.

MUSEUM OF GERALDTON

Experience Indigenous and European history at the magnificent Museum of Geraldton. A range of exciting and temporary exhibitions are rotated throughout the year and the museum shop stocks an excellent range of books, gifts and souvenirs. Open daily 9.30am to 3pm, excluding public holidays. An entry donation of $5 is recommended.

GERALDTON REGIONAL LIBRARY

The Geraldton Regional Library located on Marine Terrace is about more than just books. Whilst it provides an extensive range of fiction and non fiction books, it also provides a number of associated services, including free internet and Wi-Fi and access to various online databases.

With ridiculously good-looking coastline, sunsets over crystal clear waters and jaw-dropping views of the Geraldton foreshore. Come and enjoy a meal, pint or cocktail with our ocean views.

Trivia night Thursdays

A Guide to Greater Geraldton

PINK LAKE

A short drive from Geraldton, Pink Lake is definitely a mustsee on the list. Also known as Hutt Lagoon, the lake is known for being all shades of pink, purple and red. The lake gets its colouring from the high salt levels and is constantly changing in vibrancy depending on the time of day, month and cloud coverage – so every time you see it, it will look slightly different. The best time to go is in the morning or at sunset. Definitely bring your camera for this one!

KALBARRI SKYWALK

Opened early 2020 is the breathtaking Kalbarri Skywalk in Kalbarri National Park. 166kms from Geraldton, Kalbarri Skywalk is something spectacular providing visitors with a stunning vista of the Park’s gorges, rust-red cliffs, flowing waterways, and bushland from high above. Located at West Loop lookout, the structure features two cantilevered viewing platforms that project 25m and 17m beyond the gorge rim, and more than 100m above the River.

WILDFLOWERS

There are more than 12,000 species of wildflowers in Western Australia and Mullewa is home to one of the largest varieties. There are a number of places you can see wildflowers in and around Geraldton including Chapman River Regional Park, Mills Point Lookout, Mullewa and Coalseam Conservation Park. The wildflower season is in its prime between July to October.

STARGAZING

For an astronomical delight, escape the city lights and experience night skies full of stars. Stargazing in Western Australia is a world-class experience and the Midwest is home to some of the darkest night skies in the world. Mullewa in particular lends itself as one of the top places to experience this wonder and if you’re looking for an amazing spot to gaze at the beautiful night sky, check out Perkins Well #2.

GERALDTON REGIONAL ART GALLERY

The Geraldton Regional Art Gallery serves as the largest dedicated art gallery in the Midwest and attracts international, national and local exhibitions. Located at 24 Chapman Road, local and emerging artists are actively encouraged and supported in their use of the project gallery space to show works or installations.

Admission to the Geraldton Regional Art Gallery is free, however donations are always welcome. Opening hours are Tuesday to Friday 9am - 4pm and Saturday to Monday 9.30am -1.30pm.

Greater Geraldton is the perfect place to base yourself to explore the amazing destinations that are on offer.

QUEENS PARK THEATRE

Queens Park Theatre is one of the Midwest’s premier entertainment and conference venues. Located at the corner of Cathedral Avenue and Maitland Street, it’s the place to get your fix for theatre and entertainment. For more information on Queens Park Theatre, visit qpt.cgg.wa.gov.au

OLD GERALDTON GAOL CRAFT CENTRE

For a historical insight into Geraldton’s former gaol and an overview of the incredibly diverse range of local artistic talent, don’t miss the Old Geraldton Gaol and Craft Centre on Chapman Road. Opening hours for the gaol are Monday to Saturday and every second Sunday.

PROUD BREWERS

We are Geraldton’s first family owned local microbrewery. Our heart and soul is put into the process of making unique beer, using the finest ingredients. We employ state of the art techniques; the result being a selection of enjoyable, authentic craft beers. Our food menu has something for everyone using local suppliers.

Abrolhos Islands

The pristine Houtman Abrolhos Islands with crystal blue waters and their surrounding reef communities are a meeting place for tropical and temperate sea life, forming one of the State’s unique marine areas.

The Islands comprise three major groups, the Wallabi, Easter and Pelsaert groups stretching from north to south across 100 kilometres of ocean.

The sea life here is world-class, with sensational live coral reefs, first-class diving grounds, an abundance of fish life, friendly sea lions, pods of dolphins and migratory humpback whales.

Prolific fish life also attracts recreational fishers who reel in delicacies like baldchin groper, dhufish and coral trout, as well as shark species, coral, seagrasses and more. The Islands are also popular for cray fishing and pearls, you will also find a variety of shark species, seagrasses and more.

Nature lovers also find the islands interesting as they support one of Australia’s most important areas for seabirds. There are over two million birds from 35 species that breed on the islands and over 140 species of native flora, classified as protected.

But the Abrolhos is perhaps most famed for its role in the Batavia tragedy. In 1629, the Dutch East Indies sailing ship, the Batavia, ran aground on one of the Abrolhos’s treacherous reefs. Most of her passengers scrambled ashore the virtually waterless rocky isles and survived the wreckage. A small group of mutineers, however, embarked on a bloody slaughter that saw 125 men, women and children slain on the desolate isles. You can visit the Museum of Geraldton to hear the fascinating yet brutal Batavia Story.

Take a scenic flight and land on one of the islands, or set out on a dive, fishing or eco boat charter. It’s a spectacular place to go diving, fishing or snorkelling. You won’t want to forget your camera for this one and if you have a GoPro, definitely bring it along.

The Abrolhos Islands can be accessed by flight or charter boat. Enjoy a two hour, half day or full day flight, or if you have more time consider a charter tour to immerse yourself in this true wonder.

Please contact the Geraldton Visitor Centre for flights and more information. www.visitgeraldton.com.au

This archipelago of 122 low-lying coral isles about 70kms from Geraldton is renowned for its unique marine environment, sea lions, seabird colonies, seasonal rock lobster industry and maritime history.

Great country pub atmosphere where the beer’s cold, the fryer’s hot, and the atmosphere is lively!

Beach Guide

ST GEORGE’S BEACH, BLUFF POINT

Relax and enjoy the beach lifestyle at St George’s Beach which is a 15 minute walk from the Foreshore. This picturesque beach is popular for paddleboarding and kite surfing. When the tide is low you can explore the magical rock pools and spot crabs, fish and stunning shells.

GLENFIELD BEACH, DRUMMONDS COVE

Fondly referred to as ‘Glennies’, Glenfield Beach in Drummonds Cove is a 20 minute drive from the CBD and a popular spot for surfing and bodyboarding.

GERALDTON FORESHORE

The Geraldton Foreshore is in the heart of the city centre and is great for kids and families. Here you can chill out on one of the pontoons, grab an ice-cream or bite to eat from one of the cafes and even bike ride along the paths. Champion Bay Surf Lifesaving Club are also close by in case you’re not the most confident of swimmers. Be sure to check out Ultimate Watersports to hire a paddleboard or get the adrenalin pumping with some motorised sports activities.

BERESFORD FORESHORE

A favourite with both locals and visitors Beresford Foreshore boasts a wide meandering cycle path extending from St Georges to Midalia Beach.

Along the path you will find Geraldton’s most iconic public art installation “Horizon” by award winning artist Lucy Humphrey, shaded areas, free to use barbeques and seating.

The southern end of the Beresford Foreshore has a sandy beach perfect for swimming and snorkelling as well as a pirate themed playground and a café for when refreshment is needed.

PAGES BEACH, POINT MOORE

Pages Beach is a beautiful spot to take the kids and one of the best places to go for a relaxing soak and cast a line. Here you can catch a glimpse of the iconic Point Moore Lighthouse and if you are lucky, you might even spot some dolphins.

TARCOOLA BEACH, TARCOOLA BEACH

Tarcoola Beach, just south of Geraldton’s city centre, has the perfect amount of calmness and slight wave to suit most beach-goers.

Geraldton has some of the best beaches in Australia, so whether you are looking for calm beaches or thrill seeking waves, look no further than the Midwest coastline.

Greenough

Renowned for its leaning trees, Greenough boasts much more.

LEANING TREES OF GREENOUGH

The characteristic ‘Leaning Trees of Greenough’ are the result of strong winds blown across the Greenough Flats laden with salt from the Indian Ocean. They can be seen along the Brand Highway throughout Greenough.

PIONEER MUSEUM & GARDENS

The museum examines the social life of the Front Greenough Flats from when Aboriginals first inhabited the area until today. Located at 11 Phillips Road, Greenough. Open Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday & Sunday 8.30am - 3.00pm, Fridays 8.30am - 1.00pm

GREENOUGH RIVER

Greenough River is a haven for an amazing range of birds, from the elegant egrets and herons to the majestic ospreys and pelicans. Fisherman frequent both the river and the nearby beach to bring in delights such as bream, tailor and mulloway. One of the best ways of experiencing the Greenough River is walking or cycling the Greenough River Nature Walk Trail. The trail forms a 17 kilometre loop around the river, crossing half way at the Old Ford Crossing.

WALKAWAY STATION MUSEUM

Located in the centre of the Walkaway townsite, the Railway Station is a Federation Free Style building designed by government architect George Temple Poole.

The Walkaway Station Museum was opened in 1972 and features an extensive collection of railway artefacts, military relics and local history, and is open Tuesday to Sunday 10am - 4pm.

ELLENDALE POOL

Located on the south side of Ellendale Road and at the end of Ellendale Pool Road, this picturesque natural pool consists of a large expanse of water set against a large cliff face in a natural valley. Recreational facilities including barbecues, seats and tables are available.

THE GREENOUGH/WALKAWAY HERITAGE TRAIL

The Greenough/Walkaway Heritage Trail is a 57 kilometre drive through some of the richest rural land in Western Australia. The trail begins at the Pioneer Museum on Phillips Road off Brand Highway and 19 kilometres south of Geraldton, and ends at Ellendale Pool. It provides a pleasant half day’s outing with facilities for picnicking. As there is much to see in the Central Greenough Historic Settlement and surrounds, museums and other sites, many trail users may wish to spend longer in this historic area. Following the trail route map, look for signs bearing the Heritage Trails Network symbol.

GREENOUGH RIVER NATURE WALK

The Greenough River meets the sea at Cape Burney, 10km south of Geraldton. This 17km day walk includes wheat farms, bushland, coastal vegetation, dunes, wildflowers in Spring as well as plenty of birdlife. Pack your bathers and cool off with a dip in the river after the long walk. Devlin Pool is a short walk past Rudd’s Gully (3.5km from the mouth of the river).

Geraldton 4WD is a family owned and run 4WD specialist business that offers servicing, repairs, parts and accessories.

Whether it is a first service you are after, suspension upgrade, replacement clutch, diff or gearbox we are only too happy to help out.

Genuine and aftermarket parts are available in stock. Filters, brake parts, belts, suspension parts, gaskets, seals, exchange gearboxes, transfers and diffs, as well as a comprehensive range of genuine Toyota parts.

Diving

Diving around Geraldton and the Abrolhos Islands will bring you face to face with an amazing array of marine life.

The Abrolhos Islands, an archipelago of 122 low-lying coral isles, are renowned for their stunning marine landscapes and sea life. Lying seventy kilometres from Geraldton, the region boasts a plethora of dive sites, beautiful coral reefs, a myriad of fish species and friendly sea lions, among other fascinating sea creatures. Be sure to dive the Batavia, famous for its bloody maritime history. Spoil yourself with a tour to these beautiful islands to experience all that these waters have to offer.

Another popular dive site closer to Geraldton is the the South Tomi wreck. Located just seven kilometres off the Geraldton coast, the South Tomi was sunken a decade ago and provides divers with a premier artificial dive site.

Batavia Coast Dive & Watersports is a PADI 5 star dive centre, which boasts local experts in oceanic dive adventures. The centre provides dive training for anyone from beginners to juniors through to seasoned divers who want to refresh their skills and knowledge of diving.

For more information call 9921 4229 or go to facebook.com/bataviacoastdive

Kalbarri

Located 156km from Geraldton, Kalbarri is a small coastal town and popular holiday destination for all types of travellers.

Nestled at the mouth of the Murchison River, Kalbarri is known for its year-round great weather, rugged inland gorges, breathtaking coastal cliffs, beautiful beaches and pelicans that frequent the area.

The town is surrounded by National Park on both sides, with stunning coastal cliffs and ancient inland gorges. The 183,000 hectares of coastal and inland National Park that surround it are filled with unique natural wonders to behold.

A must do at Kalbarri National Park is the iconic Kalbarri Skywalk, the newest edition to the park. Extending out over the precipice you’ll get a bird’s eye view over the stunning gorge and surrounding landscape.

With its many hiking trails and lookouts, you can take in the park from multiple angles, including the popular trail to Natures Window. Take in the stunning rocky gorges of the iconic river Z-Bend, named for its sharp bend in the river, and marvel at the 200-kilometre expanse of Zuytdorp Cliffs from the lookout at Chinaman’s Rock.

Be sure to get your Kalbarri National Park pass for the Inland River Gorges at Kalbarri Visitor Centre, National Park Headquarters or as you enter the Skywalk/Nature’s Window/ Z-Bend entrance – payment by cash or card. The same pass can be used for Natures Window, The Skywalk, Loop Trail and Z-bend Gorge.

The Kalbarri National Park’s coast is home to local resident dolphins and seasonal humpback whales that travel up and down the coast of between June and November. You can view these incredible creatures from the boardwalk right beside the Island Rock and Natural Bridge rock forms.

While Kalbarri highlights its natural beauty year-round, it truly comes alive during wildflower season. From July to October, with peak season August to September, over 1,000 species of wildflowers transform the outback into a sea of colour. The wildflower season is weather dependent (re rainfall).

Popular attractions in town include the Pelican Feeding by volunteers on the foreshore at 8.45am each morning, head to Finlay’s local microbrewery for a feed and a brew, catch a film at the outdoor cinema, snorkel at the Blue Holes, relax at the beach, explore the rock pools, discover the local markets or drop a line along the shores of the Murchinson River. For something extra special, drive a little further south where you will find Instagram-worthy scenes at Pink Lake. Approximately 35 mins from Kalbarri, Port Gregory’s Hutt Lagoon is known as the pink lake with bubble-gum pink waters that must be seen to be believed. Admire the water from the shore or take a scenic flight to view the lake’s eye-catching contrast with the azure blue Indian Ocean. For the best shots, visit in the middle of the day when there is minimal to no cloud cover.

Calendar of Events

JANUARY

Australia Day celebrations

FEBRUARY

Funtavia

Waitangi Day

MARCH

Ocean Film Festival World Tour

Harmony Festival

APRIL

Stargazing at Greenough Hamlet

A Day in the Laneway

ANZAC Day celebrations

Shore Leave Festival

MAY

Geraldton Boat Caravan & Camping Show

National Sorry Day

Big Sky Readers & Writers Festival

Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour

JUNE

Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow

Mullewa Muster & Rodeo

JULY

NAIDOC week

For the most up to date Calendar of Events and dates, go to www.visitgeraldton.com.au

AUGUST

Outback Bloom, Mullewa Wildflower Show

Mullewa & Districts Agricultural Society Show

Mingenew Lions Midwest Expo

Revolve Skate Series

SEPTEMBER

Chapman Valley Agricultural Society Show

Northampton & District Agriculture Show

Big Sky Readers and Writers Festival

OCTOBER

Sunshine Festival

Battle of the Bands

Relay for Life

Larry Lobster Festival

NOVEMBER

Festival of Lights

Annual Memorial Service for HMAS Sydney II

Melbourne Cup Christmas Bonanza

Mid West Art Prize

DECEMBER

All Ability Day

Thank a Volunteer Day

Carols by Candlelight at Maitland Park

Walkaway Cup at Geraldton Turf Club

Christmas on the Terrace

Aquarena Family Fun Day

Markets

Geraldton/GreenoughFarmers Market

Maitland Park, Geraldton

Every Saturday, 8am to 12pm

Platform Markets

Old Railway Station on Chapman Road, Geraldton

Every Saturday and Sunday, 8am to 12pm

Walkaway Station Museum Market

Walkaway Railway Station Museum

1st Sunday of the month (excl. Jan & Feb), 8am to 12pm

Lions Club Community Market

Bill Sewell Complex, Chapman Road

2nd Sunday of the month, 8am to 12pm

Lighthouse Keepers Cottage Market (Geraldton Historical Society)

Lighthouse Keepers Cottage, Bluff Point

5th Sunday of the month, 8am to 12pm

Greenough Markets

Central Greenough Historic Settlement, Greenough

Occurring biannually

Midwest Baby & Kids Market

Occurring annually

Cruise Ship Markets and Welcome Hub

The Cruise Ship Markets are held between Geraldton Yacht Club and Regional sounds to welcome cruise ships to Geraldton. Check the city’s website for the cruise ship calendar for the next cruise ship market.

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We respect and honour Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge the stories, traditions and living cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples on this land and commit to building a brighter future together.

The information contained in this publication is provided as a guide only. Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, John Batman Group disclaims any liability or responsibility for the accuracy of the information contained herein. Advertising material appearing in this publication is supplied by the operator or service provider and John Batman Group is not responsible for the accuracy of advertising content.

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Compiled with the assistance of the City of Greater Geraldton & the Kalbarri Visitor Centre.

Images courtesy of City of Greater Geraldton, Kalbarri Visitor Centre, Greg Willson, Tourism Western Australia & Tourism Australia.

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