Wongan Hills
Postcode: 6603
Located two hours’ drive (or 185 kilometres) northeast of Perth is the rural town of Wongan Hills, the centre of a prosperous grain, sheep and pig farming district. The town takes its name from the range of flat topped hills lying to the northwest. These hills are the largest single area of natural vegetation remaining in the northern wheatbelt.
Mount O’Brien lookout has recently been developed to provide a panoramic view of almost the whole shire. Nearby Mount Matilda also offers an interesting walk through the natural bushland. Both Mounts are 10 kilometres west of the town. The area is renowned for its wildflowers in spring (September to December). In particular Gathercole and Reynoldsons Reserves offer a wonderful array of wildflowers.
The local museum is well worth a visit. Located in the old hospital’s building and grounds, many interesting items of historical value can be viewed here. The area was first settled by Europeans in 1836 and the town site was proclaimed in 1911, the year the railway was built. Local government was established in 1916.
Just five kilometres north of Wongan Hills is the agricultural research station. Started in 1925, it is one of the main breeding research stations in the state and has been involved in the diversification and improvements in farm practices in Western Australia. Guided visits can be arranged.
Visitors are well catered for with accommodation at the hotel/motel which has 23 rooms plus 10 selfcontained motel units, the guesthouse also has 12 well appointed rooms. The caravan park has a wide range of accommodation available. The local roadhouse offers seven day service for stocking up on fuel and food.