There are plenty of fascinating things to see and do in Carnarvon, the busy commercial hub of the rich Gascoyne.
One Mile Jetty
As the pastoral industry developed in Carnarvon in the late 1800s the local population pressured the government of the day to develop a port for the town. By 1897 the jetty had been built and wool and livestock produced in the region began to be exported to Fremantle and essential goods for the town imported using state shipping.
In 1904 the head of the jetty was added and in 1912 the jetty head was widened because of increasing traffic including passengers. Carnarvon was the first port in the world which loaded live stock on board ships for transport to markets. The One Mile Jetty once boasted an animal race the length of the jetty along which the sheep were drivenfrom holding yards not far from where the jety kiosk is located today
The jetty transport system and diesel locos on the tramway ceased in 1966 when state ships stopped calling. Road train transport commenced and the jetty began to fall into disrepair until 1998 when the community banded together to save what
OTC Dish
It's last major role was assisting in the tracking of halley's comet in 1986, it closed down in 1987. The area offers a terrific panoramic view of the town and surrounding countryside.
Rocky Pool
Bring your swag, tent and barbeque at least. The track from the main road is maintained and suitable for two wheel drive use. You should not have any trouble driving in with a caravan but do take it slowly and carefully. If it has been raining prior to your trip, the road could be damaged so take notice of any warning signage.
Be sure to keep a watch for emu's, goats, kangeroos and road trains. Approach with caution.
If there has been no rain for some months, the water in the pool may not be suitable for swimming
The Fascine
In 1896 flood waters caused severe damage to Olivia Terrace and a tender was called to build a flood protection system. Stately palms line the water way which makes a lovely spot for a stroll or a picnic. The sunset views are magnificent
War Memorial
The wall of rememberance erected at the war memorial was unveiled on November 23rd 1991 to commemerate the 50th anniversary of the sinking of HMAS Sydney II by the German Raider, the Kormoran, off the shores of Carnarvon in 1941, in memory of the greatest single Australian maritime loss of lives during the Second World War.
HMAS Sydney II Memorial Drive was constructed at the south entrance to Carnarvon in 2001. This avenue of 645 plaques and palms along the road identifies the individual loss of life from htis tragic battle. A Cairn has been erected on Quobba Station where the first Kormoran survivors were found.
Blowholes
Also just 1 kilometre south of the Blowholes is a calm coral filled lagoon with fish and shells in abundance. With a white sandy beach this area is ideal for snorkelling and a great family picnic spot much favoured by locals. This is also a camping area with an overnight fee to be paid to the site ranger.
Although the coast is serene and yet rugged it can be deadly, with a dangerous swell that can turn into King Waves, capable of craching over the top of the rock ledge. This coast line needs to be treated with caution and care - lives have been lost by unsuspecting souls here.
Carnarvon Heritage Precinct
Take a walk down memory lane through the Lighthouse Keepers Cottage Museum. Restored to the times of our pioneers who looked after the Lighthouse.
Visit the Railway Museum home of the fully restored Kimberley Steam train that operated from the Jetty to town in the 1950s.
Visit the Shearing Hall of Fame or learn the latest on the search for the HMAS Sydney II/HSK Kormoran, from the famous battle of 1941, off the Gascoyne coast
Carnarvon Plantations
The diversity of the produce grown in the area is considerable, being a range of tropical fruits such as mangos and paw paws, citrus and stone fruit, grapes, avocados and star fruit as well as varieties melons. Vegetables such as tomatoes, beans, capsicum, asparagus, sweet corn and pumpkin are grown.
Gascoyne River
The river is unusual in that the water sits unseen below the riverbed in underground reserves protected from evaporating by the sand. Periodically the river flows visibly after heavy rains providing an impressive display of nature at its best. The water filters through the river sand to underground aquifers, and from here water is drawn for the town supply and the plantations.
Gascoyne River Mouth
In addition to the jetty other popular fishing, swimming, wind and kite surfing spots, are at the river mouth, Dwyerss Leap and Pelican Point with its beautiful white sandy beach.
For more information on Carnarvon visit www.drivewa.com.au
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