History

Settlers began to arrive in the area in the late 1830’s although Drakesbrook (later to be known as Waroona) did not come into its own until the Pinjarra to Picton railway line was opened in 1893. The building of the railway, for which local timber was milled, boosted the town. When the railway was extended many more settlers came to the district.

The town catered to the needs of the mill workers with a post office, general store, blacksmith, a number of hotels come boarding houses, churches, doctor and dentist. The farms supplied butter, fruit and vegetables for the men of the mills and chaff for the horse teams that hauled the logs.

As in many of the small towns of the time dances, picnics and football formed the core of social life within the community.

The devastation of the Dwellingup fire of 1961 saw the closure of the nearby Nanga Brook Mill and townsite.

Today agriculture (beef and fresh produce), bauxite mining and tourism are important contributors to the local economy.

Waroona’s history book ‘Drakesbrook Days & Waroona Years’ is available from the Visitor Centre.

THINGS TO SEE & DO

Art & Craft Gallery - Waroona Visitor Centre

Open 9:30am to 3:30pm daily, the Visitor Centre is located adjacent to the 'forest' of heritage bush poles. The Centre houses an art and craft gallery, has visitor, tourism & community information, a travellers' library, disabled access and toilets (during opening hours).  There is an outside information stand for after hours visitors.

Open:                 9:30am-3:30pm daily 
                          Closed - Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year's Day, Good Friday and Foundation Day
Location:             37 South West Highway. Waroona
Postal Address:    PO Box 283, Waroona, WA, 6215
Ph/Fax:               (08) 9733 1506
Email:                 visitorcentre@waroona.wa.gov.au

Art in the Community

The community of Waroona has been involved in many art projects including those sponsored by ALCOA and the Fremantle Art Centre as part of their "Art in the Community" series.  All projects have been assured success under the creative direction of talented local artists and with the support of the Shire of Waroona, local businesses and families. Each project makes a statement on Waroona’s community spirit and pride of place.

• Wave your Flag - Created by Waroona's youth, the flags are on display in front of the Memorial Hall. The colourful imagery depicts the areas of tourism, history, commerce and agriculture.
• Heritage Bush Poles - View the unique 'forest' of carved and painted jarrah poles (adjacent to the Visitor Centre) near the northern tourist bay. The concept was so well received that additional funding was secured for poles at Lake Navarino Forest Resort, Hamel, Lake Clifton and Preston Beach.
• Sofa - In the centre of town you will find Waroona’s 2.4 tonne concrete sofa which was once covered by a 'patchwork quilt'. Over 60 local men and women created pieces portraying something important about their lives in Waroona.  Due to deterioration of the fibreglass coating it was necessary to refurbish the sofa in 2008 by stripping back the fibreglass and removing the 'quilt' pieces.  The new-look sofa has been painted by local artist Lorraine Bawden with scenes showing 'old' Waroona, local flora and fauna, and places of interest.
• Waroona Heritage Trail - Bollards mark this heritage 'walk or drive' trail that passes many historical sites and buildings. Local artists provided sketches of the sites as they were and these form the basis for the trail guide available from the Visitor Centre. The bollards also have directions to the next place of interest.
• Aluminium Sculptures and Mosaics (Drakesbrook Place) - The concept of this project was to develeop a series of aluminium sculptures to tell the story of Waroona's heritage, culture and diversity through education and art.  Over 250 school children and 100 community members were involved in the consultation phase of the project.  The design was based around a common theme with elements within the design reflecting the childrens interpretation of stories told to them by older members of the community.  Local artisan Warren East, as leading artist for the project, co-ordinated a team of local artists to create the sculptures, panels and footpath mosaic.  An interesting addition to the project are six engraved aluminium panels representing the six aboriginal seasons and these now adorn the Moorditj Miya Building (Waroona District High School) providing educational insight for local students. 

Drakesbrook Place

Waroona's town square provides a central meeting place with its informal picnic and seating areas, an amphitheatre, stage and public facilities.  An ongoing commitment by the local community will see a number of artworks in various mediums created to reflect and celebrate Waroona past and present.  Memorial Hall, South West Highway.

Drakesbrook Antiques & Collectables

A fabulous collection for enthusiasts and browsers alike, includes kitchenalia, garaganalia and tools, collectable toys, furniture, bric-a-brac and more.  Moorcroft Australia Foundation retailer. 

Open:             10:00am-5:00pm daily (closed Tuesday)
Location:         85 South West Highway, Waroona
Phone:            (08) 9733 1240
Fax:                (08) 9733 1540   
Website:          www.drakesbrookantique.com.au

Centennial Park

Centennial Park is situated on South West Hwy at the southern end of town.  Children’s playground, picnic seating, gas barbecues and stately trees provide a relaxed setting.  Wide paths and modern toilets accommodate wheelchairs.  The park is home to an interactive memorial to the old Drakesbrook School which burnt down in 2006.

Drakesbrook Weir - Closed March 2009 until further notice

http://www.watercorporation.com.au/m/media_detail.cfm?id=3508

Gently undulating hills provide a picturesque backdrop for the cool clear waters and the grassed area is a popular picnic spot with its shaded tables and free gas barbecues. Recreational activities include swimming, fishing and canoeing (no power boats). Or stroll through natural bush to the rock face wall of the weir where nearby a bronze plaque commemorates the discovery of the first known specimen of WA's remarkable Atrichornis clamosus (noisy scrub bird). Public toilets.

Waroona Recreation & Aquatic Centre

A modern facility with heated indoor pool, water slide, toddlers' area; squash, indoor tennis, basketball and netball courts; comprehensive gym, and various programmes offered. Crèche & free barbecues for Centre users. Function & meeting rooms, and fully appointed kitchen available at excellent rates. Disabled facilities. Open access to children’s playground and skate park.

Open:           (Click here) See brochure for Summer and Winter opening hours 
Location:       Hill Street, Waroona
Phone:          (08) 9733 2389  

Langford Hill Riding Farm

Lessons, school camps and trail rides through scenic bushland on the panoramic escarpment surrounding Lake Navarino and the Drakesbrook Weir. Rides with refreshment stopovers. Catering for beginners, disabled and experienced riders with accommodation available by arrangement. Disabled access.  Bookings required.

Location:       136 Elliott Street, Waroona
Phone:          (08) 9733 1455
Weblink:        www.navarino.com.au

Lake Navarino (Waroona Dam)

The Waroona Dam was built on the Drakes Brook with work completed in 1966. The reservoir known as Lake Navarino covers an area of 145 hectares with its primary use being irrigation. It is also used extensively for recreational activities such as water skiing and freshwater fishing. The surrounding forest provides beautiful displays of wildflowers in season. Bush walking is a popular pastime for many visitors and part of the old Bibbulmun Track is still in existence and has been reopened for public use as part of the Munda Biddi Trail.  Dogs on leash.

Munda Biddi Trail

Munda Biddi means "path through the forest" in the local Nyoongar language.  Predominantly a gentle cycling trail, it is made up of bush tracks, firebreaks and old railway formations and begins in Mundaring.  The Waterous Loop starts at Lake Navarino Forest Resort and meanders through the rolling hills of the Darling Scarp.

Phone:            (08)9481 2483 or 0422 112 229 (Munda Biddi Trail Foundation)
Website:         www.mundabiddi.org.au

The Cream Shed

Have you ever wondered where milk comes from? Then take a trip to The Cream Shed to watch cows being milked, calves being fed.  See how the cream is separated from the milk and enjoy a glass of fresh milk. Milking daily around 4pm February to November.  Suits school and family groups.  Bookings preferred but not essential. Disabled facilities.

Location:       Woodside Road (off Nanga Brook Road) 13km east of Waroona
Phone:          (08) 9733 1371
Weblink:        http://www.navarino.com.au

Forest Edge Recreation Centre

Stunning natural bush setting for this recreation camp that can accomodate groups to 140 plus provide a variety of fun and adventure activities for groups in multiples of 14-18.  Qualified and enthusiastic staff oversee activities including abseiling, flying fox, canoeing, team & raft building activities, ski biscuiting, boomerang making, target shooting and more.  Accommodation & catering available.  Canoe Hire.

Location:       Weller Road, Waroona

Phone:          (08) 9733 1731 or 0429 470 047

Website:       http://www.forestedge.net 

Hamel Hall & Bushpoles

Hamel is a small though progressive community working to protect its heritage. Hamel Hall, on Cornucopia Street,  was constructed by prisoners around 1902 as prison barracks. Its rich history then saw it utilised in various capacities from 1908 until late 1970. By this time it was in poor repair but in mid 1980 was saved from demolition and restored for use.  On its eastern side you will find picnic tables, barbecues and three bushpoles crafted by locals depicting facets of life in Hamel.  Hamel Park, nearby on Cullinga Street, has a modern playground, half basketball court and wide open spaces for a game of your choice.

Location:       Cornucopia Street, Hamel (a few minutes drive south of Waroona)

Walks, Trails & Drives

• Waroona Heritage Trail (walk or drive)
• King Jarrah Track, Lane Poole Reserve (18km loop)
• Island Poole Walk Trail, Lane Poole Reserve (1.5km loop)
• 4x4 Nanga Heritage Circuit, Lane Poole Reserve (51.3km loop)
• Munda Biddi Trail - Waterous Loop (www.mundabiddi.org.au)

Sporting & Recreation

• Golf Club, Hill Street (18 Holes Green Fee Honour System)
• Bowling Club, Parnell Street.  Ph: 9733 1406
• Recreation & Aquatic Centre, Hill Street.  Ph:  9733 2389
• Freshwater fishing & marroning
• Skiing, boating, canoeing (canoe hire from Forest Edge Recreation Camp) & swimming
• Bushwalking & bird watching

PLACES TO STAY

Drakesbrook Guesthouse

Offering historic elegance with modern comforts, this delightful heritage listed 1930’s residence has operated both as a boarding house and convent. Single, twin & queen rooms. Room only or room and meals for guests by arrangement.

Location:          111 South West Hwy, Waroona
Phone:             (08) 9733 1245

Drakesbrook Hotel/Motel

Single, double and family accommodation. Fully airconditioned and serviced. Barbecues and pool for guests. Licensed restaurant with a choice of bar and restaurant menus or enjoy your meal alfresco by the pool. Breakfast for guests by arrangement.

Meals:              Bar & restaurant from 11am with specials nights
Location:          8229 South West Highway, Waroona
Phone:             (08) 9733 1566

Email:              drakesbrookhotel@westnet.com.au

Website:          Coming soon 

Lake Navarino Forest Resort

Set in jarrah forest by the lake, the Resort’s surrounds provide a relaxed setting for bush-walking, canoeing (canoe hire from Forest Edge Recreation Camp 9733 1731 or 0429 470 047), mountain bike riding and fishing. Cottages, cabins, park homes and shady powered sites for caravanners and campers. Dogs on leash welcome. Laundry and ablutions with disabled facilities. General store with takeaways, fuel, and ice. Takeaways & dining.

Location:          Invarell Road, Waroona
Phone:             (08) 9733 3000 or toll free (WA) 1800 650 626
Fax:                 (08) 9733 1529
Email:              info@navarino.com.au
Website:           www.navarino.com.au  

Waroona Hotel

An elegant mix of old and new at this refurbished, historic country hotel.  Fine dining, quality counter meals and daily specials.  Accommodation, TAB, ATM, beer garden and bottle shop.

Meals:             Mon-Sat 12-2pm & 6-8pm 
Location:         Fouracre Street, Waroona
Phone:            (08) 9733 1232  

Waroona Ensuite Caravan Village

Experience the calm and harmony of a rural setting while still  within a short walking distance of the town centre and golf course. On-site caravans, powered tent and van sites all with ensuites. Barbecues, modern laundry and close to all amenities. Dogs on leash welcome.

Location:          45 Logue Street, Waroona
Phone/Fax:       (08) 9733 1518
Email:              fossims@bigpond.net.au
Website:          www.waroonavillage.com.au

Camping, Bush & Recreation Camps

• Lake Navarino/Waroona Dam (lakeside camping, BBQ’s & toilets) - Ph 9733 3000
• Icy Creek Environmental Camp (bush camping,electricity, showers, sleeping huts, picnic tables, gas and wood BBQs & toilets).  Phone Department Environment & Conservation (08) 9538 1078
• Lane Poole Reserve (bush camping, day use area, river access, hiking, picnic tables, gas and wood BBQs & toilets).  Phone Department Environment & Conservation (08) 9538 1078 

PLACES TO EAT

* Dining *

• Drakesbrook Hotel Motel (08) 9733 1566 (Details above)
• Lake Navarino Restaurant at Lake Navarino Forest Resort (08) 9733 3000 (Details below)
• The Lone Barn Restaurant (08) 9733 3567 (Details below)
• Waroona Bowling Club, Parnell Street (08) 9733 1406 (Friday evenings, bookings required)
• Waroona Hotel (08) 9733 1232 (Details above)

Lake Navarino Restaurant

Bookings essential.  Coaches, groups, party & function bookings 7 days.

Coffee and light snacks available most days.

Location:          Lake Navarino Forest Resort, Invarell Road, Waroona
Phone:             (08) 9733 3000

The Lone Barn Restaurant

Quality food and spectacular views over forest and farmland to the coast. Set in beautiful bushland on Mt Erin Estate, The Lone Barn offers a comprehensive menu including banquets and is fully licensed. Functions and parties welcome.

Meals:              Fri & Sat 11am - 4pm and 6pm - 10pm. Sunday 11am - 4pm. Bookings essential
Location:          Hillawaters Road, off Nanga Brook Road, Waroona
Phone:             (08) 9733 3567
Website:          www.mterinestate.com.au
Email:             bazzak@oceanbroadband.net

* Takeaways  *

• Waroona Bakery, 78 South West Highway
• Dizzy's Diner, 82 South West Highway
• Lake Navarino Restaurant at Lake Navarino Forest Resort (Details above)
• Caltex Roadhouse Waroona, 32 South West Highway

Waroona Family Fish & Chips

Specialising in fresh WA fish, crisp golden chips and Portuguese charcoal chicken.  A selection of delicious salads, snacks, coffees and cakes also available.

Open:              Mon to Sat 5pm-9pm   Sun 11am-10pm
Location:          Shop 6 Coronation Rd (off South West Highway)
Phone:             (08) 9733 3230

Picnic & BBQ Areas     

• Centennial Park (South West Highway, Waroona)
• Drakesbrook Weir (Weir Road, Waroona - closed until further notice)
• Hamel Hall (Cornucopia Street, Hamel)
• Hamel Park (Cullinga Street Hamel)
• Waroona Dam

Visitors are requested to use only the barbecue facilities available at most picnic areas.  Lighting of fires outside these facilities is an offence during the restricted burning times 15th December to 15th March inclusive.

ANNUAL EVENTS

All Australian Car Day VI (Sunday April 11th, 2010)

Features a huge display of classic Australian built cars plus a quality craft and harvest market and an expo showcasing WA wine, cheese and produce.  Great country food, children's fun and games, all-day variety show.  Free entry. (A similar event, the British Auto Classic, is held in October.)  www.eventassist.org.au

Lions Auction (Saturday September 5th, 2009)

Beef, livestock, antiques, memorabilia and general items all go under the hammer with proceeds aiding community groups.  Hammer goes down 12 noon.  Viewing from 8:30am.  Sausage sizzle.  All proceeds aid community groups.

Waroona Agricultural Show (Saturday 10th, October 2009)

The Waroona Agricultural Society presented the first show on 2nd December 1925 and the tradition continues today. The Show is held on the 'second Saturday' in October and is a great opportunity to enjoy a relaxed country atmosphere. A wide range of displays, entertainment and activities. Sideshow alley, fireworks and entertainment continue into the evening. A fabulous day out for the whole family.  www.waroonashow.com.au

Waroona Sea to Art Exhibition (17th October 2009 - 27th October 2009)

The 2009 Waroona "Sea to ART" exhibition is a feature of the Waroona events calendar in October. Held at the Waroona Visitor Centre, the "Sea to ART" exhibition will showcase talented local Waroona and district artists over a ten day period and provides and opportunity to view and purchase the art works. The exhibition will be open to the public from Saturday 17th October to Tuesday 27th October.

For further information please contact Maree Ellis on 9733 7828 or Waroona Visitor Centre on 9733 1506

The Sea to Scarp Summer Events is proudly supported by the Shire of Waroona.

British Auto Classic (Sunday 25th October 2009)

Classic British car display.  Fresh produce market showcasing WA wine and cheese,crafts, stalls & all-day entertainment.   Great country food and fun for the whole family.  Free entry.   www.eventassist.org.au

COMMUNITY GROUPS & ACTIVITIES - Visitors Welcome

• Waroona Playgroup
• Bushwalkers Anonymous
• Waroona Bowling & Social Club
• Waroona Creative Arts Centre
• Waroona Youth Group
• Waroona Senior Citizens
• Waroona Social Club
• Tai Chi in the Park
• Bootscooting/Line Dancing
• Lions Club
• Waroona Historical Society display and information, Old Road Board Building, South West Highway.
  Open most weekends.

Waroona Health and Community Resource Centre 

Access centre for Centrelink, TAFE, Medicare and ATO.   The telecentre provides low cost, open-access to computers, the internet, email and scanning facilities, photocopying, fax, laminating services and more. 

Health services include a general practitioner, physiotherapist, infant health & immunisation clinics on appointed days.  Family & Youth support services available.

Open:                   Monday - Thursday 9am-4pm, Friday 9am-3pm  
Location:               10 Henning Street, Waroona
Phone:                  (08) 9733 3011

Other Available Services

• Library
• Hairdressers
• Beauty Therapist
• Newsagency
• Chemist
• Supermarkets
• Fashion Boutiques
• Natural & Bowen Therapist
• General Practitioners
• National Bank
• Westpac Agency
• Commonwealth Bank Agency
• Bankwest Agency
• Bendigo Bank and ATM
• St Mark's Anglican Church
• St Patrick's Catholic Church
• Waroona Abundant Life
• Waroona Uniting Church