NORTHAM

Northam in the Avon Valley

From thrilling air-borne adventures to laid-back country charm, the historic township of Northam delivers something for everyone.

Located in the picturesque heart of the Avon Valley, surrounded by idyllic rolling green hills, meandering streams and fields of golden canola, this historic town offers visitors a warm country welcome, and the opportunity to do things at your own pace.

Step back in time as you wander streets lined with craft and curio shops and boasting the second largest collection of historically significant buildings in Western Australia. Drop in to the NorthamCultural Precinct to visit the Old NorthamRailway Station which now serves as a museum housing local memorabilia and a restored steam locomotive. Or visit on a Sunday to explore Morby Cottage – the oldest surviving colonial residence in the state! Discover a place where tradition and innovation meet at Bilya Koort Boodja: Centre for Nyoongar Culture and Environmental Knowledge.

Enjoy a leisurely picnic on the lush, grassy banks of the Avon River, which wanders a watery path through the centre of town. Stroll over the 177-metre pedestrian suspension bridge – the longest of its kind in Australia - or take a paddle in the company of graceful white swans. Reconnect with nature along a labyrinth of nature trails littered with wildflowers, or satisfy your appetite at one of the many cafes and restaurants.

If you’re looking for a little more adventure, amp up the action with hot air ballooning, flight training or rally driving. Northam also boasts an exciting line-up of annual events, and is the starting point for the famous Avon Descent river race.

From romantic escapes to thrills with mates, there’s plenty to see and do at Northam.

History and Heritage

With over 180 heritage-listed buildings, Northam boasts evidence of a long and rich colonial history, and a culture that stretches back millennia for its traditional custodians, the Nyoongar people. You can gain a deeper understanding of Nyoongar culture with a visit to the Bilya Koort Boodja: Centre for Nyoongar Culture and Environmental Knowledge. This interactive, educational experience celebrates local indigenous culture and showcases innovative land management practices which draw upon the knowledge of the land’s traditional custodians.

Northam is also one of the earliest European settlements in the Central Wheatbelt area. The town was named by Governor Stirling, reportedly after a town of the same name in Devon, England. Officially gazetted in 1833, Northam was founded in 1836 by Englishman John Morrell who established Morby Cottage on his land grant. In its early days, Northam was an important departure point for pioneers heading further east to more remote localities. Later, during the Gold Rush period, many miners passed through the town enroute to eastern goldfields.

During World War I and II, the town played a pivotal role in the war effort, evidenced by a smattering of supply and replenishment depots present in the area. In more recent history, following the conclusion of World War II, Northam has served as the location of numerous immigration camps, paving the way for settlement of many post-war migrant s and displaced people who now call Australia home.

Beautiful old buildings throughout the town reflect its rich pioneering history. Some are located along Fitzgerald Street, the main street in town within walking distance of the Visitor Centre, while others are found further afield. Guided tours exploring the history and architecture of the town are offered by volunteers during the cooler months from April-October subject to numbers and staff availability. To find out more please enquire at the Northam Visitor Centre at 2 Grey Street (just off Fitzgerald Street).

Accessibility

The township of Northam is located in the Avon Valley, a leisurely 90-minute drive north-east of Perth. Follow the Great Eastern Highway through forests and rolling farmland to arrive at this historic settlement. Alternatively, catch the TransWA MerredinLink or Prospector train service from East Perth Station to Northam Station. Once in the region, the AvonLink train provides transport between Midland and Northam. Advance bookings are essential. All TransWA train services offer onboard facilities for people with disabilities, although some restrictions may apply to motorised mobility aids. Northam station is wheelchair accessible. For more information on these services please visit transwa.wa.gov.au.

The Northam Visitor Information Centre is located on the banks of the Avon River at 2 Grey Street. Drop in and have a chat to the friendly staff for information and local advice on the best things to see and do in the region. The centre also features some interpretive displays and a range of local produce, artworks, gifts and souvenirs for sale. The Centre does have ramp access but it is quite steep and windy some wheelchair users may require some assistance in accessing the building.

Bilya Koort Boodja: Centre for Nyoongar Culture and Environmental Knowledge is located in very close proximity to the Visitor Centre and is wheelchair accessible.