Exploring the Great Southern: Western Australia
Western Australia, with its vast 2.646 million square kilometres, is the largest state in Australia. It’s no wonder it has so much to offer visitors and residents alike.
From the tropical Wyndham in the northeast to cool-climate whale watching in Augusta at the bottom of the southwest and stunning Esperance to the east, this state is a treasure trove of experiences.
The unique character of Western Australia is reflected in its diverse climates, pristine beaches, incredible wildlife, marine wonders, breathtaking landscapes, charming country towns, and vibrant cities.
There’s truly no shortage of places to explore.
Discovering the Great Southern Region
The Great Southern is a gem of Western Australia, nestled along the south coast and bordered by the Southern Ocean.
Its coastline stretches approximately 250 kilometres and offers some of the most stunning natural scenery in the state.
To the west, it meets the South West region, and it extends 200 kilometres north inland, blending seamlessly into the Wheatbelt.
Country & Coastal Charms of the Great Southern
The Great Southern is home to spectacular towns, each with its own unique charm.
Bremer Bay: Famous for its killer whale expeditions and pristine beaches, Bremer Bay is a hub for marine adventures.
Frankland River: Known for its exceptional cool-climate wines, Frankland River is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts.
Bluff Knoll: Offering some of the best hiking trails in the region, Bluff Knoll is perfect for outdoor adventurers. Its winter snowfall is a rare and magical experience in Western Australia.
Further inland, you’ll find the charming farming towns of Tambellup, Broomehill, Gnowangerup, and Nyabing, each offering a peaceful rural experience.
Pingrup, Ongerup, Borden, and Muradup are smaller, yet equally captivating, towns to explore for their agricultural heritage and stunning landscapes.
Historical Visits in the Great Southern
For history buffs, the Great Southern offers many fascinating historical sites.
In Bremer Bay, the Wellstead Museum is a must-visit, showcasing the region’s early European settlement and agricultural history.
The museum houses a range of artefacts, old equipment, and photographs that tell the story of the area’s pioneers and the challenging life they led in the rugged landscape.
In Mount Barker, you can explore the Mount Barker District Historical Society Museum, which provides insight into the region’s agricultural and colonial past.
The museum showcases historical displays and memorabilia, making it a perfect stop to understand the area’s cultural heritage.
Kodja Place, in Kojonup, offers an interactive experience of Noongar, English, and Italian histories, set alongside a stunning rose maze.
Perfect for those interested in the diverse cultural heritage of the region.
Bremer Bay and Its Killer Whales
Bremer Bay, located in the Great Southern, is renowned as the Killer Whale Capital of Australia.
Between December and April, the Bremer Canyon comes alive with an extraordinary natural phenomenon: the congregation of orcas (killer whales).
This underwater canyon system, located 70 kilometres offshore, attracts these apex predators due to its rich marine ecosystem.
Visitors can join specialised killer whale expeditions to witness pods of orcas in action, often alongside dolphins, seals, and seabirds.
Naturaliste Charters, a trusted name in marine tourism, offers world-class expeditions to the Bremer Canyon.
These tours provide a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the raw beauty of orcas in their natural habitat while learning about the unique marine environment.
A large pod of dolphins swimming in the crystal clear waters of Bremer Bay.
Natural Wonders of the Great Southern
The Great Southern is a region of extraordinary natural beauty, with something for everyone to enjoy.
Diverse Wildlife
From majestic humpback whales off Albany’s coast to the unique flora and fauna of the Fitzgerald River National Park, the Great Southern is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
In Bremer Bay, the annual arrival of orcas is a highlight for marine lovers. These intelligent and social creatures captivate visitors with their beauty and power.
Stunning Landscapes
The landscapes in the Great Southern are as diverse as they are breathtaking. Rugged cliffs, rolling hills, lush forests, and serene beaches make it a photographer’s dream.
The Porongurup and Stirling Ranges offer incredible hiking opportunities and sweeping views, while Bluff Knoll, the region’s highest peak, is famous for its winter snowfall.
The chance to see snow on the slopes of Bluff Knoll makes for a rare and magical experience in Western Australia. Bremer Bay’s pristine coastline is perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Acknowledging Noongar History
The town of Kojonup in Western Australia derives its name from the Noongar word “Kodja,” meaning “stone axe.”
This term reflects the traditional Noongar practice of crafting axes from the local stone in the area.
The Noongar people are the traditional custodians of the Kojonup region.
They utilised the area for hunting and crafted tools such as the “kodja” from the local stone.
Today, Kojonup honors its Noongar heritage through cultural sites like The Kodja Place, which offers insights into the history and stories of the Noongar people.
Activities in the Great Southern
The Great Southern region is brimming with activities for visitors:
Wine Tasting: Discover award-winning wineries in Frankland River and the Porongurup region.
Adventure Sports: Try surfing, kayaking, or fishing along the coast, or take to the trails for mountain biking. See Trails of the Great Southern for walking trails in the region
Killer Whale Expeditions: Join a tour to Bremer Canyon and witness the magnificent orcas during their annual visit.
Cultural Experiences: Learn about the rich Indigenous and European history of the region through museums, cultural centres, and guided tours.
Whale Watching: From Albany to Bremer Bay, the whale-watching opportunities in the Great Southern are world-class.
Why the Great Southern is Special
The Great Southern embodies the best of Western Australia’s natural beauty, wildlife, and adventure.
Whether you’re drawn to the rugged coastline, the tranquillity of inland farming towns and a farm-stay experience, or the chance to immerse yourself in nature, this region offers unforgettable experiences.
Plan your visit to the Great Southern today and discover one of Australia’s most captivating destinations.
A great source of information, more places to visit, attractions and the annual Bloom Festival is the Great Southern Treasures website.
For camping and farm-stay opportunities visit the Western Australia website.
