Upper Gascoyne

The Upper Gascoyne region is located in the Mid West region of Western Australia, stretched across the eastern part of Gascoyne-Murchison region to the north of the state’s capital, Perth. The region encompasses a range of historical sites and landmarks which showcase the rich heritage of Western Australia.

Early history of the Upper Gascoyne region

The area was initially inhabited by the Ngarla people, who were the traditional landowners of the Upper Gascoyne region for thousands of years. They relied on the seasonal rains and the hunting of animals for their survival. During the 1800s, European explorers and settlers began to arrive in the region.

In 1864, Robert Austin and his team embarked on an expedition to explore the Murchison River, one of the main rivers in the Upper Gascoyne region. They were followed by a group of prospectors and pastoralists, who quickly established cattle stations in the area. By the late 1800s, the region had become a hub for cattle and wool production.

The impact of the gold rush on the Upper Gascoyne region

The discovery of gold in the nearby towns of Cue and Meekatharra in the 1890s had a significant impact on the Upper Gascoyne region. It brought a large influx of people to the area who were in search of new opportunities and wealth. Many businesses were established to cater to the growing population, which included banks, hotels, and general stores.

The gold rush era also saw the growth of transport and communication systems. The first railway line was constructed between Geraldton and Cue, which made it easier to transport goods and people to the area. In 1899, a telegraph line was also established, providing instant communication with the rest of the country.

The Upper Gascoyne region during World War II

The Upper Gascoyne region played an important role during World War II. The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) constructed an airfield in the area to support military operations in the Pacific. The airfield, located near the town of Meekatharra, was used as a training base for pilots and ground staff.

The airfield was also used to transport supplies and equipment to other military bases in the region. The RAAF continued to use the airfield until the end of the war, after which it was decommissioned. The airfield is now used by civilian aircraft and serves the local community.

The Upper Gascoyne region today

Today, the Upper Gascoyne region is home to a diverse range of industries and activities, including mining, tourism, and agriculture. Many visitors come to the region to explore the stunning landscapes, which include the Kennedy Range National Park and the Gascoyne River.

The Upper Gascoyne region has a rich cultural and historical heritage, which is celebrated through various events and festivals throughout the year. The Gascoyne Food festival, for example, showcases the region’s culinary offerings through food tastings and cooking workshops.

The region is also home to a number of historical attractions, including the Old Meekatharra Gaol, which was used to house prisoners during the gold rush era, and the Wiluna Heritage Trail, which showcases the town’s Aboriginal and European history.

History of in Upper Gascoyne

The Upper Gascoyne region has a rich and diverse history that is intertwined with the culture and traditions of its people. From the Ngarla people to the European settlers and the military personnel who served in the region, the Upper Gascoyne has played an integral role in the development of Western Australia.