| Moora | |
Location: | 172km north of Perth |
Shire: | Moora |
Population: | 1687 |
Postcode: | 6510 |
Built on the banks of the Moore river, Moora is the largest town between Perth metropolitan area and Geraldton. The district is best known for its spectacular wildflower displays. The surrounding countryside becomes a carpet of colour in the spring when the wildflowers are at their best and the wattle flowers are in bloom.
The area was discovered in 1836 by George Fletcher Moore although the first pastoral lease was not claimed until around 1846. The town was officially proclaimed in 1895.
An 80kilometre heritage trail around the Moora district takes visitors past the historic farm homesteads and settlements of the area. It begins at the original 100mile peg on the Great Northern Highway.
The drive also passes through Berkshire, 19 kilometres east of Moora, where a restored homestead and farm buildings, built in 1847, are open to the public. The Old Flour Mill now houses the Berkshire Valley Folk Museum, open on variable Sundays - telephone 54 9040 for details.
There are also a number of routes which have been developed for visitors to view the wildflowers. The most spectacular areas, including Watheroo National Park, have been mapped out. Within the National Park, Jingemia Cave is worth a visit to see the unusual geological formations and vegetation.
Points of interest in the town include the Yuat Aboriginal Craft centre and the Western Wildflower farm.