"Keeweechic's Northam" Northam by keeweechic

Northam Travel Guide: 41 reviews and 95 photos

Northam is WA's second largest inland town and just 97km east of Perth. It is also the largest agricultural settlement comprising rich farmlands. During the 1890s after the arrival of the railway, the town was a staging post for 'diggers' on their way to the Eastern Goldfields. Northam was the resting point and the place to stock up with supplies before continuing on the long 450km trip to the fields.

The town was establish by John Morrel in 1936. His house and farm were the first to be built in Northam. The name to the town is believed to have been given by Governor Stirling after a village in Devonshire in England.

There are numerous historic buildings to be found in Northam. The oldest public building still standing is the old police station. The town is also popular for the annual Avon Descent as well as hot air ballooning in the area. Australia's white swan which was brought to Western Australia in 1896 also breeds here, probably the only natural breeding ground in Australia.

Photos which are taken by myself and all headings are copyright and digitally marked. Please do not use them without permission. Thanks.(c) keeweechic 2001-2007 (copyright)

Pros and Cons

Pros:Heart of the Avon Valley

Intro Updated Sep 26, 2007
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Reviews (38)

Northam Racecourse Sports & Outdoors (9)

The racing club was established in 1863 and is located on the perimeter of the Mortlock River. Race meetings are held... more travel advice

Spectacular Views Sports & Outdoors (9)

The Avon Valley is spectacular with just the smallest amount of mist clinging to the trees as the early morning sun... more travel advice

Up Up and Away.. Sports & Outdoors (9)

Finally the balloon takes off in a gentle uplifting as it glides slowly up and over the fields and ponds, gently... more travel advice

All Aboard Sports & Outdoors (9)

Once inflated, its all aboard the wicker basket and that is no mean feat. There was no stool or chair to climb on, just... more travel advice

Hotels (9)
See All A Little On The Down Side
Local Customs (2)
See All Local Events
Things to Do (16)
See All Byfield House

Off The Beaten Path (1)
Avonlea Park Alpaca Stud Farm
Transportation (1)
Getting There
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Comments (3)

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Sandralan May 1, 2009 at 8:49 PM

SHAMROCK. It's Great Very run down till Ian & Deb took over 18 months ago Now the foods good the rooms are excellent, service is friendly bars been decorated and has a great lounge area.Outside is stunning If you're in Northam there is no where better!!!!
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pepples46 Feb 12, 2006 at 10:21 PM

ahhhh you have been busy. there is a lot of history and interesting stuff in WA. must come back and do it again. fantastic page..still, love that Avon ^..^ greets from across the other ..Avon
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ATXtraveler Feb 12, 2006 at 1:32 AM

I figured this whole town would be considered "Off the beaten path"