DESTINATION: Southern Cross

A service centre for the surrounding pastoral and gold mining districts, Southern Cross was founded after a gold-find in 1888, though the rush was short-lived. Situated 368km east of Perth, its streets; like the town itself; are named after stars and constellations.

Main Attractions

Notable historical buildings are the Post Office (1891), Railway Tavern (1890s), Palace Hotel (1912) and the Court House (1893), which houses the local Historical Museum. Off the Great Eastern Hwy is the Old Cemetery where town pioneers are buried.

Nearby attractions

Prolific wildflowers on the sand plains make springtime scenic drives more than memorable. Koolyanobbing, 53km north, became a 'modern ghost town' after its iron-ore mine closed in 1983; however, the town revived in 1994 when iron-ore and salt mining recommenced. Rock formations with nearby picnic spots are Hunts Soak, 7km north, constructed by convicts in 1865; Frog Rock, 15km south, shaped in a wave-like outcrop; Karalee Rock and Dam, 37km east; and Baladjie Rock, 45km NW.

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Region: Heartlands

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Blessed with diversity of landscape and environment, the Heartlands is home to several Western Australia's most popular natural attractions, like Wave Rock and the Pinnacles. more

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Shire Offices, Antares St, Ph: (08) 9049 1001

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