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Monsignor Hawes Heritage Trail

Saint Francis Xavier Cathedral.webp John Hawes Foundation +14 Gallery
2WD
Trail difficulty

There is a 70km dirt road (well maintained) to get to Melangata Station, accessible to all vehicles including 2WD. On the occasion of a large rain event, please check with the Station or Yalgoo Shire for road closures.

  • Length 915km
  • Est. time Multiple day
  • Circuit / loop
Today

22°C

31°

21°

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The Hawes Heritage Trail is a multi-day self-drive tour of churches and buildings built by Monsignor John Hawes who came to the Mid-West region in 1915 to serve in the vast Geraldton Diocese - once the largest and most remote Catholic diocese in the world.

Monsignor John Hawes was a priest and architect, inspired by the late 19th century and early 20th century Arts and Crafts Movement, who designed and built inspirational churches and other buildings in eight regional towns including Morawa, Northampton and Geraldton between 1915 and 1939. He was considered a kind, passionate, and determined man who struggled daily to balance his architectural work with his religious duties. The trail will give you an appreciation of the significant role this remarkable man played in the development of this region.

The trail can be explored by shorter day trips from Geraldton or take a longer route and stay in one of the towns or stations along the way – allow at least 3 days to explore all the sites. The trail takes you through the diverse landscapes of the Mid-West region, ranging from stunning beaches to the edges of the outback and colourful spring wildflowers. This area is remote and covers long distances, so ensure that you are prepared for driving in this area.

Further information about the Hawes Heritage Trail can be found at the Monsignor Hawes Heritage Centre Museum in Geraldton and the local Visitors Centres. The Monsignor Hawes Heritage Centre is a good starting point for the Heritage Trail as it contains displays and information related to the life and works of Monsignor Hawes. Guided tours of St Francis Xavier Cathedral are also available.

Monsignor Hawes Heritage Centre

(08) 9937 9504

Geraldton Visitor Centre

(08) 9956 6670

Other Links

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Be trail ready

Here is everything you need to know before visiting this trail.

Time / Duration

Multi day

Length

915km

Trail Access

Geraldton, 420km from Perth

Trail Start

Monsignor Hawes Heritage Centre, Cathedral Ave Geraldton.

Get directions

Trail End

When to go

All year round

What’s the weather like?

Additional information

There is a 70km dirt road (well maintained) to get to Melangata Station, accessible to all vehicles including 2WD. On the occasion of a large rain event, please check with the Station or Yalgoo Shire for road closures.

What To Pack

Facilities

Facilities vary at each location. 

  • Car Park
  • Public Toilet
  • Visitor Information Centre
More tips for being Trail Ready

Today May 13, 8:18am

22°C

Feels like 21°C

Max 31°

Min 21°

Precipitation: 0%

Visibility: 10km

Wind: 4.02km/h NE

8-day forecast

Wed

31°

21°

Thu

31°

20°

Fri

27°

20°

Sat

24°

15°

Sun

26°

15°

Mon

29°

18°

Tue

29°

19°

Wed

29°

19°

Weather data provided by:

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