Skip to Content Skip to Navigation Show Trail Map Show About the Trail Show Important Trail Details Read Trail Reviews
Support Our Trails

Monsignor Hawes Heritage Trail Monsignor Hawes Heritage Trail

  • Multiple day
  • 915 km

The Hawes Heritage Trail takes you through the scenic Murchison region on a self-drive tour of 13 churches and other buildings created by architect and priest Monsignor John Hawes. Discover the fascinating story of his life and works, while traveling through the diverse landscapes of the Mid-West.

Mt Carmel Mullewa Hawes Heritage Trail T Johnson.jpg
Earn 1 Point
Logo for Leave no Trace Initiative

Trails WA supports the seven principles recommended by Leave No Trace Australia for minimising your impacts when using the trails.

Learn more

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

Be trail ready

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

Time / Duration

Multi day

Length

915km

Trail Start

Monsignor Hawes Heritage Centre, Cathedral Ave Geraldton.

Get directions

Trail End

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

Best time of year

All year round

Trail Access

Geraldton, 420km from Perth

Complete Monsignor Hawes Heritage Trail to earn badges and points!

Earn points and badges and become a "TrailsWA Expert" by completing trails and leaving reviews.

Earn 1 Point

Earn 1 point towards
your TrailsWA level

Edge shaped like mountain horizon
Alt text

Be the first to review Monsignor Hawes Heritage Trail

We love to hear from people who've been on our Western Australian trails, so it would be most appreciated it if you wanted to leave a review.

Like this trail? Explore others nearby

More around Coral Coast

Supporters & Partners

Trails are free and offer countless benefits to our community, from fostering fun and fitness to encouraging social connection, exploration, and personal challenges. These exceptional trail experiences are made possible through the support and collaboration of these great organisations and initiatives:

topography pattern