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War Years Drive Trail, Geraldton to Mullewa War Years Drive Trail, Geraldton to Mullewa

2WD  in Coral Coast

  • Full day
  • 200 km

This 200 kilometre drive trail explores places and stories associated with the military in the City of Greater Geraldton.  Some sites have signage to further illuminate the past.  On others, no trace remains.  Each stopping point on the trail may acknowledge one or more places of significance. ​

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Geraldton has had a long association with the military and war, beginning as early as 1629 when a brave group of soldiers rose against the mutineers of the shipwrecked Batavia.

“Geraldtonians” have continued to serve their country in the various theatres of war.  However, it was World War II that brought long-lasting change to the City and surrounding district. When Australia joined WW II, sections of Geraldton and a large portion of the countryside were commandeered for war purposes. At this time Geraldton only had a resident population of 5000, but a large military personnel contingent rapidly became established in the region.

The sinking of HMAS Sydney II off Shark Bay in November 1941 came as a huge shock for the entire country and today a Military Memorial of National Significance commemorates the memory of the 645 men who lost their lives during the engagement with HSK Kormoran off the WA coast.

Geraldton Regional Library

08 9956 6659

Geraldton Visitor Centre

(08) 9956 6670

Other Links

  • War Years Drive Trail Booklet

    Downloadable PDF of drive trail booklet

  • Geraldton Regional Library

    Further information on the history of the Midwest is available from the Local History Collection at the Geraldton Regional Library.

  • Museum of Geraldton

    Additional information about the shipwreck of the Batavia and the sinking of the HMAS Sydney II.

  • Greenough Museum and Gardens

    Located in a beautifully restored two storey house alongside Maley's Mill 19km south of Geraldton just off the Brand Highway the Greenough Museum offers an insight into a bygone era.

  • Walkaway Station Museum

    The Walkaway Station Museum is an impressive museum which will be of great interest to any rail enthusiast or historian. Wander through the beautiful old railway station building to visualise how the station would have operated in the late 1800s.

  • Bluff Point Lighthouse Keepers Cottage

    Museum operated by the Geraldton Historical Society.

  • HMAS Sydney II Memorial Geraldton

    Information about the Memorial, how it started, who designed and built it, image galleries of the individual components that make up the Memorial including symbolism, original sketch designs,their constructed, installation on site and dedication services.

  • Bundiyarra Aboriginal Community Aboriginal Corporation

    Community organisation.

  • Tenindewa.com

    Stories and history from a small Mid West town.

  • 11th Battalion AIF Living History Unit Inc

    Based in Geraldton, Western Australia, 400kms north of Perth, 11th Battalion Living History Unit is a living history and commemorative group dedicated to researching and representing Western Australia's first and finest Battalion.

  • Monsignor John Hawes

    Discover the extraordinary life and times of Monsignor John Hawes Architect - Priest - Horseman - Sculptor - Poet - Artist - Hermit

  • Geraldton City RSL

    Headquarters of the Geraldton RSL and Museum.

  • Australia’s Coral Coast

    Comprehensive information on the Coral Coast region including destinations, things to see and do, accommodation and tours.


Be trail ready for War Years Drive Trail, Geraldton to Mullewa

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

Time / Duration

Full day

Length

200km

What To Pack

Group A - Urban Trails (Urban trails or short trails near facilities) required.

Trail Start

WWI Memorial, Olive Street, Geraldton which is 415km (4.5 hours) north of Perth.

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Trail End

WWI Fallen Soldiers' Memorial, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Mullewa

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Facilities

Wheelchair access may be limited at some stops due to rough terrain.
Outside of Geraldton, there are rest facilities and toilets at Greenough, Ellendale Pool, Walkaway and Mullewa.
  • BBQ Facilities
  • Camping
  • Car Park
  • Lookouts
  • All accessible parking
  • Picnic Area
  • Public Telephone
  • Public Toilet
  • Shaded Area
  • Sheltered Area
  • Shop
  • View Platform
  • Visitor Information Centre

Best time of year

April - October

Fees

Fees for camping at Ellendale Pool.

Trail Access

Air, road or bus to Geraldton

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