Carnarvon Shire Local History
Carnarvon Shire is a region located in the Gascoyne region of Western Australia. It covers an area of 46,660 square kilometers and is home to around 7,000 people. Let's take a look at the local history of this beautiful region.
The Indigenous History
Before European settlement, the area now known as Carnarvon Shire was home to a number of Indigenous groups, including the Bannabunna and the Inggarda. These groups lived off the land and the sea, hunting and gathering in the area.
The Indigenous people of the region have a rich culture and history, with many Dreamtime stories associated with the area. The Gascoyne River, for example, has a significant place in local Indigenous culture. It is said that the river was created by the great serpent Ngalyod, who carved the riverbed with his body.
European Exploration and Settlement
The first European to explore the area was the Dutch navigator Dirk Hartog, who landed on Dirk Hartog Island in 1616. However, it wasn't until the mid-19th century that Europeans began to settle in the area.
In 1865, Francis Thomas Gregory led an expedition through the region and named the Gascoyne River. Over the following years, pastoralists began to move into the area, establishing stations for sheep and cattle.
One of the first towns to be established in the region was Carnarvon, which grew around a telegraph station built in 1883. The town became an important hub for the region, providing services for the surrounding pastoralists and acting as a port for exports of wool and other goods.
Agriculture and Fishing
Today, agriculture and fishing are two of the main industries in Carnarvon Shire. The region is known for its abundance of fresh produce, including bananas, mangoes, and tomatoes. The Gascoyne Food Trail is a popular tourist attraction, showcasing the region's delicious produce.
The region is also home to a thriving fishing industry, with many of the coastal towns relying on the sea for their livelihoods. The Carnarvon Fishing Tournaments are a popular annual event, attracting anglers from around the country.
Natural Disasters
Carnarvon Shire has experienced a number of natural disasters over the years, including cyclones and floods. In 1887, a devastating flood swept through the Gascoyne River, causing widespread damage and loss of life. More recently, Cyclone Olwyn hit the region in 2015, causing millions of dollars in damage and leaving many people without power or water.
History of in Carnarvon Shire
From its Indigenous history to its modern-day industries, Carnarvon Shire is a region with a rich and fascinating history. Despite the challenges it has faced over the years, the region has thrived, becoming an important part of Western Australia's economy and culture.