Busselton Jetty
This is the longest wooden jetty in the Southern Hemisphere and was built over a 95 year period beginning in 1865. Timber and whaling were the main sources of income for the area in earlier days. For this purpose jetties were built at Wonnerup, Busselton and Quindalup. Of these, only the Busselton Jetty remains. The jetty gracefully stretches almost two kilometres into Geographe Bay and is a mecca for snorkellers and scuba divers who are fascinated not only by the immense variety of fish and other marine species, but by a stunningly beautiful array of coloured soft corals. Stroll down the jetty to take in the tangy salt air and delight in the conquests of local fisher persons, young and old, as they snare their “catch of the day”. The striking boat shed style Interpretive Centre opened in April 2001 and a new $3.5 million Underwater Observatory opened in December 2003.
Underwater Observatory
The Busselton Jetty Underwater Observatory is one of Western Australia`s must-see eco-tourism attractions. Located near the end of the 1.8 km jetty, the Underwater Observatory enables you to view more than 300 species of marine life from the underwater chamber windows.
Courthouse Arts Centre
Built between 1854-1856 and extended in 1873, the building has been utilised as a courtroom, jail cells, stable, post office and bond store (for customs). The historic building has been imaginatively restored and whilst the original jail cells remain as part of the museum, other parts of the building are now used as a gallery and cafe. The building also houses artists working on a variety of crafts.
St Mary`s Anglican Church
St Mary`s is the oldest stone church in WA. Built of limestone and jarrah with a sheoak shingle roof, the early settlers, with financial assistance from friends in England, built the church under the leadership of John G Bussell. The foundation stone was laid in 1844 and the church was consecrated on 4 November 1848. The churchyard has many pioneer graves, including that of John G Bussell.
Ballarat Engine
The first steam locomotive in WA which ran between Yoganup and Wonnerup, was used from 1871-1886 hauling timber over 20 km for the primary purpose of constructing the Busselton Jetty. The engine is on display in the park opposite the Busselton Visitor Centre.
Busselton Historic Museum
Housed in the Old Butter Factory (1918-1974), the building was originally constructed as a creamery and also supplied ice to the town and local fishermen. Production of butter ceased in 1954, and the building is now open to the public as a museum. Displayed are many items of historical interest such as photographs, furniture, clothing, farm machinery, butter and cheese making equipment, an old Group house, fully furnished, and a school. It is well worth a visit. Open daily 2-5 pm (closed Tuesday).
Pioneer Cemetery
Situated on the corner of Marine Terrace and Stanley St, the cemetery contains over 1000 graves of many of the districts early settlers.
Wonnerup House
10 km north of Busselton is the Wonnerup House Settlement. First settled by the Layman family in 1834 it is an important surviving example of early farm pioneering. There is a magnificent homestead (1859), and earlier house (1837) which was later converted into a dairy, plus a kitchen, stables, blacksmiths, teacher house and school. These buildings have all been restored with many original items and furniture on display. Don`t miss this National Trust property with its beautiful gardens. Open Wed-Sun 10am-4pm (except Christmas Day and Good Friday). Closed during month of July and on the day of the Busselton Iron Man. Entry fee applies. Tel: (08) 9752 2039.
Heritage Park and Trail
To learn more about the rich heritage of the town, take the time to visit the Heritage Park and Trail which starts at the corner of Peel Terrace and Causeway Road, opposite the Busselton Visitor Centre. The trail includes a range of contemporary sculptures which aim to link the past and present and includes the acclaimed “Aboriginal Interpretive Garden” as well as a number of historic landmarks such as the Ballarat Steam Engine, Saint Mary`s Church and Pioneer Cemetery. A free map is available from the Busselton Visitor Centre.
Ludlow Tuart Forest
On your journey to Busselton, be sure to take the leisurely tourist drive through the Ludlow Tuart Forest and capture the beauty of these rare giants of the forest. This is the only natural stand of Tuart left in the world, so enjoy the many picnic areas and forest walk trails and soak up the relaxing and peaceful setting.
Galleries, Arts & Crafts
If you enjoy fine woodcraft, pottery and other works of art, don`t miss seeing the regions finest! Busselton Art Society, ArtGeo, Geographe Gallery and Christian Fletcher Photo Images are but a few of the many galleries which abound in the region.
Sporting Facilities
For visitors who enjoy sports – golf, bowls, tennis and squash are available. The Geographe Leisure Centre offers gymnasium facilities, as well as an indoor and outdoor pool, spa and sauna.
Tours
View the region with one of the many half or full day tours available and choose to travel by classic car, 4WD or coach! Whether you`re interested in nature-based activities, photography, wineries, canoeing, caves, camel rides or adrenaline pumping adventure activities – there is a tour to suit your needs. There is an excellent free booking service available through the Dunsborough and Busselton Visitor Centre for a range of tours in the region.