ATTRACTIONS BANKSIADALE WA

The Marrinup Trail meanders through some of Australia's oldest rocks, which are more often exposed on this part of the Darling Scarp near Dwellingup, south of Perth. The mountain bike trail passes through native jarrah forest and redgum. The interesting 'Cage in the bush' Prisoner of War (POW) camp is located a short distance from the trail. Proceeding clockwise, this easy to follow loop trail starts at the old Marrinup town site which was destroyed by bush fire in 1961. The 7.9 kilometre Top Trail has a single track suitable for both the novice and experienced rider. The trail can be shortened to about four kilometres by using the short course return route. It varies from narrow, challenging tracks with flat sections and hill climbs to true gravel roads, with the ball bearing like bauxite gravel making things pretty interesting for mountain biking. During World War II thousands of Italian and German POW's spent time here cutting wood for Perth before being billeted out to Western Australian farms. Buildings no longer exist, but there are foundations, gardens and some fencing and it's fascinating to stroll around the camp trying to imagine what life would've been like for the POW's.

The beautiful rammed earth Forest Heritage Centre (FHC) links Environment to Arts and offers a hub for artisans to work, visitors to enjoy the fine wood and art and explore the forest. They lease their well-equipped workshop and machine room on a short or long term basis. The lease includes a workshop bay, benches, use of machine and lathe room and access to the sanding room and spray booth, use of tools and clamps and shared timber storage facilities. They also provide a gallery/shop for artisans and artists to show and sell their fine wood and art to visitors. They offer weekend workshops to anyone who wishes to make beautiful and useful objects from wood or metal. The FHC is a 10 minute walk or short drive from the town centre. Walking trails meander from the centre through the forest and include a tree top walk and woodcutter's hut to explore the forest's historic and natural beauty. An interpretive gallery and wide range of guided educational tours to suit all school year levels and class topics are available. Comfortable backpacker style accommodation for individuals or groups and conference facilities are for hire in the nearby Jarrah Forest Lodge.

Lane Poole Reserve is a nature lover's paradise. With its extensive network of bushwalking tracks along the Murray River, it is a favourite recreation spot for West Australians. There are numerous opportunities for swimming, fishing, canoeing and rafting, with hire equipment and organized tours available from the nearby town of Dwellingup if required. Enjoy abundant wildlife and a diversity of ever changing landscapes. The reserve covers nearly 55,000 hectares comprising rock rimmed pools, rapids and small waterfalls, spanning out to steeply forested valley slopes and undulating woodlands. In winter, the Murray River flows like a raging torrent, and in summer it dwindles down to a gentle stream. In spring, the forest fills with wonderful West Australian wildflowers and in autumn you can hear the bird calls echo through the early morning mist. Stay overnight in one of the many camping and recreation areas, or pack a picnic and enjoy a day trip. Lane Poole is just two hours south of Perth near the town of Dwellingup. Camping in Western Australia's natural areas is a special experience.Selected campgrounds from across the state are now bookable online for a trial period.