Take the opportunity to explore the historic timber town of Yarloop by taking a leisurely one hour walk along the informative Yarloop Heritage Trail. The trail offers an interesting insight into the timber industry of the southwest and this little timber mill town. The walk includes a visit to many turn of the century buildings including the Old Wooden Pub, Mill Cottages, the Mill Doctor's Residence, Hospital and the Old Mill Post Office. Whilst many of the restored buildings are now private homes, there is an opportunity to walk around several historical sites including the Catholic and Anglican Churches and a war memorial. Collect a guide book from the Yarloop Steam Workshop and whilst there, take some time to join a guided tour of the workshops for an in-depth look at the way of life of the millers, how the machinery operated and the history of Yarloop. Conveniently located less than two hours drive south of Perth, Yarloop makes an excellent day trip or short break. It is well placed as a stop off on your visit to the south west.
Located less than two hours drive south of Perth, a visit to the Yarloop Steam Workshops Inc makes for a great day out. The workshops were primarily used in the early 1900s to conduct maintenance work on the steam locomotives, and today house a fascinating museum which captures the history of the old mill town. Take your time passing through the workshops looking at the old machinery and other significant artefacts. Alternatively join one of the guided tours for an in-depth look at the way of life of the millers, how the machinery operated and the history of Yarloop. Once you have finished looking through the workshops, walk along the Yarloop Heritage Trail. This one hour walk around Yarloop will highlight many of the historic buildings in this charming timber mill town. If you have time to explore more of the area, Logue Brook Dam, just 10 minutes drive from Yarloop, is a tranquil setting for a bush walk along part of the Bibblumun Track. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the lake or for the more energetic, you can have a go at canoeing or water-skiing.
Logue Brook Dam in the Darling Ranges is a stunning water haven surrounded by Jarrah forest. The clear calm waters of Lake Brockman provide the perfect location for a myriad of activities. Take a dip in the tantalizing water, water-ski or canoe, taking in the beauty mother nature has created. For the keen fisherman the trout are plentiful and if you have any luck, the Marron will not disappoint. However, don't forget to bring your permit. Walk along part of the Bibbulmum Track which trails down to the dam stopping for lunch at one of the picnic sites in the forest. Alternatively you could take the scenic drive which travels around the dam offering spectacular views of this picturesque setting. Logue Brook Dam in Yarloop is less than two hours drive south of Perth, making it a perfect day trip for the whole family. 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.
Water skiers flock to Waroona Dam just a few kilometres east of the township of Waroona. The reservoir is popular for water skiing and power boating. Most weekends Waroona Dam is busy with power boats and water skiers gliding along the glassy water. The fishing is also well rated - throw in a line and you're likely to catch a trout or perch, while marron is also common. During late winter Waroona Dam often overflows creating an amazing spectacle. There are great facilities at Waroona Dam including picnic tables, barbecues and toilets. A caravan park and camping ground is also available. Waroona is just over an hour's drive south east of Perth.