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Busselton Heritage Trail

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Busselton Heritage Trail

The Busselton Trail is a self-guided easy walk through the charming coastal town providing information about the town’s rich and colourful heritage. Visit significant landmarks such as the Ballarat Steam Engine, the first steam locomotive used in Western Australia, St Mary’s Church which is the oldest stone church in the state and Pioneer Cemetery, the final resting place of many of the region's early settlers. Commence your tour at the Busselton Visitor Centre where you can collect the free trail map and brochure, before crossing the road to begin your walk. The brochure provides fascinating information about the relevant landmarks along the trail. Choose from a number of cafes and restaurants along the walk to enjoy a bite to eat or a refreshing drink. The trail passes a number of artistic sculptures displayed throughout the town along with the Aboriginal Interpretive Garden. Make sure you bring a camera as there are countless photo opportunities along the walk. Busselton is a 2.5-hour drive south of Perth.

Busselton WA

0.0 km away

Gallery Store at the Old Courthousee Complex — Image credit: City of Busselton

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Gallery Store at The Old Courthouse Complex

Located in the heritage-listed Old Courthouse Complex, the Gallery Store presents a meticulously curated collection of local art. Crafted in a myriad of mediums, the beautiful works displayed in this historic building have been selected as inspired expressions of the environment in which they originated. Once linked to the Busselton Jetty by tramline, the Old Courthouse Complex has a strong coastal connection, which is represented in awe-inspiring oceanic art on display. Adorning the walls of this charming character building, colourful paintings, photographs and prints showcase stunning landscapes, flora and fauna. Homewares include charming Happy Cat Studio mugs, crockery, platters, salad servers and planters, as well as ornaments, coasters and timber grazing boards by Scrubby Swain. There's also a wide range of jewellery, from fun and colourful Binky Clay earrings to fine art creations by Emma Meakes and vibrant glass designs by Nalda Hoskins. Fashionistas will enjoy browsing the assortment of vintage clothing and upcycled items, as well as felt hats and bags by Carol Mulhearn, silky scarves by Trish Waters and denim pocket tote bags by Dorothy Ann Designs.

Busselton WA

0.0 km away

Old Busselton Gaol, Old Courthouse Complex — Image credit: City of Busselton

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Old Busselton Gaol at Old Courthouse Complex

Built in 1861, the Old Busselton Gaol is one of Busselton's oldest buildings. Wander through the cold, dark cell block and imagine being locked up behind one of these heavy wooden doors! On some occasions, inmates spent three to six months awaiting a travelling Magistrate. The cells were all built with limestone block walls. After a number of escapes, Magistrate J Harris ordered that the cells be lined with Jarrah boards to prevent inmates digging their way to freedom. Reflecting the time in which the goal was built, the cell at the end of the corridor (Cell 9) with the bars, wood-block floor and shackles was built for Aboriginal prisoners. Records show that Cell 9 was not used post 1940. The enclosed area at the end of the corridor was used for exercise and toilets. Originally the Exercise Yard had no roof, which led to many escapes, which is why bars were installed. Discover captivating true stories of prisoners and law enforcement officials in the audio-visual heritage interpretation on display within the cells. Stories from the Cells features videos, audio stories, and interpretive signage to share true accounts of those who served time within. Learn about crimes, notorious escapees, and the contrasting fates of convicts - one who became a respectable farmer and another who escaped from Fremantle Prison.

Busselton WA

0.0 km away

Old Courthouse Complex, Busselton Cultural Precinct — Image credit: City of Busselton

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Old Courthouse Complex - Busselton Cultural Precinct

Stroll through the City of Busselton's heritage-listed Old Courthouse Complex to immerse yourself in rich regional history and admire local art. Situated within the Busselton Cultural Precinct at the jetty end of Queen Street, these beautifully restored buildings were constructed between 1860 - 1897. Originally built to serve as a judiciary, government administration centre and land agency to service the settlement's need for law and order, customs and telecommunications, the complex is now a hub for art lovers and history buffs. Discover tales of hardship and escape within the gaol cells and uncover true stories of tragedy and heroism surrounding the infamous S.S. Georgette shipwreck. Check out the latest art exhibition in the Bond Store Gallery and browse the Gallery Store's curated collection of local art. Beautiful works displayed have been selected as inspired expressions of the environment in which they originated. Within complex, the Community Courtyard features an elevated stage for a variety of performances and festivals held here throughout the year. Meanwhile, the Merenj Boodja Garden features bush food plants of the six seasons of the local Wadandi Saltwater people. Continue your walk down memory lane outside of the Old Courthouse Complex, as you stroll along Queen Street's Settlement Sculpture Walk.

Busselton WA

0.0 km away

Saltwater Busselton

Entertainment Venues

Saltwater Busselton

Positioned in the heart of Busselton's vibrant CBD, Saltwater Busselton is a dynamic new venue for events, performances and exhibitions. Saltwater Busselton delivers a diverse and engaging program, featuring everything from live music and comedy to educational events, creative talks and theatre workshops. Owned and operated by the City of Busselton, the venue brings together a state-of-the-art Convention Centre, an A-Class Art Gallery, and a 640-seat theatre under one roof. While final touches are being completed in the main theatre, a curated program of performances is already underway upstairs. Tickets are available via the Box Office and online. The Saltwater Gallery presents a rotating program of regional artworks alongside national touring exhibitions. It offers an accessible and inspiring space for the community and visitors alike.

Busselton WA

0.1 km away

Saltwater Gallery - Christian Fletcher Exhibition — Image credit: Saltwater Busselton

Entertainment Venues

Saltwater Gallery

Situated within the vibrant Busselton Cultural Precinct, Saltwater Gallery presents regularly rotating exhibitions by regional artists and national touring exhibitions. The gallery features a dedicated black box space for audiovisual and immersive works, expanding the scope of contemporary exhibition practice within the region. Free to enter and located on the ground floor of Saltwater Busselton, this A-Class gallery is an accessible and welcoming space for audiences, as well as a distinctive setting for intimate, bespoke events.

Busselton WA

0.1 km away

Busselton Foreshore — Image credit: The Margaret River Region

Parks and Gardens

Busselton Foreshore

Come and enjoy the beautiful Geographe Bay! Gorgeous sunsets, views of the famous Busselton Jetty, cafes, restaurants and plenty of spots to relax and soak it all in. The Busselton Foreshore offers up what seems like an endless stretch of white sandy beach, so you're pretty much guaranteed a swimming spot all to yourself. Jump into the shallow, still waters and be sure to keep your eyes open for frolicking dolphins swimming up and down the bay. If you've got a board, bike or scooter, give the Busselton Skate Park a go. This foreshore and beach is very popular for its safe swimming under normal conditions. A seasonal swimming enclosure is in place, which is accompanied by the permanent swim jetty, located just west of the main Busselton Jetty. There are three playgrounds spread across the foreshore for all ages. Make sure you check out the shipwreck adventure playground, complete with half-sunken ship and a kraken. For younger kids, there is also a dedicated toddlers' train-themed playground situated between the Busselton Visitor Centre and the Youth Precinct. The Foreshore has ample shaded picnic areas with public barbecues and seating, along with toilets and shower facilities. There is also a network of bicycle pathways that connect to Dunsborough.

Busselton WA

0.3 km away

Ballaarat Engine — Image credit: City of Busselton

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Ballaarat Engine

The much-loved Ballaarat locomotive is the oldest Australian-built steam locomotive still extant and the first steam engine to operate in Western Australia. It was built in Ballarat, Victoria and named after the town using the original spelling. The engine was commissioned by the Western Australian Timber Company (WATC) which had been awarded a milling concession by the Colony's governor. The Ballaarat arrived by ship to the Lockeville Jetty in Wonnerup in 1871. It hauled timber 19 kilometres in the Jarrahwood State Forest until the mill closed in 1887. The Ballaarat has a colourful history. Burnt in a shed and left in a paddock, donated to the Council who donated it to the Western Australian Museum around 1924. The Museum received it but found it too big to move and too expensive to restore, so it was sent to the Western Australian Government Rail Yards. In 1929, it featured in the State Centenary Parade before returning to the Midland railyards. The Busselton community lobbied for its return and after three years, it was sent home and installed in Victoria Square in 1937. In 2012, it was disassembled and lovingly put back together taking over 550 volunteer hours, local business support and grants. In 2024, a 3D model of the engine was developed alongside stories and information. Please find more information on the website.

Busselton WA

0.3 km away

The 150 year-old Ballaarat Steam Engine

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Railway House and Ballaarat Steam Engine

Located on the Busselton Foreshore and adjacent to the Busselton Jetty, Railway House is home to the Busselton Visitor Centre and the over 150-year-old and beautifully restored Ballaarat Steam Engine. Nearby is the northern terminus of the Wadandi Track, stretching from Busselton via Cowaramup and Margaret River to Augusta (sections still to be completed). Built in 1894, the original Busselton Railway Station was located in Stanley Street, Busselton, it served the community for over 90 years before being decommissioned. In 1987 the station was relocated to the public open space at the town's entrance. It was later moved to the Busselton Foreshore in 2016 and skillfully incorporated into what is now known as today's "Railway House". Here you will enjoy stories of Busselton's past and present.

Busselton WA

0.3 km away

Busselton Jetty Interpretive Centre with Beautiful Pink & Blue Skies

Amusement and Theme Parks

Busselton Jetty

Busselton Jetty is a must-see when in Busselton, and at 1.841 kilometres long, it's the longest tourist jetty in the southern hemisphere and the second longest in the world! This remarkable attraction can be enjoyed by young and old alike and caters to visitors needing assistance and accessible facilities. Stroll or take a ride on the solar-powered Jetty Train over the Indian Ocean to the Underwater Observatory, one of only six in the world! Experienced guides lead you through the natural wonders that lie beneath the Jetty, where the piles create Australia's greatest artificial reef. This reef hosts an awe-inspiring 'forest' of vividly coloured tropical and sub-tropical corals, sponges, fish, and invertebrates. Descend eight metres beneath the water's surface to view more than 300 individual marine species in their natural habitat through 11 viewing windows at various levels! While at the end of the Jetty, explore the Underwater Sculpture Park's 13 incredible sculptures made by talented artists from around the state! If getting in the water isn't for you, scan the QR codes found on the balustrade above each sculpture to view photos, videos, and information. Onshore the Marine Discovery Centre beckons visitors of all ages and abilities to immerse themselves in the wonders of marine life. With 30-minute self-guided tours, interactive displays, and immersive experiences, the MDC promises an unforgettable voyage into our oceans.

Busselton WA

0.3 km away

Busselton Jetty Marine Discovery Centre

Amusement and Theme Parks

Marine Discovery Centre - Busselton Jetty

Dive into the wonders of the ocean at the Marine Discovery Centre, an engaging destination perfect for all ages and abilities. This self-paced, interactive experience invites you to explore the mysteries of marine life and the Southwest's diverse underwater ecosystems in a way that's both educational and fun. Discover the depths of the Perth Canyon while driving a remote operating submarine, learn about the marine life that lives in each of the Southwest's offshore marine parks on the central interactive table and find out what plastic looks like in a turtle's mouth, all while being immersed in whale song and incredible marine life videos. Each exhibit reveals a new marvel to spark your curiosity. Families can bond over engaging activities, teens and adults can deepen their knowledge of marine science and kids can let their imaginations roam beneath the waves. With an experienced marine specialist available to answer your questions, the Marine Discovery Centre promises an immersive and enriching experience. Set aside 30 minutes to wander through this vibrant space, where learning meets adventure and the secrets of the sea come alive before your eyes. Book your adventure today and dive into a sea of discovery.

Busselton WA

0.3 km away

Aquatastic — Image credit: Aquatastic

Amusement and Theme Parks

Aquatastic

Aquatastic is Australia's largest inflatable floating Water Park located on the Busselton Foreshore, 200 metres west of the Busselton Jetty. This inflatable outdoor water park is guaranteed fun for the young and young at heart, with a huge range of slides to slip down and structures to climb and dive from. Climb the Ice Berg, complete the obstacle course, enjoy the gigantic slide or climb the highest rock climbing wall in the southern hemisphere and the best air jumping extreme. Aquatastic provides life jackets and it's recommended for all users of the water park to wear their life jackets on the water park at all times. Aquatastic is open for the summer period. Please visit their website for more details.

Busselton WA

0.4 km away

Tracie Anderson Ceramics — Image credit: Tracie Anderson Ceramics

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Tracie Anderson Ceramics

Tracie Anderson is an established South-West Ceramics and Mixed Media artist who specializes in upcycling found objects from the shores of Western Australia. Tracie has a working studio and gallery which is located in the beautiful seaside town of Busselton in the famous Margaret River region, and offers unique handmade ceramic art that reflects the pristine beaches and coastline. Tracie loves people coming in to visit her and to see her latest creations! Her space is a working studio so you can watch her handbuild her art and peruse the Gallery.

Busselton WA

0.4 km away

Timezone Busselton

Entertainment Venues

Timezone Busselton

Holidays in Busselton are made for memories – and where better to lock in those laugh-out-loud moments than Timezone Busselton? Tucked inside Busselton Central's entertainment precinct and just a 2.5 hour drive from Perth, this bright, family-friendly venue is your go-to escape when the weather turns. Inside, you'll find 70+ arcade games ready to challenge, delight, and keep the whole family entertained. Plushie collectors and claw-machine champions will feel right at home too. With an ever-changing range of iconic plush lines (keep an eye out during special occasions), you might just leave with a new cuddly souvenir to remember your trip by. Travelling with kids? Teens? A whole crew? Timezone Busselton has space for everyone. It's where families reconnect, new friendships form over friendly competition, and even first dates end with a grin. Here's what makes Timezone the ultimate holiday destination: while you're playing, something magical happens. Phones get pocketed. Conversations flow naturally. Families find their flow. Those "remember when you won that giant Pokémon?" moments become the stories you'll tell for years. Plus, you're having all this fun without breaking the budget: Timezone Busselton delivers maximum entertainment value for your holiday dollar. So, step inside, switch off, and rediscover the joy of play – the kind that brings families, friends and strangers together and turns an 'okay' holiday into an unforgettable experience.

Busselton WA

0.4 km away

St Mary's Anglican Church

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

St Mary's Anglican Church

St Mary’s Anglican Church in Busselton is the oldest stone church in the state. Built by the early settlers in the 1840s this beautiful historic building was the primary place of worship for the Vasse community. A visit to the charming old church is a must. Take your time to truly capture the beauty of this renovated building. Wander around the graveyard and read the inscriptions on many of the settlers’ tombstones which are still in their original state. If your visit falls on a day of worship the congregation welcomes you to attend their church service. The church played an important role in the development of the town of Busselton. Learn more about its significance as you explore and read up on its history. Take a walk along the Vasse River starting at the church and take in some of Busselton's most interesting attractions. It is highly recommended that you walk to the famous Busselton Jetty and swim at one of the white sandy beaches. Busselton is a three-hour drive south of Perth.

Busselton WA

0.7 km away

Busselton Jetty — Image credit: Tourism Western Australia

Natural Attractions

Busselton Beachfront

The picturesque Busselton Beachfront is home to the longest timber pier in the Southern Hemisphere, Busselton Jetty. The beachfront has a vast array of attractions to keep you entertained. Visit the Interpretive Centre at the shore end of the jetty for an insight into Busselton Jetty’s history or make the 1.8 kilometre walk down the jetty to the spectacular underwater observatory. It is a unique experience not to be missed. For scuba diving and snorkelling enthusiasts, the Busselton Jetty is regarded as Australia’s best artificial reef and is an impressive sight to see. Fishermen will love the novelty of being able to fish 1,800 metres out to sea without having to take out a boat. If time permits let your hair down at the entertainment park and waterslide next to the jetty, take a dip in the crystal blue calm ocean and enjoy a meal or snack at one of the highly regarded restaurants on the beachfront. Busselton is located just 2.5 hours drive south of Perth.

Busselton WA

0.7 km away

Vasse River and Rotary Park

Natural Attractions

Vasse River and Rotary Park

Vasse River and Rotary Park is a picturesque setting for a picnic. Situated on the banks of the Vasse River, it’s easy to forget you are in the heart of Busselton as you relax in the tranquil surroundings. Relax under the shade of the trees on a rug or sit at the tables and chairs provided. Enjoy a picnic lunch or barbeque, while the children are kept entertained in the large playground. Read the interesting historical information displayed in the park and study the interactive art pieces on display. Standing on the wooden jetty protruding into the river is a great vantage point from which to watch the multitude of bird life. There is a lovely walk and cycle track from Rotary Park, which follows the river as it winds through the town of Busselton to the ocean. The coastal town of Busselton is a three and a half hour drive south of Perth.

Busselton WA

0.8 km away

Busselton Museum — Image credit: Busselton Historical Society

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Busselton Museum

Whether you are a history buff, a family looking for a great day out, or a traveller exploring the south-west, the Busselton Museum offers a captivating look into the stories that shaped the region. Their friendly volunteers are on hand to help make your visit enjoyable. With the grounds being over an acre, they recommend giving yourself 1-2 hours to explore.

Busselton WA

0.8 km away

Origins Market

Shopping and Markets

Origins Market

Step into a vibrant marketplace in Busselton where the South West's finest makers, growers, and artisans come together. Origins Market celebrates creativity, community, and connection. More than just a market, Origins is an experience. Shop for weekly essentials, browse handcrafted treasures, explore art collections, and enjoy free tastings. Hungry? Take your pick from a variety of eateries featuring cuisines from around the world, all under one roof. Spanning an impressive 3,000 square metres, Origins Market has something for everyone. It's a spot to relax with friends, catch up with family, or connect with the community over coffee, lunch, or drinks at our licensed bar. The market's all-weather venue is family-friendly, featuring a kids' playground and even an onsite beehive for a touch of nature. With workshops, events, and a unique space that merges production with consumption, Origins Market is Busselton's ultimate gathering place for fun, food, and local flavour.

Busselton WA

0.8 km away

Vasse-Wonnerup Estuary

Natural Attractions

Vasse-Wonnerup Estuary

Vasse-Wonnerup Estuary is one of 12 Ramsar Nature Reserve wetland sites in Western Australia. Recognised as "Wetlands of International Importance", the Vasse-Wonnerup Estuary is on the wish-list for many birdwatchers, with a walk trail and hide offering opportunities to view some 75 species of native, nomadic and migrating birds, several of which are extremely rare. The wetlands lie just to the northeast of Busselton, a 2.5 hour drive or a 50 minute flight south from Perth. The bird hide is situated on the southern side of the wetlands, accessed from Layman Road. Visit in spring and you’ll find cygnets and ducklings on the water, but it’s in summer that the wetlands are at their vibrant best, with more than 30,000 migratory birds arriving en masse. Explore the wetland’s open waters, sheltered bays, marshlands and shorelines, surrounded by flooded pastures, native bush and stands of paperbark trees. Spot everything from sharp-tailed sandpipers, greenshanks and plovers, to long-toed stints, egrets, spoonbills, herons, ducks, swans, coots, stilts, avocets, cormorants. You may even glimpse swamp harriers, kites, eagles and osprey passing overhead. Nearby, you’ll also find one of the largest ibis breeding colonies in Western Australia, while to the south lies the world’s last great tuart forest, home to parrots, possums, bandicoots and kangaroos.

Busselton WA

1.1 km away

Wonnerup House — Image credit: National Trust of Western Australia

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Wonnerup House at Wonnerup on Wadandi Country

Wonnerup House at Wonnerup sits on Wadandi Country, less than 10 kilometres north of Busselton, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the South West. The property’s name, Wonnerup, was adopted by George Layman in 1832 when he took a land grant of 500 acres at this location. Nestled between the majestic Ludlow Tuart Forest and the spectacular Vasse-Wonnerup wetlands, this peaceful setting belies a 140-year history of perseverance and hardship, as well as mistrust and tragedy, following the colonisation of the greater Busselton area in the 1830s. It is also a powerful reminder of the isolation, danger and struggles faced by the Layman family and others like them in the early days of the colony. Working with Traditional Custodians and members of the Layman family, the National Trust has installed a simple but provocative presentation to encourage visitors to question their knowledge of the past and to consider how we understand truth. The objects and furniture that were displayed in the house will remain in storage as we explore ways to present a more layered and comprehensive interpretation of this important site over the next few years. Visitors are welcome to explore the house while this work is underway, and may gain insights into the National Trust’s approach to interpretation, storytelling and appreciation of the broader cultural landscape.

Wonnerup WA

8.2 km away

Something for everyone... a playground to keep the kids entertained — Image credit: Bunbury Farmers Market

Shopping and Markets

Vasse Village by Bunbury Farmers Market

Vasse Village by Bunbury Farmers Market brings extreme value and extreme freshness to locals and visitors to Vasse and the South West region. Offering a wide variety of fresh produce from 150 local growers, chef-prepared meals, gourmet cheeses, bakery treats, and so much more, their market is a must-visit for food lovers. With dining options like pizzas, burgers, and daily carvery lunches, plus a playground and dog park, they're the perfect stop for families and travellers. Whether you're stocking up for your holiday or simply craving a coffee on the go, you'll find everything you need and more at Vasse Village.

Vasse WA

9.2 km away

Ambergate Reserve — Image credit: Busselton Naturalists Club

National Parks and Reserves

Ambergate Reserve

Ambergate Reserve is a 75-hectare regional park that protects the remnants of scrubland and woodlands once common along the coastal plains of Busselton. The reserve is ablaze with wildflowers in spring - but at any time of the year, the four-kilometre loop walk trail offers the visitor a chance to observe an amazing variety of plants and wildlife. Over 360 plant species have been recorded at Ambergate Reserve. From tall trees and shrubs such as marri, jarrah, peppermints, banksia and snottygobble, to creepers and ground covers and 26 species of orchid! Many animal species inhabit the reserve, and while some are active during the day, many others are only seen at night, while 'spotlighting'. There is also an enormous variety of birds found here. The birdlife varies greatly by season, with the reserve being used by many migratory species. When visiting the reserve it is important to follow the path and adhere to all signage. To prevent the spread of the dieback fungus that threatens native plant species in the southwest, visitors are asked to use the footwear cleaning stations at the entrance to the trail and the junctions.

Chapman Hill WA

10 km away

Ride a scooter through the treetops! — Image credit: Capes Foundation

National Parks and Reserves

Forest Adventures

Forest Adventures, nestled in the towering trees of Ludlow Tuart Forest north of Busselton, offers adrenaline-filled fun for families, friends, and adventure seekers of all ages. Blending the best of the South West's supreme natural environment and world-class European standards for safety and design, Forest Adventures is one of Australia's most exciting outdoor adventure parks. Climb, swing, balance and soar through six unique high-ropes courses, including 15 flying foxes, one stretching over 150 metres! There's something for every level of adrenaline and fitness, so everyone can create an unforgettable experience high above the forest floor. Your session begins with harnessing, safety training, and a practice course before progressing to one of our main courses. Courses vary in height and difficulty, from 3 to 19 metres, allowing you to progress at your own pace. Build confidence on the beginner courses and tackle the Advanced and Adrenaline courses. Set across eight acres of unspoiled bushland, immerse yourself in native flora and fauna as you swing through the trees. Elevated platforms and expansive ziplines enhance the adventure while offering spectacular views of the forest canopy. Test your limits, experience the thrill, and plan a visit to Forest Adventures for an unforgettable day of outdoor excitement.

Busselton WA

13 km away

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