Old Onslow Townsite - Talandji, Western Australia

Old Onslow Townsite: A Glimpse into the Past

For those interested in exploring a poignant piece of Western Australian heritage, the Old Onslow Townsite, located at Address: Old Onslow Rd, Talandji WA 6710, Australia, presents a compelling and evocative experience. This site, managed as a Museum, offers a tangible link to a community that was intentionally relocated, leaving behind only fragments of its former life. It’s a place where the relentless march of time and the persistent influence of the natural environment have conspired to reclaim a once-thriving settlement.

Historical Context and Significance

The Old Onslow Townsite holds a particularly unique place in Australian history. It was established in the late 1920s as a service town for the Onslow salt works, a crucial component of Western Australia’s industrial development during that era. However, in 1929, the entire town, including its residents, was systematically dismantled and relocated approximately 99 kilometers inland to a new site – a deliberate act orchestrated by the salt company to consolidate operations and improve efficiency. This relocation was a highly unusual undertaking, effectively erasing the original town from the map and leaving behind a ghostly reminder of its existence.

Current State and Features

Today, the site is remarkably overgrown, reflecting the passage of almost a century. While much of the original infrastructure has succumbed to the elements, a small number of structures remain, offering a poignant glimpse into the town’s layout and daily life. Notably, a portion of the Police Complex and Court House stands as a testament to the town’s governance, alongside a few other stone buildings that stubbornly resist the encroachment of nature. Numerous interpretive signs are strategically placed throughout the site, meticulously detailing the original buildings, their functions, and the lives of the people who once called this place home. Visitors can easily trace the outline of streets, identify the location of businesses, and imagine the bustling activity that once characterized the area. The site's layout is designed to facilitate exploration and understanding, offering a clear visual representation of the town’s original configuration.

Onsite Amenities and Accessibility

The Old Onslow Townsite provides several onsite services to enhance the visitor experience. Restrooms are available for public use, ensuring visitor comfort. While a dedicated restaurant is not currently present, the surrounding area offers options for dining. The site is easily accessible, though it’s recommended to wear sturdy footwear as the terrain is uneven and can be quite challenging due to the presence of vegetation and remnants of the original structures. Other points of interest include the opportunity to engage with the interpretive materials and connect with the history of this unique relocation project.

Visiting Information

Website: inherit.stateheritage.wa.gov.au

Although there is no dedicated phone number listed, the website provides comprehensive information about the site, its history, and visiting guidelines. The site is open to the public, and visitors are encouraged to explore at their own pace. It’s advisable to allow ample time for exploration, as the site’s size and the density of the vegetation can require a considerable amount of time to fully appreciate.

Visitor Feedback and Reputation

The Old Onslow Townsite has garnered positive reviews from visitors, with a average opinion of 4/5 based on 111 Google My Business reviews. This indicates a generally favorable perception of the site, with visitors appreciating its historical significance and the opportunity to connect with the past. Numerous comments highlight the poignant atmosphere of the site and the evocative nature of witnessing a community’s relocation. Many visitors express a sense of wonder and respect for the resilience of the landscape and the enduring legacy of the town’s inhabitants. The interpretive signage is consistently praised for its clarity and informative content. While some reviewers note the challenging terrain, the overall experience is considered worthwhile for those interested in exploring this unique chapter in Western Australian history.

👍 Reviews of Old Onslow Townsite

Alexander P.

3/5

Very little remains of the town that was shifted 99 years ago. A couple of stone buildings from the Police Complex and Court House are all that is left standing. Numerous signs indicate what was there originally, but nature has taken it back and it is hard to imagine a once thriving town being there.

Amy E.

4/5

During a recent WA trip, we opted for free camping at the Old Onslow Townsite due to full bookings in Onslow. Despite the slightly eerie atmosphere, the site carries significant historical weight, adding an intriguing layer to the experience. Luckily, there was a convenient toilet facility, enhancing the comfort of our stay. A unique and historically rich camping spot for those seeking an alternative in the area.

Meads_Adventures

4/5

Breathtakingly beautiful the left over building from pioneer history, very daunting to see the chains still there and what these walls have seen, interesting history and definitely worth a stop and visit we drove in with a camper trailer so nice and easy! The prison itself looks like something out of a horror movie.

Roy J.

5/5

Very interesting, lots of information boards around. Left us feeling sad knowing the history of how the Aboriginals were treated in the area.
Recommend 4x4 as some of the tracks very boggy.

Chris M.

3/5

Who would imagine a whole town moving! Well Old Onslow become Onslow about 10km away, with some of the buildings being pulled down and rebuilt at the new site. The jail and police station are the main structures left, suppose they had to be built sturdy. The road was corrugated when we visited but there was a clean drop loo and a picnic table undercover which made up for the bumpy drive. We couldn't find the cemetery which was signposted but seem to lead nowhere. The amount of old broken bottles was astounding! Worth a look if you have the time.

Jimbo

5/5

Fantastic place to visit and seeing the history of our Country surviving in such a harsh environment.
As you read the sign boards you can just imagine how the town was, the competition between the locals and the settlers the settlers and Mother Nature.
The strength of the jail, the police station and the court house to survive way past its use by date.
A town with a tram and tennis courts, who lost against Mother Nature.

Ellen P.

4/5

Hash and stark reminder of the perilous life our for father's lived to carve their existence in this land we call home... Very interesting and terrific camping by the mighty Ashburton River..

Donna M.

5/5

A really interesting place to visit. The information boards were informative and the buildings were in pretty good shape, considering what they have been through.