Willandra National Park

Introducing Willandra National Park

This World Heritage–listed national park, on the plains 160km northwest of Griffith as the crow flies, has been carved from a huge sheep station on a system of lakes. Though often dry, the lakes, especially Hall’s Lake, sometimes become temporary wetlands and bird life is abundant. During spring there are magnificent displays of wild flowers, and emus and kangaroos can be found on the open plains throughout the year.

The historical interest of Willandra centres on the wool industry and station life, although there were certainly Aboriginal civilisations in the area. In 1869 some enterprising Melbourne grocers formed the sheep station Big Willandra – the national park (about 19,400 hectares), formed in 1972, is less than 10% of Big Willandra.

The Willandra Homestead (r/f/whole homestead $60/80/350), built in 1918, is gloriously traditional and low-slung, with a wide veranda all the way around. The homestead was the centre of station life and the distance of accommodation from the homestead indicated the status of the workers; furthest away is the tin-lined shearers’ quarters (take time to explore the graffiti in each room) – much less comfortable in the heat than the thatched ram shed, where the kings of the station (the rams, who made all the money) lived. Book through Griffith NPWS office (02-6966 8100; fax 6962 5480). There are also several camp sites (adult/child $3/2) along Willandra Creek, with pit toilets, fireplaces and showers. Bring your own drinking water.

Last updated: Mar 2, 2009