Spanning an area half the size of Victoria, the Shire of Ashburton, located in the north west of Western Australia offers something for everyone. For people across Australia, this 105,647 square kilometre Shire generates enormous wealth. Some of the world’s largest open cut mines and the largest exporters of natural resources can be found in Tom Price, Pannawonica and Paraburdoo. Barrow Island, off the coast of Onslow, is well known as a valuable source of oil and natural gas.
Large pastoral leases and cattle stations produce beef for local and overseas markets, and the town of Onslow is the centre of a thriving fishing industry operating along the coastal strip. For the Shire’s 7,500 residents, Ashburton provides employment, diversity and a comfortable lifestyle.
Mining, oil and gas, cattle, fishing and tourism, along with the supporting infrastructure provide employment opportunities. The Shire offers a diversity of experience. Spotted throughout the rugged outback are towns that have been described as oases, with rich greenery, air conditioned accommodation and excellent amenities.
Tourists discover a region noted for its extremes, rich in beauty and abundant comfortable accommodation. With experiences similar to an African safari, mountain ranges that challenge the Blue Mountains of New South Wales for their beauty; oases reminiscent of Egypt; canyons as grand as those in Nevada; wildflowers stretching like carpet – as far as the eye can see; beautiful islands offering sun, surf and natural beauty and National Parks preserved in their original splendour, Ashburton is one of Australia’s best kept secrets.
The outlying Aboriginal Communities of Bellary Springs, Ngurrowaana, Wakathuni, Yathalla and Youngaleena Banjima are also located within the Shire. A cross section of accommodation offers choices ranging from campsites in the Karijini National Park and cabins on Mackerel islands, to comfortable air conditioned facilities.
From the history of Old Onslow to the natural beauty of Millstream National Park, to the man made beauty of Tom Price and the grandeur of the Hamersley Ranges there really is something for everyone.
