With an area of 105,647 square kilometres, the Shire of Ashburton contains a myriad of tourist attractions. Its tourism industry is vibrant and growing, with the region hosting increasing numbers of visitors from throughout Australia and overseas.
The Shire of Ashburton welcomes some 45,000 tourists each year, with 90 per cent being self drive visitors. The main tourism seasons are from April to October when retirees are the great majority, and in the hotter months from October to February when younger, international visitors predominate.
Council is responsible for the Tourist Bureau that is run by a Management Committee. This Committee is also an Advisory Committee to Council. The Shire is part of the Pilbara region. The four Councils in the region, together with the mining companies, have established a regional tourism body to market the region. Known as the Pilbara Tourism and Convention Bureau, it promotes the region locally and through camping and caravan shows around the country.
Onslow, as the Shires oldest town has a number of historical buildings. There is excellent fishing, beaches and islands to be explored in this quiet, relaxing coastal community.
The mining companies are also happy to host visitors, with mine tours in Tom Price, Paraburdoo and Pannawonica. Onslow Salt also runs tours of its operations.
Four star resort accommodation, motel units, caravan parks, backpacker facilities and camping grounds provide a range of accommodation choices. The Council owned Caravan Park at Tom Price is leased to private operators who have recently established 24 bed backpacker facility. Tourists can also experience station life at Florence Station Stay.
Popular with retirees on extended self drive or coach tours, the area also hosts many families during the school holidays.
