Bridgetown Greenbushes Local History
The town of Bridgetown Greenbushes is situated in the south-west part of Western Australia. It is part of the Shire of Bridgetown-Greenbushes, which has a population of approximately 5,000 people. The town's history dates back to the 1860s when the first settlers arrived in the area.
The town's name comes from two separate settlements, Bridgetown and Greenbushes. Bridgetown was established in 1868 and was named after Bridgetown, County Cork, Ireland. The original settlement was situated on the Blackwood River, which provided a vital source of water for the town. The town grew rapidly, thanks to the arrival of the railway in 1881. The railway provided a link between Bridgetown and Perth, which helped to boost the town's economy.
Greenbushes, on the other hand, was established in the late 1880s, when gold was discovered in the area. The town was named after the green bushes that grew in the hills surrounding the town. The gold rush brought many people to the area, and the town grew quickly. However, the gold soon ran out, and the town's population declined.
In the early 1900s, the town of Bridgetown Greenbushes began to develop into an agricultural hub. Many farmers began to settle in the area, attracted by the fertile soil and the availability of water. The Blackwood River provided a source of irrigation, which allowed farmers to grow crops such as wheat, oats, and barley. Sheep and cattle were also farmed in the area.
In the 1920s, the town's economy received another boost with the arrival of the timber industry. The surrounding forests provided a source of timber, which was used for building houses and furniture. The timber industry became one of the main employers in the area, and the town grew as a result.
During World War II, Bridgetown Greenbushes played an important role in the war effort. The town was home to the Bridgetown Airfield, which was used as a training base for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). The airfield also housed a radar station, which monitored the coastline for enemy ships. The town's timber industry also played a vital role in the war effort, providing timber for the construction of military buildings and equipment.
In the years that followed, the town's economy continued to grow. The dairy industry became a major employer in the area, and the town's vineyards began to produce award-winning wines. Today, the town is known for its agriculture, timber, and tourism industries.
One of the town's most iconic landmarks is the Bridgetown Bridge. The bridge was constructed in 1905 and spans the Blackwood River. It was the longest and tallest timber bridge in Western Australia at the time of its construction and is still in use today. The bridge is an important part of the town's history and is a popular tourist attraction.
Another notable feature of the town is the Greenbushes Discovery Centre. The centre tells the story of the town's mining history, including the discovery of tin in the area in the 1880s. The centre also features a large collection of minerals and mining equipment, as well as interactive displays and activities.
In conclusion, the town of Bridgetown Greenbushes has a rich history that spans over 150 years. From its early beginnings as an agricultural and timber hub to its involvement in the war effort, the town has played an important role in Western Australia's history. Today, the town continues to be a vibrant and thriving community, attracting tourists from around the world to experience its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.