Central Greenough on Yamatji Country provides an example of colonial expansion in the mid-nineteenth century.
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About Central Greenough on Yamatji Country
Located on Yamatji Country approximately 25 km south of Geraldton and 380 km north of Perth, the Greenough Flats form the flood plain of the river system close to the mouth of the Greenough River.
During the 1860s Greenough became a thriving agricultural area and developed as the local administrative centre; housing churches, schools, stores, government, and law enforcement offices necessary to service the increasing population.
Today the heart of Greenough – a collection of eleven preserved heritage buildings including a gaol, courthouse, police station, churches, and school – continues to share the stories of our people and capture the extraordinary history of our state and the region in the 1800s.
You can explore the site as a self-guided walking tour, and stop by the cafe for a bite to eat afterward.
Please note, St Catherine’s Hall is currently closed for maintenance.
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History
During the 1860s Greenough became a thriving agricultural area but the threat of rust on the wheat crops combined with drought, flood and poor prices for agricultural products led to the area’s decline.
The population of the Greenough Flats dropped dramatically in the first half of the twentieth century and many of its buildings fell into disrepair.
Today it is maintained by the National Trust as a heritage site offering a glimpse into regional life in the mid-nineteenth century.
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Conservation
The cultural heritage value of Central Greenough is well recognised and the process of conserving and interpreting the historic settlement has been a continuing project of the National Trust since the 1970s.
Recent funding from Lotterywest is allowing us to undertake a series of research projects to better understand the diverse heritage values associated with the place. Ethnographic, archaeological and historical research will contribute to a cultural landscape management plan.
Work will soon begin on an ethnographic survey, through which the National Trust aims to consult and engage with Yamatji Elders to better understand contemporary connections to Central Greenough and the rich Yamatji history of the area. Recommendations from the ethnographic survey will contribute to a broader cultural landscape management plan for Central Greenough which better reflects the diverse cultural heritage values of the Central Greenough landscape.
