Heritage History & Art

Pemberton, nestled in Western Australia’s Southern Forests region, boasts a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Indigenous Heritage

The area is traditionally inhabited by the Bibbulmun (Pibelmun) people, a subgroup of the Noongar nation. They named the region Wandergarup, meaning ‘plenty of water’. Archaeological evidence, including lizard and fish traps, tool-making sites, middens, and remnants of campsites and campfires, attests to their deep connection with the land.

European Settlement and Timber Industry

European settlement commenced after 1861 when Edward Brockman and his brother-in-law arrived, seeking suitable grazing land for horses bred for trade with India. The timber industry began in 1913, marking a significant development in the area’s economic history. The Pemberton Heritage and History Group actively preserves this legacy, and the new museum at Balang Miya is managed by this group offers insights into the region’s past.

Group Settlement Schemes

Following World War I, the Group Settlement Scheme was a government scheme aimed to establish a dairy industry by allocating land to settlers, many of whom were British ex-servicemen. Despite challenges in clearing dense forests and economic hardships, this initiative significantly influenced Pemberton’s development, although many of these farmers did not last long.

A second wave of immigration after World War II brought European settlers who diversified agriculture by introducing crops such as potatoes, tobacco, and hops. Notably, in the 1950s, farmer Arthur Bunn constructed a one-billion-litre dam, now Lake Beedelup, to irrigate his hop crops, supplying the Swan Brewery.

The expansion of the railway network was pivotal to Pemberton’s growth. In 1926, the line was extended to Pemberton, facilitating the transport of timber and agricultural products. Between 1929 and 1933, the railway further extended to Northcliffe, this is considered one of the most expensive railway in Australia at the time costing $1,000,000.

Trout Industry

The establishment of the Pemberton Freshwater Research Centre in 1947 marked the beginning of the trout industry in the region. As Western Australia’s largest freshwater hatchery and research facility, it has been instrumental in supporting the state’s trout fishery and broader freshwater aquaculture industry. The centre continues to play a vital role in enhancing recreational fishing experiences and supporting the local economy.

Agricultural Evolution

Over the years, Pemberton’s agricultural landscape has evolved. While dairy farming was a focus during the Group Settlement era, the region has diversified into various crops. In recent times, many dairy farms have transitioned into avocados, reflecting the area’s adaptability and fertile soils.

Cultural and Artistic Vibrancy

Today, Pemberton thrives as a hub of art, food, wine, and outdoor activities. The local artistic community, encompassing Pemberton, Northcliffe, and Manjimup, enriches the region through exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events. The Pemberton Arts Group, formed in 2004, is committed to promoting excellence and cultural opportunities through the arts, encouraging emerging artists and supporting members to create an arts culture within the local community.

This blend of rich history, cultural diversity, and artistic expression makes Pemberton a unique and vibrant community in Western Australia.