Mount Magnet Local History
Located in the Mid West region of Western Australia, Mount Magnet is a small town with a rich history. For thousands of years, the area was inhabited by the Amangu people, who lived off the land and revered the nearby rock formations as spiritual sites.
In 1854, explorer Robert Austin became the first European to discover the area, naming the mountain after the compasses he used to guide him. The discovery of gold in 1891 brought an influx of settlers to the region, as miners flocked to the area in search of their fortunes.
During its heyday, Mount Magnet was a bustling town with a population of over 10,000 people. The town boasted a number of hotels, banks, stores, and even a stock exchange. At one point, the town produced more gold ore than any other in Western Australia.
As the gold rush faded, however, so too did the town's fortunes. By the 1930s, the population had dwindled to only a few hundred. Today, Mount Magnet is a quiet town with a population of just over 500 people.
Despite its small size, Mount Magnet is home to a number of historical sites and landmarks. The Mt Magnet Heritage Trail offers visitors a chance to explore the town's rich history, with stops at sites such as the old police station and the original post office. The town also has a number of well-preserved historic buildings, including the grand White Feather Hotel, which dates back to 1893.
However, the most iconic landmark in Mount Magnet is undoubtedly the nearby rock formations. The granite outcrops of Mt. Magnet and nearby Cue were considered sacred by the Amangu people, and continue to be revered by many today. Visitors to the region can take in the stunning scenery on walks through the bushland or from lookout points.
Mount Magnet may not be the bustling town it once was, but its rich history and stunning natural beauty continue to attract visitors from around the world. The town stands as a reminder of the excitement and adventure of Australia's gold rush era, and the resilience of communities in the face of change.