Location
A premium retirement estate in a prize location, Australind Rise is relaxed coastal living at its best. The estate is perfectly set between the idyllic Collie River and the Indian Ocean. Look the other way and the vibrant go-ahead city precinct of Bunbury central is right there, conveniently close to home. With access to top recreation amenities and all the benefits of city living, you’ll feel right at home. The natural setting overlooking the inlet adds a special dimension to a truly relaxed way of life.
Australind
Australind ranks among the best sea change destinations in Western Australia and is, with a population of nearly 8000, one of the state’s fastest growing regional towns.
At the south-western end of the Harvey Shire, Australind is virtually surrounded by water. The Brunswick and Collie Rivers are to the east and south, and the Leschenault Estuary to the west. This unique environment creates an aquatic paradise where boating, sailing and fishing are some of the activities to enjoy.
The waters around Australind are abundant with silver bream, whiting, tailor, flathead, flounder and herring. When in season, there are also large populations of prawns and Blue Manna crabs in the estuary. The great fishing and crabbing create hours of fun for the whole family.
With the Australind Village Shopping Centre, full of specialty stores and a supermarket, and the 18 hole Bunbury Golf Club, Australind is a vibrant, modern community enjoying a wonderful, relaxed lifestyle.
Features
The Leschenault Peninsula Nature Reserve at the northern end of Australind, is abundant with native wildlife. Incredibly, 60 species of birds have been recorded in this area. At dusk, a stroll through the reserve will reward with magnificent views of great flocks of native birds converging on the inlet to settle at the water’s edge. Watch the dolphins play on the southern and western sides of the peninsula while taking in a spectacular sunset. Truly an idyllic setting for the numerous picnic spots, barbecues and camping areas.
Just south of the town centre on Old Coast Road, you can learn about the plants and animals within the estuary environment at the Lechenault Discovery Centre. Then take a relaxing walk on the jetty over the tranquil waters of the estuary. This area is a great place to fish, to gather for a barbecue or just to relax with a good book.
Cathedral Avenue, the original Old Coast road, makes a pleasant, shady scenic drive along the estuary foreshore. It has stretches of paperbark trees that arch over the road; reminiscent of a cathedral ceiling. This is a favourite place for kangaroos and black swans, especially at sunset. BBQs and picnic sites are located along this drive.
History
Australind was founded in 1841, making it one of the earliest settlements in the State. It was named by its founders from a contraction of Australia and India, inspired by a trade agreement between the two countries. The town boasts many heritage buildings and features.
Henton Cottage was built in 1841 by William Dacres Williams as the “Prince of Wales Hotel”. Its original two rooms came from England as a prefabricated building. Surrounded by heritage roses, creating beautiful gardens, the Cottage now houses a Tourist Information Centre, arts crafts and collectable antiques.
An interesting reminder of the early days, the Church of St Nicholas was built in the 1840s as a small workman’s hut. It was subsequently used as a church since it was the only building then available for settlers to use as a place of worship. Made of Jarrah and measuring only 3.8 × 6.7m, it claims the distinction of being the smallest church in Western Australia.
Upton House was built during 1844 and 1845 for Mrs Elizabeth Fry. The original building bricks are believed to have been cargo or ballast on the “Trusty” during her second voyage to Australind in 1844. Today this is a private residence and is not open to the public.
Useful Links
Harvey Tourism
Australind Tourist Park
Featured Wood Gallery
Bunbury Golf Club
Bunbury Visitor Centre
Bunbury Dolphin Discovery Centre
Grand Cinemas, Bunbury
South West Life
Download the Australind Rise Information Brochure