The Balingup Region

The Balingup District was first settled in 1859 by Walter Padbury, whose historic homestead Ferndale still stands on the Nannup Road.  Other early homesteads still occupied are Golden Valley and Southampton House.   Balingup was declared a township in 1898 and is now part of the Donnybrook Balingup Shire.

The curious visitor will find many traces of our history and much to interest them throughout the district.

The orchard industry became established in Balingup in 1895 when a Swiss nurseryman named Jacob Hawter established what was then the largest orchard in the State.  He also created the first purpose built cool store in the state.  This building is still standing today.

The first metal producing mine in WA was established in nearby Greenbushes in 1888.  The mine is still in production and is the world's largest Tantalum producer.  The mine has an excellent lookout, which is well worth a visit.  Greenbushes also has a working timber mill, walk trails and a heritage museum.

Progressive farming methods and the introduction of improved pastures, superphosphate and subterranean clover saw dairy farming become the major rural industry in the district, and in 1933 a cheese factory was established.  However the lack of land suitable for irrigation eventually caused the dairy farms to become uncompetitive and the factory closed down in 1977; to be re-born as the largest arts and craft centre in the southern hemisphere.

Today Balingup is famous for its wonderful scenery, with rolling green hills shrouded with mist in winter; acres of beautiful spring blossoms; lush orchards, glowing sunsets and spectacular night skies in summer; amazing autumn colours and warm friendly people the whole year round.

The best time to visit Balingup is "right now", before the whole world gets here!