Geraldton was first traversed in 1839 by Lieutenant George Grey in a disastrous mission in which his ship was destroyed by a cyclone and as a result, had to walk back down to the Swan River colony. In the years following, numerous ships led expeditions to the Geraldton area where eventually a mine opened in the Murchison River in 1849. In 1851 the first plots of land were sold with it being recognised as a town in 1871. The town was first named ‘Gerald’s Town’ after the 4th Governor of Western Australia, Charles Fitzgerald, however, was soon shortened to Geraldton. In 1988, Geraldton officially became a city and is now the centre of fishing, agriculture, tourism and construction of the Midwest!
Attractions
Abrolhos Islands
If you’re looking for secluded getaway, surrounded by turquoise water, white beaches and friendly wildlife, then look no further from the spectacular Abrolhos Islands! Located 60kms off the coast of Geraldton, a short flight away, this oasis consists of 122 islands, home to some of the best swimming, snorkelling , diving and fishing out there! In fact, these islands have been rated as the number 2 spot in best places to go snorkelling and diving in Western Australia! The temperate and tropical waters are ideal for seeing sea lions, bottlenose dolphins as well as migrating humpback whales! 90 species of seabird use these islands as homes for their large breeding colonies, feeding on the pelagic fish species that are abundant amongst these waters. Take a charter boat or a flight to these islands for a day trip that will not be forgotten!
Beaches
Geraldton is known as the ‘windsurfing capital of Australia’ due to its consistent summer breezes and world class beaches. Separation Point and Point Moore are renowned for their windy conditions and hence make great beaches for some windsurfing or kite boarding , or even a simple surf. Geraldton doesn’t just have beaches for the water sports enthusiast though with Pages Beach and Midalias Beach being perfect, sheltered beaches for the family and a leisurely, relaxed swim. Sunset Beach cannot be missed as well, with offering the perfect end of the day by watching the final glow of the sun as it sets over the horizon!
Pink Lake
One of the more unique things to do in Geraldton is visit Hutt Lagoon, also known as the Pink Lake. Located near Port Gregory this natural phenomenon is accessed by the road along the George Grey Drive between Geraldton and Kalbarri. The 14km lake is what its name suggests…a lake that’s bright pink in colour ! This is due to the algae present in the water, changing its colour throughout the day from shades of bubble-gum pink to a silky lilac. This luminous lake attracts tourists from all over the world due to its picturesque appearance, best seen from above with a scenic flight!
Fun Facts
Distance from Perth: 423km North to Northwest
Population: 37 648
Postcode: 6530, 6531 and 6532
Founded: 1871
