Benger & Mornington
A small little hamlet on South Western Highway, Benger is located between the eco-sanctuary of the historic Benger Swamp, the rolling hills of Mornington and the Harris River State Forest. This is dairy and horse country at its best.
Benger is Noongar for Swamp and it is home to the Pindjarup people.
The explorers Thomas Peel and Stephen Henty travelled through the district in 1835. Originally, the area was known as the “flats of Mornington”, and some years later, Mornington Siding was established with a hall, school and shop/post office. Sandalwood from the area was used in the construction of the Swan River Colony.
They renamed the town site Benger in 1902, although the ruggedly beautiful forest and hills to the east are still considered the locality of Mornington.
In 1887, John Partridge founded the first dairy in the area, aptly named White Rocks after the beautiful white rocks that surround it. Like its neighbour Brunswick, Benger has some of WA’s most significant heritage rural properties.
Top 6 Things To Do
1. Take the Scenic Route
Take the scenic route to the Collie River Valley and be awed by stunning hills and forests.
From Harvey, head south on South Western Highway until you reach Mornington Road (6.2 kms). Mornington Road winds its way up the Darling Range providing magnificent views of the Swan Coastal Plain and the Harvey Region.
As you head further south-east, farmland turns to the forest. Continue on Mornington Road from 36.6 km, through the Harris River State Forest until you reach Harris River Road. Turn right onto Harris River Road and continue for 2.5kms until you reach Collie.
Return to Harvey via the Coalfields Road, which provides sensational views and photo opportunities as you descend down the range to Roelands.
Local Tip: For a shorter drive, after travelling along Mornington Road for 23kms turn right onto Gastalo Road. Note: Worsley Alumina South 32 bauxite mine will be located on your left. Continue for 8.5kms along Gastaldo Road until you reach Coalfields Road. Turn right onto Coalfields Road and start your descent back to the Harvey Region hinterland.
2. Find Australia's largest Jarrah Hadfield Tree
The biggest Jarrah tree in Australia is hidden deep within the Mornington State Forest, near Brunswick Junction. Located on Big Tree Road, the Jarrah Hadfield is more than 10 metres in circumference and over 260 years old. Try wrapping your arms around that.
Colloquially known as Big Tree, this impressive Jarrah specimen is on the National Register of Big Trees.
3. Experience Benger bliss at Roswa Farmstay
Roswa Park Farmstay is a family operated business by Mike and Lisa Wood situated 5 minutes south of Harvey in the locality of Benger. Set amongst an Arabian Horse Stud on 40 acres of green pasture with views looking out to the picturesque hills, visitors can relax and enjoy the ambiance of country life. Guest are invited to interact with their animals and are welcome to help feed, pat and enjoy time with feathered and furry animals!
Visitors are welcome to stay and bring their horses, with a safe paddock and hay provided. Upon arrangement the stable may be used.
4. Throw a fabulous function at Old Benger School
Surrounded by white fenced equestrian properties, the Old Benger School (1928) is the perfect place to host a function with a difference. Located off South Western Highway, a grass field surrounds this heritage weatherboard property. Bookings can be made through the Shire of Harvey.
5. Find a historic wetlands at Benger Swamp Nature Reserve
Benger Swamp Nature Reserve is a little-known, significant wetland west of Benger. Managed by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, the wetland supports the critically endangered Australasian Bittern and is one of only seven known breeding sites in south-western Australians for freckled ducks. he place has historic value for its association with the development of agriculture in the district.
The place also has considerable historic value. Benger Swamp was originally part of 100,000 acres granted to Col. Lautour, in 1829. In c1840, this land was bought by the West Australian Land Company. John Pierce Owen Wellard purchased land convinced that drainage would open up further possibilities for agriculture. He introduced potatoes and his success attracted others. In 1913 the swamp was divided into 10 acre lots which paid for themselves with the first crop. In 1928, the swamp was fully planted and reached peak production, a status it maintained for 40 years. Seed potatoes from the swamp were renowned and in high demand throughout the State. The Benger Swamp and its crops of potatoes were vital for the war effort and consequently, the Australian Army took over the whole output of the swamp.
6. Beat the Biddi - Yarri Hut to Lake Brockman
Join the famous Munda Biddi Trail off Mornington Road. Stay the night at the Yarri Hut before rising early to cycle north through the stunning Mornington region to Lake Brockman/Logue Brook. This 47.2km leg of the trail travels through beautiful Jarrah and Blackbutt forest and over many small creeks.
For a more laid back, simple ride on the Munda Biddi Trail, the following rides are rated as easy (classified by level of difficulty based on distance, level of terrain and surface conditions).
- Lake Brockman/Logue Brook Picnic Area to Stromlo Road (15 km)
- Myles Avenue to Lancaster Road (through Yarri campground, 16km)
- Collie to Mornington Road (15.5km)
Directions: From South Western Highway, turn onto Mornington Road. Travel 10.7kms until you reach Myles Avenue (gravel). Turn left onto Myles Avenue and travel until you reach the Munda Biddi cross section at Yukon Road. Alternatively, continue along Myles Avenue until you reach Lancaster Road. The Yarri Hut is located off Lancaster Road.
