Whether you want a short getaway, a holiday, or something in between, consider visiting Katanning, a cultural gem in the Great Southern region of Western Australia.
Located less than 300 km from Perth, Katanning’s roots are ancient, established about 45,000 years ago by the indigenous Noongar people – the first custodians of the region. The town’s name comes from the Noongar word for meeting place. To this day, Katanning is a welcoming town with numerous events that gather people together.
What Makes Katanning Unique as a Destination in Western Australia?
Katanning’s deep spiritual and environmental connections flow from the rich legacy imparted by the Noongar people. It is in their footprints that we find the brilliant mosaic of Katanning’s cultural foundation.
Cultural Diversity
Katanning is one of the most culturally diverse towns in Western Australia, with over 50 language groups. It encompasses thriving communities that include Middle Eastern, Asian, Noongar, European, Malay, and Cocos Islands. Part of Katanning’s strength is in its ability to embrace cultural differences and build upon them. By doing this, the town benefits socially and economically.
Agriculture in the Wheat Belt
Katanning is a significant fixture in Western Australia’s agricultural region, the Wheat Belt. Farming and raising livestock are built into the fabric of the town.
Outdoor Adventure
Nature enthusiasts find a vast array of opportunities for adventure and discovery. Hiking, camping, kayaking, and viewing the natural beauty of local flora and fauna are among the ways to enjoy the great outdoors in and around Katanning.
Art and Heritage
From murals to restored historical buildings to the celebration of ancient endeavours, artistry is a cornerstone of Katanning. Lovers of art and history will be delighted when visiting the town’s many sights.
Astrotourism
Astrotourism is a hugely popular activity in Western Australia. Katanning is an ideal location for gazing at the stars. The combination of wide horizons and minimal light pollution creates an excellent environment for observing the night sky.
Six Things to do in Katanning
1. All Ages Playground
- Katanning WA 6317
- Open 24/7 Free Admission
To experience fun for the entire family, be sure to visit the All Ages Playground while visiting Katanning. The park has slides, swings, seesaws, rocking horses and tunnels fit for all visitors. Additionally, you can enjoy the flying fox, a rock climbing wall and an aerial walkway.
Key highlights:
- Best Time to Visit: Open year-round, with cooler mornings ideal for families.
- What to Do: Try the flying fox, rock climbing wall, and aerial walkway alongside classic playground favourites.
- Tips: Pack a picnic and take advantage of the shaded areas for a longer stay.
- Recommended For: Families, children, and anyone young at heart.
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2. Public Art Silo Trail
- Self-guided driving trail
A permanent outdoor gallery, the Public Art Silo Trail is an outstanding collection of silos and other immense structures adorned with murals that highlight local culture and painted by leading artists. The art journey spans around 1,000 km across Western Australia.
Key highlights:
- Best Time to Visit: Accessible all year; early mornings and late afternoons provide the best light for photography.
- What to Do: Drive the trail at your own pace and admire large-scale murals created by renowned artists.
- Tips: Bring a camera and plan fuel stops, as the full trail covers around 1,000 km.
- Recommended For: Art lovers, photographers, and road-trippers.
3. Lake Ewlyamartup
- 52 Austral Terrace, Katanning, Western Australia 6317
- (08) 9821 9999
There is something for everyone to enjoy at Lake Ewlyamartup. The recreational lake is a favourite with those who enjoy water activities. Whether your pastime involves boating, water skiing, kayaking, fishing, or swimming, you can indulge in your favourite watersport. Birdwatchers delight in trying to spot some of the 95 bird species that call Lake Ewlyamartup home. Campers can take advantage of the 24-hour self-contained camping that is available. Additionally, there are BBQs, picnic tables, a boat ramp and a bird hide.
Key highlights:
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for water activities, spring and autumn for birdwatching.
- What to Do: Swim, kayak, fish, or simply enjoy a lakeside BBQ and picnic.
- Tips: Birdwatchers can look out for over 90 species, while campers can use the self-contained overnight area.
- Recommended For: Outdoor enthusiasts, families, and nature lovers.
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4. Katanning Regional Sheep Saleyards
- Nyabing Road, Katanning, Western Australia
- Sales every Wednesday beginning at 8:30 AM.
The largest undercover sheep selling facility in the Southern Hemisphere, Katanning Regional Sheep Saleyards, opened for business in 2018. The facility sits on four hectares and can handle up to 40,000 sheep in one day. The enormity of the saleyard is an awe-inspiring sight.
Key highlights:
- Best Time to Visit: Wednesdays from 8:30 am during weekly sheep sales.
- What to Do: Watch the action of the live sales and explore the vast facility that can handle up to 40,000 sheep in a single day.
- Tips: Arrive early to see the saleyards at their busiest.
- Recommended For: Agricultural enthusiasts, families curious about farming, and first-time visitors to regional WA.
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5. Katanning Public Art Gallery
- 16 Austral Terrace Katanning WA 6317
- Phone: (08) 9821 4310
- gallery@katanning.wa.gov.au
The Katanning Public Art Gallery is a must-see for art lovers visiting the area. One of the Great Southern Region’s largest galleries, it often features works that honour the Noongar people. Additionally, exhibits of works touring Australia are showcased regularly.
Key highlights:
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with exhibitions changing regularly.
- What to Do: Explore touring collections from across Australia and exhibitions highlighting Indigenous culture.
- Tips: Check the gallery’s schedule before visiting to see which exhibitions are on.
- Recommended For: Art lovers, culture seekers, and history enthusiasts.
6. Astrotourism and Stargazing
Katanning’s location in the Wheatbelt provides excellent conditions for stargazing. Wide horizons and low light pollution create clear night skies, making it easy to view the Milky Way and constellations.
Key highlights:
- Best Time to Visit: Clear, moonless nights throughout the year. Autumn and winter usually provide the clearest skies.
- What to Do: Travel just outside town to open areas or reserves along the Wheatbelt Way and enjoy the view of the stars.
- Tips: Bring a blanket, binoculars or a stargazing app to help identify constellations. Turn off all lights nearby to improve visibility.
- Recommended For: Astronomy enthusiasts, photographers, and families seeking a memorable evening activity.
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Worth the Drive: Pink Salt Lakes
Roughly an hour west of Katanning, along the Great Southern Highway, you will find Cranbrook’s Pink Salt Lakes. These stunning natural wonders sit along the route of an ancient watercourse and are easy to view from one of the designated viewing areas. The shades of pink vary according to seasonal microbial pigments as well as the level of saltiness. Because the lakes are primarily situated on private land, direct access is not available. Locals advise that the best time to see the Pink Salt Lakes is during the spring or summer in the late afternoon light.
Key highlights:
- Best Time to Visit: Spring or summer, particularly late in the afternoon when the colours are most vivid.
- What to Do: Stop at designated viewing areas for the best perspective and photography opportunities.
- Tips: The lakes sit on private land, so access is limited to viewing points along the Great Southern Highway.
- Recommended For: Nature photographers, road-trippers, and anyone looking for a memorable regional detour.
Five Tips for a Perth to Katanning Road Trip
There is plenty to enjoy on a road trip from Perth to Katanning. If you believe the town to be a mere pitstop on the way to Albany, you are missing out on the joy of the journey. Here are five tips to help you make the most of your road trip.
- Secure reliable transportation by contacting Aries Car Rental. You’re your personal vehicle, a break from the wear and tear of a road trip. A smart plan is to take advantage of our set fee from Perth to Katanning. Many of our customers have expressed their appreciation for the option. It takes the guesswork out of the trip’s cost and frees you to embark on a few side trips in the area.
- Fuel up and pack a few snacks before hitting the road. Williams or Narrogin are great options to stop and fill your tank. While the three-hour journey is not excessive, you never want to find yourself low on fuel or without something to tide you over till mealtime.
- Remember to pack an extra phone charger. Phone reception is solid throughout the entire drive, but good reception will not mean much if your battery is dead.
- As with any road trip, inform someone of your itinerary. You should write down the phone numbers of a friend or family member in case you are not able to use your phone.
- Bring along a paper map in case there are navigational issues.
Since the drive from Perth to Katanning is relatively short, you may enjoy a scenic stop or two along the way. Consider these options,
- Armadale – An ideal place to stop for a meal before getting on the highway
- Wungong Dam – Enjoy a short, scenic trail with amazing views.
- Williams – This is your midway point, making it a natural place to stop for a bit.
- Woodanilling Pool – If you are keen to see some kangaroos or enjoy a picnic, this is the place to stop.
- Wagin – If you have never seen the famous nine-meter-tall Giant Ram Statue by Andrew Hickson, this is your chance. Built in 1985 to celebrate Wagin’s part in building Australia’s wool industry, the statue has the distinction of being one of the few animal statues that is anatomically correct.
Conclusion
Katanning is the perfect blend of fun, relaxation, and adventure for all ages and abilities, making it an ideal location for your next trip. Add peace of mind to your getaway by hiring a car from Aries Car Rental. You can relax knowing you will receive a clean vehicle in excellent condition ready to take on the adventure of the Great Southern Highway.