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Paraburdoo is a town which was built in the late 1960’s to house the miners working at the Hammersley Mine. The town is approximately 1556 kms from Perth and 79 kms from Tom Price. Most of the residents here are employed either by the mine or work to support workers from the mine. The population is around 1600 and the town has its own airport 8 km from the town centre. The climate is variable with highs in the 40’s and lows dropping to single figures. Rainfall too is variable especially in cyclone season. There is not a lot of real estate for sale here and what there is can be quite expensive given the area and rentals can be very scarce as well. Paraburdoo has both a primary and a secondary school as well as pre primary, day care centre and a TAFE college. There is a good medical centre and is also serviced by the Royal Flying Doctor Service. The town has shopping facilities to cater for all your needs including a supermarket, pharmacy, hairdresser, newsagency, bottle shop, hardware store, clothing store etc. There are sporting venues including a swimming pool, tennis courts, netball, cricket and football fields.

Tom Price is a large mining centre situated in the Pilbara region and 400kms from Port Headland. Most of the people here are involved in the mining industry or associated services in some way. The Tom Price Visitors Information centre is very large and can provide lots of information regarding the area, travel, tours, permits etc. and there is ample accommodation options for the visitor. There are plenty of shops for retail therapy with department stores, supermarket chains, and specialty and boutique stores. The town is well serviced by medical centres, allied health professionals and a modern well equipped hospital and several pharmacies. Educational needs are well catered for with a choice of pre primary, primary and secondary schools as well as a TAFE college. Tom Price is big on sport with great playing fields, running tracks, swimming pools, tennis courts etc and a large indoor recreation centre. There are plenty of entertainment venues with numerous clubs and pubs as well as restaurants and cafes. Real estate prices are still very affordable in the area as are rentals which are slightly more scarce. The Karijini National park is just outside town and there are some amazing park tours available as well as trips to the Hamersley Iron Mine.

Karratha is located between Exmouth and Port headland and is approx 1557 kms north of Perth. The climate here is very tropical with a monsoon and cyclone season. Karratha is a large town and is the main administration centre for many businesses and government departments in the Pilbara area. There is a very large shopping centre here with department stores, supermarkets, specialty and boutique stores as well as a food court. Sporting facilities here are numerous with most sports being catered for. There is a large recreations centre, swimming pool, tennis courts, golf course and bowling greens as well as playing fields for many sports. There are sporting clubs and associations to join as well. The fishing here is great and many people also enjoy snorkeling, and diving or just lazing on the beautiful beaches. Visiting the Millstream-Chichester National park is a great day out with pools, forestry and historical sites. Karratha has primary and secondary schools both state and private as well as a TAFE college and a campus of Curtain University. Property prices have risen and can be a little on the expensive side given the towns distance from the capital, yet bargains are always there to be had. Karratha has a good medical centre, a modern hospital and many allied health professionals.

Situated in the Kimberly region, Wyndham is WA’s most northerly town and is an important port. The town has around 800 residents and has some amazing scenery. The port plays an important role for the handling of export cattle, nitrate used in the Argyle Diamond mines as well as fuels and other goods leaving and entering the Kimberley. Real estate prices here are average and still affordable by most people although rentals are scarce. There is good shopping with supermarkets, convenience stores etc. the town has a district school which caters for students from K-12 as well as a catholic school and a TAFE campus. There is a medical centre and a local hospital. Wyndham has an indoor recreation centre, public swimming pool and a golf course as well as playing fields and a number of sporting clubs and associations. There are many spectacular sights around this area including El Questro Station, Diggers rest station and the Parry Creek Wildlife Reserve. The climate here is very tropical with a monsoon season each summer and cyclones possible during cyclone season.

Marble bar has the reputation of being known as the hottest place in Australia and is situated 218 kms south east of Port Headland. This town’s name comes from the early settlers who mistook the jasper in the area for a large bar of marble. Marble Bar has a small population of around 500 and is basically a mining town with gold, tin, ore jade, zinc etc still being mined here. There are many old building dating back to the early settlement and gold rush days. The town has a supermarket, a few assorted specialty shops and convenience stores for you needs and has licensed restaurants, café and of course a hotel for a cold beer as well as a seafood treat at the Travellers Stop. Play a round of golf or take a dip in the local swimming pool to cool off. There are some good playing fields in Marble bar for a variety of sports. Chinaman’s pool is a great spot for a picnic. The town also has a post office, visitor information centre, motel and backpacker accommodation. Real estate prices here are moderate but rental accommodation is scarce. This hot arid town is generally comfortable from April through winter to the middle of September

Wyalkatchem is located in the wheat belt approx 200 kms north east of Perth. The area is renowned for some amazing displays of wildflowers and the town itself is a small friendly community with a population of around 500 residents. Basically an agricultural area Wyalkatchem is accessible by road and air and has good amenities available. There are district schools which cater for students from Kindy to year 12 with many extra courses being available. There is plenty of sporting activities to keep you busy including swimming, golf, bowls etc and playing fields which cater for a number of other sports. Hang Gliding is very popular with many hang gliders coming to the area especially when the championships are being held in late January or early February each year. There is a supermarket and other shops that cater for your needs as well as a hotel, and a caravan park. Wyalkatchem has a good medical centre and district hospital. Being such a small community there is not a lot of real estate for sale although some good block of land are available at very good prices to build your dream home.

Roebourne is located in the Pilbara regions and is about 1,563 kms from Perth and only 200 kms from Port Headland. With a population of just over 1,100 Roebourne is the gateway to many National parks in the inland regions, caters for many tourists and as it is on the main highway this town services all the passing traffic. Roebourne has a district school which caters for student from Kindy to year 12. The town has a TAFE campus a telecentre and a well stocked library. There is a medical centre and a district hospital as well as a supermarket and some specialty stores for all basic needs. Other services are only 40 km away in Karratha. Roebourne offers good fishing, swimming and camping as well as canoeing, rowing and windsurfing. There are numerous playing fields, a golf course and swimming pool. For sightseeing there is a scenic drive or plenty of bushwalking trails. There is not a great deal of residential property on the market here although there are some good sized block available at fairly reasonable prices. It is wise to keep in mind the climate in the area as it is tropical with a dry arid interior. Coastal areas are prone to cyclones in the summer season.

Situated only a few minutes drive north of Margaret River, Cowaramup is in a wine growing area which produces some world class wines. Each year in November sees Cowaramup host the Margaret River Wine Festival that attracts many visitors. This is a busy little town with lots to see and do and there are many arts and craft shops for your enjoyment as well as restaurants, cafes and places to sample some of the great wines. There is a supermarket and some specialty shops and being so close to Margaret River you will find everything you need close by. Being close to the coast there are plenty of water sports to indulge in like snorkeling, swimming, fishing and diving. For the land lovers there are playing fields etc as well as cultural activities. Visit the many galleries here and see good painting, sculptures and woodwork. This agricultural area has a local primary school and with a high school and several private schools 5 minutes away in Margaret River. There are good medical facilities here with a district hospital as well as a medical centre. Real estate prices are moderate but climbing slowly and rentals are still affordable for most families and singles.

Dampier is 16.5 Kms from Karratha, 1550 kms north of Perth and is a large industrial port on the Dampier Archipelago. Exports from here include natural gas, iron ore, salt and petrochemicals. Most of the area outside the main centre is national park or owned by the local aboriginal people and as such is to be respected. Dampier has plenty of shops for all basic needs as well as being able to service the tourist with accommodation, dive shops charters etc. There are a number of schools both primary and secondary, state and private. Dampier has a medical centre and hospital with up to date facilities. Real estate is at a premium here with not a lot for sale although apartments can be purchased in the resort and there are often a few homes on the market but be prepared for the price tag. Apart from work, water based activities dominate here as Dampier beach has ocean pool barbeque facilities with picnic table, etc. There is a boat ramp and a sailing club right on the water front. Tourism is a growing industry here with many people finding work in the seasonal hospitality industry. This area has a tropical climate and is very hot in summer with cyclone not uncommon. Winter in Dampier is mild and many southerners head up here to escape the southern winter.

Walkaway is situated near Geraldton and is on the Greenough River. This is a small community and there is not much to the town. There is a primary school here with an attached preschool but students have to travel to nearby Geraldton to attend high school. There same applies to medical facilities with a trip to Geraldton a must to seek medical advice or attention. Walkaway is serviced by a general store and of course there is the Walkaway Tavern. There are several places of interest around town such as the Walkaway Station Museum which has a souvenir shop and of all things a tennis club. All in all the town does not have a lot to offer yet to some people this may be bliss and add to that the very affordable housing prices here and the towns close proximity to Geraldton and the great countryside it may be just the place to get away from it all.

Dunsborough is located about three house drive south of Perth and sits on the shores of Geographe Bay. This area is a popular tourist location with many visitors from overseas, the eastern states and in deed WA residents spending leisure time in this area. One of the main industries here apart from tourism is the wine industry with a large number of vineyards here. Those that choose to live here have plenty to do with unspoilt beaches, snorkeling and diving on the wreck of the HMAS Swan and enjoying this scenic coastline. There are also many galleries, live music festivals etc to keep you entertained. There are a number of schools in the area primary and secondary, state and private and the Dunsborough Shopping centre has shops of all kinds supplying all your needs. There is a very modern, well equipped medical centre with many doctors and treatment rooms available for the local and the tourist alike. The restaurant in the area serve quality meals at realistic prices whilst offering great scenery to enhance your dining experience. Dunsborough locals are very friendly and helpful and enjoy showing what their town has to offer. Home prices here are on the increase so be quick to get a bargain.

Witchcliffe is just south of Margaret River on the Bussell Highway. The town has a small population of around 400 and is well known for its wineries. The area is basically a southern suburb of Margaret River as such has only minimal facilities listed. For all medical attention Margaret River has the medical centres and hospital. There are numerous schools in the area and again have Margaret River addresses but are in close proximity to Witchcliffe. There is a service station here for fuel supplies, a post office and several specialty shops selling convenience items. Many visitors come to Witchcliffe to see the caves and this area has over 40 of them and those people wishing to stay overnight in the area can stay at one of the B&B’s in Witchcliffe. The town is also important to the Bureau of Meteorology as the climate is measured here and weather patterns passed on the Margaret River. The town is growing slowly and there is not much in the way of real estate here but might be worth watching for the future.

WA INFO
Located in the south west area of the state Manjimup is 307 kms from Perth. The area is has good water supplies and fertile soils ideal for agriculture. Manjimup has a population of over 5,000 and has excellent facilities including a great shopping centre with supermarkets, specialty shops for all your requirements. The town relies on industries such as timber and farming as well as fruit and vegetable products with walnuts being a leader. There are primary and secondary schools here both state and catholic and there are also preschools and day care centres. The town is well serviced by good medical centres and a well equipped district hospital. Transport to and from Manjimup is easy these days and the town has an airport as well. Dining out is a pleasure with many restaurants, cafes and wineries and well as several clubs. The area has good sporting facilities with playing fields, indoor heated pool, motocross tracks and a splendid golf course. Buying property in Manjimup is very affordable with prices for a three bedroom home well below $500K and many bargains are around for the serious buyer. Rentals are a good alternative with price well with most budgets.

Pemberton is only a 4 hour drive south of Perth and in “Karri Country”. Here the Karri tree “Eucalyptus Diversicolor” is found and it is the largest tree on earth. The main industry here is still timber and farming although the wine industry now supports many people, with trades and retail as well. Pemberton is slightly inland with a 57 km drive to the coast (shorter if you have a 4WD). The town has a Post office, hardware store, supermarket, specialty shops and a general store but for larger purchases Manjimup is only a 25 km drive and offers good shopping with larger department stores. Pemberton has a state school which caters for student from Kindy right through to year 10 as well as a catholic school and a Telecentre with Tafe facilities. There is a medical centre and a relatively new hospital with up to date equipment. Sport is a big pass time here with many playing fields for different sports and there is a heated swimming pool in Manjimup. There are a number of cafes, takeaway food outlets and several restaurants in town as well as wineries to visit. Real estate prices are moderate so there are often good bargains but with growing tourism prices are set in increase.

Lancelin is located 94 kms north of Perth and is a small coastal fishing town well known for its water sports and many tourists come to the town for snorkeling as there are many reefs as well as shipwrecks to explore. There is a thriving rock lobster industry here with the bay providing safe anchorage. Lancelin is known as the gateway to a dive trail which is known internationally. The area is also popular with international windsurfers. Apart from the Rock Lobster Industry the town is also supported by the growing tourist industry and many new businesses are opening up. There is a supermarket and specialty shops, a hotel, accommodation for tourists, including backpackers and a number of cottages, restaurants and takeaway food outlets, a swimming pool and other sporting venues, as well as a local police station, post office and petrol station. There is both a primary and a secondary school here for the children’s educational needs and there is a small medical centre with one doctor, but no hospital and the nearest is at nearby Moora. Real estate varies in price with many taking advantage of the growing tourist trade which is lifting prices in the small town.

Kalamunda can be found east of Perth about 25 kms away from the CBD and encompasses a large shire with over 50,000 residents scattered over several towns. There is a state forest here and is a beautiful spot. The town its self boasts everything you could need with good medical centres with GP’s and allied health professionals, and a well equipped district hospital. There are some good shopping facilities with supermarkets as well as specialty shops, convenience stores, banks, chemists etc. Kalamunda has numerous sporting fields for cricket, football hockey etc and indoor recreation centres that cater for sports such as netball, basketball, gymnastics and group fitness. There is also a swimming pool and golf courses scattered around the area. Kalamunda has primary and secondary schools both state and private as well as preschools and daycare centres. As Kalamunda is close to Perth and all facilities of a large city, property prices tend to be higher than in many regional centres and prices are now starting to climb to match those of many eastern centres. Rentals too are on the increase but still affordable especially is you are moving from one of the eastern states Of course bargains are always there to be had.

Located 285 kms east of Perth, Merredin is the largest town in the central wheat belt area and has everything for the local and tourist alike. The town has preschools and child care centres as well as primary schools and secondary schools and a TAFE Campus. The district is serviced by several medical centres and allied health professionals and has a fully upgraded district hospital with modern equipment. Merredin being such a large town has many government agencies and is a major administration centre for the Central Wheat belt. The town has a good rail and road transport system with regular services to Perth. Naturally with any town this size there is good shopping with many specialty shops as well as supermarkets etc with banks, ATM’s , restaurants and takeaway food available. There is an ever increasing interest in sport and Merredin has many playing fields and recreation venues for sports such as football, hockey, cricket, golf, squash, swimming, rifle range and areo club to name a few. Housing prices in Merredin are very good with regular growth and are still affordable for most people with some bargains still available. The rental market offers people a chance to get to know the area and look for a good property to purchase.

Northam is about an hour and a half drive north west of Perth and is in the Avon Valley. Located on the banks of the Avon River the area has fertile land and is used extensively for agriculture. There are many wineries in the area as well and some great wines come from Northam. The town is a major administration centre for the area and has everything you could need. There are good shopping facilities in the town with supermarkets and specialty shops, banks to ATM’s and some great restaurants, cafes takeaway food outlets. There are hotels and taverns for your entertainment some of which offer good economical meals. Northam has modern medical centres and a fully equipped hospital. In Northam you have a choice of educational facilities with state, religious and private, primary and secondary schools. Home prices and rentals in the area are very reasonable and given the close proximity to Perth and the easy train commute to the capital it makes the area very appealing. There are plenty of sporting activities to get involved with here including cycling, swimming, basketball, football, cricket, netball etc. There are numerous playing fields and indoor recreation centre. The town has a great community spirit with many community based activities held at regular intervals.

Wanneroo is a 30 min drive north of Perth and only 15 min from Jundalup and is a commercial and industrial area with many businesses. The area offers some great sporting facilities including an indoor aquatic centre, golf course, large indoor sports stadium, as well as tennis courts, skate park and BMX tracks. Wanneroo has very good medical facilities with several medical centres a hospital and allied health professionals. There is a choice of schools with state, catholic and private schools both primary and secondary. Renting a property in Wanneroo is becoming quite expensive but the quality is very good with very modern properties for rent. Housing prices are creeping up as well but once again there is a choice of quality with newer homes available. There are good restaurants and plenty of entertainment in the area and being so close to Perth there is always plenty to do. People in this area are friendly and Wanneroo is a very family orientated suburb with a good climate and plenty of room to grow.

Guildford is a suburb of Perth about 14 kms from the CBD. Guildford is as old as Perth and Fremantle and is an inland port. Many of the building are very old with shops with old verandahs still in use today and the whole suburb has been heritage listed. Given the close proximity to the capital there is a good chance you will find employment in any number of fields and there is a good transport system for those who wish to commute by public transport. Guildford is surrounded by good schools both primary and secondary, state and private and is close to TAFE Colleges and universities. There are plenty of sporting and recreation venues including golf courses, playing fields and recreation centres. There is no shortage of medical centres and allied health professionals, with dentists etc all close. There is plenty to do in Guildford with some great restaurants, hotels with live entertainment as well as all the cultural activities in Perth. Being close to Perth the property prices have risen in recent years and almost reflect those of the eastern states. Rental properties are climbing in value as well but with good employment it is not an issue.