The Shire of Gnowangerup sits on the traditional lands of the Goreng people of the Noongar nation, whose deep connection to this country dates back thousands of years. The name “Gnowangerup” is derived from the Noongar word ‘Ngow’, meaning Malleefowl, a bird native to the region and a special symbol of local wildlife.
European sandalwood cutters were among the first to pass through the area in the mid-1800s, but it wasn’t until the railway extension from Tambellup was completed in 1912 that permanent European settlement began to take hold. From there, Gnowangerup steadily grew into the strong agricultural hub it is today.
Located approximately 370km south-east of Perth, the Shire, which includes Borden, Gnowangerup and Ongerup, covers over 100,000 hectares of farmland, making it a powerhouse of broadacre cropping and livestock grazing. Wheat, lupins, barley, canola, clover seed, peas, oats and faba beans are the main crops grown here, with sheep farming remaining an important industry for both wool and meat production.
Beyond its agricultural importance, Gnowangerup has become known in recent years as the host of the Wild Gravel Cycling and Running event, held each October. This exciting event draws adventure-seekers from across the state who come to explore the scenic gravel roads, rolling farmland, and breathtaking views of the nearby Stirling Range National Park, one of the region’s most iconic natural landmarks.
