The name ‘Tambellup’ is thought to derive from the Noongar word meaning “place of thunder” or “a place where many Tammars (small marsupials) are found,” reflecting the area’s deep connection between landscape, language, and wildlife. This rich Noongar heritage is particularly evident along the Gordon River, which flows through the town. The Tambellup Heritage Trail offers visitors a chance to follow this waterway and explore its cultural significance, with interpretive signage telling the stories of the river’s importance to the Goreng Noongar people. Along its banks, numerous sites of spiritual and cultural importance reveal the enduring relationship between the land and its Traditional Owners.
European settlement in the area began in the 1870s when Josiah Norrish established landholdings east of the present townsite. Like many early settlers, he began with sandalwood cutting before transitioning to sheep grazing and cropping, activities that still form the backbone of the district’s thriving agricultural sector. The arrival of the Great Southern Railway in 1889 transformed Tambellup into a regional hub, attracting new settlers and sparking economic growth. By 1899, Tambellup was officially gazetted as a townsite, laying the foundations for a vibrant rural community that continues today.
The Gordon River and surrounding reserves offer peaceful walking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and a chance to spot native wildlife in their natural habitat. Springtime brings bursts of wildflowers to the area, painting the landscape with colour.
Throughout the year, Tambellup hosts a variety of local gatherings and sporting events bringing residents and visitors together in true country style. The Tambellup Community Resource Centre often serves as a hub of community activity for locals and those passing through.
Tambellup Attractions
Tambellup Heritage Trail
A series of three interconnecting trails that start in the centre of town take in much of the history of the early settlement (brochures available at the CRC and Shire office). The Town Trail is a loop that follows a 600m self-guided walk with information boards and plaques along the way. The River Trail is to the north of town and is more than 2km in length. The stories are told on orientation boards at the start and in the brochure. The Noongar Trail is 1.5km in length. It is south of the town along the Gordon River and takes in the landscape of the river and reserve.
Corner Shop Museum
The museum is situated in the old Stationmaster’s House adjacent to the railway line on Norrish Street. Rooms have been recreated using furniture and artefacts of bygone years. For a viewing, please contact Anne-Marie Lockyer on 9825 1162.
Diprose Park
Centrally located, the park has a shaded children’s play area, outdoor fitness equipment, free BBQ and toilets. Located on the corner of Crowden and Taylor Streets it is a fantastic place for a picnic or to take a break from your long drive.
Tambellup Community Resource Centre
The main hub of the town, located in a building more than 100 years old and originally run as a “Gentleman’s Club” it still has original historical etched windows and interior fixtures.
Railway Water Tank
This feature is one of the few remaining links to the days when the Great Southern depended on steam trains. Unfortunately, the tank is now gone but the tank stand remains. Just to the north of the tank are indicators from the 1955 and 1982 floods to show how high the Gordon River rose. It is very hard to imagine.
Toolbrunup School
The school is now 100 years old and features the original blackboard and desks. The school is preserved by neighbouring families and is well worth a visit. It is located along the Toolbrunup Road (4km south along the Great Southern Highway) and is used widely for picnics, meetings and even the odd wedding.
St Peters Church
Located on Pindellup Road, the little church in the bush is over 100 years old and is lovingly cared for by neighbouring farming families. Services and social gatherings are still held here and the Pindellup cemetery is located a short walk or drive north of the church.
Gordon River Weir and Picnic Area
Located on Tambellup West Road the Gordon River Weir area and the river upstream are home to a large population of black swans who return annually to feed in the shallow water. A great place to stop and observe these majestic birds.
Accommodation
Tambellup Hotel
P: (08) 9825 1010
Sage Cottage
P: 0431 866 849
Food
Tambellup Post Café
P: (08) 9825 1169
124 Tambellup Store
P: (08) 9825 3174
Tambellup Hotel
P: (08) 9825 1010
Visitor Information
Shire of Broomehill-Tambellup
46 – 48 Norrish St, Tambellup 6320 (Main Office)
W: shirebt.wa.gov.au
E: [email protected]
P: (08) 9825 3555
Tambellup CRC
P: (08) 9825 1177
