Ghost Towns Sit Abandoned Across WA: Here Are Some You Can Even Visit in the State's East

Western Australia (WA) is home to a number of ghost towns, each with its own unique history and eerie charm. These forgotten settlements, once thriving communities during the state’s mining, farming, and early settlement eras, have since been abandoned. Yet, many of these ghost towns remain remarkably preserved, providing a fascinating glimpse into WA’s past. In the state’s eastern regions, a few of these towns are even open to visitors, offering a chance to step back in time and explore abandoned streets, buildings, and stories frozen in history. Let’s take a look at some notable ghost towns in WA's east that you can explore today.

1. Gwalia

Located just outside Leonora in the Goldfields region, Gwalia is one of WA’s best-preserved ghost towns. This once-bustling mining town flourished during the gold rush in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The town was home to the renowned Gwalia Mine, which was one of the richest gold mines in the region. However, when the mine closed in the 1960s, the town was quickly deserted.

Today, Gwalia offers a glimpse into the past, with several of its original buildings still standing. The Gwalia Museum is a must-visit, housed in the former mine manager’s residence. It showcases a collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that tell the story of the town's rise and fall. Visitors can wander the deserted streets, admire the old miner’s cottages, and even explore the headframe and other remnants of the mine.

2. Coolgardie

A short drive from Kalgoorlie, Coolgardie was once one of the most prosperous gold-mining towns in WA during the late 19th century. Its rapid growth was fueled by the gold rush, but like many other gold towns, it saw a steep decline when the gold reserves ran out, and people moved on to other areas. Today, Coolgardie’s streets are dotted with abandoned buildings, including old hotels, shops, and churches.

Although Coolgardie is still home to a small population, its historic core feels like stepping into a ghost town. Key sites to visit include the Coolgardie Heritage Trail, which takes visitors through important landmarks, and the Coolgardie Pioneer Cemetery, where the region’s early settlers are buried. The town also has a few preserved buildings such as the Coolgardie Visitor Centre, where you can learn more about its colorful history.

3. Bullsbrook

Bullsbrook, located to the north of Perth, is another abandoned spot with deep historical significance. Once a bustling town, Bullsbrook began to fade as people left in search of new opportunities elsewhere. Today, the town is a ghost of its former self, with several old farmhouses and buildings left to the elements.

Though not as well-preserved as other ghost towns, Bullsbrook’s quiet streets and surrounding farmland offer a nostalgic feel of an older, forgotten Australia. The remnants of the past are evident in the old buildings scattered across the town, but it’s best known for its picturesque surroundings and proximity to other historic places in the area.

4. Kookynie

Kookynie, also located in the Goldfields, is a small ghost town that once thrived due to its proximity to the mining industry. The town was founded in the 1890s as a base for workers in nearby gold mines. As with many other gold-mining towns, Kookynie’s population dwindled when the mines were depleted, and the town was abandoned.

Today, Kookynie is a fascinating place to visit for those interested in WA’s gold mining history. The town is home to the Kookynie Hotel, which has been standing since the early 1900s. Despite the town’s desolate feel, the hotel still operates as a stopover for travelers in the area. The hotel itself is a popular photographic subject, and visitors can explore the surrounding abandoned buildings and old mine shafts nearby.

5. Lawlers

Nestled between Leonora and Kookynie, Lawlers is another ghost town with a rich history tied to the gold rush. The town’s boom years came in the late 1800s when the discovery of gold led to rapid development. However, once the gold ran dry, the town was quickly abandoned, and the buildings were left to deteriorate.

Today, Lawlers is a quiet reminder of WA’s mining past. The town still features a number of old buildings and remnants of the gold rush era, though it is largely untouched by modern development. Visitors can walk through the empty streets, admire the remains of the once-thriving community, and explore the surrounding desert landscape.

6. The Granites

For those interested in a more remote ghost town experience, The Granites is located in the eastern part of WA, close to the border with the Northern Territory. This gold-mining settlement boomed in the early 20th century but was quickly abandoned when the gold deposits were exhausted. Today, the site is largely inaccessible, but those with a sense of adventure can make their way to the area to discover the abandoned remnants of the town.

Though there are no official visitor facilities at The Granites, the site remains of great historical interest. Adventurers who manage to access the area can explore the remains of old mining equipment and collapsed buildings. The harsh environment and remoteness add to the ghostly atmosphere of this forgotten town.

7. Menzies

Another small but fascinating ghost town, Menzies, is located in the Goldfields region. It was established during the gold rush and once boasted a large population of miners and their families. However, like many other towns, its fortunes changed, and Menzies became largely deserted by the mid-1900s.

Today, the town still has a small population, but many of its historical buildings remain intact, including the Menzies Hotel, which still operates, offering food and drink to travelers. Visitors can stroll down the streets, exploring the remnants of the once-thriving town, and stop by the local Menzies Cemetery, where many of the town’s early residents were laid to rest.

Why Visit These Ghost Towns?

For those who love history, photography, or just the thrill of exploring abandoned places, WA’s ghost towns offer an unforgettable experience. These locations provide a fascinating look at life during WA’s early settlement and mining eras, capturing a snapshot of what was once a vibrant, bustling town now left to the ravages of time.

Visiting these ghost towns allows us to reflect on the cycles of boom and bust, the challenges of isolation, and the resilience of those who built these communities. They also serve as powerful reminders of the transient nature of human settlements and the inexorable march of time.

Tips for Visiting Ghost Towns:

Plan ahead: Many of these ghost towns are located in remote areas, so it’s important to plan your trip in advance. Ensure you have enough water, food, and a reliable vehicle for travel.

Respect the site: Abandoned places are often fragile, and it’s crucial to respect their history. Avoid vandalism, graffiti, or taking souvenirs.

Safety first: Many ghost towns feature decaying structures or hazardous terrain. Always be cautious and mindful of your surroundings.