WAPort & river
Bunbury
A port for the south-west’s farms and forests.
1838Early farm settlement milestone
WHAT STARTED IT
Bunbury developed where coastal shipping could connect settlers with the south-west’s hinterland. Early farmers traded produce with visiting whalers, and the town gradually acquired a broader port role.
WHAT SUSTAINED IT
John and Helen Scott established a farm on Stirling’s land in 1838. Shallow water and hard basalt restricted early harbour growth. Convict labour later helped build roads, bridges and the jetty, while rail connections enlarged the port’s reach. Bunbury became a city in 1979.
TURNING POINTS
1838The Scotts begin farming at Eelup.
Late 1800sRailway and port infrastructure expand.
1979Bunbury gains city status.
WHAT IT DOES NOW
A major south-west regional centre with port activity, industry, health and education services. The modern harbour continues the maritime purpose of the early settlement.