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Dunsborough History & Historical Attractions

History

The Dutch named the southern tip of the coast “Leeuwin’s Land” in 1622, but it was the Frenchman Nicoholas Baudin who sailed up the coast in 1801, around Cape Naturaliste into Geographe Bay. Both names come from his two vessels the Geographe and the Naturaliste.

The movement of settlers from Augusta to Busselton in the 1830s brought about settlement in the area. By 1845, Castle Rock Whaling Station was in operation, just north of the township.

The town was proclaimed in 1877, even though it consisted of only a few shacks. The first general store in Dunsborough opened for business until 1925, with the first bakery opening in the 1930s.'

It’s not totally clear how the town got its name, but the common belief is that the name came from an American whaler named Dunn, who settled in the area during the wet season. The area simply became known as “Dunns Burrow”, “Dunnsboro” or “Dunnsborough”. The second “n” was dropped in the 1940s.

Modern Day Dunsborough is a bustling beach side holiday town which still manages to retain that feeling of casual holidays.  Activities range from all water sports, walking trails exploring the Leeuwin Naturaliste Park, visiting wineries, partaking of the many gourmet food outlets to just simply relaxing and chilling out.  It’s that sort of town!

Historical Attractions

The Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse and Maritime Museum

Sited 13 kms from the town, you get to view the breathtaking views of the bay and surrounding area from this historic lighthouse. The region’s fascinating maritime history is faithfully recorded in the museum.  A platform and shelter provide a splendid lookout for whale watching during the annual migratory periods, from September to December.

The Lighthouse is open daily from 9.30am – 4.30pm (last entry 4pm) and until 5pm (last entry 4.30pm)on school holidays and long weekends.  Group bookings are welcome (group concessions available).  Night tours for groups are available by appointment.

Entry fees:  adults $9, children $4.5, family pass (2 adults, 2 children) $24.  Additional children $2 each.
For more information, call 9755 3955 or email lighthouse@geographebay.com