The Shire of Mullewa recently paid tribute to its pastoral heritage, installing eight steel silhouettes reminiscent of the state’s early history of stock movement along the De Grey-Mullewa Stock Route.

 

The scene depicts a 10 foot tall drover and his dog chasing a rampaging bull that has broken away from the mob, and extends from within the Pioneer Women’s Park on the Geraldton Mt Magnet Road, across the road island and over the opposite side.

 

CEO of the Shire of Mullewa Tom Hartman said the De Grey Stock Route, which commences 70 kilometres north-east of Port Hedland at the mouth of the De Grey River, has played an important role in Mullewa’s history, where the route terminates.

 

“The route was gazetted in 1905 and was used to move stock from the Kimberley into Perth. Early pastoralists supported the growth of this town,” he said.

 

Markers on the route such as Perkins No. 2 Government Well, Waterfall, White Government Well, Woodenooka Government Well and Hughie Rocks are all within driving distance of the town site.

 

“We hope this project will generate interest in our heritage and encourage people to spend time exploring the area,” Mr Hartman said.

 

The project is part of the Mullewa Townscape Plan, and the artwork was carried out by Shire Works Supervisor Bob Roden.