The Fitzgerald River National Park is one of the largest national parks in Australia containing 20% of thee's described plant species. The park covers an area of 329,039ha and is one of the most diverse botanical regions in the world, featuring more than 1,800 species of plants, 75 of these are found nowhere else in the world. There are 184 bird species, 22 mammal species, 41 reptile species and 12 frog species living in the park. A number of species have only recently been rediscovered here, including the Dibbler and Heath Rat. For further information head to the Department of Parks and Wildlife website.
In March 2017 a revised renomination form was submitted for an expanded Fitzgerald River National Park Biosphere Reserve under the UNESCO Man and Biosphere Program. See further details here.
Some attractions of the Park include:
Wildflowers
Wildflower season in the park peaks during Spring (September to November), however some wildflowers can be seen in bloom throughout the year. Species to watch out for include the Royal Hakea (Hakea victoria) and the Quaalup Bell (Pimelia physodes).
During the winter months (July to November) you can see Southern Right Whales from theviewing platforms at Point Ann and along the coastline to Bremer Bay. Southern Right Whales come into the sheltered bays for calving and can be as close as six metres from the shore. Humpback whales can also be seen as they make their way up the and down the coast. The number of whales has been increasing every year since hunting ceased in the 1970's.
Bushwalking
There are a number of walks in the park including:
West Mount Barren - allow 1-2 hours
Point Ann Heritage Trail - allow 1 hour
Twertup Walk - allow 1-2 hours
East Mount Barren - allow 3 hours
West Beach Point - allow 1 hour
Please contact a Ranger to register for overnight walks or for further details on other walks (see below).
Fishing
There are numerous fishing spots all along the coastline, with a number of beaches in the park well known for rock and beach fishing. Normal fishing regulations apply.
Camping
Vehicle based camping is available at Four Mile Beach, Hamersley Inlet, Quoin Head, Fitzgerald Inlet and Saint Mary Inlet. Camping fees apply. For further information contact a Ranger (see below).
Activities
Contact Friends of the Fitzgerald River National Park if you would like to become a member and participate in their activities.
Rangers
For further information, including current road conditions within Fitzgerald National Park, please contact the Rangers:
Ranger
Eastside (East Mt Barren, Hopetoun)
Tel: 08 9838 3060
Ranger
Westside (Murray Road, Gairdner River)
Tel: 08 9837 1022
Find out more from the Department of Parks and Wildlife's website.
Vehicle Access
The DPaW website and app is updated with road closure information during working hours, visit their road closures website to view the most recent updates. Remember the status of roads within the National Park can change at short notice dependent on weather conditions.
Other things to consider prior to venturing into the park are:
- Wash mud from your vehicle before leaving home and, where possible, avoid wet areas on the roads. This will help prevent the spread of "Dieback Disease".
- Caravans are not permitted on unsealed roads as the roads are too narrow and corrugated.