Local Government
Busselton
Region
South West
Cape Naturaliste
a peninsula extending from Canal Rocks along Caves Rd to the east of Dunsborough. To the west is the open Indian Ocean, and to the North is Geographe Bay
Leeuwin - Naturaliste Ridge Area
Busselton
South West
| Type | Status | Date | Documents |
|---|---|---|---|
| (no listings) |
| Type | Status | Date | Documents |
|---|---|---|---|
| (no listings) |
| Type | Status | Date | Grading/Management | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Category | ||||
| Classified by the National Trust | Classified {Lscpe} | 11 Mar 1985 | ||
| Register of the National Estate | Registered | 21 Mar 1978 | ||
The Cape Naturaliste Area, approximately 24,000 hectares, has cultural heritage significance as a largely natural environment containing a diversity of flora and fauna, specifically eucalyptus and karri species native to the district. The area wields historical significance including that of Aboriginal importance due to use by early settlers.
The Cape Naturaliste Area is both publicly and privately owned and encompasses the Leeuwin Naturaliste National Park. The vast expanse of beaches, coastal headlands and cliffs also boasts a large number of limestone caves, and a diverse species of trees in particular, the magnificent karri forest. Some other natural features and historic buildings add to the visual richness of the area.
Historical Notes: Many ships have been known to be lost at Cape Naturaliste including ‘Carnavon Castle’ that caught fire of the coast in 1907. History has it that the 14 survivors floated in lifeboats for 27 days before they were rescued. The lighthouse keeper, Patrick Baird plucked them to safety and cared for them. The waters just off the coast have also been known to be treacherous to many other sailors alike.
The caves contain archaeologically important fossils.
Integrity Notes: The place retains a high degree of integrity except for the forest areas that retain a moderate degree of integrity. Authenticity Notes: The place retains a good degree of authenticity. High Degree/High Degree Forest: Moderate degree
Good- except for the townsites. The coastline is fragile.
| Ref ID No | Ref Name | Ref Source | Ref Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| http://www.southwestlife.com.au/history1201.htm |
Landscape
| Epoch | General | Specific |
|---|---|---|
| Original Use | FARMING\PASTORAL | Other |
| Present Use | PARK\RESERVE | Park\Reserve |
| Original Use | OTHER | Other |
| General | Specific |
|---|---|
| PEOPLE | Early settlers |
| PEOPLE | Aboriginal people |
This information is provided voluntarily as a public service. The information provided is made available in good faith and is derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. However, the information is provided solely on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own assessment of the matters discussed herein and are advised to verify all relevant representations, statements and information.