Permanent pools in the Ashburton River

Statement of Significance

The Three, Five and Ten Mile Pools are permanent pools along the Ashburton River, which have cultural heritage significance for the following reasons: the three pools are exceptionally picturesque elements along the Ashburton River. The large expanses of water flanked by gum trees provides a simple yet dramatic natural scene. the pools are valued by the local community and tourists alike as an oasis for camping, picnics and swimming in a mostly dry and remote area. historically the pools were important to the early pioneer settlers for wool washing and stock grazing as well as recreation. The fresh water has been protected by the building of the levy at the Three Mile Pool.

Physical Description

The permanent pools along the Ashburton River are substantial waterholes that never dry up. Access differs between sites: Ten Mile Pool has steep banks, Five Mile Pool moderately steep banks, and Three Mile Pool a gentle slope to the water. Gum trees line the riverbanks, providing shade for visitors. At Three Mile Pool, a stone river wall includes a plaque reading: 'Ashburton River Scotty’s Wall - constructed in 1959 by the Forrest Family of Minderoo Station. This tide barrage separates the upstream freshwater from the Indian' Ocean. Builders: Scotty Blac, Sam Fulbrook, and Bill Bell. Designer: Don Forrest.

History

The Three Mile, Five Mile and Ten Mile Pools are permanent pools along the Ashburton River, named for their distance from Old Onslow. They have long been vital water sources in an otherwise dry region. Fresh water is maintained by a levy near Three Mile Pool that prevents saltwater encroachment. The first weir at Three Mile Pool was built in the 1930s by Richard Mervyn Forrest from brush, but it was not salt proof. Around 40 years later, Don Forrest designed and engaged Bill Shanks of Northern Transport Co to build a stone weir, assisted by Bill Bell and Sam Fullbrook. Ten Mile Pool was once thought to be Camel Pool, a known teamsters’ campsite, but research suggests Camel Pool is actually near the Ashburton Road River Bridge. Ten Mile Pool itself was the site of Edward T. Hooley’s 1868 camp, destroyed by a cyclone, after which he relocated to the future Minderoo Homestead site. David Forrest similarly camped at Ten Mile in the late 1870s before another cyclone forced him inland to what became Minderoo Homestead. Though on private land at Minderoo Station, Three Mile and Five Mile Pools are open to the public with roads maintained by the Shire. Three Mile is commonly used for camping, Five Mile is popular for picnics and swimming, and Ten Mile is less accessible.

Archaeology

Given the sites have historically been used for camping by early settlers the three pools have archaeological potential.

Integrity/Authenticity

High

Condition

Good

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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