Bibbawarra Bore & Trough

Statement of Significance

Aesthetic Value – Importance for its contribution to the aesthetic values of the setting demonstrated by a landmark quality. Historic Value – Importance as an example of technical excellence, innovation and achievement in a particular period. Research Value – Importance in demonstrating technical innovation or achievement. Social Value – Importance in contributing to a community’s sense of place.

Physical Description

The Bore has a depth of 914m, with water gushing at 97,741 litres (21,500 gallons) per hour and temperatures of water reaching approximately 68 degrees.

History

The Bibbawarra Bore is located 16km north of Carnarvon. The best way to get there is via the Bibbawarra Road Crossing which is a low sealed bridge over the Gascoyne River. Access is only available when the river is dry. The Bibbawarra Bore was discovered in 1905 when looking for coal. However, instead of coal they struck hot artesian water. The trough itself was built in 1940 in conjunction with the Boolathana Pastoral Company and a government grant. Stock troughs were eventually built to transport the water along the stock route for the sheep and cattle. The hot water travelled along the 180 metre long trough, cooling as it flowed along. The trough was the longest in the Southern Hemisphere. The extraordinary length was to enable the flocks of sheep to drink as this was on the stock route and also to give the water time to cool down to a drinkable temperature. Today the remains of the troughs can still be seen.

Integrity/Authenticity

Medium/Medium

Condition

Fair

Creation Date

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