Benger: Wetlands, Farm History and Cycling Trail

Benger combines a wetland landscape with a long farming history. To the west of the town lies the significant Benger Swamp Nature Reserve; at the same time, farms and agricultural businesses tell the story of dairy farming and regional history. A cycling route through Benger’s dairy-farming landscape adds an active perspective to these themes. During your stay, you can focus on nature, cultural history or cycling.

Wetlands and Birdlife

Benger Swamp Nature Reserve, west of Benger, is a significant wetland. It provides habitat for the endangered Australasian Bittern and is one of only seven known breeding sites for the Freckled Duck in south-western Australia. This brings two distinct aspects of birdlife into focus: the habitat of a threatened species and the area’s importance as a breeding site for another. The reserve has no facilities or information signs. Check this visitor information again before setting out, as details about facilities may change.

Agriculture and History

Benger Swamp, west of Benger, also has a distinctive history connected with the development of agriculture in the area and potato growing. During the war, the Australian Army took the entire potato harvest from the swamp area. This episode links the history of agriculture with a specific chapter of wartime history.

The history of White Rocks Farm began in 1887, when John Partridge established the farm on 400 acres of land he had bought from Edward Clifton. White Rocks Farm is one of the oldest agricultural properties in south-western Australia and is still operated by the same family. The farm has been a dairy farm since at least 1894. The Partridge family produces White Rock Veal and operates a dairy. Its founding story and continued agricultural use go hand in hand.

The cottage museum at White Rocks Farm includes a schoolroom relocated from the former Brunswick School, along with butter churns and cheesemaking equipment. Visits are by appointment only. At Shenfield Farm, the focus is on a different aspect of history: the house, built in 1894, was designed by Sir Russell Hobbs in the Federation bungalow style. It is made of brick, has an iron roof and verandas running around the main building. While White Rocks Farm showcases an agricultural collection through its relocated schoolroom and cheesemaking equipment, Shenfield Farm focuses on the architecture of the house.

Cycling Trail and Events

The Hills & Happy Cows Cycling Trail passes through Benger’s dairy-farming landscape and includes an easy cycling section. Check trail conditions before setting out. Sheron Farm holds an annual bull auction, usually in February. At the annual Farm Open Day, visitors can explore the farm and learn more about its Angus cattle stud. If one of these events is a factor in choosing your travel dates, check the dates in advance.

Planning Your Stay in Benger

If you’re travelling with family, you can compare which themes interest the group and decide whether to include an appointment-only museum visit or an annual event in your plans.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Yanchep, West Perth, Halls Creek, Wickepin, Eagle Bay, Port Denison, South Guildford, Osborne Park.

For the main travel overview: Western Australia.