Norseman is located 190kms South of Kalgoorlie, 191kms West of Balladonia and 204kms North of the Esperance.
The history of Norseman is very much tied to gold mining. Gold mining in the Norseman area began with the chance discovery of gold at nearby Lake Dundas in 1892. A gold rush soon began. Today however, the original Dundas fields lay abandoned.
According to local legend, the town was named after a horse. It is said that in 1894, a horse named "Hardy Norseman" was tethered to a tree for the night by its owner, Laurie Sinclair. Upon returning to his horse, Sinclair had the good fortune to discover that "Norseman" had unearthed a gold nugget. Since then, a rich history of gold mining has developed with numerous mines operating over the years and many ounces of gold being extracted.
Norseman is situated in the Great Western Woodlands which is the largest temperate woodlands left in the world. It has many unique eucalypt species and numerous native plants and animals. There are also stunning granite outcrops spread throughout and the Granite Woodlands Discovery Trail, linking Norseman and Wave Rock, meanders right through it. The Woodlands are perfect for walking, camping and exploring. Take the time to stop and enjoy when you visit Norseman.
Within the vicinity of Norseman, there are a number of attractions. Overlooking Norseman is the Beacon Hill Lookout. From the top, unique views of the surrounding countryside, salt lakes, township and a giant mine tailings dump can be seen. Be sure to check out cleverly constructed corrugated iron camels nestled on the main roundabout in Norseman. As tall as the average human being, these camel statues command your attention, and are a tribute to the early camel trains that carried freight to and from the town. 32kms to the South is Bromus Dam, a popular local swimming, camping and picnic spot. Buldania Rocks can be found 28kms East of Norseman and is also another popular picnic spot, especially in winter when the wildflowers really come to life! Norseman's Heritage Trail is located near Lake Dundas and offers the chance to explore the bush and artefacts from the Dundas Goldfield's pioneering years. Fraser Range Station is located 100kms East of Norseman and is still a working pastoral property, producing fat tailed Damara sheep.
The Nullarbor Links holes 4 and 5 can be found at the Norseman Golf Club.
For more information, contact the Norseman Visitor Centre on 08 9039 1071.
Photo courtesy of Lynn Webb
Photo courtesy of Lynn Webb
Photo courtesy of Lynn Webb