Donnybrook
Well-known for its bountiful harvest of apples each year, the town of Donnybrook is immersed in a panorama of orchards. As you will see as you approach this town from any direction, orchards line the roads. You can track the seasons, as the trees develop from the bare sticks that appear in winter with a stark beauty of their own; to the beautiful Spring blossom, signaling the new fruit forming; through to the leafy green foliage, supporting the young fruits; and then the welcome sign of the mature fruit, ready for picking and mouth-watering enjoyment.
But the orchards and fields in the Donnybrook area support more than apples. Popular varieties of stone fruit are widely grown in the area and a wide variety of vegetables are also produced. Whatever your preference, you are sure to find some delicious fresh produce to enjoy in this country town. A drive down any of the country roads is sure to find a farm selling its produce directly from the farm gate- a welcome opportunity to buy some quality farm fresh produce.
Apart from fresh produce, there are lots of secrets to discover in Donnybrook. For instance, did you know that Donnybrook was once the scene of a goldrush? And what about the wonderful Donnybrook stone? This has been the material of choice during construction of many of the public buildings in the country and the metropolitan area. Yes, it does come from Donnybrook!!
The area around Donnybrook is supporting a burgeoning wine industry and, as you drive through the area, you will see the vines mixed in with the orchards. Many of the growing number of wineries have cellar doors sales, and are well worth a visit to discover the flavours of some very fine wines.
Donnybrook has played an important role in the history of this state and as you drive through the town, the dignity of the historic buildings in the town’s streets bears witness to this heritage. Many of the farmhouses in the area, too, tell a history of pioneering families.
Donnybrook’s streetscape was redeveloped in 2001, and visitors are encouraged to visit the amazing old oak tree, just near the Tourist Centre in the main street. If only it could talk - this tree could tell a tale or two!!
The Preston River winds its way through Donnybrook, just behind the shops - in fact, why not try the canoe course? The busy people of Donnybrook have recently constructed a 600 seat amphitheatre on the banks of this river and, a long-time dream of the community, a pedestrian suspension bridge over the river.
There is a lot to see and do in Donnybrook and, for more information, you can rely on the Donnybrook-Balingup Visitor Centre, situated in the old Railway Station, right on the Harvest Highway. Staffed by local residents with a thorough knowledge of the town and surrounding area, you will be sure to get the answer to all of your questions here. Call (08) 9731 1720, fax (08) 9731 0199, email dbcofc@westnet.com.au or visit the Shire website at www.donnybrook-balingup.wa.gov.au for more information.
