A dam fine spot!

A place for all - for the nature loving adventurers.

Did you know we have the largest dam mural in the Southern Hemisphere in Western Australia? If you’re lucky enough to live in or be visiting the South West it’s a must visit.

Its location is within a stunning pocket of wonder known as the Wellington National Park which itself is a treasure waiting for you to unlock and enjoy. Located between Collie and Bunbury, any entry you choose will uplift your senses. The sights and smells of ancient Jarrah, Marri and Blackbutt forest, their grandness framing your drive with just a few glimpses of the sky in parts, tell a story of ancient living history.

We are lucky today to be travelling in to the Park to set up a picnic as a surprise for a visiting grandma from Melbourne. Our ultimate destination is known as the Quarry Picnic Area, but before I set the picnic scene I’ll tell you why we love this spot.

Every picnic is an experience to remember, to create and capture memories. We believe the journey can be part of this and extends the magic of the day. Whether you are visiting from Interstate or are a local, the Wellington National Park offers something for everyone. Adventurers love the hiking, mountain biking and canoeing; nature lovers come for the tranquility and discovery at every twisted trail. There’s camping, swimming, fishing in parts, bubbling brooks to explore and seasonal waterfalls to enjoy but there’s also that Dam Mural.

Within a few minutes walking distance from the mural viewing platform is what is known as The Quarry. A huge semi circular wall of granite to frame a lazy afternoon picnic. It’s not until you sit on the soft green grass under its vastness that you begin to love the calmness and beauty of it. Strangely the warm greys welcome you and provide a beautiful backdrop. There are a few park benches provided but there are enough trees to provide shade and discreet privacy to a picnic. Today’s table was for three - each a different generation enjoying a surprise to celebrate each other. Calming creams and earthy tones with a feminine touch of dusky pink set the table but seem to blend in beautifully with the natural surrounds. Ottomans and scatter cushions allow for lazing and grazing under the shade of the trees. Sparkling water ready for the champagne coupé glasses and a board adorned with local produce to graze away the day together.

We welcome the threesome and wander down to enjoy the mural for ourselves. A brisk walk down the hill took us to the base of the mural and gives an upwards view of the scale of the artwork and on this day we were lucky to have a waterfall of overflow down the rocks. Based on actual locals and workers from the region over its history the scene is spectacular. 

On returning to the quarry area later, there are a few rock climbers scaling the wall to the left. Our picnickers are truly relaxed, lying on the rug together seemingly in their own little bubble of bliss, enjoying the swaying leaves above them. They have played cards and listened to music together; eaten and their souls seem complete.

“This was the highlight of my holiday”, Granny beamed as they leave.

Dam! What a day.

Until our next adventure, make wonderful memories every day and stay happy.

The Dam mural is part of the Collie Mural Trail.

At the time of writing the bridge across the base of the Dam is closed but can be accessed either side. Please check the best directions before visiting to ensure a grand day.