Mullewa

Mullewa is a town located 98 kilometres east-northeast of Geraldton, it is a vibrant, diverse and resilient community, rich in both natural and cultural heritage.

Mullewa is a vibrant outback town that bursts into colour during wildflower season, with carpets of everlastings and the iconic Wreath Flower drawing visitors from near and far. Whether you're chasing blooms, exploring heritage, or soaking in local culture, Mullewa offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history.

Mullewa boasts a number of religious buildings designed by the famous Western Australian architect-priest Monsignor John Hawes, including the Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel and the Holy Apostles St Peter and St Paul and the Priest House (now known as the Monsignor Hawes Priesthouse Museum).

Things to see in Mullewa

This WA Weekender episode focuses on the beautiful Mullewa region and it's stunning wildflowers.

The Mullewa District comes alive in late winter and spring each year, when dramatic displays of brighten the bushland and road verges.

Amongst the many varieties of wildflowers are the famous wreath flower as well as the pink, white and yellow everlastings, and the pom-pom everlastings.

The Church of our Lady of Mt Carmel and the Holy Apostles St Peter and St Paul

This striking Romanesque-style church, designed and largely built by Monsignor John Hawes, is a masterpiece of architecture and devotion.

The building which was mostly built by Hawes - he was architect, foreman and labourer - is an attempt to recreate a Romanesque church typical of the village churches in Italy and Spain.

The church has been internally altered in recent times but there is still plenty of detail for the visitor to enjoy. It is claimed that one of the gargoyles is a caricature of the Bishop of Geraldton with whom Hawes was engaged in a bitter dispute at the time of construction. The bell tower has seven bells the largest of which was cast in Oregon as a railway bell and the pipe organ was given to the church by Hawes' mother.

The Priest House

Right next door to the church, the Priest House was completed in 1927—now a museum— and offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of Monsignor Hawes. The museum is open to the public from 10.00-11.45 and 1.30-3.00 Monday to Friday. . it features personal items like a self-sculpted bust and even a trophy from a Yalgoo horse race. It’s a must-visit for history buffs and architecture fans alike.

Pioneer Cemetery

Just a kilometre north of town lies the Pioneer Cemetery, home to the only headstone designed and carved by Hawes himself. It marks the resting place of Selby John Arnold, a young altar boy, and stands as a quiet tribute to Mullewa’s early settlers.

Butterabby Grave

This solemn site west of Mullewa marks a significant and tragic chapter in local history. A single stone commemorates James Rudd and several Aboriginal men involved in a conflict in 1864. 

To get to the Butterabby site take the Mingenew Road west of Mullewa and proceed along it until you reach the sign: 'Gravestones - Butterabby'.

The grave is on private ground and is marked by a single piece of stone on which is written 'In these graves lie James Rudd speared here at Butterabby 23 Sept 1864. Also Garder, Wangayakoo, Yourmacarra, Charlacarra, Williacarra. Natives sentenced in Perth and hanged here 28 Jan 1865 for the spearing of Thomas Bott at Butterabby 22 August 1864.'

Walk Trails

 Mullewa is best explored on foot, with five scenic walk trails that showcase the region’s wildflowers, heritage, and landscapes. Grab a copy of the Mullewa Map Brochure to guide your adventure and discover hidden gems along the way.

Places of Interest

  • Mullewa Scenic Lookout – one of the best ways to see an overview of Mullewa
  • The Church of Our Lady of Mt Carmel – designed and built by Monsignor Hawes
  • Monsignor Hawes Priest House Museum – includes personal effects
  • Saint Andrews Anglican Church – stone building on Padbury Street
  • Mullewa Town Hall – built in 1935 art-deco style
  • Mullewa Murals – throughout the town
  • Redland Roses – a flower-growing and market garden venture run by the local Aboriginal Corporation
  • Mass Rock – where Monsignor Hawes held services for the Aboriginal people
  • Aboriginal Art Workshop and Gallery – meet the artists at work

Annual Events

Mullewa Muster and Rodeo

Held in late May or early June, this high-energy event features WA’s richest prize-money rodeo, a country music concert, ute competitions, and family fun.

The Mullewa Muster and Rodeo has attracted thousands of people since its inception in 2012. The event is a big draw card for contestants as it is the highest paying prize money rodeo in the State. A third of our competitors actually travelled from interstate for the Rodeo.

For the full line-up and event times visit .

Mullewa Wildflower Show

A four-day celebration of the region’s floral wonders, including the famous Wreath Flower. With over 200 species on display, plus a herbarium, gift shop, and local stalls, it’s a springtime highlight. Entry Fee is $5 for Adults, $3 Pensioners/Children. Children under 5 are free.

There is also have local community information stalls as well as our wonderful Herbarium display. Kiosk facilities and a souvenir/giftshop are available. Opening hours are Thurs-Sat 9am-4pm & Sun 9am-1pm.

    

Mullewa Agricultural Show

Located at the Mullewa Recreation Ground on Main Road the is held late August or early September. It is a fantastic day out for everyone! All the fun of sideshow alley, livestock exhibitions and judging, the ‘quick shear’ competition, ‘Mullewa Gift’ races, monster trucks and a fireworks finale.

For more information contact the