Carnarvon: Space, Culture and Walking Trails

Carnarvon combines space and satellite history with cultural attractions, walking trails and a seasonal market. On Babbage Island, maritime history and views of the river, ocean and tidal flats add to the experience. You can plan your time around the things that interest you most: technology, Indigenous star knowledge, walking trails or the history of the One Mile Jetty.

Space, Satellites and Indigenous Star Knowledge

On 21 July 1969, the Casshorn antenna beside Carnarvon’s OTC Dish relayed Neil Armstrong’s first steps on the Moon to television audiences in Perth. The Carnarvon Space and Technology Museum presents Carnarvon’s role in the crewed space program and Australia’s satellite communications industry. It is located on the site of the former OTC Satellite Earth Station, about 6 km from the town centre. This places a specific event in space history alongside satellite communications as distinct aspects of the region’s technological history.

Gwoonwardu Mia celebrates the culture and Country of the Gascoyne region’s five Indigenous language groups from Carnarvon. In the Sky Dome exhibition, a time-lapse video shows a starry sky, with explanations about Indigenous star knowledge. Alongside the technological history, this offers a cultural perspective on observing the sky.

Maritime History on Babbage Island

The One Mile Jetty Precinct is on Babbage Island, about a five-minute drive from Carnarvon town centre. Artefacts, the HSK Kormoran’s lifeboat and interactive exhibits tell the tragic story of the sea battle between HMAS Sydney II and HSK Kormoran. Visitors can also see the Kimberley Steam Train and learn how the Tramway connected Carnarvon with the world and was used by the island’s residents.

The One Mile Jetty is closed after its seaward section was damaged by Cyclone Seroja; visitors can see the jetty from the precinct. Check the current closure notice before you travel. The paths around the precinct offer views of the river and ocean, as well as tidal flats with crabs and fish. These tidal flats provide habitat for more than 140 bird species.

Walking Trails and Art

If you compare walking trails by length and landmarks, the options vary: the 3 km walking trail connects the footbridge at Fascine Town Beach with the Carnarvon Heritage Precinct. The approximately 600 m Walk of Remembrance at the Fascine in Carnarvon starts at the HMAS Memorial at the intersection of Robinson Street and Olivia Street. This easy 1.30 km walking trail offers views of the Fascine and Whitlock Island.

The Carnarvon Mural and Art Trail features large-scale murals. There are also sculptures on the Fascine foreshore and along the main street. Together with the walking trails, these artworks offer another way to explore Carnarvon’s varied themes and places.

A Seasonal Market Visit

The Gascoyne Growers’ Markets are held every Saturday morning from May to October in Carnarvon town centre. They offer locally grown fruit and vegetables, tropical fruit, eggs and seafood. You can take the seasonal timeframe into account when planning a market visit; check the specific dates before you travel.

Discover more destinations: Coral Bay.

Return to the main travel overview: Shire of Carnarvon.