Northcliffe and Windy Harbour are located in the South West of Western Australia, an internationally recognized biodiversity hotspot. Ancient geology, nutrient-poor soils and climatic shifts have led to specialization and endemism of many species of our flora and in our Shire there is more than 2,000 native plant species to discover.
Mass wildflower displays of many different species flowering at once are at their peak from mid-September to November but wildflowers can be found all year, providing a food source for our invertebrates, birds and small mammals. During wildflower season the coastal heath and Jarrah forests flower first from mid-September, then Karri forest understory in October, followed by another lovely display of heath plants around drying ephemeral Wattie and Melaleuca swamps from October to mid-December.
From mid-September the best places to look for wildflowers are in sheltered areas along the coast at Windy Harbour and Pt D’Entrecasteaux and in patches of Jarrah forest in the Northcliffe Forest Park, bushland surrounding the Northcliffe townsite and at Shannon NP. Less than a one hour drive away, we also recommend exploring the areas around Tone Perup, Unicup and Lake Muir NR from mid-September in to October. In October, experience the Karri forest in full bloom at Mt Chudalup, in the Northcliffe Forest Park, Shannon NP, Warren NP, Gloucester NP, Greater Beedelup NP and at Quinninup.
Coastal heath and forests in D’Entrecasteaux NP flower throughout the season with a variety of species blooming over a series of colour phases, and some species flower for months. From Mt Chudalup and Pt D’Entrecasteaux is a great place to explore or if you have a 4WD drive the tracks to Coodamurrup and Fish Creek, Yeagarup, Lake Jasper or Chesapeake Rd through to Broke Inlet.
Be prepared to get out of the car and wander trails to discover our many wildflowers. Please remember to stay on existing paths, kangaroo trails and avoid trampling any delicate emerging plants and buds. Be conscious of the spread of dieback and stay out of disease risk areas and remember that picking or removing flowers and plants is illegal.