Golden Pipeline

National Trust of WA

Explore The Golden Pipeline Heritage Trail

A self-guided drive trail between the Perth Hills and Western Australia’s Eastern Goldfields. Go with the Flow. Follow the water to discover more about the audacious goldfields water supply scheme and Engineer CY O’Connor.

Discover The people and the Scheme

“Future generations, I am quite certain will think of us and bless us for our far seeing patriotism, and it will be said of us, as Isaiah said of old, ‘They made a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert” – Sir John Forrest

My Journey

Golden Pipeline Heritage Trail (GPHT)

For travellers between Perth and Kalgoorlie, a steel pipeline stretching across the landscape is a constant companion. Western Australians often refer to it as O’Connor’s pipeline – they learn about the audacious goldfields water supply scheme and the Irish-born engineer associated with it at school.

Many myths surround both the engineer and the ambitious scheme to pump water higher and further than had ever been done at the end of the 19th century. Hence locals, as well as overseas and out of state visitors, can enjoy a self-guided drive trail that follows the water, from its source in the forested Perth Hills to Western Australia’s Eastern Goldfields. The drive trail reveals unique natural vistas and opportunities to discover more about the pipeline.

For those making a dedicated trip, the best time to travel is in spring and autumn. But, if you have to travel at other times of the year, you can take advantage of the trail if you go prepared (see tips below).

Please note: Pump stations No 4, 5, 6, 7 & 8 at Merredin, Yerbillon, Ghooli, Gilgai & Dedari are temporarily closed for remediation works by Water Corporation.

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Explore

Click on any map section or place below to discover The Golden Pipeline.

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