Kookynie

Kookynie attracts people for miles around because of its unique character. It is virtually a ghost town, but Australian and overseas tourists just love visiting its famous quintessential outback pub, the Grand Hotel. Built in 1902, the hotel attracts visitors who come to enjoy country fare and hospitality in a unique Australian outback setting. Rooms, caravan sites and camping grounds can be booked in advance for those wishing to stay overnight.

In the gold rush era, Kookynie boasted a racecourse, shops and factories, and even a red light district run by local Japanese residents. It was also the first town in the Western Australian Goldfields to have swimming baths.

Other Kookynie attractions

• Explore the areas’ fascinating historic buildings, including the Cumberland Street shops and the Old Miners Cottage Crafts – the last original timber and iron cottage remaining in the area. This houses a wonderful collection of Goldfields art and craft, specialising in unique artworks that feature rustic remnants of old camps and ghost towns. Tea, coffee, light refreshments and visitor information are also available.
• Check out the famous Niagara Dam, built by C Y O’Connor – the visionary behind the Perth-to-Kalgoorlie pipeline, a highlight of the region. Niagara Dam has unpowered caravan sites and is very popular with both caravanners and day-trippers.
• Head out to Morapoi Station and join one of the unique Indigenous cultural tours around Lake Ballard, Gwalia and Laverton. Station stay and other accommodation are also provided here.

For more information contact the Menzies Visitor Centre by emailing cdo@menzies.wa.gov.au, or search for Kookynie accommodation and attractions.