Benger: Wetland, Farm History and Cycling Trail

Wetland, birdlife and farm history give Benger a distinctive character. West of the town is Benger Swamp Nature Reserve; White Rocks Farm links the history of a dairy farm with a cottage museum, while Sheron Farm hosts agricultural events. The Hills & Happy Cows Cycling Trail also passes through Benger’s dairy landscape. When choosing holiday accommodation, it may help to consider whether you would like to focus your stay more on nature, rural heritage or cycling.

Wetland and history at Benger Swamp

Benger Swamp Nature Reserve is a significant wetland west of Benger. It provides habitat for the endangered Australasian Bittern and is also one of only seven known breeding sites for the Freckled Duck in south-west Australia. Two distinct aspects of conservation come together here: habitat for a threatened bird and regional importance as a breeding site.

The reserve has no facilities or information signs; check visitor information again before your arrival. Benger Swamp also has considerable historical significance in connection with agricultural development and potato growing. During the war, the Australian Army took the entire potato harvest from the swamp area. Alongside its importance for birdlife, the place also tells the story of the region’s agricultural use.

Farm history and local produce

White Rocks Farm is one of the oldest agricultural properties in south-west Australia and is still run by the same family. John Partridge established the farm in 1887 on 400 acres of land he had bought from Edward Clifton. White Rocks Farm has been operated as a dairy farm since at least 1894. The Partridge family produces White Rock Veal and runs a dairy.

The cottage museum at White Rocks Farm includes a classroom relocated from the former Brunswick School, butter churns and cheese-making equipment. The classroom and dairy equipment bring together different aspects of rural history. Visits to the museum are by appointment only. White Rocks Farm is a private residence; under its visitor policy, heritage and school groups may also visit only by appointment. Arrange your visit in advance.

Events and cycling

Sheron Farm holds an annual bull sale, usually in February, and a Farm Open Day. At the Open Day, visitors can explore the farm and learn more about the Angus cattle stud. If you would like to plan your stay around one of these events, confirm the specific date in advance.

The Hills & Happy Cows Cycling Trail passes through Benger’s dairy landscape and includes an easy cycling section there. Check trail conditions before setting out.

The town’s name also refers to the wetland: Benger is associated with the Noongar word for “swamp”; this derivation is considered tentative.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Murdoch, Kings Park, Broadwater, Torbay, Mullaloo, Bow Bridge, Kukerin, Port Kennedy.

For the overview of the wider region: Western Australia.