Ballidu, Western Australia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids BalliduWestern Australia |
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Ballidu Trading Post, 2014
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 Ballidu
Location in Western Australia
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| Established | 1914 |
| Postcode(s) | 6606 |
| Elevation | 312 m (1,024 ft) |
| Area | [convert: needs a number] |
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| LGA(s) | Shire of Wongan-Ballidu |
| State electorate(s) | Moore |
| Federal Division(s) | Durack |
Ballidu is a small town in the Wheatbelt region of Western Australia. It's about 217 kilometres (135 miles) north of Perth. Ballidu is also 34 kilometres (21 miles) north of Wongan Hills. These towns, along with others like Cadoux, are part of the Shire of Wongan-Ballidu.
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Discovering Ballidu's Past
The name Ballidu has a special meaning. It comes from two parts. "Balli" is a word from the Noongar Aboriginal language. It means "on this side" or "in this direction." "Duli" comes from a nearby rockhole.
The town of Ballidu officially started in 1914. Its streets were named after the first people who settled there. Interestingly, many streets are also named after different types of wheat. A primary school opened in Ballidu in 1922. It moved into its permanent building in 1924. Large bins for storing wheat were built in the town in 1940.
Life in Ballidu Today
Ballidu is located in the Central Midlands part of the Wheatbelt. The town's main activity is farming, especially growing wheat. Over time, farming has become more automated. This means fewer people are needed for farm work. Because of this, the number of people living in Ballidu has slowly gone down.
In 2016, the town had 66 residents. This was a decrease from 82 people in 2006. Even with a smaller population, Ballidu still has some important places. These include a general store, a community hall, and an art gallery. The primary school in Ballidu closed in 2016. Students now attend schools in nearby towns.
Fun Community Events
Ballidu has some exciting events that bring people together.
Bike It To Ballidu
The "Bike It To Ballidu" event started in 1999. It was created by Matt Osborne. This event is a cycling challenge. Teams take turns riding bikes from Wongan Hills to Ballidu. The ride is about 34 kilometres (21 miles) long. It starts at the Wongan Hills visitor centre. The finish line is on Alpha Street in Ballidu. After the ride, everyone gathers in Alpha Park. There's food, drinks, and entertainment for all.
This event first aimed to raise money for the Ballidu Primary School. After the school closed, the Ballidu Progress Group took over. They now manage and organize the bike ride. The event has happened every year since 1999. The only exception was in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Other Community Activities
The Contemporary Arts Society often holds art shows in Ballidu. These shows feature works by local artists. They also display art from well-known Australian artists.
The CBH Group, which handles grain, hosts a "Bin Party." This party celebrates the end of the farming season. It's a fun gathering at the Ballidu Tavern.
