Chidlow, Western Australia facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Chidlow Perth, Western Australia
Lake Leschenaultia
Postcode(s)	6556
LGA(s)	Shire of Mundaring
State electorate(s)	Electoral district of Swan Hills
Federal Division(s)	Hasluck
Suburbs around Chidlow: Gidgegannup Gidgegannup Wooroloo Mount Helena Chidlow Beechina Sawyers Valley Gorrie The Lakes

Chidlow is a small town located about 45 kilometers (28 miles) east of Perth, in Western Australia. It's part of the Shire of Mundaring area.

Chidlow's Past: A Railway Town

Chidlow was first known by names like Chidlow's Flat or Chidlow's Well. These names came from a well and a stockyard. They were on the old road between Mahogany Creek and Northam.

The well was built by William Chidlow. He was an early settler in the Northam area. William Chidlow arrived in the Swan River Colony in 1831.

How the Town Started

People began to settle here in 1883. This was because Chidlow's Well was chosen as the end point for the second part of the Eastern Railway. This railway line opened in March 1884.

The railway station and town were very important. They helped the Eastern Railway run smoothly from the 1880s to the 1960s. The town's name officially changed to Chidlow in 1920.

Lake Leschenaultia's Role

Lake Leschenaultia was built for a special reason. It provided water for the steam trains that used the railway. Today, the Railway Reserve Heritage Trail follows the path of the old Eastern Railway. This trail is 70 kilometers long. It connects Fremantle to York.

Chidlow During World War II

During World War II, Chidlow played a role in the war effort. It was the site of a large Army camp. This camp was located on the Old Northam Road.

Building the Army Camp

Construction of the camp buildings finished in March 1943. The Chidlow Army Camp was designed to hold up to 1,000 soldiers. It had about 15 different camp areas. This camp was important for training and housing troops during the war.

Fun Things to Do in Chidlow

After the railway closed, Chidlow changed. It became a peaceful place for people to visit and relax. It is now known as a rural retreat.

Outdoor Adventures

The Railway Reserve Heritage Trail is a major attraction. It's great for walking, cycling, and horse riding. It offers a chance to explore nature.

Lake Leschenaultia is also very popular. You can swim safely in the lake. Visitors can also rent canoes and explore the water. There are walking trails around the lake and places for camping.

Local Landmarks

The Chidlow Tavern is a well-known spot. It is located across from the park. This park is where the old Chidlow's Wells Station used to be.

Getting Around Chidlow

Chidlow has bus services that connect it to other towns.

Bus Routes

•        Route 328: This bus goes from Chidlow to Midland Station. It travels along Thomas Street, Memorial Avenue, Willcox Street, and Elliott Road.
•        Route 331: This bus connects Wundowie to Mundaring. It uses Old Northam Road, Thomas Street, Memorial Avenue, Willcox Street, and Elliott Road.