Chippers Leap

Approach to Chippers Leap in 2006

Chippers Leap, also known as Chipper's Leap, is a large granite rock formation located on Greenmount Hill in Perth, Western Australia. It sits on the northern side of the Great Eastern Highway, close to the areas of Swan View and Greenmount. This natural landmark is famous for a historical event that gave it its name.

What is Chippers Leap?

Chippers Leap is a striking granite outcrop, which means it's a part of a rock formation that sticks out from the ground. It's a significant natural feature in the landscape of Greenmount Hill. It has been a notable landmark for many years, visible to travelers passing through the area.

The Story Behind the Name

The name Chippers Leap comes from an exciting event involving a man named John Chipper. On February 3, 1832, John Chipper was traveling with a young boy, Reuben Beacham. They were driving a cart from Guildford to York along the old York Road. During their journey, they faced a challenging and dangerous situation.

John Chipper's Daring Escape

While on their journey, John Chipper was injured. To save himself, he quickly turned and ran. He saw many people approaching him and knew he had to act fast. John Chipper made a brave decision to jump from the large rock, which helped him escape the danger. He then ran for about 4 miles (6.4 km) until he reached the home of Governor James Stirling at Woodbridge. This incredible escape is why the rock became known as Chippers Leap.

Preserving a Historical Site

In the early 1930s, there were plans to build a new road, which later became the Great Eastern Highway. The original route for this road would have gone right through Chippers Leap. However, the Western Australian Historical Society stepped in. They asked for the plans to be changed. Their efforts helped ensure that the road was built close to the rock, but not over it. This decision not only saved the rock but also made it more visible to everyone. The highway itself was completed in the 1960s.

Remembering the Event

Exactly 100 years after John Chipper's leap, on February 3, 1932, the Western Australian Historical Society held a special ceremony. They dedicated a plaque at the rock to remember the event. Around 200 people gathered to honor this piece of history. The plaque explains that on February 3, 1832, John Chipper faced a dangerous situation near this spot. He was injured but managed to escape by leaping from this rock, which is now known as Chipper's Leap. He eventually reached Governor Stirling's house at Woodbridge.

Chippers Leap Today

Today, Chippers Leap is recognized as a heritage place by the Heritage Council of Western Australia. While it doesn't have special legal protection, its historical importance is acknowledged. You can find other similar historical plaques placed by the Western Australian Historical Society, like one at the Round House in Fremantle.

Visiting the Landmark

The plaque at Chippers Leap is located next to a very busy highway. Because of this, it's not the safest place for pedestrians to stop. There is a small parking area about 100 meters (328 feet) to the west, just before a sign for Perth Hills. This allows people to view the rock from a safer distance.

Natural Surroundings

Chippers Leap is part of a beautiful natural area. There are many other similar granite outcrops in the Darling Scarp. You can find these impressive rock formations in places like John Forrest National Park to the north. To the south, you'll find more outcrops near Darlington and Boya, Western Australia. These areas are great for exploring Western Australia's unique geology.