Ghouli, Western Australia facts for kids
Ghouli, Western Australia (also spelled Ghooli) is a place in Western Australia. It was once home to Pumping Station Number 6. This station was a very important part of the Goldfields Water Supply Scheme. Today, Pumping Station Number 14 is located there.
Ghouli is also found along the Eastern Goldfields Railway. It is not far from the town of Southern Cross. Ghouli is located between Pumping Station Number 5 at Yerbillon and Pumping Station Number 7 at Gilgai.
Contents
What is the Goldfields Water Supply Scheme?
The Goldfields Water Supply Scheme is a huge pipeline system. It brings fresh water to the dry goldfields region of Western Australia. This amazing project was built over 100 years ago. It was very important for the people living and working in the gold mining areas.
Why was the Water Scheme Needed?
In the late 1800s, many people rushed to Western Australia to find gold. But the goldfields were very dry. There was not enough fresh water for everyone. People needed water to drink, to wash, and for the mining machines. Without enough water, the gold rush could not continue.
How Does the Scheme Work?
The scheme collects water from the Mundaring Weir near Perth. This water then travels over 560 kilometers (about 350 miles) to the goldfields. Large pumping stations along the way push the water through the pipes. These stations lift the water over hills and keep it flowing.
Ghouli's Role in the Water Scheme
Ghouli was a key stop on this long pipeline. It was the site of Pumping Station Number 6. This station used powerful steam engines to pump water. It helped move millions of liters of water every day.
From Steam to Modern Pumps
The original pumping stations, like the one at Ghouli, used steam power. These were big, noisy machines that needed a lot of coal. Over time, these old stations were replaced. Today, modern electric pumps do the work. Pumping Station Number 14 at Ghouli is part of this newer system. It continues the important job of supplying water to the goldfields.
Ghouli and the Railway
Ghouli was also important because of its location on the Eastern Goldfields Railway. This railway line connected the goldfields to the coast. It was used to transport supplies, equipment, and people. The railway helped the goldfields grow and thrive.
Connecting Communities
The railway made it easier for people to travel to and from the goldfields. It also helped bring in the materials needed to build and maintain the water pipeline. The railway and the water scheme worked together. They helped build strong communities in a very challenging environment.
