Hyden, Western Australia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids HydenWestern Australia |
|
|---|---|
The Hyden Memorial Hall in 2020
|
|
 Hyden
Location in Western Australia
|
|
| Established | 1922 |
| Postcode(s) | 6359 |
| Elevation | 305 m (1,001 ft) |
| Area | [convert: needs a number] |
| Location | |
| LGA(s) | Shire of Kondinin |
| State electorate(s) | Wagin |
| Federal Division(s) | O'Connor |
Welcome to Hyden, a small town in Western Australia. It's about 292 kilometres (181 mi) (that's about 181 miles) east-southeast of Perth. Hyden is famous for its amazing natural sights. These include Wave Rock, Mulka's Cave, and Hippos Yawn. Many people visit these cool places every year!
Contents
Hyden's History and People
Ancient History of Hyden
The Njakinjaki people are the traditional owners of the land around Hyden. They are an Aboriginal Australian group. They have lived here for thousands of years. The big granite rocks, land shapes, and waterways are very important to their culture. So are the local plants and animals.
Early European Settlers
It is believed that sandalwood cutters were the first Europeans to visit this area. This happened a long time ago.
Farming Begins
In the 1920s, the land around Hyden was opened for agriculture. This meant people could start farms there. A railway line was built in 1930. It connected Kondinin to Hyden Rock. The town of Hyden was officially created in 1932. This was because many people wanted land near the railway.
The first wheat crop was harvested in Hyden in 1927. This was a big step for the town's farming future.
Growing the Town
Before 1931, the Hyden Progress Association was formed. About 100 settlers lived in the town then. In 1931, Hyden had another large wheat harvest. The wheat was sent by train from Lake Grace. The town was being planned out. It already had an oil depot and tea rooms. A store was also being built. A large water collection area was made at Hyden Rock.
By 1933, the railway line from Lake Grace to Hyden was finished. This made it easier to transport goods.
In 1933, the Progress Association built a pavilion at the sports ground. They also planned to build a town hall. The town hall was finished before 1935.
Hyden's Economy
Hyden's economy still relies on farming. Farmers mostly raise cattle and sheep. This farming brings in about $35 million each year. The town also gets money from mining and tourism.
Farmers in the area also grow wheat and other cereal crops. Hyden is a grain receival site. This means that Cooperative Bulk Handling collects grain here.
Tourist Attractions
Wave Rock and Other Sights
About 100,000 tourists visit Hyden every year. They come to see Wave Rock. This amazing rock formation is about 4 km (2.5 mi) east of the town. It looks just like a giant ocean wave!
Wildflower Season
Other visitors come during the wildflower season. This is between September and December. They enjoy seeing many different wildflower species. These beautiful flowers bloom all over the area. Different birds also come to feed on the blossoms.
Wave Rock Wildlife Park
The Wave Rock Wildlife Park is located in Hyden. It covers about 3 hectares (7.4 acres) (about 7.4 acres) of natural bushland. You can see many animals here. These include koalas, wombats, and kangaroos. You might also spot wallabies, bettongs, and possums. The park also has alpacas, camels, and donkeys. There are many types of birds too, like emus, owls, and swans. Native lizards live freely throughout the park. There is also a cafe on site for visitors.
