Ledge Point, Western Australia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ledge PointWestern Australia |
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Looking west from Ledge Point over surrounding bushland and the water tower
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 Ledge Point
Location in Western Australia
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| Established | 1955 |
| Postcode(s) | 6043 |
| Elevation | 10 m (33 ft) |
| Area | [convert: needs a number] |
| Location | |
| LGA(s) | Shire of Gingin |
| State electorate(s) | Moore |
| Federal Division(s) | Pearce |
Ledge Point is a small town located right on the coast in Western Australia. It's about 105 kilometers (65 miles) north of Perth, a major city. This town was first created to support the local fishing and crayfishing industries.
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The Story of Ledge Point
The name "Ledge Point" comes from some rocky ledges found nearby on the coast. These ledges were first described in a map survey way back in 1875.
In 1937, a local group called the Gingin Road Board asked for this land to be set aside. They wanted it for camping and fun outdoor activities. By 1952, a few simple shacks had been built there by people living on the land without official permission.
Once a proper road was finished in 1953, more people started asking to lease land. Because of this interest, the government decided to divide the area into smaller blocks in 1954. These blocks were then sold for people who were retired or wanted a holiday home. The town officially became a gazetted town in 1955.
Fun on the Water
Ledge Point is very well known as a great spot for windsurfing. Every January, a big event called the Ledge Point to Lancelin Windsurfing Classic takes place. This exciting competition brings in windsurfers from all over the world.
Shipwrecks Near Ledge Point
The waters near Ledge Point have seen some interesting history, including shipwrecks.
The Vergulde Draeck
In 1963, divers found the wreck of an old ship called the Vergulde Draeck. This ship belonged to the Dutch East India Company. It sank on April 28, 1656, after hitting a reef close to Ledge Point. This was one of the earliest times a European ship was wrecked on Australian shores.
In 1972, a full team was sent to carefully explore the ship's remains. Sadly, looters had already taken many items. However, over several months, many artifacts were found. These items are now on display at maritime museums in Geraldton and Fremantle.
The Key Biscayne
The area is also known for another wreck that happened in 1983. This was the Key Biscayne, a large oil drilling rig. It tipped over in a storm about 10 nautical miles (18.5 kilometers) offshore while it was being moved.
