Peel (Western Australia) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids PeelWestern Australia |
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 Peel
Location in Western Australia
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| Population | 142,960 (2019) |
| • Density | 25.9159/km2 (67.122/sq mi) |
| Area | 5,516.3 km2 (2,129.9 sq mi) |
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| State electorate(s) |
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| Federal Division(s) | Canning |
The Peel region is one of the nine main areas in Western Australia. It is located on the west coast of Western Australia. This region is about 75 kilometers (47 miles) south of Perth, the state's capital city.
The Peel region includes the City of Mandurah and several smaller areas called Shires. These are the Shires of Boddington, Murray, Serpentine-Jarrahdale, and Waroona. The total size of the region is about 5,516 square kilometers (2,129 square miles). In 2019, about 142,960 people lived in the Peel region. More than 60% of these people live in Mandurah.
Contents
History of the Peel Region
Before Europeans arrived, the Peel region was home to Indigenous Australians. Specifically, the Pindjarup people, who are part of the Noongar group, lived here.
Early European Settlement
After the Swan River Colony was started in 1829, a part of the northern coast of the Peel region was settled. This was part of a plan called the Peel Settlement Scheme. Thomas Peel organized this plan. However, the plan was not managed well. Many settlers became very sick from not having enough food in the first few months. The settlers who survived left the area. Some moved further inland, where they found good soil for farming.
Growth of Industries
In 1846, the first mining operation in Western Australia began in Yarrabah. This area is near what is now Mundijong. Miners dug for lead, silver, and zinc.
Later, in May 1872, the Jarrahdale timber mill opened. This became the biggest timber operation in the state. It led to the growth of towns like Mundijong, Waroona, and Dwellingup. These towns provided services for the timber industry along the Perth–Picton railway line.
In more recent times, the timber industry has become smaller. However, new industries have helped the local economy. These include alumina refineries at Pinjarra and Wagerup. Also, gold mines at Boddington have brought jobs and money to the region.
Economy of the Peel Region
The economy of the Peel region mainly relies on mining and processing minerals. The area has large amounts of bauxite, which is used to make aluminum. There are also some gold and mineral sands. An aluminium refinery in the region processes these minerals.
Other important parts of the economy include agriculture, which is farming. The region also has a large equine industry, which means it is important for horses, including horse breeding and racing.
See also
- In Spanish: Peel (Australia Occidental) para niños
