Mysteries of Pemberton revealed

Joining a well-narrated, fun but educational, quality tour gives us insight into an area.

And, with wildflower season arriving in the Southern Forests, a good way to learn a lot easily is with Pemberton Discovery Tours’ small group, half-day four-wheel drive Beach and Forest Eco Adventure.

This 9am to 1.30pm tour visits ancient karri forests and dune-crested beaches, with experienced local guides sharing stories, insight — and their genuine connection to country.

Guests are met by a guide at the Crossings Bakery in Pemberton at 9am and will also visit Yeagarup Lake, mobile sand dunes and the Southern Ocean coast.

It is $165 per adult, $85 for children and $155 for concessions. A family of two adults and two children pay $480. This includes a local picnic lunch and national park entry and returns by 1pm to 1.30pm.

More information at pembertondiscoverytours.com.au

Book direct at pembertondiscoverytours.rezdy.com

MORE TO DO

We asked local Toni Dearle, who has been running tours for 25 years for Pemberton Discovery Tours, to suggest other things visitors can do in the area.

These is her list, in her own words …

Aerial Adventure Pemberton

Challenge yourself with a zipline or ropes course through the forest canopy.

Over 52 games and suitable for ages four and older.

Pemberton Tramway Company

Take a heritage tram ride through the scenic forests traversing historic rail bridges. Trams depart morning and afternoon most days (closed Wednesday and Sunday).

Southern Forests Chocolate Company

Indulge your sweet tooth with locally-made chocolates, delicious barista-made coffee and hot chocolates that make your mouth explode. Open daily, 9am-4pm.

Gloucester Tree

Currently closed for climbing, the historic tree is the world’s tallest fire lookout tree, surrounded by relaxing forest walks and cycle trails.

Beedelup Falls or wellness

Unwind with a visit to a local sauna or day spa in Pemberton or simply enjoy a slow walk to explore the waterfall and the surrounding forest.

Ampersand Estates

Enjoy wine and spirit tastings at this local producer. Sample award-winning wine, gin and vodka with friendly staff.

Crossings Bakery

Enjoy a cuppa or sneaky snack.

MYSTERY ROAD

The TV series Mystery Road: Origin, which airs on ABC from September 21, was filmed around Pemberton.

Karri trees and the timber town make a dramatic backdrop, as actor Mark Coles Smith plays Detective Jay Swan in the Mystery Road prequel series.

As our The West Australian’s TV editor Clare Rigden describes: “It’s Easter, 2000, and Jay and Mary are off to forge a new life together among the tall trees of Mary’s hometown of Loch Iris (Pemberton, in WA’s South West doubles).

“But things won’t stay idyllic for long. While investigating an unfolding case, Jay is also pulled in to piece together an older mystery. It turns out the town has been hiding a shadowy past.”

Scenes were shot at Pemberton District High School, Pemberton Caravan Park, Pemberton Pool, Yeagarup, Big Brook Dam, Deanmill and the Deanmill Workers Club.

“We are excited to bring to our audiences an entirely new Mystery Road world, a visual feast set in the trees, dams and waterways of the South West of Western Australia,” says Bunya Productions producer Greer Simpkin.

The six-part drama — written entirely by a First Nations writing team — is the fourth Mystery Road series to be filmed in Western Australia, following seasons filmed in Kununurra and Wyndham, Broome, Kalgoorlie and Coolgardie.