Pannawonica

Pannawonica is a ‘closed town,’ meaning it’s primarily designed for mining activities. Visitors are more than welcome, however please note that accommodation is often reserved for mining staff, and long-term or permanent stays for tourists may be limited.

The town boasts a range of amenities, including a library, supermarket, tavern, hotel, and a service station. In the summer, the public swimming pool is a favourite spot, and don’t miss the open-air cinema—it’s free when they’re showing a movie!

Pannawonica is located 1423km north of Perth via Geraldton and Carnarvon. It is situated 47km on a sealed road off the North West Coastal Highway, between the Onslow turn off and Fortescue Roadhouse.

Pannawonica is conveniently close to Robe River, offering ample space and shaded areas for a refreshing dip. Explore the stunning picnic spots, and don’t forget to mark your calendar for the popular annual Robe River Rodeo!

As you pass through, make sure to stop at The Boot Tree - a local tradition embraced by both passing travellers and locals. Feel free to leave a boot behind as a unique memento of your journey.

History

The town as we know it today was built in 1970 to house employees of an iron ore mine.

However, there is also a folktale behind the history of Pannawonica. The traditional story is that Pannawonica Hill was once an island over which two local groups were in dispute, until a sea spirit decided to resolve the dispute by moving the hill inland. As the hill was dragged over the land it left a deep indentation or scar which became the Robe River. That is how Pannawonica got its local landmark, Pannawonica Hill.