Bulong, WA
Bulong, a once-thriving town in Western Australia’s Goldfields, offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. Located just 34 kilometers east of Kalgoorlie and approximately a 6-hour drive from Perth, Bulong emerged as a gold mining settlement in the late 19th century. Though abandoned today, its rich history and the surrounding Goldfields region continue to captivate adventurers and history enthusiasts alike.
Known For
- Gold rush history and mining relics
- Unique water supply innovations
- Proximity to Kalgoorlie’s amenities
In 1893, Bulong’s story began with a discovery of gold on a lease famously named “IOU.” The promise of riches drew prospectors and settlers, transforming the area into a bustling community. By 1895, the settlement had been officially gazetted under its current name, derived from a nearby spring. Within a few years, Bulong boasted a population of over 600, with shops, hotels, a hospital, and even its own local government.
Although the golden years were short-lived as resources dwindled, Bulong’s historical significance endures. Walking through the site today, visitors can imagine the buzz of miners, traders, and families who once called this place home.
One of Bulong’s most intriguing features was its water supply system. Faced with the challenge of accessing water in the arid Goldfields, engineers sourced it from Lake Yindarlgooda. Using condensers on the lake’s edge, they pumped water to the summit of Mount Stuart, from where gravity fed the town’s needs. This ingenious solution stands as a testament to the creativity of the era.
Today, traces of this system, along with remnants of the mining operations, provide fascinating insights into the resilience and resourcefulness of Bulong’s early inhabitants.
While Bulong itself is now a ghost town, its proximity to Kalgoorlie and other Goldfields landmarks makes it an excellent stop for explorers. Kalgoorlie offers attractions like the Super Pit, a massive open-cut gold mine still in operation, and the Goldfields War Museum.
Nature lovers can visit Lake Yindarlgooda for birdwatching or hike the trails around Mount Stuart for panoramic views of the landscape. These sites provide a mix of historical and natural exploration opportunities, making the area a rich tapestry of experiences.
Since Bulong lacks amenities, Kalgoorlie serves as the hub for accommodation and dining. Options range from the luxury of The View on Hannans to budget-friendly motels like the Palace Hotel. For dining, visitors can enjoy a hearty meal at Ruby’s Rasoi or explore the historic pubs that dot the town.
Kalgoorlie’s vibrant community ensures that visitors to Bulong and its surroundings have access to all the comforts they need while immersing themselves in the history of the region.
Getting There
Travelers can reach Bulong via car from Perth, following the Great Eastern Highway to Kalgoorlie and then taking the local roads east. Alternatively, flying into Kalgoorlie-Boulder Airport offers a quicker option, with car rentals available for onward journeys.
The journey to Bulong is as much a part of the experience as the destination itself, with the vast expanse of the Goldfields providing an ever-changing backdrop for your adventure.
Where to stay?
About Bulong
- Locality: Rural locality
- Bulong Postcode: 6431
- State: Western Australia
- Region: Esperance & the Golden Outback
- Latitude: -30.74763
- Longitude: 121.79242
- Elevation: 383m
- Area (Sq/km): 1987.633
- Timezone: Australia/Perth