Ravensthorpe, one of WA’s most prolific spots for native wildflowers, is currently bursting into bloom: and there is no better time to immerse yourself in the botanical colour and beauty of the local bushland and communities of the UNESCO-listed Fitzgerald River National Park Biosphere.

This month, the annual Ravensthorpe Wildflower Show & Spring Festival, one of the biggest and best wildflower showcases in the world, is taking place from September 9-21. Now celebrating 37 years, the festival puts on talks and tours, and an extraordinary display of more than 700 native flowers at the Regional Herbarium (Ravensthorpe Town Hall), open daily during the festival.

Unspoilt wilderness of the Fitzgerald River National Park. This image captured along the famous Hakea Trail.

Festival Director Sue Leighton tells FORM that Ravensthorpe’s is the biggest Wildflower Show of its kind in the world, thanks to a dedicated and hardworking band of volunteers from Ravensthorpe, Hopetoun and Jerdacuttup, whose numbers this year will top 200. ‘That’s not bad for an area that has approximately 1500 people across the whole Shire,’ says Sue, adding ‘It’s because all the people in our community have the biggest hearts when it comes to this event.’ What, apart from being warmly welcomed by the locals (says Sue) can the visitor expect from this year’s festival highlights? There are painting workshops, bus tours, pop-up food stores and much more.

It’s because all the people in our community have the biggest hearts when it comes to this event.’

However, here is FORM’s inside track on what not to miss:

• The Ravensthorpe silos artwork, depicting the flowering process of the local Banksia baxteri by Western Australian artist, Amok Island. At nearly 25m high, they’re difficult to miss!
• Wildflower Gala Lunch in Jerdacuttup, Sunday 22 September. Long table event with guest speakers – limited seats available, must be booked in advance.
• Galaxy Country Carnival Saturday 14 September: a street parade, market stalls, fireworks and fun right in the heart of Ravensthorpe.

FESTIVAL: Find out all the details from www.wildflowersravensthorpe.org.au or Sue Leighton on 0407 981 301. Instagram #ravywildflowers

VENUE: Ravensthorpe Town Hall Dunn Street look for signs.

Open: 9am-4pm daily $5 entry.  Parking for Caravans / Coaches, Tours welcome.

PLAN: Your adventure at www.australiasgoldenoutback.com