TOODYAY, WESTERN AUSTRALIA

'Toodyay' is a town located in the Avon Valley, 85 km north-east of Perth, Western Australia.

Contents

History

Transport

References

External links

History

The original town of Toodyay was one of the earliest inland towns in the State, established in 1833 and situated 5 km downstream along the Avon River. However, the site was subject to flooding, and in 1860 a new townsite was established under the name ''Newcastle'', in May 1910, due to confusion with the New South Wales city of Newcastle, the name of the town was changed to ''Toodyay'', and the original townsite of Toodyay became ''West Toodyay''. The meaning of the name is uncertain, although it is Noongar Indigenous in origin - maps in 1836 referred to "Duidgee", while some believe it was named for a local woman named Toodyeep who accompanied early explorers in the area.^[1] Another source suggests it could mean "place of plenty".
Connor's Mill and the Old Gaol Museum are among the historic buildings within the town.

Transport

Toodyay, being an historic township and an hour's distance from Perth, is a venue for daytrippers, tourists and motorcyclists. The circuit - Toodyay Road through Gidgegannup / Toodyay / Chittering Valley and Great Northern Highway - is a favourite with motorcyclists. On most weekends, Toodyay's main street is lined with cruisers and sportsbikes of many models, makes and vintages, their riders relaxing in the increasing number of pavement cafes that are springing up to accommodate the burgoning tourist trade.
Toodyay also serves as a stop on the Avonlink and Prospector passenger trains from Perth to Northam and Kalgoorlie.

References

1. History of country town names - T West Australian Land Information Authority

External links

★ Shire of Toodyay

★ Toodyay Visitors Centre