Our History

The Shire of Dardanup is rich in both Aboriginal and European history, developing its own unique culture and heritage through recognition of significant historical people, events and via the installation of public art throughout the community as a way of expressing cultural liveliness.

The name ‘Dardanup’ is derived from that used by the original Aboriginal inhabitants, meaning low lying ground by the water.

The Noongar Nation is acknowledged as the traditional custodians of the land. Local Noongar people are committed to demonstrating their culture and heritage to the world.

European settlement in Dardanup began with Thomas Little who farmed cattle and grew grain eventually becoming a wine producer. As a staunch Catholic, Thomas donated land for the construction of a church. Built in the 1850s, the Church of Immaculate Conception was the first Catholic Church built outside the metropolitan area. This has since been rededicated, becoming Thomas Little Hall where visitors can enjoy a taste of the region’s colourful settler history and Irish dairy farming heritage.

Points of interest

Dardanup Heritage Park

Collie River Heritage Walk

Slater’s Corner