This is a 4WD day trip destination close to
Perth that is suitable for most 4WD vehicles without much hassle.
Wilbinga is located on the northern outskirts of metropolitan
Perth just past
Yanchep and
Two Rocks. Being so accessible, this track is popular with local 4WD trainers and with local clubs. There are opportunities for every kind of sand driving experience from sandy tracks, soft ruts, uneven sand hills, sand dunes, seasonal beach driving, steep ascents and descents. For experienced drivers, its just a place to go and have a bit of fun.
The sand bowls near
the beach tend to be the ideal snack or
lunch stop and from here it is only a short walk to
the beach. Some of the things you can do include walks along
the beach, exploring the historic huts and collecting shells which are often visible along the tide line.
How to Use this Trek Note
- To download this information and the route file for offline use on a phone, tablet, headunit or laptop, go to the app store and purchase ExplorOz Traveller. This app enables offline navigation and mapping and will show where you are as you travel along the route. For more info see the ExplorOz Traveller webpage and the EOTopo webpage.
Environment
Wilbinga is a Quindalup dune area and forms part of the Gnangara Park. In Government planning documents
Wilbinga has been earmarked for a combination of nature conservation, recreational use, and potential resource allocation (ground water and
limestone). It appears that any development will be low-key with a commitment to retain the "wilderness" quality of this large coastal area. Whilst this is good news for motorbikes, dune buggys and 4WDrivers, it is important to respect the area and take care when visiting. Drive responsibly, don't litter, don't trample or remove
wildflowers and plants. Keep to tracks whereever possible and participate in local clean-ups to keep this area accessible for future 4WD
recreation.
Along the tracks you will see extensive plant life including banksias, cycads, kangaroo paws, Black Boys or "Grass Trees" (Xanthorrhoea preissi) and dense bushland. Kangaroos, including the Western Brush Wallaby are in the area so keep an eye out on top of the hills. Also you may see eagles gliding overhead.
History
Although not part of
Wilbinga history, the early part of this trek (tar section) passes right by a monument to the 10th Lighthorse Regiment on Wanneroo Road. The 10th Light Horse Regiment is one of the country's oldest and best known. It was formed in 1900 and was trained in Western Australia. The Regiment first saw action on Gallipoli Peninsula as Infantry; their baptism of fire being at Quinn’s Post and Pope’s
Hill. In fact, the only Victoria Cross gained by an Australian Light Horse unit in the First World War was won on Gallipoli by a member of this Regiment in 1915. From this memorial, there is an
information board and some
walking tracks which are
well worth investigating.
Once you're into the
Wilbinga area, the track will eventually come down onto
the beach alongside a small group of
shacks. These are apparently similar to what early settlers built here in 1893. It is also believed many army personal lived along
the beach side in
shacks during the war years.
TrekID: 116