Cossack WA 6720

Cossack is a Pilbara region ghost town with a fascinating history. It sits at the mouth of the Harding River on Butcher Inlet 1 582 km north of Perth. Established as the region’s first and main shipping port, it was originally named ‘Tien Tsin’ after the boat that brought the first settlers to the area. It was renamed in 1871 to honour a ship carrying a visiting governor. Cossack was in the midst of the Pilbara gold rushes and it was here that WA’s pearling industry was born in 1860s. A devastating cyclone and eventually the oyster supplies being depleted, led to the industry moving to Broome, which together with the decline of the gold rushes, resulted in the slow death of the town. The port was also eventually relocated and there followed a leprosarium and turtle soup factory for a short time. Sadly, the town was abandoned in 1950s but since being declared an historical town (1979) many buildings have been restored and the town boasts a wonderful art gallery which hosts the annual Cossack Art Award featuring many famous artists. Important remnants of the town’s glory days include a causeway (1870s) linking the town to the main road and many fine stone buildings (1880s) some now listed by the National Trust. Also of interest are the historic cemetery with many graves dating back to its infamous pearling past; Jarman Island Lighthouse (1888-1985); Settlers Beach & Lookout (Aboriginal rock art, fishing, diving, snorkeling).

Visitor Information Centre:
Old Gaol, Queen St, Roebourne. Tel (08) 9182 1060. (15 km south).

Airport:
Karratha Airport (KTA), Norman Rd. Tel (08) 9186 8563. (66 km west).

Hospital:
Wickham Health Care, Mulga Way. Tel (08) 9187 3200. (7 km west).