What we’re doing
On purchase our initial focus was to remove sheep and goats, decommission water points, and repair infrastructure. After this, fauna and flora surveys have helped provide baseline information for conservation management planning.
Remote sensor cameras have recorded Malleefowl, Bush Stone Curlew and Spinifex Hopping Mice, suggesting cats and foxes (while also present) haven't had it all their own way. Other species recorded include Echidnas, Mulga Parrots, Bronzewing Pigeons, Emus, Kangaroos, Ravens, Willie Wagtails, Crested Pigeons, Galahs and Crimson Chats.
Small animal monitoring has uncovered many skinks, monitors, blind snakes and a even a disorientated Chestnut Quail Thrush, a pretty and usually difficult bird to see.
Hamelin Outback Station Stay
Hamelin Skink. Photo by Simon Fordham / NaturePix.
Hamelin Station provides a base for people to experience the extraordinary natural gifts and cultural story that this reserve, Hamelin Pool and the wider Shark Bay region have to offer.
We proudly operate the Hamelin Outback Station Stay accommodation. The restored shearers’ quarters and 30 unpowered camping sites are a throwback to the days when Hamelin was a working sheep station.
Hamelin Station Stay at twilight. Photo Cineport Media.
We offer travellers a place to stop and rest, and to experience a little of what it was like to live on a sheep station, maintaining the site as a truly authentic 'Aussie' accommodation experience.
Cultural heritage
Shark Bay is the traditional home of three indigenous groups – the Malgana, Nhanda and Yingkarta – who have lived in the region for over 30,000 years.
Ecologist Ben Parkhurst with a Smooth Knob-tailed Gecko at Hamelin Station. Photo Annette Ruzicka.
There are around 130 registered Aboriginal heritage sites within the Shark Bay precinct including various ancient artefacts and landmarks, including rock shelters, quarries and burial sites.
In the late 1880s Hamelin Pool became an important transport and communication hub. The Hamelin Pool Telegraph Station was built in 1884 and linked the telegraph line between Perth and Roebourne. Initially named Flint Cliff Telegraph Station, it was active until the mid 20th century.