Laverton: Where Outback Spirit, Gold‑Rush History and Wide‑Open Horizons Meet

Tucked 125 kilometres east of Leonora and a full day’s journey northeast of Perth, Laverton sits at the edge of Western Australia’s vast Northern Goldfields. This is a place shaped by grit, discovery and the raw beauty of the desert. Once on the brink of becoming a ghost town after the gold ran dry, Laverton found new life with the discovery of nickel. Today, the town blends its frontier past with a renewed sense of adventure—inviting travellers to experience a region where history, culture and wilderness converge.

A Journey Through Time

Laverton’s story is written into its landscape. The Windarra region—once a thriving nickel hub—has undergone extensive rehabilitation, with more than AUD 4 million invested in restoring the land and establishing the Windarra Heritage Trail. The modern trail contrasts strikingly with the old mine shafts that still punctuate the desert floor, offering a powerful reminder of the region’s mining legacy.

Please note: Current mining activity in the Windarra and Golden Quest Discovery Trail area means access is temporarily limited.

In town, Laverton’s oldest tourist attraction stands quietly on its original site: the historic Police Complex. Comprising the Police Station, Sergeant’s House and Jail, this humble cluster of buildings transports visitors back more than a century. Step inside the cramped cells and you’ll feel the harsh desert conditions that once confronted prisoners. Wander through the station and its displays, and you’ll uncover stories of resilience, hardship and the early days of law enforcement in the outback.

A Gateway to Australia’s Great Desert Tracks

Laverton has embraced a new era of exploration. As the western starting point of the Great Central Road—one of Australia’s most iconic transcontinental routes—the town is a launchpad for travellers seeking remote adventure.

The Great Central Road forms a strategic link between Western Australia and the Northern Territory, opening a path across the continent for both visitors and freight. From Laverton, even more remote tracks beckon:

• Anne Beadell Highway – A rugged, historic route leading to Coober Pedy
• Gunbarrel Highway – One of Len Beadell’s legendary outback roads, accessible from the Great Central Road

Permits are required for travel through these remote regions, and the Laverton Tourist Information Centre provides up‑to‑date advice, maps and essential guidance.

Things to Do in Laverton

• Explore the Historic Police Complex
  Step into Laverton’s earliest days and discover artefacts spanning more than 100 years.
• Follow the Golden Quest Discovery Trail
  When access is available, this trail reveals abandoned townsites, mining relics and sweeping desert vistas.
• Visit Local Art and Cultural Displays
  Engage with stories and artworks that reflect the region’s Indigenous heritage and connection to Country.
• Embark on a 4WD Adventure
  Laverton is a hub for off‑road touring, offering isolation, tranquillity and unforgettable desert landscapes.
• Stargaze Under Crystal‑Clear Skies
  With minimal light pollution, the night sky becomes a dazzling canopy of stars.

How to Get There

Laverton is accessible by sealed road from Leonora, with the journey from Perth taking approximately 12 hours by car. Travellers heading further east along the Great Central Road should ensure their vehicle is well‑prepared for remote conditions. Fuel, supplies and mechanical support are available in town.

Best Time to Visit

The most comfortable months to explore Laverton and the surrounding desert tracks are April to October, when daytime temperatures are milder and evenings are cool. Summer can be extremely hot, making winter and spring ideal for outdoor activities, 4WD touring and cultural experiences.

Where to Stay

Laverton offers a range of accommodation options, including:

• Hotels
• Motels
• Caravan parks

Whether you’re stopping overnight before tackling a major outback route or settling in for a few days of exploration, you’ll find comfortable places to rest and recharge.

Laverton is more than a stop on the map—it’s a frontier town with a big story, a gateway to some of Australia’s most remote landscapes, and a destination that rewards those who venture off the beaten path. If you’re ready for wide horizons, rich history and the thrill of true outback travel, Laverton is waiting.