Meckering: A Small Wheatbelt Town with a Remarkable Story
Just 132 kilometres east of Perth—an easy, scenic 90‑minute drive along the Great Eastern Highway—Meckering invites travellers into a place where natural forces, local resilience and quirky attractions combine to create a surprisingly memorable stop in Western Australia’s Wheatbelt. This is a town shaped, quite literally, by history: the site of one of Australia’s most significant earthquakes, a community rebuilt with determination, and a destination that rewards curious explorers with its character, stories and warm country charm.
Discover a Town Shaped by the Earth
On the morning of 14 October 1968, Meckering was rocked by a magnitude‑6.9 earthquake that destroyed much of the township and injured 20 people. Remarkably, no lives were lost. Today, Meckering honours this extraordinary event with preserved wreckage, interpretive displays and walking trails that bring the story to life.
Travellers can explore remnants of the quake throughout the town, where information panels explain the science behind the tremor and the human stories of survival and rebuilding. Just two kilometres north of the townsite, part of the original fault line and the ruins of a devastated farm homestead remain visible—an evocative reminder of the earth’s power. Directions are easily obtained from the local service station.
The Big Camera Museum of Photography
You truly cannot miss Meckering’s most iconic attraction: The Big Camera Museum of Photography. Shaped like a giant 35mm camera and fully air‑conditioned, this unique museum is dedicated entirely to the art and history of photography. Inside, visitors will find an impressive collection of vintage cameras, equipment and photographic memorabilia—an unexpected delight for enthusiasts and families alike.
Things to Do in Meckering
- Walk the Earthquake Interpretive Trail — Follow the self‑guided displays around town to understand the impact of the 1968 quake.
- Visit the Earthquake Fault Line — See the dramatic land displacement and the remains of a homestead destroyed during the event.
- Explore The Big Camera Museum — Step inside one of Australia’s most unusual museums and browse decades of photographic history.
- Enjoy Wheatbelt Scenery — Take in wide horizons, golden fields and big skies that define this part of Western Australia.
- Stay Overnight — Meckering offers budget accommodation and a caravan park, making it a convenient base for exploring the wider region.
How to Get There
Meckering sits directly on the Great Eastern Highway, making it an easy and enjoyable drive from Perth. The route passes through rolling farmland and classic Wheatbelt landscapes, with plenty of opportunities to stop for photos or refreshments. Travellers heading further east toward Northam, Merredin or Kalgoorlie will find Meckering a natural and worthwhile stop along the way.
Best Time to Visit
Meckering can be visited year‑round, but each season offers something different:
- Spring (September–November): Wildflowers bloom across the Wheatbelt, adding colour to the landscape and making it the most popular time to visit.
- Autumn (March–May): Mild temperatures and clear skies create ideal conditions for exploring outdoor attractions.
- Winter (June–August): Crisp mornings and dramatic cloudscapes give the region a moody beauty.
- Summer (December–February): Hot, dry days are perfect for early‑morning sightseeing before continuing your journey east or west.
Why Visit Meckering
Meckering is more than a quick roadside stop—it’s a place where travellers can connect with a powerful moment in Australia’s geological history, discover unexpected attractions and experience the quiet charm of Wheatbelt life. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography lover or simply exploring the open road, Meckering offers a compelling blend of storytelling, scenery and small‑town hospitality.