Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Ellensbrook at Mokidup is nestled in the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park in the lee of one of the most spectacular coastal dunes of the rugged, western-facing coastline of Wadandi Country.

Mokidup has been a camping spot for the Wadandi for many thousands of years. The high sand dunes served as a vantage point for communication, a lookout for schooling fish and later, to scan the ocean for djanga (white spirits) on their ships.

In 1857, Ellen and Alfred Bussell chose this as the location of their new home, ‘Ellensbrook’. Ellen described it as “pretty hilly country by the sea where there is health in the breeze”.

The Wadandi and the Bussell families had a joint appreciation for this landscape. Today, the shared stories of this place are told in collaboration with Wadandi Traditional Custodians.

There was also a shared connection among women of both cultures, who played a major role in shaping this place. The waterfall and cave above the property are called Meekadariby and are very significant, particularly to Wadandi women.

Ellen’s daughters, Fanny and Edith, lived here and managed the farm. From 1898 to 1917, Edith ran the ‘Ellensbrook Farm Home’ for Aboriginal children. Today, Wadandi artist Sandra Hill’s beautiful artworks greet visitors to the site.

Ellensbrook at Mokidup is a registered Aboriginal heritage site and listed on Western Australia’s Register of Heritage Places.

Ellenbrook, Gracetown, Western Australia

Facilities

Carpark Family Friendly Lookouts Non Smoking Picnic Area

Activities

Walks

Disabled Assistance

Disabled access available

Membership

National Trust

Accreditation

National Trust

Rates

FREE – National Trust Members and Child 0-4 years
AUD5 – Child
AUD7 – Adult / Student Concession
AUD10 – Adult
AUD25 – Family group of four
Group bookings (10 or more people) – from AUD7 per person
Schools by appointment