About Our Shire
The Shire of Toodyay, bordering the north-eastern edge of the Perth metropolitan area, spans 1,683 square kilometres, has a population of approximately 4,600 people, and lays claim to some of the most magnificent examples of natural and cultural heritage in Western Australia.
The name of Toodyay comes from the Noongar word Dudja, meaning 'mist'. Misty mornings are very common during the season of Makuru, around the months of June and July.
The townsite of Toodyay is located approximately 85 kilometres east of Perth in the picturesque Avon Valley. Founded in 1836 and declared a historic town by the National Trust in 1980, the town today still displays fine examples of 19th century history, with architecture reflecting the early convict era. Historical buildings include the Old Courthouse (Shire Administration Centre), the Mechanics’ Institute (Toodyay Library), Connor's Mill and the Old Gaol. Connor's Mill, a working display, and the Old Gaol Museum are open to the public for a minimal admission fee.
Toodyay provides residents with quality retail outlets and services, such as bank and ATMs, post office, telecentre, library, chemist, hardware, supermarket, garage, gift stores, bakery, hotels and restaurants, day care centre and a district high school. Sporting facilities include the Toodyay Recreation and Aquatic Centre, bowling greens, tennis courts and a skate park, as well as cricket and football fields.
Flowing through Toodyay is the beautiful Avon River on which the world’s longest white-water race, the Avon Descent, is held each year. Residents and visitors can enjoy a peaceful picnic at Toodyay’s Duidgee Park where there are barbeque facilities, children’s playgrounds, public toilets and a miniature railway.
Also located within the Shire are the Avon Valley National Park and numerous Reserves that become a blaze of colour with magnificent displays of wildflowers during the spring months.
The Shire of Toodyay forms part of the Western Australia Wheatbelt region and a significant proportion of the land is used for agricultural activities, particularly sheep, cattle and grain.
Extracts Industrial Park is located approximately 5km from Toodyay and currently accommodates various light industries. A future industrial area has also been identified that will have the capacity to accommodate the future long term industrial needs of the Shire.
Tourism is a growing industry that has significant potential to expand, with visitors being attracted to the dramatic landscape, significant heritage values and country lifestyle. There are many artisans in the region, as well as a wide selection of venues that offer quality accommodation. The Toodyay Visitor Centre is the ideal source for obtaining information about places of interest.
The Shire continues to experience a migration of people from the Perth metropolitan area who are seeking an alternative semi-rural lifestyle, resulting in unprecedented demand for property and development. With a commuter train service available, more people working from home and increasing numbers of fly in fly out workers in the mining industry, Toodyay is a popular location for people looking for an alternative home base that is a safe place for their families.
Shire of Toodyay Demographics
Shire Vision and Values