Our Story
We wish to acknowledge the Wadandi people who are the traditional custodians of this land. We wish to acknowledge and respect their continuing connection to the land, waters and community. We pay our respects to all members of the aboriginal communities and their culture; and to Elders past and present, their descendants who are with us today, and those who will follow in their footsteps.
A Sense of Place for the Shire of Capel district
The Shire of Capel – where connected, compassionate communities can be found nestled in an enviably diverse natural landscape that spans along the Capel and Preston rivers from the foothills of the Whicher Range to Geographe Bay, embracing a built and cultural heritage born of a complex Indigenous and Colonial history.
In the heart of Wadandi Country lies the Shire of Capel. Nestled between hills and coastline, divided by the course of rivers and arterial highways, the Shire of Capel seamlessly weaves together a rich tapestry of history, nature, and community.
Our land whispers stories of a complex and protected past, where the ebb and flow of Indigenous and migrant communities have shaped the very fabric of our existence. Here, heritage intertwines with the present and looks to the future, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the legacy of our industrious history rooted in Boyanup railway, agriculture, mining and horseracing, and together act as custodians of our breathtakingly diverse natural environment for future generations.
From the coastal wetlands and ancient forests to the gentle inland pastures and expansive beaches, our landscapes offer protected havens for a myriad of wildlife and rare giant tuarts, paperbarks and Moreton Bay fig trees. Heritage buildings and artefacts excite those with a passion for the past, whilst the love of nature nurtures the soul. Trails carve paths of exploration through the forests and beaches, allowing intrepid walkers, cyclists and horse-riders to uncover hidden gems, and immerse themselves in the raw beauty of our landscape.
Amidst open farmland and rural tranquillity, life here takes on a slow pace, embodying the essence of small-town living, offering respite from the bustling world while remaining within reach of the supporting amenities and infrastructure of adjacent major centres, Busselton and Bunbury. From rural retreats in Gwindinup to coastal-suburban havens in Dalyellup, an array of diverse living environments meet the needs of diverse family compositions within our nature-loving community.
Built on a foundation of volunteers’ dedication and commitment, our people support and connect with one another with a camaraderie that transcends generations. Active, inclusive community groups and clubs cater to diverse interests, all ages, and all abilities. Community facilities, events and services abound from Gelorup to Boyanup, nurturing the wellbeing and enrichment of all who call this place home.
Our community respectfully bears the responsibility of being custodians of this remarkable landscape we have inherited and will pass on to future generations. They look to a future of controlled, sustainable growth around their civic and town-centres, to meet the evolving housing and service demands of an aging population, alongside a growing population of rural residents looking for a tranquil lifestyle away from the stresses of city living.