Located over a thousand km from Perth, this mining town has a strongly Outback atmosphere, with red-dirt roads, very hot summers, mild winters and rugged landscapes. Newman is located in thePilbara region, which boasts some of Australia’s most striking scenery: it’s only a few hours from the renownedKarijini National Park, home of extraordinarily picturesque, uniquely Australian unspoiled wilderness, as well as offering a fascinating insight into the natural history and culture of the area.
If you’re interested in mining, don’t miss the 1.5 hour Mt. Whaleback Mine Tour. It’s the largest single open-pit iron ore mine in the world, and making it an unbelievable sight and an introduction to an industry that is an iconic part of Western Australia.
There’s also an outdoor mining museum attached to the Newman Visitors Centre; the Centre also has an art gallery on-site. You’ll also find Radio Hill Lookout in this part of town: check it out for a panoramic view of Newman and surrounds.
The Whole Foods Café is a great place for food lovers, offering tasty, creative and healthy fare including vegetarian options. It’s right next to Fortescue Golf Club, a golf course in the town centre with gorgeous outback views.
Nature-lovers shouldn’t miss the various national parks in the area: Karijini, Cape Keraudren and Karlamilyi. They are particularly gorgeous during WA’s famous wildflower season.
The gold-rush towns of Nullagine and Marble Bar are a rewarding trip from Newman - at two and a half and five and a half hours away respectively, on the way to Port Hedland – but they’re well worth a trip. Both founded in the late 1800s, these once-bustling towns now only have around 200 residents each. Their century old architecture creates the atmosphere of a living gold rush museum.
