Gingin is a quaint town located an hours drive north of Perth. One of the oldest towns of Western Australia, Gingin has a large number of attractive old buildings and makes a great day trip from the State capital.
The surrounding area is comprised mainly of flat, sandy soils of the Swan Coastal Plain, with the foothills of the Darling Range to the east. It embraces the lower reaches of the Moore River and a system of fresh water swamps, lakes and streams, including Gingin Brook.
Agricultural pursuits such as beef, sheep and wool production, wheat and other cereal crops, beekeeping, viticulture (wine and grapes), and the forestry industry are the areas main source of income.
The first application for land in the Gingin District was made by Edward Barrett Lennard on 6th December 1830. Initially, Gingin was developed as a 'stopping place' for early pioneers travelling between Perth and Geraldton.
More recently the area has seen the large scale growing of fruit and vegetables, olives, grapevines and paulownia trees. Aquaculture is also popular, with a number of marron (freshwater rock lobster) farms operating in the area. Rock lobster fishing offshore from Lancelin, Ledge Point and Seabird also contribute substantially to the State's economy.
Pristine beaches along the shire's extensive coastline attract holiday makers, who enjoy the excellent fishing, safe swimming and relaxing atmosphere. Nearby Lancelin is a windsurfing centre of international repute, with the Annual Lancelin Ocean Classic being a significant event on the international windsurfing calendar.
Hotel/motel, bed and breakfast, farm stay, and caravan park accommodation is available.
