Anglerup and Brant are two small towns located in the South West region of Western Australia. Anglerup is situated approximately 270 km south of Perth, the state capital of Western Australia, while Brant is located around 290 km south of Perth. Both towns have populations of less than 500 people and are considered remote rural settlements.
In this article, we will explore the history, geography, demographics, economy and amenities of Anglerup and Brant to provide an overview of these two small Outback communities. Understanding where these towns are located geographically and how they developed over time can give insight into the lifestyles and culture of their residents.
History of Anglerup and Brant
Anglerup was established in the 1860s after the discovery of lead ore deposits in the area. The town began as a mining settlement supporting the local lead mines. The name “Anglerup” comes from the Aboriginal word for “reedy waterhole”.
Brant’s origins date back to the early 1900s when it was established as a railway siding along the Tambellup-Borden railway line that connected the port of Albany to the Eastern Goldfields region. The town was initially named “Twenty Six Gate” after its position on the railway but was later renamed Brant after an early pioneer settler, Edward Brant.
Both Anglerup and Brant were stops along the railway line for loading timber, sandalwood, livestock and agricultural products to be transported to Albany. The towns served as important service centers for the surrounding pastoral and agricultural lands.
20th Century Developments
By the early 1900s, the lead mining industry in Anglerup had declined. Agriculture and timber became the main economic activities in the area. The population of Anglerup dropped significantly after the mine closed.
In the 1920s and 1930s, soldier settlement schemes brought new farmers and residents to both Anglerup and Brant. The towns received an influx of WW1 veterans taking up land grants provided by the government. This led to further clearing of land for agricultural use.
The economy of both towns was boosted in the 1950s and 1960s by good wool prices. Locals farms prospered during this time. However, mechanization on farms in the 1970s resulted in population declines as fewer workers were needed.
Geography and Climate
Anglerup and Brant are situated in the Great Southern geographic region of Western Australia, approximately 3.5 hours drive southeast of Perth.
The areas around the two towns consist of gently undulating plains, low hills and breakaways. Granite outcrops are also a feature of the landscape. The natural vegetation is mainly Eucalyptus woodland.
Winters are cool and wet while summers tend to be hot and dry. Anglerup has a Mediterranean climate with an average annual rainfall of around 550 mm. Temperatures range from an average winter minimum of 5°C to a summer maximum of 34°C.
Notable Geographical Features
– Stirling Range – This prominent range of mountains and peaks lies 50 km north of Anglerup. It is an important biodiversity hotspot with many native plant species. Bluff Knoll is the highest point at 1095 m.
– Pallinup River – This major river flows past Brant and is an important source of water for agriculture. Tributaries of the Pallinup also flow through Anglerup.
– Anglerup Cave – Located 13km east of Anglerup, this large limestone cave system features extensive stalactites and underground lakes. It is a popular tourist attraction in the region.
Demographics
According to the 2016 Australian Bureau of Statistics census data, Anglerup had a population of 379 people while Brant had a slightly lower population of 301 residents. Both towns have been experiencing a decline in population since the 1970s.
Some key demographic statistics for the two towns are:
Anglerup
– Median Age: 52 years old
– Indigenous population: 4.2%
– Overseas born residents: 7.7% (mainly from UK)
– Median household income: AUD $1015/week
Brant
– Median age: 50 years old
– Indigenous population: 3.3%
– Overseas born residents: 11.3% (mainly from UK)
– Median household income: AUD $891/week
The majority European ethnicity and older median age reflect Anglerup and Brant’s history as established agricultural communities. Population decline has occurred as younger residents move away for education and employment opportunities.
Economy and Industry
Agriculture remains the backbone of the local economy in both Anglerup and Brant. Wheat and other crops are grown on broadacre farms around the towns. Sheep grazing is also an important agricultural activity.
According to the 2016 census, the major industries employing locals are:
Anglerup
– Sheep, beef and grain farming – 17%
– School education – 10%
– Residential care services – 8%
– Road freight transport – 7%
Brant
– Sheep, beef cattle farming – 18%
– School education – 12%
– Agriculture support services – 8%
– Grain storage services – 7%
Tourism contributes in a small way to the local economy through visitors passing through or staying in the towns. Attractions like Anglerup Cave and the Stirling Range draw tourists off the main highways.
Retail businesses and tradespeople provide goods and services to the farming community. However, options remain limited in the small towns. Locals often travel to larger centres like Katanning or Albany for supplies.
Facilities and Amenities
As small rural townships, Anglerup and Brant have access to only basic amenities and facilities. These include:
Anglerup
– Primary school (K-6)
– General store
– Roadhouse with fuel
– Hotel pub
– Sports oval
– Rural transaction centre
– Volunteer ambulance and bush fire brigade
– Telecentre
Brant
– Primary school (K-6)
– General store
– Hotel pub
– Sports oval
– Rural transaction centre
– Volunteer ambulance and bush fire brigade
– Railway station
– Caravan park
For other services like medical, dental, banking, high school education, retail shopping and council facilities, residents must travel to the larger towns of Tambellup, Katanning or Albany.
While limited, these local facilities are important in providing basic amenities for the small populations and surrounding farming district. They help maintain a sense of identity and independence for the two communities.
Local Culture and Events
Anglerup and Brant have a strong sense of community pride and identity. Local farming families have often been in the area for generations.
Popular annual events bring the community together and provide entertainment for locals. These include agricultural shows, bush festivals, sporting competitions and art exhibitions showcasing local talent.
The Anglerup community holds an annual 3-day bush festival in October featuring street parades, markets, live music, dancing and historical displays. Brant hosts an annual agricultural show in September focused on local farming produce and livestock.
Tourism activities like wildflower tours, bushwalking, caving, birdwatching and farmstays also contribute to the lifestyle and culture. The wildflower season from August to November is a particularly scenic time to visit the region.
Local Attractions
– Anglerup Wildlife Park – farm wildlife park open to visitors
– Historical village museums – pioneer heritage
– Arboretum – native botanic garden near Anglerup
– Wineries – cellar door tastings at local vineyards
– Wildflower trails – walk trails showcasing floral diversity
– Observatory – for astronomy and stargazing
The arts community is also vibrant with potters, artists and craftspeople inspired by the natural landscape. Their work often depicts local wildflowers, animals and pastoral subjects.
Transport Connections
The main transport route servicing Anglerup and Brant is the Albany Highway which links the towns to Perth in the north and Albany to the south. This key highway carries road freight and tourists.
The Great Southern railway line also passes through Brant, providing a public transport connection to Perth and Albany. Brant’s railway station is served by the Prospector passenger train.
Integrated public coach bus services along the Albany Highway connect the towns to other communities in the Great Southern region. These services allow residents without vehicles to travel for medical appointments, shopping or education.
Brant is also served by the Great Southern Coachlines regional bus network. However, there are limited daily services to and from major centres. Having your own vehicle is the most convenient way to get around the region and between the two towns.
The nearest passenger airports are located at Albany and Katanning, both around an hour’s drive away. These provide access to flights to and from Perth.
Conclusion
In summary, the small country towns of Anglerup and Brant in Western Australia’s Great Southern region have developed over a century based on agriculture, mining and their locations along transport routes. While experiencing declining populations, the towns remain important local centres servicing the surrounding farming communities. Their isolated Outback settings provide a relaxed lifestyle focused on agriculture and community. Regular local events continue to celebrate the area’s heritage and bring residents together. The natural environment, country hospitality and scenic attractions also draw tourists off the main highways to experience a taste of rural Australia.
