On October 7th, Chung Wah Community Care (CWCC) invited our seniors to an enriching outing at Mundaring Weir, where they were captivated by the stunning valley views and explored the remarkable reservoir, experiencing the perfect blend of nature and engineering genius.
Tucked away in the Perth Hills, Mundaring Weir is one of Western Australia’s most significant engineering feats. Serving as the starting point of the Goldfields Water Supply Scheme, it delivers water across an astonishing 700 kilometres to Kalgoorlie and continues to be a vital source of drinking water for the Goldfields region.
Guided by CWCC staff, the seniors took a journey back to the late 19th century, a time of adversity and determination. Thousands of gold prospectors had poured into Western Australia’s remote goldfields, only to be confronted by severe water shortages. The lack of clean water led to widespread illness and loss of life.
In response to this crisis, the bold concept of building a freshwater pipeline was introduced, initially ridiculed as a “mad scheme.” Yet, despite the doubts and opposition, visionary engineer CY O’Connor pressed forward with determination. His efforts resulted in one of the most ambitious water projects of its time. By the time Mundaring Weir was completed in 1902, it was hailed as the tallest overflow dam in the world—a triumph that continues to benefit the region today.
The seniors were deeply moved by this story of resilience and innovation. “It’s amazing to think that such a monumental project was undertaken back then, saving so many lives and leaving a lasting legacy. Truly inspiring!” they commented.
After the tour, the group visited the charming, century-old Parkerville Tavern for a delicious lunch. The seniors enjoyed their meal in the tavern’s cosy atmosphere, sharing stories and laughter, which made for a delightful end to a day filled with cultural and natural discoveries.
This outing not only expanded the seniors’ understanding of local history but also provided them with a rejuvenating connection to nature. CWCC continues to organise meaningful outings that nurture both physical and mental wellbeing while encouraging vibrant social engagement among seniors.
