Toodyay is a town located in the Avon Valley, 85 km north-east of Perth.
The original village of Toodyay was one of the earliest inland towns in
the State, established along the Avon River in 1836 after settlers
including James Drummond, Captain Francis Whitfield and Alexander
Anderson explored the area; Drummond established his homestead
Hawthornden nearby. However, the location was subject to flooding which
lead to its abandonment in the 1850s, and a new townsite was
established on higher ground 2 km upstream. This was gazetted in 1860
as 'Newcastle' and the original settlement came to be referred to as
'Old Toodyay'. In May 1910 due to confusion with the New South Wales
city of Newcastle, Newcastle became known as 'Toodyay', and the
original townsite, which had by this time declined substantially,
became 'West Toodyay'.
The meaning of the name is uncertain, although it is Noongar Indigenous
in origin - maps in 1836 referred to "Duidgee", while some believe it
was named for a local woman named Toodyeep who accompanied early
explorers in the area. Another source suggests it could mean "place of
plenty".
Connor's Mill and the Old Gaol Museum are among the historic buildings
within the town.
Toodyay, being an historic township and an hour's distance from Perth,
is a venue for daytrippers, tourists and motorcyclists. The circuit -
Toodyay Road through Gidgegannup / Toodyay / Chittering Valley and
Great Northern Highway - is a favourite with motorcyclists. On most
weekends, Toodyay's main street is lined with cruisers and sportsbikes
of many models, makes and vintages, their riders relaxing in the
increasing number of pavement cafes that are springing up to
accommodate the burgeoning tourist trade.
Toodyay also serves as a stop on the Avonlink and Prospector passenger
trains from Perth to Northam and Kalgoorlie.
Accommodation in Toodyay
