Back to Perth then east to York and north east to New Norcia WA

Travelling through Bunbury then approaching Perth from the south we camped back at friends, Kent and Louise's for the night. Thanks again for your warm and inviting hospitality.

Thursday 17^th May we continued 97klms west of Perth to WA's first inland town, York. This quaint and historic town first settled in 1831, only two years after the establishment of the Swan River Colony (Perth). The town has many beautiful buildings and we spent the afternoon enjoying the sights. We camped along the Avon River which flows through the town.

Next day travelled a short distance north to Northam, Toodyay and onto Bindoon Hill where we stayed overnight.

Saturday 19^th May 2012.......Next stop New Norcia........an amazing historic, monastic town. New Norcia was established in 1846 as a mission for the local aboriginal people by Spanish Benedictine monk Bishop Rosendo Salvado. 165 years later New Norcia is still home to Benedictine monks and the monastery is one of 27 historical buildings listed on the National Estate. The beautiful architecture is a mix of Gothic, Classical and Byzantine styles. It has an amazing Museum and Art Gallery and we got to visit the many historical buildings on the guided town tour. Taking part in the daily walking tours allows visitors to see the elaborate interiors behind closed doors and to appreciate the rich history and heritage of this unique town. Visitors are most welcome, and we did, join the monks at prayer in their private chapel and afterwards enjoy a friendly chat. We spent the evening camped around the perimeter of the oval along with many other visitors. The next morning at 9.00am attended Mass. A moving and very peaceful experience in itself and the Abbey organ was played, an occurrence that only happens on Sunday mornings.

If ever you are in Perth the 130klms north east town of New Norcia is a town not to be missed. One can only be amazed at one man's vision and feel completely at peace from the experience.