The Peel Region, one of the nine regions of Western Australia, sits approximately 75 km (47 mi) south of the state capital, Perth. It encompasses the City of Mandurah and the Shires of Boddington, Murray, Serpentine-Jarrahdale, and Waroona. The region claims a population of approximately 142,960, as per the June 2019 census, and spans a total of 5,516.3 sq km.
The Early Days
Before Europeans settled in the region, it was home to the Noongar people, specifically the Pindjarup dialect group. The northern coastal area of the Peel region was part of the area settled under the Peel Settlement Scheme, overseen by Thomas Peel, soon after the establishment of the Swan River Colony in 1829. The scheme, however, faced significant challenges, leading to a high death rate among the settlers due to malnutrition.
Industrial Emergence
The region’s first mining operation was established near present-day Mundijong at Yarrabah in 1846, where lead, silver, and zinc were extracted. In May 1872, the Jarrahdale timber mill was set up, becoming the state’s largest timber operation. It catalyzed the development of service centers for the timber industry along the Perth–Picton railway line at Mundijong, Waroona, and Dwellingup. Although the timber industry has seen a decline in recent years, the establishment of alumina refineries at Pinjarra and Wagerup, and gold mines at Boddington, have supported the local economy.
Modern Economy
Today, the Peel region’s economy is primarily driven by mining and mineral processing. The area boasts large reserves of bauxite, some gold and mineral sands, and an aluminum refinery. Other notable sectors include a flourishing agricultural industry and a significant equine industry.
A Controversial Legacy
The region gets its name from Thomas Peel, a British settler implicated in the Pinjarra massacre of Aboriginal Binjareb people. In 2017, a campaign to change the name of the region was launched and received the backing of MP for Murray-Wellington, Robyn Clarke. However, the campaign was ultimately rejected by the premier of Western Australia, Mark McGowan, on October 25, 2017.
