Slater Homestead was built in 1856 by George Slater, the first settler and farmer in Goomalling, Western Australia. Later in the pioneering days, it became a wayside inn; explorer John Forrest set out on some of his expeditions from here, as did Bayley and Ford who discovered gold in Coolgardie.

After its pioneering hey day, Slater Homestead fell into disrepair. The Shire of Goomalling purchased the historic site in 2000 and began restoration work together with the local community. Heritage listed in 2004, Slater Homestead once again offers accommodation and food to travellers as well as art exhibitions, concerts, workshops and other events.

About an hour and three quarters from Perth, Slater Homestead is a perfect destination for a leisurely drive, and a must-see attraction for anyone exploring the Pioneers' Pathway. It is open every weekend from March until November from 10am to 4pm or by appointment.

Restoration

The quaint old barn has had a new roof installed and remedial work carried out on its stone structure.

Although there has been a lot of restoration work done by the Shire and volunteers, there is still much left to do. Future plans include connecting the buildings with paving and landscaping work.

All proceeds from the tearoom and profits from Slater Homestead events such as exhibitions, concerts and workshops are used to continue restoring and improving this historic site.

Tearoom

Delicious Devonshire teas and light lunches are available from the air conditioned and heated Slater Homestead tearoom.

Slater Homestead is a unique venue to consider for your next event or function - and we can do the catering for you. The tearoom seats twenty people comfortably; alternatively the stone barn can accommodate fifty people for a sit down meal or seventy people for cocktail style dining.

Art

Slater Homestead's old stone school room building is now the art gallery, featuring exhibitions including painting, photography, sculpture, ceramics and installations.

Check the events section for current and upcoming exhibitions. Artists interested in exhibiting their work are invited to contact Andrea on 0428 569 090 or cdo@goomalling.wa.gov.au.

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Entertainment

The resonant acoustics and unique atmosphere in Slater Homestead's barn make it an outstanding venue for live music.

Past performers include Bernard Carney, Purple Sage, Vicki Lee and Bill Higginson, and Reg Poole. Check the events section for upcoming concerts.

Musicians and other artists interested in performing at Slater Homestead are welcome to contact Andrea on 0428 569 090 or cdo@goomalling.wa.gov.au.

Workshops and other events

Slater Homestead has been the venue for a number of workshops ranging from singing to gargoyle sculpting, as well as events including an antique fair.

See the events section for upcoming workshops and events.

If you're interested in hosting a workshop or running an event at Slater Homestead, please contact Andrea on 0428 569 090 or cdo@goomalling.wa.gov.au.

Accommodation

Slater Homestead offers one queen room and one double room. Guests share homestead facilities and meals are available by arrangement.

Bookings are essential. Please contact Andrea on 0428 569 090 or cdo@goomalling.wa.gov.au for prices and to check room availability.

Location

Goomalling is 133km north east of Perth, Western Australia. Allow an hour and three quarters for a picturesque and leisurely drive through state forest and agricultural areas.

You can click on the map above to zoom in and out, and/or view a larger map.

From the Goomalling town site, simply drive 2.5kms north east on the Goomalling-Wylkatchem Rd to get to Slater Homestead.