The region was explored in 1836 by George Fletcher Moore, who named the Moore River. Settlement of the region was in the 1840’s, then in 1873 the telegraph passed through the area. A town started to grow on the banks of the river and the railway to Moora was completed within 1893. Moora was officially gazetted on the 12 April 1895.

Prior to European settlement the Moora area was inhabited by the YUAT tribe of Nyoongar Aboriginal people. Many Aboriginal sites have been identified within the district, particularly along the Moore River where the summer water was plentiful. The town was named after a corruption of the word “Maura”, said to be the name local Aborigines gave to a well to the west of the town.
 

Moora is a popular stopover for tourists following the wildflowers and it is central to a number of coastal towns such as Cervantes, Jurien, and Lancelin.

There is a publication called ‘Tracks Through The Midlands: A History of The Moora District’ author Maxine Laurie and provides an insight into the early development of the area and the problems faced by pioneers. The book can be purchased from the Shire of Moora for $20.

For up-to-date information visit the tourist centre. For Moora accommodation click here: