Hardy Inlet
The Hardy Inlet is located on the far south-west coast of Western Australia adjacent to the town of Augusta. It is a relatively small estuary – 9 km2, at the seaward end of the 42 km-long Blackwood River estuary. It is one of only two large estuarine systems on the south coast that maintains a permanent and natural opening to the ocean. The natural setting of the estuary is an asset to the local community and popular for visitors. Fishing, boating and ecotourism activities are enjoyed on the estuary.
Aboriginal significance
Hardy Inlet is in the boodjar (country) of the Wadandi Noongar people. The area where the Blackwood River turns into Hardy Inlet and runs to Flinders Bay is Talinup, which is named after the Talin or Knob Sedge (Carex inversa), a bush/reed that appears on the estuary shores.
Goorbilyup is the Wadandi name for the lower Blackwood River entering to the estuary, with Goorbilya meaning the large intestine of the stomach.
This is part of the Emu (Waitj) dreaming trail that starts at Lake Dumbleyung and where the town of Wagin gets its name from. It is noted that in modern times Emu oil is considered to promote intestinal health and reduce bowel disease.
*Cultural informants Undalup Association/ Zac and Wayne Webb.
