Located in the Swan Valley wine region, a 25 minute drive east of Perth. Midland, the commercial centre of the Swan Valley, owes its existence to the building of a railway from Perth in 1886 and the establishment of the State’s railway workshops at the turn of the 20th century. The workshops became the region’s major provider of jobs, employing thousands of workers during its 90-year working history.
Like the neighbouring town of Guildford, Midland has retained many of its historical buildings which provide a unique character to the bustling city centre. These include the Town Hall with its unusual square clock tower, built in 1906, and the workshop buildings which are now emerging as a major tourist attraction. An old school is now the home of the Australian Opera Studio – a world-class training institution for operatic performers – and a former bank has been transformed into Midland’s premier art gallery.
Midland offers a range of shopping experiences, with two major shopping centres including the revamped Midland Gate. The city centre also features several villagelike shopping precincts.
The thriving Farmer’s Market, located behind the Town Hall, open at 7am on Sunday and sells fresh produce, arts and crafts, as well as providing regular entertainment for visitors. Midland also offers a variety of restaurants, cafes and takeaway outlets.
Nearby, the Swan Valley area offers a wide range of Accommodation including self-contained cottages, bed and breakfasts, caravan parks and boutique hotels, right through to resort style accommodation.
Call the Swan Valley Visitor Centre on (08) 9379 9400 for more information.
