Ellensbrook

Ellen and Alfred Bussell chose the perfect spot for their new home in 1857.

Sheltered from the winter storms and with access to fresh water and fertile soil, they built the house in stages with the help of ticket-of-leave convicts, deserting seamen and local Noongars. The venture was a success, with income from the sale of beef, butter and cheese thanks to Ellen's practical skills and sound management. After Alfred and Ellen left in 1865, their eldest daughter Fanny managed the homestead between 1871 and 1877, and their second daughter Edith made it her permanent home and established the Ellensbrook Farm Home for Aboriginal Children in 1899. For thousands of years, the Noongar people have known this area as Mokidup, a traditional summer camping spot.