Rabbit-proof fence built in Western Australia

The first rabbit-proof fence in Western Australia started construction in 1901 and was completed in 1907. It stretched 1,833 km from the south coast to the northwest, making it the longest uninterrupted fence in the world at the time.

Rabbits introduced to Australia

Rabbits were introduced to Australia in the 1850s when Thomas Austin released 24 wild rabbits from England for hunting. By 1896, they had spread as far west as Eucla and Twilight Cove, near Esperance, prompting urgent action.

Surveyor recommends fencing

In 1896, surveyor Arthur Mason was sent to investigate near the border with South Australia. He recommended a series of fences, and a royal commission in 1901 decided on a barrier crossing the entire state.

Construction challenges

The fence faced quality issues, with authorities finding the work mediocre after inspecting 748 km. In 1904, the project was transferred to the State Public Works Department, which first reinforced 233 km before resuming construction.

Additional fences built

Despite the first fence, rabbits were spotted west of it before completion. A second fence, 1,166 km long, was built in 1905, and a third, 257 km long, connected it to the coast. Together, the three fences totaled 3,256 km.

Fence's effectiveness

The fence was not entirely effective but slowed rabbit movement and became central to pest control efforts. Myxomatosis, a virus introduced in the 1950s, later reduced its importance.

Human stories and legacy

The fence also holds a human story. In 1931, three Aboriginal girls escaped from a government camp and walked over 1,600 km along the fence to return home. Their journey inspired Follow the Rabbit-Proof Fence by Doris Pilkington and the film Rabbit-Proof Fence by Phillip Noyce.

Legacy in infrastructure

Alfred Canning, who traced the original fence route, later designed a famous cattle track between Halls Creek and Wiluna in 1910. The track, 1,850 km long, included 51 wells to support travel across the arid region.