The Shire of Chapman Valley is located northeast of Geraldton in the Mid West of Western Australia and covers an area of approximately 4000 square kilometres. It is bounded by the Indian Ocean and the Shires of Northampton, Greenough and Mullewa.

European settlement took place in the mid 1800's when a number of grazing properties were established. This was followed in about 1860 by the first release of freehold land. The Upper Chapman Road Board was established in 1901 at Nanson. The Shire later assumed its current name and subsequently relocated its office to Nabawa in 1964.

There is substantial climate variation between the north and south extremities; as a result virtually all forms of agricultural pursuit are undertaken within the shire; intensive farming, broad acre farming and pastoral. The southern part extends to within about 9 km of the centre of Geraldton and urban development is spreading into this area.

The Shire has a population of 1000, with the greatest concentration in the southern section. The largest urban centre is 42 km from Geraldton at Nabawa with approximately 90 residents and where the Shire administration is located. Yuna, a further 40 km northeast has a population of approximately 20. At Yuna the Shire maintains sporting facilities, library, assists the community swimming pool and has two employees based there. Nanson, seven kilometres south of Nabawa now has a population of approximately 45 but was once the location of the Shire's administration.

The Shire's economy is reliant on a range of agricultural pursuits including intensive farming, grain production and wool growing. The southern section of the Shire has become popular for rural lifestyle living and includes the scenic Chapman Valley, which is a popular weekend destination for residents of Geraldton.

A number of small wineries and aquaculture ventures have been established and are proving popular with visitors. Many visitors and campers are drawn to Coronation Beach, which is a world-renowned windsurfing location on the Shire's 17 km of coastline. The Shire maintains basic camping facilities at the beach but is currently restricted in the facilities it can provide by the lack of fresh water supply.

Statistics

Council Statistics 2000-2001

Contact Details

Phone: (08) 9920 5011
Fax: (08) 9920 5155
Street Address: Lot 7 Chapman Valley Road, NABAWA
Mail Address: PO Box 1, NABAWA WA 6532
Email: valleyc@wn.com.au