Augusta

About Augusta

The most south westerly town in the state, Augusta was named by Gov. Sir James Stirling in May 1830. Until 2003 it was thought the name honoured Princess Augusta Sophia, second daughter of King George III and Queen Charlotte. In 2003 the book "James Stirling - Admiral and Founding Governor of Western Australia" a letter by James Turner is referred to which states "a town is purposed to be built named Augusta, County of Sussex, in compliment to the Duke". Princess Augusta Sophia died unmarried, and the "Duke" is most likely the Duke of Sussex, Augustus Frederick (Hanover), the 6th son of George III. He married Lady Augusta Murray in 1793, but the marriage was deemed a violation of the Royal Marriage Act, and was declared null and void in 1794. Lady Augusta Murray is most likely the person after whom Augusta is named.

Life in Augusta

Augusta is a town on the south west coast of WA and was predominately a tourist town up until the late 1990s when many people chose to retired to the region. The town is known for its major attractions such as Cape Leeuwin "where two oceans meet" and its impressive lighthouse. Augusta is dependent on professional fishing, timber and tourism. There is a local shopping centre in the area and two primary schools - Augusta Primary School and Karridale Primary School, with the closest secondary school Margaret River Senior High School.

Augusta quick stats