Millstream Station
Ashburton Shire, Western Australia, Australia
Key Information
Do not enter mining areas without proper authorization.
Millstream Station, now part of Millstream Chichester National Park, is in Ashburton Shire, Western Australia, about 70 km south of Roebourne.
It is known for pyrite concretions and other minerals like marcassite and quartz.
The area features sedimentary rocks from the Hamersley Province, with no significant mining history as it was mainly a pastoral station.
The Yinjibarndi people have deep cultural ties here, and the climate is hot and arid, with springs supporting unique flora and fauna.
Geographic Location
Millstream Station is located in the Pilbara region of Western Australia, specifically in Ashburton Shire, about 70 km south of Roebourne and 80 km east of Pannawonica. Its coordinates are 21° 34' 18'' South and 117° 3' 16'' East, making it part of Millstream Chichester National Park. Nearby attractions include other national parks like Karijini and towns such as Tom Price and Pannawonica, offering additional exploration opportunities for enthusiasts.
Minerals Produced
The station is renowned for its pyrite concretions, which are unique spherical or oval structures containing small pyrite crystals, scattered across the surface and embedded in soft weathered rock. Other minerals found include marcassite, corundum, quartz, jarosite, and limonite, providing a diverse range for mineral collectors to explore.
Geological and Historical Context
The geological structure consists primarily of sedimentary rocks from the Hamersley Province, known for banded iron formations, reflecting the area's ancient geological history. Historically, Millstream Station was a sheep and cattle station, with no significant mining activities, preserving its natural state for current conservation efforts.
Cultural and Environmental Notes
The area holds deep cultural significance for the Yinjibarndi people, who consider it the home of the mythical serpent, Warlu. The hot, arid climate, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C in summer, is mitigated by the Fortescue River and natural springs, creating a microclimate that supports diverse flora and fauna, enhancing the park's ecological richness.