The IDHS was founded in 1964 and is dedicated to preserving the history of the Irwin Districts of Western Australia through our research office and three museums located at the Old Dongara Police Station, Russ Cottage and The Packout Room.
The IDHS is a non-profit organisation entirely staffed by volunteers.
VISION
The Irwin Districts Historical Society is an association of people voluntarily working together in a spirit of stewardship to advance the history, culture and natural heritage of the Irwin Shire as a vital force in the development of a sustainable present and future for the Shire and its people.
Our five year Strategic Plan 2019-2024 is available for download.
You can view the objectives of the IDHS here.
You are cordially invited to become a member, see the ‘Join Us’ page!

The Irwin District Museum and Research office is located in the former Dongara Police Station which operated from 1871 to 1982. Permanent exhibits of local history, Lost Trades, Convicts of the Irwin Districts and the story of the Rabbit Invasion of Australia. You are welcome to visit our Research Office located at the Museum.
Learn more about the Westralian Red Ensign.
Our archives are free to search.

Russ Cottage is a house museum, set out to recreate a late 19th century worker’s cottage. It contains items donated by the Russ family as well as other items relating to the Irwin Districts.

Dongara’s Sikh Heritage
Presented in cooperation with
The Sikh Association of WA
and
Sandpiper Entertainment
Presented in 3 Parts
Part 1 – Sikh Heritage Sites
Part 2 – Sikh Heritage Themes
Part 3 – Lists and References
Left: A miniature painting of the ten gurus, 1890 Wikipedia
Read the recent IDHS Committee minutes here
Our PRIVACY POLICY can be viewed here.