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.

The Society acknowledges the traditional owners of the Irwin Districts, their continuing connection to land, sea and community and pays its respects to elders and their cultures, past and present.

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.

We have waived membership fees for 2021/22
See our ‘Join Us’ page

The Irwin District Museum 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.

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.

Port Denison c1890s
Thomas Reynolds (1865-1939)
Oil on tin | IROB0211

This delightful painting is one of a pair which have recently been conserved and framed with the help of tax deductible gift.
For more information on making a Tax Deductible Donation to IDHS please contact us

You can view the content and download our quarterly magazine THE SEA LION from here.

Our PRIVACY POLICY can be viewed here.