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Preserving History: GMA Garnet Group's Heartfelt Support for Dardanup Heritage Park 

Located in the scenic Ferguson Valley of Western Australia, Dardanup Heritage Park celebrates the region's pioneering history. Founded by the late Gary Brookes, a passionate collector of vintage machinery, the park is now run by his dedicated wife, Jill, extended family, and an extended team of staff and volunteers. The world-class heritage collection was officially opened in 203. 

The park showcases a wide range of vintage machinery and artifacts—from tractors and engines to horse-drawn equipment—many meticulously restored to preserve historical items for future generations.  

Before & After Restoration Works

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Pictured: Jill Brooks with GMA Team members Nicole Bowtell & Alex Bozward 

A Partnership Built on Shared Values 

Dardanup Heritage Park is not just a museum—it's a vibrant, living piece of history. The team has used premium abrasives donated by GMA Garnet to restore many of their impressive collection, including the Rustor Proctor Traction Engine manufactured in the UK in 1911. 

"Restoring these machines is more than just preservation—it's about connecting the community to its past. With the right tools and materials, including the right abrasive, we can ensure that these machines continue to tell their stories for generations. We can’t thank GMA Garnet enough for their donations over the many years,"
Jill Brookes
Founder of Dardanup Heritage Park

A Community-Centered Destination 

Spanning 6,500 square meters, Dardanup Heritage Park is home to one of Australia's most extensive heritage collections. Visitors can explore a replica mill town, witness demonstrations of restored machinery, and even enjoy rides on a tractor-drawn train, lovingly restored using GMA Garnet.

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A Lasting Impact

The partnership is a reminder of the powerful impact businesses and communities can have when they come together with a shared purpose. 

After his visit to the park, New Market and Innovation Manager, Alex Bozward shared, "Seeing the restoration work firsthand was a powerful reminder of how important it is to preserve not only the machines, but also the stories and memories they represent. It's humbling to be part of a project that brings history to life for people today and for those who will visit in the years ahead. I'm especially looking forward to a visit with my children, sharing this remarkable history with them, and seeing their curiosity and wonder as they experience it firsthand." 

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"This collaboration is about more than just restoring machines—it's about fostering a deeper connection to a community's heritage. At GMA, we're proud to contribute to something that strengthens local identity and ensures that future generations can appreciate the region's rich history." 
Chris Manger
APAC Sales Manager

Whether it's restoring a vintage tractor or welcoming visitors, every effort is made wholeheartedly, with a shared commitment to preserving history. The park's volunteers and staff embody a spirit of collaboration and passion that is felt by everyone who steps through its gates. The park also serves as a hub for local gatherings, hosting workshops and providing space for community events. Located just outside Bunbury, about two hours south of Perth, it draws visitors from across the region, reinforcing its role as a key cultural and educational landmark. The combination of historical exhibits, community engagement, and the strong relationship among its dedicated team makes Dardanup Heritage Park a must-see destination for anyone interested in the area's rich history.

GMA Garnet Group is proud to support Dardanup Heritage Park. 

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To learn more, please visit their website.