The mining town of Leonora in the Eastern Goldfields is a tourist gem as well as an active regional mining centre.

Set in the arid outback, the town is a colourful oasis, offering historic Gold-rush architecture and modern amenities, including a regional airport.

Gold was discovered in the Leonora district in 1894, setting off rapid development and capturing the world's interest. US president Herbert Hoover spent his early years as a mining engineer in Leonora, leading an expansion of the Sons of Gwalia gold mine.

The nearby town of Gwalia is a real tourist find with a complete precinct of 20 original miners' camps, lovingly restored by the local community. 

Leonora, 833km north-east of Perth, was formally established in 1897 and was, perhaps, the smallest town in the world to have a steam tram.