About Lake Richmond Thrombolites
Lake Richmond Thrombolites is a protected natural attraction within Lake Richmond Nature Reserve in Rockingham, Western Australia, about 50 km south of Perth. The shallow freshwater lake contains rare living thrombolites, ancient microbial rock-like structures formed by micro-organisms. It is one of few places in the world where these formations occur in hyposaline waters and is listed as a Threatened Ecological Community.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a shallow coastal lake surrounded by parkland and residential areas, accessed via a dedicated boardwalk and viewing platform extending over the lake edge. Thrombolite structures are visible in the shallow water as rounded, rocky mounds near the boardwalk. The site includes interpretive signage explaining the biology and geology, open water and fringing vegetation with waterbirds, and a flat, easy walk with lake views. No swimming or direct contact with the formations is permitted.
Key highlights
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Rare living thrombolites - ancient microbialite structures estimated to be similar to life forms from 600 million years ago
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Dedicated boardwalk and viewing platform for close, non-intrusive viewing
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Lake Richmond Nature Reserve - a protected Threatened Ecological Community
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Interpretive signage explaining formation, ecology and conservation