 Timber was taken from the area as early as 1898, and in 1902 a lease was granted to Yarloop-based Millars Karri & Jarrah Company (formerly Millar Brothers).The Nanga Mill was the biggest in the area for many years, at times employing over 100 men.In 1909 a townsite was laid out and built by Millars, complete with 56 homes and several other lodgings, a store, butcher, hall, billiard room and school.