The Kimberley
is located in the north of Western
Australia.
updated 02/04/04 16:43:47 +0100
Reference: Hema map "The
Kimberley" (ISBN 1-865001-05-8)
Rugged and isolated in its truest sense, this inspiring landscape is a
contrast of golden spinifex plains,
dramatically uplifted mountain ranges,
tranquil waterholes and immense gorges,
surrounded by some of Australia's most rugged and spectacular coastline.
The biggest townships in the region are Broome, Derby, Fitzroy Crossing,
Halls Creek, Kununurra and Wyndham.
This 22km long, white stretch of beach with turquoise water is a
popular spot to watch the sunset over the Indian Ocean.
It is also popular for swimming. (Warning: sea
wasps/box jellyfish from October to May)
at Cable Beach: Staircase to the Moon
is caused by a full moon reflecting off exposed mudflats at
extremely low tides to create a beautiful optical illusion of a
staircase. Check with the tourist bureau for times and dates.
Just over 200km north of Broome, 3 - 4 hours driving on a sandy
track, and you are at one of the few places where you can watch
the sun rise and set over the ocean.
There are wonderful sandstone cliffs, stark rock formations, sand
dunes and beautiful
beaches.
The impressive Geikie
Gorge lies 18km north east of Fitzroy Crossing. This 14km-long
gorge is formed by the Fitzroy River, as it sliced through an
ancient limestone barrier reef leaving gorge walls up to 30m. Geikie
Gorge contains permanent fresh water and supports sawfish,
stingrays, numerous freshwater crocodiles and bird life.
The park is open from April to November and two boat cruises of
the gorge are offered.
Information and tickets are available from the Fitzroy Crossing
Tourist Bureau.
The Gibb River Road was
originally built as a beef road carrying large road trains. It spans
some 665km from Derby to the junction of the Great Northern Highway
between Wyndham and Kununurra.
The best time to travel the road is from April to November, once
the creek levels have dropped and before the wet season starts.
The road surface varies from bitumen to natural rocky dirt with
bulldust patches.
The rocky eastern section is particularly tough on tyres.
4WD vehicles are recommended and it is essential to carry extra
water, food and fuel.
Lennard
River Gorge
This 5km-long gorge can only be accessed by 4WD vehicle. North of
the entrance, a waterfall drops into a natural swimming pool.
This gorge with its waterfall forms one of the most spectacular
attractions in the Kimberley.
Bell Gorge is only accessible by 4WD and then a 20min walk down
to the Bell Creek Falls which cascade into a large swimming pool.
Bush camping sites with toilets are located at the end of the 4WD
track, whilst a well maintained camping ground is located at Silent
Grove which has toilets, showers and shady sites.
This small horseshoe shaped gorge has a waterfall cascading 20m
into a circular pool. It is the most easily accessible gorge off the
Gibb River Road.
Manning Gorge/Mt Barnett Roadhouse
Manning Gorge is a delightful swimming and fishing spot, located
just north of Mt Barnett Roadhouse. A 2km walk up the gorge from the
camping area will take you to a picturesque waterfall.
Just a few hundred metres off the Gibb River Road lies Jack's
Waterhole on the Durack River. For a small charge, visitors can
swim, fish and camp. Toilets and hot showers are provided and
firewood can be collected on the spot.
Tip:those appreciating a hot shower
should plan to take it in the late afternoon or early evening when
the water in the tank has been heated over the fire. In the morning,
the water is rather cool, wimps even pretend that it is ice-cold.
This National Park sits adjacent to the Kununurra township and is
often referred to as the "Mini Bungle Bungles". It is a
rugged area of ancient sandstone hills and stark rock formations.
Following the pleasant walks, you'll be offered spectacular views of
both the park and Kununurra.
Leaving Kununurra eastbound, you will notice a signpost
advertising these remarkable sandstone formations. Their shapes make
you think of an ancient city.
Tip:The
track leading through these formations
is sandy. You will
need a 4WD vehicle to work your way through.
However, it is just an easy walk from the
highway.
Kelly's Knob
2.4km from the town centre, you may enjoy a panoramic view of
Kununurra and the Ord River Irrigation Area.
Access along Speargrass Road.
Zebra Rock Gallery
Situated off Packsaddle Plains Road in a large garden area
surrounded by a variety of birds is the Zebra Rock Gallery. Here the
unique Zebra Rock is polished and displayed for sale.
Tip: Zebra rocks are a very particular
souvenir as this is the world's only site where they have
been found!
Argyle Diamonds
The Argyle Diamond Mine is the world's largest mine, situated
south of Kununurra.
A number of outlets in town display the unique pink diamond,
which is mined here.
This 3000sq.km Park with its beehive
shaped rocks is one of Australia's greatest natural wonders and
is of outstanding beauty.
The best time to visit the southern
end of the park is in the morning, whereas the northern
area is at its best in the afternoon.
I won't explain the attractions of the park in detail, it is a
good idea to get up-to-date information and advice from the ranger
office in the park.
And here's why: access to the attractions varies with the damage
caused by the previous wet season.
There are two excellent bush camps with shady sites, pit toilets,
water (not recommended for human consumption!), and fire places.
There are no showers, however.
Access into Purnululu is very rough and limited to 4WD vehicles
(no caravans permitted).
Engage 4WD to reduce track damage and turn on headlights
for your own safety.
Allow two to three hours for the trip from the highway into the
park. There is an information bay at the park entrance and a small
fee covers the use of all facilities, incl. up to 7 nights of
camping.
The park is usually closed from January through March. This
period may be extended depending on weather conditions.
Tip:last fuel stops in Turkey Creek
(extremely expensive!) or in Kununurra and Halls Creek respectively.
You should plan to stay at least one
night. It is essential to carry extra water.
Plan to leave the park during the
morning hours, because sun glare may represent a
significant traffic hazard in the afternoon.
