Kimberley

Like most places in Western Australia, the distances are great and the climate can be extreme. During the wet season many roads are impassible for half of the year, as the monsoon takes over and saturates the land. But in the dry season, the humidity is low and the skies are blue. The large volumes of water stored in the land and rivers ensure that food is abundant throughout the season.

The dominant feature of the East Kimberley region is the Ord River and its irrigation network. The Ord River was dammed in the 20th century, creating Lake Argyle. Various crops have been trialled here including sugar, cotton and rice. Success has not come easily, with major problems from pests. Wild geese and other birds attacked many of the crops.

The largest area of the Ord is now taken up growing Indian Sandalwood and this plantation is the largest of its kind in the world. Sandalwood is in great demand in both India and China and in short supply, due to the over harvesting of this plant in the wild in India.

In the northern part of the Kimberley is a wild, largely uninhabited tract of mountainous country, most of which is National Park land. Those who venture there by road need a 4X4 high clearance vehicle and plenty of fuel and provisions. But the reward for perseverance is great when places such as the Mitchell Falls are reached. The stunning beauty of this part of the world will stay with you in your mind forever.

The western Kimberley borders the west coast of Western Australia and towns such as Derby and Broome provide excellent tourist facilities. Derby claims to have the best sunsets in the world and the best place to catch them is on the Derby Jetty.

Broome is synonymous with its early history as a pearling town. it is a sought after relaxed beachside destination for visitors and tourists.