The Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) is responsible for management of Western Australia’s State Forests, National Parks, Conservation Parks and Nature Reserves. The Department uses planned fire to manage these natural ecosystems in order to maintain the biological diversity of habitats and species richness, and to protect life, community assets and natural resources from damage by uncontrolled fire later in the season.

Edward Hatherley, Regional Fire Coordinator (DEC) for the Kimberley Region recently sent out the annual notification of the end of the DEC burn program, and I asked him to elaborate on the reasons behind fire in the Kimberley.

“The objectives of the burning is to create fuel reduced buffers that may limit the extent of wildfires and create a mosaic of different age vegetation that will assist in maintaining the biodiversity of the area. DEC also works closely with adjoining stakeholders in the interest of developing a strategic fire plan to address the issue of large late dry season wildfires that are having a significant impact across the Region. Generally DEC operations run over a 12 week period commencing around April 2008 through to late June and an aircraft may be used to ignite these burns.

Over the past 12 months an increased number of DEC resources have been directed towards engagement and training of indigenous people in order to increase capacity and knowledge across the Kimberley region. DEC, with the assistance of the Kimberley Land Council (KLC) is actively engaging and involving Traditional Owners in the planning and implementation of its prescribed burning program. This has been a significant step towards engaging aboriginal people in how fire is managed across the Kimberley.

DEC has been developing its fire program to include “landscape mosaics” or “patch burning” as well as strategic buffers. Such burning allows for mosaics of burnt and unburnt patches to be developed in the landscape. Mosaics in the landscape provide refuge for native fauna during late fires, strategic buffers are designed to try and limit the size of large fires. Fires lit in the early part of the dry season are generally less intense, and of a more “patchy” nature owing to the diversity in vegetation structure, curing rates. Fires that burn late in the dry season consume a greater percentage of the combustible vegetation, run for several weeks, and burn under far more extreme intensity and conditions.

In 2008 we also saw the further development of a close partnership with “Ecofire” a National Heritage Funded project aimed at strategic fire management of Pastoral leases. DEC’s prescribed burning program which covers the conservation estate, unallocated Crown Lands and some Aboriginal Lands surrounding the Ecofire project area, was closely aligned to ensure truly strategic approach. This aims to limit the size and extent of wildfires, which impact on the Kimberley Region each year.

For the second year in a row the Kimberley received widespread rainfall in June with falls of up to 47mm being recorded. This rainfall not only promotes the quick recovery of the early dry season fire areas, but has the added advantage of extinguishing most fires across the Region, effectively creating a distinct end to the Prescribed Burning Season.

Fire is and always has been a part of the Kimberley environment, however the contemporary regime of large, intense, late fires are impacting on the ecological and aesthetic values of the Region. With vast inaccessible areas, limited resources and a fire prone environment the best approach is to work strategically with all stakeholders towards a mutual outcome.”

For more information visit the website for Department of Environment & Conservation (formerly CALM)

Phil and Debbie Peet would like to advise that as of 6th June 2008, the business and vessel K2O Kimberley To Ocean has been sold. We would like to assure you that it is “business as usual” for the staff and crew of K2O Kimberley To Ocean who are looking forward to giving you the holiday of a lifetime in the magical Kimberley onboard K2O.

The new owner, Mark Walsh, is a well known Broome identity who owned and successfully operated a pearling business in Broome for 20 years. Mark has the experience, passion and financial stability to guarantee your cruise experience.

Phil and Debbie would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your support in booking with K2O, we are sure you will have the “Trip of a Lifetime”. We know we take with us many fantastic memories of experiences shared with guests, crew, friends and family onboard the K2O in the Kimberley.

Should you have any queries regarding your cruise or future cruise opportunities, please don’t hesitate to contact Liz in the office.

Yours sincerely
Phil and Debbie Peet

The Horizontal Waterfalls or “Horriez” as they are locally known, are located deep in Talbot Bay, nestled amongst hundreds of islands that make up the Buccaneer Archipelago. This natural phenomena is quite possibly one of the most famous attractions on the Kimberley coast.

“…but how can a waterfall be horizontal?”
I hear you ask with a look of confusion and wonder….

Well the science behind it is that the McLarty Ranges where the falls are found, comprises of 2 ridges running parallel, 300 metres apart. The first opening is approximately 20 metres wide and the second, 10 metres. Given these narrow gaps compared to the massive tidal movements found in the region (up to 10 metres) the water cannot get through the space quick enough. This can create up to a 4 metre ‘horizontal waterfall’ effect as the water is pushed up against the side of the narrow cliffs.

To witness the thrill of this natural phenomena, take a scenic flight from Broome or Derby. Alternatively, there is nothing quite like hopping into a boat to feel the adrenalin rush of speeding through the falls. Experience the power of the whirlpools of the pristine, turquoise waters as you traverse the gaps then exit to marvel at the vivid red landscape as it opens up before you. A sight that David Attenborough has been known to describe as “one of the greatest natural wonders of the world”.

Twitch twitch, twitch twitch…..

Cruising along the Kimberley coast you cannot help but sit back and take notice of nature; the rustle of the trees, the lapping of the waves and the song of the many birds that call the Kimberley home. Pure serenity…

For some, bird watching is a serious quest to sight that particular bird found only here in the Kimberley. Some see this as a challenge and for others it is just the thrill when they finally do catch a glimpse of that bird yet to be ticked off the list!!!

There are indeed numerous activites to enjoy in the Kimberley and bird watching is certainly popular. Needing just a pair of binoculars you can twitch anywhere at anytime on your travels.

Below are some of the species you may find on your Kimberley adventures…binoculars poised, let’s twitch…

Having travelled well over 1000 kilometres since we left Broome, we arrive at our final destination of our whistle stop tour of the Kimberley towns. We roll into Western Australia’s most northerly town, Wyndham.

Established in 1886 as a result of the Halls Creek gold rush, Wyndham nowadays has a population of just 900. This small and largely undiscovered town is regarded as mysterious in the same way many people regard the Kimberley region itself.

Back in 1913 the construction of the Wyndham meatworks serviced the cattle industries of this pioneer town. Nowadays it is the tourism industry that uses the busy port to offer access to the coastline to locals and visitors. The town is rich in Aboriginal history and introduces any visitor to some amazing examples of their culture through rock art, significant sites and indigenous tourism experiences. Make sure you see the indigenous statues that stand proud in the town.

Wyndham is without doubt an outback destination. Surrounded by wetlands, vast meandering rivers and spectacular land formations, the area offers some of the best four wheel driving and exploring. The landscape along the 100km drive from Kununurra is as beautiful as it is barren. Dwarfed by the Cockburn Ranges, the road winds along littered with boab trees, termite mounds and spinifex. Sunset over these ranges is a sight to behold for any traveller.

You can take the turn off for the Gibb River Road and head inland towards El Questro and the Pentecost River for a spot of Barra fishing. Sat along the banks of the river, with no other person around for miles, with just the sound of the birds singing, the trees rustling in the gentle breeze and the occasional ripple on the water surface, it is hard to imagine a more perfect paradise….

For more adventure, take the turn off for a visit to The Grotto. A breath taking waterfall in the Wet Season or an awesome area to explore in the Dry.

Just before you hit the town of Wyndham, take The Bastion turn off and climb to the Fiver Rivers Lookout. You will then see how Wyndham lies on the Cambridge Gulf where the Durack, Pentecost, King, Forest and Ord Rivers meet - a truly amazing photo opportunity.

You know you have reached the town site when you see the welcoming jaws of Crocodylus Porosus or Saltie to you and I. The iconic figure is a gentle reminder that you are in the heart of Saltwater Crocodile country, oh, and not to forget to visit the Croc Park in Wyndham, you can even sample some local fare. If the idea of a croc sandwich does not appeal, head to the Wyndham Hotel for a coldie and Barra Burger!!

Thanks for joining me on the tour, I hope you have enjoyed it and are inspired to experience this unique part of the world. After all that driving i think we deserve that beer!!

Having travelled nearly 1000 kilometres since we left Broome, we arrive in Kununurra, the largest town in the East Kimberley.

As you arrive into the town whether it be by plane or road you cannot help but be struck by its vast beauty - waterways, lush vegetation all with a real outback feel. Meaning ‘meeting of big waters’ you will find Kununurra located on the banks of Lake Kununurra and the Ord River and is truly the Kimberley destination for any outback adventure.

Just minutes from the town is Mirima (Hidden Valley) National Park or the mini Bungle Bungles as it is also known thanks to its similar appearance. Mirima is the name given to the area by the local Mirriwong people and retains many sites of significance associated with Miriwong sites.

Going further afield yet less than an hour’s drive, experience luxury in the outback at Voyages El Questro. Choose between a hike into one of the many gorges including Emma Gorge, spend a morning relaxing in the thermal Zebedee Springs or take a chopper and go fishing, your choice of distraction is endless with accommodation options to match.

Heading out of Kununurra, 15 kilometres south of Wyndham take the turn off to Parry Lagoons Nature Reserve, a wetland providing important feeding and breeding grounds for many birds including some migratory shore-birds from as far as Siberia. This area is a RAMSA rated wetland of international significance and Kununurra Vistor Centre have a selection of local bird identification booklets.

Back in the town site, Kununurra was gazetted in 1961 making it one of WA’s youngest towns. Kununurra has a population of approximately 6000 and orginally developed through the construction of the Ord Irrigation Scheme. This scheme has created many recreational waterways used by locals and visitors for many tours and attractions.

Lake Argyle was also created as a result of the damming of the Ord River making it the largest man-made lake in the Southern Hemisphere. In fact, in flood it can cover 2000 square kilometres. The dam was completed in the early 1970’s and also now powers a hydro-electricity plant that provides power to Kununurra and Wyndham.

In addition to the town’s multitude of natural attractions, from Kununurra you can take a tour of the Argyle Diamond mine. Located 185 kilometres south of the town, this mine, owned by Rio Tinto is the world’s largest producer of diamonds, producing approximately one quarter of the world’s natural diamonds. These diamonds have been made famous by celebrities owning a vast array of coloured stones from pale pinks, smokey cognacs to vivid champagne diamonds. There is plenty of opportunity to see these precious stones in the shops in the town if you do not get chance to get out to the mine.

Having been to Kununurra a few times myself, one of my personal favourite attractions is the Zebra Rock Gallery. Kununurra is the only place in the world where this rock is found naturally occuring and the gallery shows off the many creations including jewellery and wine racks - you can even take bits of the rock home to shape yourself.

You cannot visit Kununurra without seeing Lake Kununurra. It was formed with the construction of the Diversion Dam and provides permanent water to the irrigation areas. Locals use the area for water sports which is great for those who miss the beach and need to cool off in the hot summer temperatures. Be sure to notice the Sleeping Buddha or Elephant Rock depending on who tells you about it!!

What we have discovered only just scratches the outback itch. Head to the Visitor Centre for more info on tours available including Barra fishing, remote coastal camps, scenic flights, BBQ sunset cruises not forgetting the rum distillery!!

If you are in the area in May this year, grab your tickets now for the Ord Valley Muster - a real outback event featuring Jimmy Barnes.

Well our tour is nearly over, but not until we have seen that Big Croc, rest assured he ain’t gonna hurt you!! See you in Wyndham.

Halls Creek is our next destination, 288 kilometres east of Fitzroy Crossing.

Whilst the town has a small population and initial impressions would suggest that there are few attractions within the town, look a little further as Halls Creek is an explorers haven. Not only are there some breath taking attractions in the vast landscape that surrounds e.g. World Heritage Purnululu National Park (Bungle Bungles) but also the town’s pioneering history is worth discovering. In fact, Halls Creek was the starting point of Western Australia’s main gold rush when gold was found here in 1885.

No visit to this remote part of the state would be complete without taking a look at one impressive big hole!! or should I say Wolfe Creek Crater Meteorite!!. Located 135 kilometres south of Halls Creek, off the Tanami Track, the crater measures a gigantic 850 metres in diameter making it the second largest in the world.

Purnululu National Park is some 360 million years old, rising up over 500 metres, offering the visitor a rare geological vision of orange and black stripey ‘beehive’ mounds. The area is significant to the local indigenous communities but few non-indigenous groups knew about the park until the mid-80’s. The turn off is just 108kms north of Halls Creek and certainly warrants the time to explore. If you are short on touring time, fear not, why not book a helicopter flight from Warmun (Turkey Creek - 163kms north) or a scenic flight from Kununurra. The aerial vistas will give you an appreciation of the incredible vastness of this park.

After all that driving and exploring, it’s time to relax with a swim at Sawpit Gorge or tasty picnic at Caroline Pool - if you wish to stay longer, call the Visitor Centre for more information. But for the rest of us, it’s time to hit the road and continue east to Kununurra.

258 kilometres eastward from Derby we arrive at Fitzroy Crossing. Nowadays this town is made up of aboriginal settlements that straddle the Fitztroy River when in bygone days it was the best point to cross the mighty Fitzroy River.

This river is a spectacular sight at any time but especially when it is in flood in the Wet Season. In the past, it was known to leave travellers stranded for days if they left it too late to get across.

The Fitzroy River was named by Capt. Stokes in 1838 after the explorer Capt Robert Fitzroy who commanded HMAS Beagle. Presently, the locals know the river and its tributaries not only as the home to many Saltwater (Estuarine) Crocodiles but also a hub for Barramundi fishing. It is also a great spot to find a feed of Cherubin.

Even though there are not a huge amount of tourist attractions in the settlement, the surrounding areas are home to some of the regions most spectacular gorges, making it a great location from where you can explore the area.

18 kilometres North East of Fitzroy Crossing is Geike Gorge National Park. It is approximately 3136 ha of ancient reef where you can enjoy walks and take an interpretative boat tour along the river. Listen to the local indigenous people tell you the origins of their land and their dreamtime stories.

63 kilometres and 95 kilometres from Fitzroy Crossing respectively, you will arrive at Tunnel Creek and Windjana Gorge. All three of these icons are living examples of the ancient reef from the Devonian Period approx 350 million years ago.

Tunnel Creek offers visitors an exciting walk through the tunnel with just a torch for guidance!! Windjana is home to Freshwater crocs that seem more than content basking in the sun whilst you pose for a photo!!

All these geological marvels are a must on any Kimberley itinerary. Tunnel Creek and Windjana Gorge can also be accessed from the Gibb River Rd.

Now we’ve got our Barra, let’s hit the road. next stop Halls Creek…

220 kilometres North East of Broome, we arrive at the pioneer town of Derby.

Renown for the highest tides in the Southern Hemisphere; get to know your tide book before you even think about taking your boat or car near the ocean!! Derby sees 11.8 metres of tidal movement on a King spring tide, the highest tides of the year.

Derby developed as a port for the Pastoral properties located along the Fitzroy River following the exploration by Alexander Forrest in 1879. The high tides facilitated the docking of the larger ships, turning the Wharf into a thriving hub for the region.

The current population is 4,500, half the population being Aboriginal Australians, made up of 3 different indigenous languages. (Source: Derby Visitors Centre)

Even though Derby is the gateway to the heart of the region and the Gibb River Road do not pass the town without taking in some its sights or doing a Derby Discovery Tour.

The local attractions include the Prison Boab Tree; estimated to be 1500 years old with a girth of 14.7metres, it is believed that the tree was used as a staging point for prisoners being walked to Derby (visitors are asked to respect this culturally significant site and to enjoy the attractions from beyond the marker). For the art lovers, head to the Mowanjum Art Centre to see some spectacular pieces created by local artists. Then there are the Bird Watching Tours, the Fishing Charters, not forgetting your Scenic Flights that will take you to the famous Horizontal Waterfalls.

Leaving Derby you have a choice between bitumen and corrugation!! The Gibb River Road is 600 kilometres of unsealed outback travel that will take you almost as far as Kununurra. This pristine area is dotted with gorges, stations and breathtaking landscape.

We will return to explore the Gibb River Road another time but for the moment, must stick to the map. We’re going “Beyond the Boabs”, next stop Fitzroy Crossing.

Travelling to the Kimberley for a holiday can be an experience of a lifetime. Here you will find a melting pot of cultures, a rich history and breath-taking landscape and that is just the first day!!

In addition to the magnificent coastal wilderness, it is worth experiencing the diversity of each town that makes up this vast region. Did you know that the Kimberley is three times the size of the UK? But has an estimated population of just 41,200 (2008) (Kimberley Development Commission) compared to over 60 million in the UK (The World Fact Book) Having grown up in the UK, the Kimberley is definitely a breath of fresh air!!

So I thought I would take you on a mini tour of the region to introduce you to its towns and whet your appetite for your adventures to follow….

Being located in Broome, it seems natural to start right here. It has the largest population centre in the Kimberley region. The resident population remains approximately 14,000 but swells to approximately 45,000 in the peak tourist months of June to August (Broome Visitor Centre). For those booked on a cruise, it is understandable you would be focused on your ocean adventure, but there are also lots to do for a few days either side of your cruise that will assist the R&R.

First stop Cable Beach, an icon in Broome. 22 kilometres of award-winning (West Australia’s Favourite Beach 2004) pure white sands, edged by pristine turquoise waters - it is just as beautiful as the brochure images!! There is nothing more relaxing than taking a stroll along the water’s edge or throwing down a blanket, cracking a cold drink and watching the kaleidoscopic, mango sunsets for which this slice of paradise is renowned. In fact, why not check out the sunset for yourself at Cable Beach Broome Cam.

The history and culture of the town is truly fascinating and the Broome Historical Society showcase facets of the town’s past at the Museum. Open 7 days a week, a couple of hours out of your day will provide you with a greater appreciation of the town’s struggles and glory days. Then grab a cushion and some popcorn and settle into a movie at the Sun Pictures, the world’s oldest outdoor cinemas found in Chinatown.

Pearls are indeed synonymous with Broome. Strolling through Chinatown, you will find yourself ooh-ing and arh-ing at all the array of award-winning pearl jewellery designs. You will be spoilt for choice and there is something for all budgets.

Another unique attraction of Broome is the Staircase to the Moon. It is a natural and quite incredible phenomenon when the full moon rises over Roebuck Bay mudflats thus creating an illusion of a stairway to the moon. It occurs over 3 consecutive evenings between March and October. Follow the link to find out the exact dates Broome Visitor Centre. Wander through the Moon Markets at Town Beach or relax and enjoy the ambience at the Mangrove Resort where musicians entertain with a didgeridoo interlude to accompany the mystic moon rising.

There are of course many other tourist attractions in Broome and her surrounds; Willie Creek Pearl Farm, Scenic Flights, Cable Beach Camel Rides, Broome Town Tours, the Japanese Cemetery, Hovercraft Flights, Weekly Courthouse Markets not forgetting the annual Shinju Matsuri - Festival of the Pearl (September), Spring Carnival Race Round (June-Aug) and Mango Festival (Nov) to name but a few.

Okay we’ve hit the highway, next stop Derby, but for the moment,

Broome - Let yourself go!