Welcome to Kununurra

KUNUNURRA

Kununurra

Kununurra is the perfect base from which to explore rugged landscapes, pristine lakes and waterfalls, and other incredible landmarks in the east Kimberley region.

Located just over 800 kilometres from Darwin, Kununurra has a transient population that ranges from 7,500 to more than 14,000 during the dry season. Surrounded by some of the most stunning natural landscapes in Australia, you won’t be disappointed by the array of activities and attractions the region has to offer.

The Traditonal Owners of Kununurra are the Miriwoong Gajerrong people. Not surprisingly, the name of the township comes from the local Aboriginal word for river, “Goonoonoorrang”. The region is steeped in Indigenous heritage, from awe-inspiring rock art to modern paintings that illuminate Aborginal culture and narratives. To read the Ngarranggarni Barramundi Dreaming Story, visit gelganyem.com.au and go to ‘Our Story’.

Boasting so many natural wonders, Kununurra provides the perfect base to explore the incredible East Kimberley region. Experience breathtaking waterfalls such as Mitchell Falls and unique topographical landmarks such as the Bungle Bungle Range. While Lake Argyle was a man-made venture, it has given rise to a thriving natural eco-system full of native fauna.

Check out the Ord River Diversion Dam which is one of Kununurra’s most famous landmarks. The dam wall is 335m wide and plays a big part in controlling the flow of water for the irrigation of crops in the area.

Travel over to Wyndham to check out the Five Rivers Lookout. The lookout provides an amazing vista of five rivers converging: the Ord, Pentecost, Forest, King and Durack.

Kununurra, Credit: Tourism Australia

Welcome to Kununurra, Wyndham and the East Kimberley region of Western Australia.

The East Kimberley screams adventure! Whether you’re 4wd-ing the iconic Gibb River Road, trekking through the 360 million year old Bungle Bungles (Purnululu National Park), cruising the magical expanse of Lake Argyle, fishing on the Ord River or flying over Mitchell Falls, there really is something for everyone!

We welcome you to our region and hope you enjoy your time with us.

Vivienne McEvoy General Manager Ord Tourist Bureau Inc. Kununurra

El Questro Wilderness Park, Credit: Tourism Western Australia

Emu Creek and Elephant Rock, The Kimberley, Credit: Tourism Western Australia

Ivanhoe Crossing, Credit: Penney’s Prints

Visitor Centre

Things to See & Do

• E njoy a scenic flight over the Bungle Bungle Range, one of Australia’s most unique natural attractions

• Cruise along Lake Argyle exploring tiny islands while spotting wildlife and taking a dip in the lake’s pristine waters

• Take a relaxing boat cruise along the Ord River to view the region’s thriving flora and fauna

• Don’t miss seeing the Mitchell Falls, a spectacular feat of nature

• E mbark on an Indigenous cultural tour to find out more about the local Aboriginal culture and heritage

• Travel to the outback town of Wyndham for some crocodile pie at the local café and see the remarkable view from Five Rivers Lookout

• Marvel at the ingenuity of ancient Aboriginal rock art at the many sites located across the region

• Discover more of the East Kimberley region on a Gibb River Road 4WD adventure

• The many waterways offer the perfect opportunity to catch barramundi while soaking up the beautiful scenery

• V isit Hoochery Distillery, the oldest operating legal still in WA to learn the secrets behind how they make their rum

• Take a dip at the Swim Beach located on the banks of Lake Kununurra

• L earn about the regions Aboriginal and settler history at the Kununurra Museum

• E xplore Celebrity Tree Park at Lily Creek Lagoon and uncover which celebrities have planted trees here

• V isit Ellenbrae Station on Gibb River Road for their famous scones

• Discover the many waterfalls, gorges, rivers and lakes

• Wander around town and discover the public art works

• C heck out the local art galleries and jewellers

• Take a photo with a monster boab tree

• E njoy the view at Kelly’s Knob Lookout, the highest point in town

• Take in a movie at the open-air cinema on Saturday nights. Pack a picnic and watch the big screen under the stars. Picture Gardens (May - Nov)

• Tour the El Questro Wilderness Park including a hike to the Emma Gorge waterhole for a swim, Zebedee Springs which are warm all year round, and cruise on Chamberlain River

• Take to the skies with a scenic flight over the mango and sandalwood plantations, Lake Argyle, Bungle Bungles and the Argyle Diamond Mine

• E njoy a cruise on Lake Kununurra and spot local birdlife and freshwater crocodiles

Pentecost River, Home Valley Station, Credit: Tourism Western Australia

The Bungle Bungle Range, Purnululu National Park, Credit: Tourism Western Australia

Emma Gorge, El Questro Wilderness Park, Credit: Tourism Western Australia

We have one of the largest ranges of Aboriginal Art, located in the magnificent Kimberley region.

There is something for everyone in our gallery, small and large artworks, souvenirs and giftware ranging from carved boab nuts to didgeridoos and more.

Artlandish is a family run business and has been since 2001 when it was first established. We showcase hundreds of artworks from leading and emerging artists representing all major Aboriginal Art regions of Australia, including a huge range of local ochre artworks unique to the Kimberley.

artlandish.com | 10 Papuana St, Kununurra

T: +61 8 9168 1881 | art@artlandish.com

www.artopiagallery.com.au

144 Konkerberry Drive, Kununurra 6743 08 9168 1882

FINE ART • JEWELLERY • DESIGNER GIFTS

Birdland Functional Art

Unique pottery, glass and jewellery made in the Kimberley

Open Monday - Friday 10am - 4pm & Saturday 10am - 2pm (08) 9168 1616

22 Poincettia Way, Kununurra facebook.com/BirdlandFunctionalArt

Arts & Culture

Art and culture blend seamlessly in the East Kimberley region, from Indigenous works to heritage

museums.

ARTOPIA GALLERY

Showcasing the work of Kimberley artists across fine art, photography, sculpture and giftware. Visit www.artopiagallery.com.au

BIRDLAND FUNCTIONAL ART

This gallery boasts gorgeous glassworks and pottery, and functional art pieces such as jewellery, hanging pots, wallets, tea sets, and much more. Located along Poincettia Way, this is the place to find a boutique gift or keepsake.

ARTLANDISH ABORIGINAL ART GALLERY

Artlandish Aboriginal Art Gallery is home to a large collection of Indigenous works which showcase and support original art. Visit www.artlandish.com

WARINGARRI ABORIGINAL ARTS

Preserving local Aboriginal culture, Waringarri Aboriginal Arts showcases natural ochre painting, sculptures and wood carvings from local Miriwoong artists. Visit www.waringarriarts.com.au

KUNUNURRA MUSEUM

Calling all history buffs, the Kununurra Museum has memorabilia and ancient artefacts that pay tribute to the region’s long and fascinating history.

ARGYLE HOMESTEAD MUSEUM

Pay tribute to a pioneering history and one of the region’s foremost families at Argyle Homestead Museum. Explore the house owned by the local Durack family renowned for their pastoral feats in challenging weather conditions. The museum is open April to September. A nominal entry fee is required.

WYNDHAM MUSEUM

The Wyndham Museum is located in the original 1954 Courthouse in the Historical Port Precinct. It houses some fascinating memorabilia, journal records and photographic displays of Wyndham since European settlement in the 1880s.

Penney’s Prints

Waringarri Aboriginal Arts Centre, Credit: Tourism Western Australia

Waringarri Aboriginal Arts Centre, Kununurra, Credit: Tourism Western Australia

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PENNEY HAYLEY, AWARD-WINNING KIMBERLEY PHOTOGRAPHER

stunning collection of Kimberley photography on display.

Indigenous Heritage

Dating back more than 40,000 years, Aboriginal history is an intrinsic part of the East Kimberley region.

The Miriwoong people’s cultural heritage is preserved in the rock art found throughout the region. The paintings are believed to be some of the oldest in the world. The rock art chronicles Indigenous culture as well as evolutional changes in the surrounding landscape and fauna. Wandjina and Gwion Gwion Bradshaw figures are the two prevalent painting styles seen in the area. Be sure to enquire about an Aboriginal rock art tour while you’re in the region to view these aweinspiring landmarks first-hand.

Immerse yourself further in the local Aboriginal culture and heritage on a tour at Waringarri Aboriginal Arts. For more information, call 9168 2212 or book online www.waringarriarts.com.au/tours Bookings are essential.

Waringarri Aboriginal Arts Centre, Credit: Tourism Western Australia

Mirima National Park, Credit: Tourism Western Australia

Waringarri Aboriginal Arts Centre, Credit: Tourism Western Australia

East Kimberley’s Natural Wonders

Explore the unique and incredible natural landscapes of the East Kimberley region.

MIRIMA NATIONAL PARK

Located a short two kilometres from Kununurra, the Mirima National Park is one of the easiest ways to experience nature in the region. The local Miriwoong people have a special connection to the park and you only have to venture there to see why.

The park boasts four walking trails which provide the opportunity to marvel at uniquely-contoured landscapes and native wildlife while taking plenty of great photos. Unlike some areas in the East Kimberley, the Mirima National Park is accessible to visitors all year round.

BUNGLE BUNGLE RANGE

From the air, the Bungle Bungle Range could easily be mistaken for an ancient city made of rippling sandstone. Located in the Purnululu National Park (approximately 300kms from Kununurra), these unique structures are around 360 million years old and a must-see while in the region.

A scenic flight is one of the best ways to enjoy this incredibly unique attraction. The park also offers a range of walks for both the avid hiker and leisure walker. Don’t miss seeing Cathedral Gorge, a naturally-formed amphitheatre made of gleaming red rock.

COCKBURN RANGE

Stretching across a section of the Gibb River Road, the Cockburn Range comprises of spectacular sandstone cliffs that look like a wall fortifying the horizon. The cliffs are particularly majestic at sunset. Located in El Questro Wilderness Park, tours through the Cockburn Range can be organised via the park.

KELLY’S KNOB LOOKOUT

Enjoy an iridescent Kununurra sunset from Kelly’s Knob. Located a short distance from town, this is a popular natural attraction that provides sweeping vistas of the township, Mirima National Park and Sleeping Budha. Drive to the top or take the 1.2km hike up and back. Be aware that parking spots are sometimes limited.

SLEEPING BUDDHA / ELEPHANT ROCK

Sleeping Buddha has earned its quirky moniker because, depending on your vantage point, this rocky outcrop looks like a slumbering Buddha. For the perfect angle, view this iconic attraction from Celebrity Tree Park. From other angles, the rock is reminiscent of an elephant’s head. And not to confuse you, it’s official name is Carlton Ridge!

Mirima National Park, near Kununurra, Credit: Tourism Western Australia

Salt Flats Cockburn Ranges, Credit: Tourism Australia

The Bungle Bungle Range, Purnululu National Park , Credit: Tourism Western Australia

Kununurra View from Elephant Rock, Credit: Tourism WA

Gibb River Road

The Gibb River Road is an iconic 4WD track extending 660kms across the stunning kimberley region.

The Gibb River Road, otherwise known as ‘The Gibb’, is one of Australia’s most popular drive destinations. Boasting an array of beautiful natural attractions along the way, the unsealed track stretches from Kununurra across to Derby on the west coast.

The Gibb River Road is open May to October (the dry season). Early and late season travellers are still recommended to check conditions prior to departing. Attractions along the iconic track include El Questro Wilderness Park, Emma Gorge, Zebedee Springs and the Cockburn Range.

Travellers do not require a permit to travel along the Gibb River Road. A permit is required, however, when entering Kalumburu Aboriginal land. For entry permits, visit exploreparks.dbca.wa.gov.au/park-passes or phone 1300 651 077.

For a Gibb River Road Map, drop into the Kununurra Visitor Centre.

Cockburn Ranges, Gibb River Road, Credit: Tourism Western Australia

Stunning Waterways

The region is renowned for its beautiful lakes and waterways. Enjoy a dip in one of the serene and replenishing rock pools.

LAKE ARGYLE

Lake Argyle, known as the ‘Jewel of the Kimberley’, is a remarkable man-made lake that provides an array of activities and attractions for visitors to the region. This flourishing ecosystem supports over 270 species of birds, 26 species of native fish and an abundance of other fauna such as the Short Eared Rock Wallaby. Lake Argyle is the perfect place for fishing, swimming, canoeing, spotting wildlife, cruising on the lake and exploring the region on foot.

ORD RIVER

The Ord River is a pristine waterway that offers plenty of opportunity to spot the local wildlife and fauna. Take a 55km cruise down the river to beautiful Lake Argyle. Spot some freshwater croc’s along the way.

LAKE KUNUNURRA

A place for keen anglers to try their hand at barramundi fishing. The lake also offers great birdwatching opportunities as well as a range of watersports such as canoeing, rowing and waterskiing. Kick back and relax on a beautiful sunset cruise along the lake.

MITCHELL FALLS

Experience the spectacular Mitchell Falls firsthand to see why this four-tiered waterfall is a favourite amongst tourists. Be sure to take a Mitchell Falls tour that includes a scenic transfer and guided walk to view the falls and Aboriginal rock art.

THE GROTTO

Located approximately 70kms from Kununurra on the way to Wyndham, The Grotto is an amazing waterfall during the wet season. Visitors can venture down the 140 steps that lead to a lovely rock pool. Wear sturdy shoes and be careful on the path down and up as there is no rail. The pool is a safe, refreshing spot to cool off.

BLACK ROCK FALLS

Just a short 4WD from Kununurra, Black Rock Falls is a beautiful feat of nature after the wet. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a refreshing dip and picnic.

Please note that both estuarine and freshwater crocodiles inhabit the Kimberley region. For more information on being CROCWISE, visit www.parksandwildlife.nt.gov.au

Lake Argyle Cruises, near Kununurra, Credit: Tourism Western Australia

Mitchell Falls, Mitchell River National Park, Credit: Sean Scott

Ord River, Credit: Tourism Western Australia

The Grotto, Credit: Penney’s Prints

DRIVING

DistancesSafety Tips

• Carry a comprehensive road map with you.

• Pack plenty of food and water for your trip.

• E nsure your vehicle is in top condition before travelling. 4WD vehicles are best for unsealed tracks.

• Have at least two spare tyres with you.

• Keep the RAC emergency number handy.

• C heck road conditions before departing. For more information on road closures in the region, visit www.visitkununurra.com/road-reports

• Seatbelts need to be worn at all times.

• Do not leave your vehicle if you break down or get lost.

• Steer clear of flooded bridges.

• Avoid driving at night as local fauna tends to wander onto the road at this time.

Drivers are recommended to take some safety precautions when driving long distances in remote regions

JANUARY

Australia Day Celebrations, Kununurra and Wyndham

Baby Tree Ceremony, Kununurra and Wyndham

Community Citizen of the Year Awards, Kununurra and Wyndham

MARCH

International Women’s Day, Kununurra

APRIL

Kununurra Markets (April to September)

ANZAC Dawn and Day Services Kununurra

ANZAC Dawn Service Wyndham

Brown Water Classic, Wyndham (fishing competition)

Kununurra Water Ski Club’s Dam to Dam

MAY

Kimberley Lake Argyle Swim, Lake Argyle

Ord Valley Muster, Celebrity Tree Park

The Kimberley Moon, Kununurra (part of the Ord Valley Muster)

Kununurra Campdraft & Rodeo, Kununurra

Picture Gardens, Outdoor picture theatre, Coolibah Drive (May - Nov)

Saturday Night Speedway Race Meet (May - Oct), Kununurra Speedway

JUNE

Kununurra Half Marathon, Kununurra

Ord River Paddle (kayak race), Kununurra

Teddy Bears Picnic, Kununurra

Dragon Boat Race, Kununurra

JULY

NAIDOC Week

Kununurra Agricultural Show, Kununurra Agricultural Showgrounds

AUGUST

Lake Argyle Adventure Race, Lake Argyle

Kununurra Race Meets, Kununurra

Kimberley Writers Festival, Kununurra

SEPTEMBER

Kununurra Cup Day, Kununurra

Barra Bash (fishing competition), Kununurra

OCTOBER

Kununurra Neighbourhood House Family Disco

Kununurra Speedway Final, Kununurra Speedway

NOVEMBER

Speedway Race Meet

For the most up to date Calendar of Events and dates, go to www.swek.wa.gov.au/events

Mitchell Falls, Credit: Penney’s Prints

Services

Markets

Visit Kununurra Shopping Centre for your general shopping needs. For a boutique shopping experience, try Birdland Functional Art, Nina’s Jewellery and Kimberley Fine Diamonds. For those besotted with the earthy fragrance of sandalwood, check out The Sandalwood Factory’s giftshop boasting everything from luxurious skin creams to perfumes and beaded jewellery. For an array of souvenirs to mark your time in the East Kimberley region, visit Walkabout Souvenirs. For handcrafted products, catch the Kununurra Market.

Kununurra Market

Held each Saturday morning, 8am to 12pm, from April to September. Whitegum Park, Corner Coolibah Drive & Leichhardt Street.

Boab Tree on the Gibb River Road, Credit: Penney’s Prints

JOHN BATMAN GROUP