As grey nomads begin to plot their route north in the coming weeks and months, many are understandably anxious about what they will find when they get there.
Heavy rains have caused major issues in many parts of the country, including spots well used to significant downpours … like WA’s Kimberley.
The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) says the region is continuing to recover from what was unprecedented flooding in January.
DBCA Regional Manager Kimberley, Craig Olejnik, says however that the majority of the Kimberley’s national parks will definitely be open this tourism season.
An aerial image showing 37 hectares lost from flooding in Danggu Geikie Gorge. PIC: DBCA
“East Kimberley parks including the popular Purnululu National Park World Heritage area will be open for business as usual to the public and commercial tour operators,” he said.
“In the West Kimberley, popular sites Dimalurru (Tunnel Creek), Dulundi (Silent Grove), Walarra Mindi (Mt Hart), and Lennard Gorge will open pending confirmation of safe access via Gibb River Road and other local access roads and completion of geotechnical and arborist assessments.”
However, it seems significant flood damage to visitor infrastructure and post-flood visitor safety risks at Danggu Geikie Gorge National Park and Bandilngan (Windjana Gorge) National Park mean they will remain closed for the rest of 2023.
Danggu Geikie Gorge National Park’s closure also means the Danggu Geikie Gorge boat tours won’t operate this season.
Danggu Geikie Gorge and Bandilngan (Windjana Gorge) national parks are jointly managed by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions and Bunuba Traditional Owners, who have requested time for Country to heal and for those who speak for Country to reconnect with flood-affected areas.
“Many areas of the Kimberley were not impacted by flooding, and I encourage travellers to visit and support those communities and tourism businesses in the coming months,” Mr Olejnik said. “The majority of national parks will be open, but for your own safety and out of respect for traditional owners, please do not attempt to access closed parks.”
For the latest information about park closures and related works, click here.
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