Ongoing uncertainty about fuel prices has led many grey nomads and other travellers to think twice about long trips to the north … and that has had a serious effect on many tourism-dependent businesses.
Several initiatives have recently been launched to drive visitor numbers to traditional dry season hotspots.
For example, the WA Government has just launched a new travel voucher program offering 50% off selected tours and experiences in the Kimberley.
The new initiative includes support for marketing, and for a brand new voucher campaign that is expected to generate more than $1 million in bookings.
The Kimberley's ancient landscape is a huge drawcard. PIC: Peter_McNally / Pixabay
The vouchers have just gone live, and can be used for travel from Monday, July 13, to Saturday, October 31, 2026, for experiences across the Kimberley.
The Government says the rapid increase of fuel costs at the start of the dry season hit the region hard, and travellers are being encouraged to support the Kimberley by booking a trip and utilising the discount.
The vouchers will be valid across more than 150 tours and experiences ranging from scenic helicopter flights and river cruises to immersive Aboriginal cultural activities.
They will be delivered in partnership with Australia’s North West through the Broome and Kununurra Visitor Centres.
Regional Development and Kimberley, Minister Stephen Dawson, said ‘the rising cost of fuel has unfortunately impacted the tourism sector in the wonderful Kimberley region’ and the Government needed to act to drive visitor numbers and help local businesses.
“We know how important tourism is in the Kimberley and we’re determined to help local businesses get back on track,” he said. “So, if you’re looking at planning your next holiday, don’t look further than this stunning region and these discounted tours and experiences.”
# Click here to read about the new effort to attract more grey nomads to the Red Centre this year.
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Definitely less around Manari road just north of Broome but Broome caravan parks seemed to be full , have noticed it picking up though with more vans just starting to come through .
Maybe a lot of nomads put off this years trip because of the uncertainty around supply and price of fuel but realised later on that everything is pretty much back to normal so they are travelling just later than usual .
It’s just not fuel,prices to stay in some cases have doubled.
Making it more expensive than just fuel.
Regards John
You’re certainly right there ,John. We were on the road for 7 months last year and spent at least half that time in WA. We found that a lot of places that were previously free or donation camps, now had a fee of $20 per night with in most cases no facilities except maybe a toilet. Caravan parks were outrageously expensive, and we were travelling late in the season. The Northern Territory was similar. What used to be free camps were now paid camps, again around $20 per night.
I also agree. I normally stay in caravan parks in North WA. All full for June, July & August this year and at $88 a night in Broome the park owners should not complain about lack of tourists.