Australia`s Coral Coast

Transcription

Australia`s Coral Coast
Australia’s Coral Coast
Western Australia
YOUR 2011/2012
HOLIDAY GUIDE FROM
THE PINNACLES TO
NINGALOO REEF
Coral Coast
Special Deals
Image
Monkey Mia Accommodation Hot Deals
$
366
*
Monkey Mia
Flights + 2 Nights
Ningaloo Reef Accommodation Exmouth & Coral Bay Deals
per
:mXajh^kZLZhiZgc6jhigVa^VYZVah!_jhia^`Zi]ZhZ#HZaa^c\[Vhi# room
Exmouth Lodge resort style facilities, FREE Internet#
94
Exmouth Hotel Resort heart of Exmouth, pool, bars, dining
98
Coral Bay Resort near the beach, self-catering
170
Luxury Resort Exmouth direct beach access, great facilities 240
94
$
*
Exmouth
Accommodation
438
Flight + Hotel Packages
*
$
“All Inclusive” 6 Day Package
842*
$
EXCLUSIVE
SPECIAL
*
$
*
$
*
*
36*
7gdVYgVc\Zd[kZ]^XaZdei^dch/)L9h!XVbeZgkVch
car per day
$
$
*
719
*
$
West Coast Discovery
8 Day Self-Drive
]^hidg^Xb^aaI]Z7^\AdWhiZg#
Dolphins & Kalbarri 5 Day Self-Drive Package
:meZg^ZcXZi]Z_ZlZahd[i]Z>cY^VcDXZVcXdVhi#:meadgZNVcX]Ze $417* Perth to Broome (via Coast) 8 Day Self-Drive
CVi^dcVaEVg`!E^ccVXaZh9ZhZgi!@VaWVgg^!Bdc`ZnB^V!<ZgVaYidc
9^hXdkZgi]ZVlZhdbZWZVjind[6jhigVa^Vh>cY^VcDXZVclZhi $
*
VcYCZlCdgX^V hZVhdcVal^aYÅdlZgh#
XdVhi!i]ZE^aWVgV@^bWZgaZn#@VaWVgg^!H]Vg`7Vn$Bdc`ZnB^V! 1144
8dgVa7Vn!Cdgi]LZhi8VeZ!@VggVi]V!Edgi=ZVYaVcY!7gddbZ#
*
Perth to Broome (via Coast & Karijini) 9 Day 4WD
$
@VaWVgg^!H]Vg`7Vn$Bdc`ZnB^V!8dgVa7Vn!Cdgi]LZhi8VeZ!
2060*
@VggVi]V!IdbEg^XZ!@Vg^_^c^CVi^dcVaEVg`!Edgi=ZVYaVcY!7gddbZ#
Coast & Pilbara Explorer 10 Day 4WD Self-Drive
Pinnacles & Kalbarri West
@VaWVgg^!H]Vg`7Vn$Bdc`ZnB^V!C^c\VaddGZZ[!8VeZGVc\Z! $2166*
3 Day Self-Drive
:mbdji]!IdbEg^XZ!E^aWVgV!@Vg^_^c^CVi^dcVaEVg`!IdbEg^XZ!
CZlbVc!8jZ hZVhdcVal^aYÅdlZgh#
West Coast, Outback Stations & Pilbara 12 Day 4WD
West Coast Discovery 8 Day Self-Drive Package
<ZgVaYidc!@VaWVgg^!H]Vg`7Vn$Bdc`ZnB^V!C^c\Vadd
I]Z\gVcYlZhiZgchZa["Yg^kZidjgidC^c\Vadd#:meadgZCVi^dcVa $
$
*
2340*
EVg`!E^ccVXaZh9ZhZgi!@VaWVgg^!Bdc`ZnB^V!H]Vg`7Vn!<ZgVaYidc! 719 GZZ[!8VeZGVc\Z!:mbdji]!@VggVi]V!IdbEg^XZ!E^aWVgV!
@Vg^_^c^CVi^dcVaEVg`!IdbEg^XZ!CZlbVc!8jZ hZVhdcVa
CZlCdgX^V!C^c\VaddGZZ[!:mbdji]!8dgVa7Vn!8VgcVgkdc l^aYÅdlZgh#
hZVhdcVal^aYÅdlZgh#
$
235
366
408
per
room
114
144
170
$
*
$
*
$
*
*
Kalbarri
Accommodation
*
*
*
114
*
595
$
*
$
Per person,
àaQVONZWUPerth*
$
207
$
$
Kalbarri Accommodation
207*
Self-Drive Packages Pinnacles, Monkey Mia, Ningaloo, WildÃokers
Packages Include:kZ]^XaZ]^gZjca^b`bhXdbegZ]Zch^kZ
^chjgVcXZ!VXXdbbdYVi^dc!9>H8DK:GL:HI:meadgZg@^i7dcjh
per
KdjX]Zg7dd`#IV^adgVhndja^`Z!VYYZmigVYVnh#8]d^XZd[XVgh# person
Pinnacles, Geraldton, Kalbarri & KildÃokers 3 Day
LZaXdbZidl^aYÅdlZgXdjcign!eajhE^ccVXaZh9ZhZgi!<ZgVaYidc!
235
<gZZcdj\]!=B6HHnYcZnbZbdg^Va!@VaWVgg^CVi^dcVaEVg`!
Monkey Mia Flights + 2 Nights
Oceanside Village Denham FREE Movies
Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort great facilities
130
172
:mXajh^kZ8dgVa8dVhiYZVah!_jhia^`Zi]ZhZ#HZaa^c\[Vhi#
Kalbarri Bed & Breakfast home from home, tranquil location
Kalbarri Beachfront Villas FREE Use of Dinghy#
Kalbarri Luxury Resort nek luxury resort, great location
875
Bdc`ZnB^V!9Zc]Vb!H]Zaa7ZVX]!H]Vg`7Vn<ZgVaYidc#
Monkey Mia Dolphin Discovery 5 Day Luxury Coach Hour
9^hXdkZgi]Z[Vbdjh^Xdchd[i]ZCdgi]LZhi0ZmeadgZCZlCdgX^V!
@VaWVgg^CVi^dcVaEVg`!i]Zb^\]inBjgX]^hdc\dg\Zh!H]Vg`7Vn! $1610*
H]Zaa7ZVX]!Bdc`ZnB^V!hZZl^aYÅdlZgh!Ydae]^clViX]VcY
k^h^ii]ZheZXiVXjaVg=VbZa^c7VnhigdbVida^iZh#
Perth-Broome Discovery 10 Day Luxury Coach
*
$
9^hXdkZgi]ZheZXiVXjaVglZhiXdVhi!E^aWVgV7gddbZ^cajmjgn# 2995
$
Flight + Hotel Packages
$
Tours KildÃokers Day Hour
FREE Airport Transfers idbdhiEZgi]]diZah
FREE Perth “Welcome” Tour ( c^\]ih^cEZgi]
FREE Bonus Voucher Book *%%kVajZeZgXdjeaZ
Car Hire “No Worries” Unlim kms
*
$
Per person,
pper
Ndjldc¼iÄcYeVX`V\Zhl^i]Vaad[i]ZhZ^cXajh^dch[dgaZhh#
dg aZhh# person
Pinnacles KildÃokers Day Hour
L]^iZbVcEVg`!CVbWjc\CVi^dcVaEVg`8ZgkVciZh#
Perth “All Inclusive” 6 Day Holiday Package
*c^\]ihhjeZg^dg879]diZa™*Wj[[ZiWgZV`[Vhih™)YZa^X^djh
Monkey Mia & Kalbarri Adventure ( Day Gafari Hour
gZhiVjgVciY^ccZgh™)ajmjgnYVnidjgh/¹E^ccVXaZhL^aYÅdlZghº! 842 AVcXZa^c!E^ccVXaZh!H]Vg`7Vn!=VbZa^cEdda!H]Zaa7ZVX]#
¹BVg\VgZiG^kZgº!¹;gZbVciaZº¹EZgi]LZaXdbZº™GZijgcV^gedgi
Pinnacles, Kalbarri, Dolphins ( Day Coach Hour
igVch[Zgh™7dcjhKdjX]Zg7dd`#HZaa^c\[Vhi!Wdd`cdl#
$
$
àaQVONZWUPerth*
Exmouth Flights + 2 Nights
438
Ningaloo Lodge Exmouth FREE Internet#
442
Potshot Hotel Resort popular accommodation
584
Novotel Ningaloo Resort Exmouth luxury
Ningaloo Reef
Flights + 2 Nights
per
room
8]ddhZ[gdbadVYhd[]diYZVah!XdbeVgZVaadei^dch#
Denham Beachfront Resort FREE Movies, FREE Internet#
Monkey Mia Beach Resort right on Dolphin Beach
Geraldton Accommodation
90*
$
per
6bVo^c\LZhi8dVhiYZVah!hZaa^c\[Vhi"Wdd`cdl#
room
Geraldton Beach Holiday Park relax and unkind
90
Geraldton Hotel FREE Breakfast, FREE Movies, FREE Parking# 115
*
$
*
$
Flight + Hotel Packages
Per person,
àaQVONZWUPerth*
Geraldton Flights + 2 Nights
324
Sunset Beach Holiday Park relax and unkind
349
All Seasons Geraldton FREE Breakfast
*HiVgi^c\Xdhi!'h]VgZ!adlhZVhdc!hZVhdcVahjgX]Vg\ZhbVnVeean#6^g[VgZXdcY^i^dchVeean!
ZmEZgi]!X]ZX`ZYWV\\V\ZZmigVXdhi#6XXdbbb^cc^\]ihbVnVeean#HdbZWdcjhZh]VkZ
heZX^ÄXkVa^Y^inXdcY^i^dch#HZZY^hXdkZgLZhi#Xdb[dgYZiV^ah!^cXajh^dchZmXajh^dch#HjW_ZXi
idX]Vc\Zl^i]djicdi^XZ#8dcY^i^dchVeean#IdjgEVX`V\ZXdhiheZgeZghdc!'h]VgZ#.I6.%*#
8dbeVgZ400 liveYZVahVi
Ask for your FREE 130 page
DISCOVER WEST Book
™6XXdbbdYVi^dc
6XXdbbdYVi^dc
™9VnIdjgh
9VnIdjgh
™8dVX]Idjgh
8dVX]Idjgh
™HV[Vg^Idjgh
HV[Vg^Idjgh
™HZa["9g^kZEVX`V\Zh
HZa["9g^kZEVX`V\Zh
Call 1300 790 270
Part of
2636
Outback on the Coral Coast
Unspoilt, uncrowded, underwater
Welcome to
Australia’s Coral Coast!
Here you’ll find uninterrupted stretches of white sandy beaches, untouched
coral reef just metres from the shore, breathtaking gorges and canyons, brilliant
carpets of wildflowers as far as the eye can see and of course friendly locals
ready to help you enjoy your stay.
Whether your idea of a perfect getaway is discovering your very own secluded
beach, or letting your adventurous streak go wild on an action packed tour,
Australia’s Coral Coast provides you with the perfect holiday destination, starting
just two hours north of Perth. Head to australiascoralcoast.com for the latest
holiday deals, events and travel tips.
Contents
Regional Map .......................................4
Coorow ..............................................26
Travel T ips ............................................6
Mullewa .............................................. 27
Nature’s Calendar.................................8
Dongara-Denison ...............................29
Calendar of Events ...............................9
Geraldton-Greenough ........................33
Suggested I tineraries .......................... 10
Wildflowers ......................................... 12
Abrolhos Islands .................................43
Northampton ......................................44
Suggested Wildflower Itineraries ......... 13
Cervantes ........................................... 16
Dandaragan ....................................... 19
Horrocks / Port Gregory .....................46
Kalbarri............................................... 47
Badgingarra .......................................20
Shark Bay ..........................................54
Jurien B ay .......................................... 21
Carnarvon ..........................................65
Green Head........................................23
Coral Bay ........................................... 73
Leeman .............................................. 24
Exmouth............................................. 79
follow us on
Printed on PEFC certified paper.
The Programme for the Endorsement of
Forest Certification scheme (PEFC) provides
an independent assurance to consumers
that the paper being used is sourced from a
certified, responsibly managed forest.
Disclaimer
The information contained in this holiday
planner has been provided as a guide only.
Although every effort has been made to ensure
the accuracy of the information contained in the
publication, Australia’s Coral Coast does not take
responsibility for any injury, irregularity, loss
or damage arising from the provision of any
services, or failure to deliver such services.
Australia’s Coral Coast does not endorse or
provide warranty, either express or implied, as
to the conduct or practice of the advertisers in
this publication.
Acknowledgements
Australia’s Coral Coast is proudly supported
by Tourism Western Australia. Images used in
this planner are courtesy of Tourism Australia,
Tourism Western Australia, Department
of Environment and Conservation, Aspen
Parks, Gascoyne Development Commission,
Turquoise Coast Enviro Tours, Bev Clarke, Sail
Ningaloo, Karen Thompson, regional partners,
visitor centres and shires.
Front Cover Images: (Clockwise from top)
Francois Peron National Park, whale shark at
Ningaloo, Kalbarri National Park, Indian Ocean
Drive.
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 3
Perth
AUSTRALIA’S
CORAL COAST
Page 4 | australiascoralcoast.com
WESTERN
AUSTRALIA
CAPE INSCRIPTION
BLOWHOLES
RED BLUFF
GNARALOO BAY
YARDIE
CREEK
TURQUOISE BAY
SHELL
BEACH
HAMELIN POOL
STROMATOLITES
Learmonth Airport
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 5
129
1:30
195
2:30
387
4:45
647
8:00
713
8:30
942
11:15
1,068
13:00
Jurien Bay
Time (hours)
Distance (kilometres)
20
0:30
149
2:00
215
3:00
411
5:30
671
8:30
737
9:00
966
12:00
1,093
13:30
Cervantes
To convert from km to miles multiply by 0.621
200
2:15
220
2:30
349
4:15
415
5:00
577
7:00
838
10:15
905
10:45
1,132
13:30
1,260
15:00
Perth
66
0:50
218
2:45
479
6:00
544
6:30
774
9:15
902
11:00
Dongara
152
2:00
413
5:00
478
5:30
708
8:30
835
10:00
Geraldton
380
4:45
445
5:30
667
8:15
802
9:45
Kalbarri
334
4:00
564
6:45
691
8:30
Monkey Mia
240
3:00
367
4:30
Carnarvon
152
2:00
Coral Bay
NAMBUNG
NATIONAL PARK
(PINNACLES)
Self guided travel itineraries
are available online at
australiascoralcoast.com
Exmouth
Green Head
(Chapman Valley)
Nabawa
Billabong
Roadhouse
Gingin
i
Dandaragan
New Norcia
ciia
ia
Coorow
Badgingarra
COALSEAM
CONSERVATION
PARK
Turquoise Bay, Exmouth
The new Indian Ocean Drive
Travelling the Coral Coast
Getting Here
By Air
Be Prepared
Food and fuel are generally available
every 100 – 300 kilometres along the
main highway, so be sure to plan ahead.
Please note that LPG Autogas is not
available in all regional areas. Some areas
of Australia’s Coral Coast are remote, so
if you plan to explore off road, make sure
you are well provisioned. If your vehicle
breaks down or becomes bogged, stay
By Road
Australia’s Coral Coast starts just two with the vehicle. A car is easier to spot in
hours drive north of Perth at Cervantes. the event of a search.
Excellent road conditions throughout the
Road Conditions
region make getting around easy for those
wanting to explore at their own pace. Hire Heavy rainfall can make some roads
cars are available from Perth or in all major and tracks impassable, so check road
towns in the region. A range of packaged conditions before departure with local
tours are also available, from adventurous Shire offices or Main Roads WA. Some
four wheel drive vehicles to luxury coaches. roads are unsealed, so beware of loose
Check with the local visitor centres listed on gravel and dust obscuring your vision.
australiascoralcoast.com or contact the
Western Australian Visitor Centre on 1300 Driving Restrictions
361 351. TransWA and Greyhound operate Please note it is illegal to drive in Australia
regular coach services.
with a blood alcohol reading over
0.05. A zero tolerance policy applies to
Travelling Tips
probationary and learner drivers. It is also
Take Regular Breaks
illegal for drivers to use a hand held phone
The Coral Coast has long stretches while driving. Hands-free devices may be
of road, so be sure to stop for regular used with caution.
breaks. Maximum speed limit is 110
kilometres per hour on the open road and Animals on the Road
50 kilometres per hour in built up areas.
Be wary of animals on or near the road.
Air services operate to towns in the Coral
Coast from Perth and Broome. Skywest
Airlines fly to Geraldton, Kalbarri, Monkey
Mia, Carnarvon and Exmouth (Learmonth).
Flight schedules and operators are subject
to change. Visit australiascoralcoast.com
for up to date information.
Other Road Users
Be mindful of other road users,
particularly road trains and large trucks
with up to four trailers attached. Always
leave approximately 200 metres between
vehicles in a convoy to allow road trains
to pass, and only overtake a road train if
the road is clear and visible for up to one
kilometre ahead.
Caring for the Environment
• Only light fires when permitted and
in designated areas. Information can
be obtained from local visitor centres
and Department of Environment and
Conservation (DEC) offices.
• Always have pets on a lead and please
note they cannot be taken into any WA
national parks or nature reserves.
• Dispose of rubbish in bins.
• Do not take natural artefacts with you
as souvenirs.
• Be cautious when bushwalking or
hiking. Stay on designated paths
and heed warning signs. Always let
someone know of your plans.
• Water safety. Always be aware of
currents, weather conditions and tidal
movements before entering the water.
Never touch coral or marine life - you
Kangaroos are prevalent, especially in
Private Property
may damage it or it may damage you.
Some tracks and roads are on private the early morning and evening. Emus are
property. These should not be used unpredictable and often travel in groups. • Camping is permitted at designated
sites, so be sure to check with local
without the owner’s permission. Please Cattle occasionally venture on to roads at
leave gates as you found them.
night and can be hard to see.
visitor centres before pitching your tent.
Page 6 | australiascoralcoast.com
Camping on the Coral Coast
National Park Passes
Climate
Coral
Coast
covers
A range of National Park passes are Australia’s
available from the Department of approximately 1100 kilometres of
Western Australia’s coastline stretching
Environment and Conservation (DEC).
from Cervantes to Exmouth. The region
Day Pass - This pass covers entry into
is an ideal destination all year round, with
one or more parks on any one day. Passes
a Mediterranean climate in the south
are available from rangers in the parks. In
bordering on sub tropical in the north.
some parks, a system of self-registration
applies. Fees: $11/car (up to eight
Important Contacts
legally seated people), $5/motorcycle,
$4/passenger on commercial tour Royal Automobile Club (RAC)
Emergency breakdown service
vehicles and buses.
Holiday Park Pass - This pass entitles Phone: 13 11 11
entry to as many parks as you wish for Main Roads
any four-week period. Fee: $40/vehicle Road conditions and other information
(up to eight people).
on WA roads
Annual All Park Pass - This pass entitles Phone: 13 81 38
you to unlimited access to all parks in mainroads.wa.gov.au
WA. Valid for one vehicle, with up to eight
Emergency Services
legally seated people. Fee: $80 or $50 for
seniors, aged pensioners and veterans. Police, ambulance and fire brigade
Phone: 000
Cards must be sighted.
Park passes do not include camping.
Separate fees apply. For more information
visit dec.wa.gov.au or contact DEC on
+61 8 9219 8000.
Kalbarri National Park
Average Maximum Temperatures (C˚)
Mar May
Jun Aug
Sep Nov
30
26
20
23
Jurien Bay
Geraldton
32
28
20
25
Kalbarri
33
29
22
26
Denham
31
28
22
25
Carnarvon
31
29
23
26
Exmouth
37
33
25
32
2011 Public Holidays
Australia Day
Wednesday 26 January
Labour Day
Monday 7 March
Good Friday
Friday 22 April
Easter Monday
Monday 25 April
ANZAC Day
(Public Holiday)
Tuesday 26 April
Foundation Day
Monday 6 June
Queen’s Birthday
Friday 28 October
Bureau of Meteorology
Western Australian weather and warnings
Phone: +61 8 9263 2222
bom.gov.au/weather/wa
Christmas Day
(Public Holiday)
Boxing Day
(Public Holiday)
Accredited Visitor Centres
DecFeb
Monday 26 December
Tuesday 27 December
National Tourism Accreditation
Visitor Centres offer advice
The National Tourism
with accommodation and
Accreditation
symbol
tour bookings, maps and
indicates
accredited
local knowledge on an
tourism businesses that
area’s hidden gems. Look for the blue
have achieved nationwide
and yellow ‘i’ sign to find an accredited acclaim and are committed to a greater
visitor centre on your holiday route.
customer service and satisfaction.
2011 WA School Holidays
Autumn
20 April to 4 May 2011
Winter
9 July to 25 July 2011
Spring
1 to 17 October 2011
Summer
15 December 2011 to 31 January 2012
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 7
Dugong
Green turtle hatchings, Ningaloo
Western rock lobster
Manta ray
Nature’s Calendar
Turtle Nesting Season
Whale Migration
Manta Rays
During the summer months from
November to April, green, loggerhead
and hawksbill turtles come ashore at
night to lay their eggs on the beaches
adjacent to the Ningaloo Reef. Tourists
can view this spectacle from the Jurabi
Turtle Centre, just west of Exmouth on a
guided tour. Bookings are essential, so
contact the Exmouth Visitor Centre. There
is also a turtle nesting season in Shark
Bay. Avid turtle fans wanting to make a
difference can join the Turtle Trackers
group, who volunteer their time to monitor
the endangered marine turtles. For more
information visit ningalooturtles.org.au.
Humpback whales travel close to the
Coral Coast shoreline between June and
November each year. Kalbarri offers plenty
of cliff sites perched high above the water,
providing excellent vantage points for
whale watching. The best locations are
the Natural Bridge, Eagle Gorge and Red
Bluff. The whales also visit the Ningaloo
Marine Park, with the best viewing points
at Town Beach, Bundegi Beach and the
Vlamingh Head Lighthouse near Exmouth.
Whale watching boat tours operate out of
Kalbarri, Coral Bay and Exmouth.
Manta rays can be seen year round at
the Ningaloo Marine Park. These majestic
animals are filter feeders and unlike the
sting ray, they have no barb. Therefore,
they are completely harmless, making it
safe to dive and snorkel with them. Take a
tour year round from Coral Bay, or between
May and November from Exmouth.
Coral Spawning
In March and April divers and snorkellers
can witness an amazing spectacle at the
Ningaloo Reef. Coral spawning occurs
when coral releases eggs and sperm into
the surrounding ocean approximately 10
to 12 days after the full moon.
Wildflowers bloom all year round
throughout Australia’s Coral Coast,
although the best season to see them is
between July and November. The region
is home to many species of coastal and
inland wildflowers and is best known for
vast carpets of everlastings. See page 12
for more information.
Whale Sharks
Rock Lobster Season
Krill and other tiny sea creatures swarm
to Ningaloo Reef to feast shortly after the
annual coral spawning. This phenomenon
attracts mighty whale sharks, the world’s
largest fish who migrate to Ningaloo Reef
to feed on the krill. Ningaloo is considered
one of the most reliable and accessible
places on earth to swim alongside these
harmless giants. Tours depart daily from
Coral Bay and Exmouth between mid
March and mid July.
Western rock lobsters can be found in
abundance from Cervantes to Geraldton
and at the nearby Abrolhos Islands. From
November until June is rock lobster fishing
season. You can purchase delicious fresh
lobster along the coast, or head to a local
restaurant for a superb feast. Cervantes
and Geraldton have lobster processing
factories offering tours. You can also buy
lobster, scallops and octopus direct from
the factory in Cervantes.
Page 8 | australiascoralcoast.com
Wildflower Season
Dolphins
Dolphins can be seen all year along
Australia’s
Coral
Coast.
Friendly
bottlenose dolphins visit the shores
of Monkey Mia regularly to meet with
visitors. Lucky bystanders may also get
the chance to feed the dolphins their
breakfast. Dolphins can also be spotted
while swimming, snorkelling or diving
anywhere along the coast. Keep your
eyes peeled at the coastal gorges of
Kalbarri and at Eagle Bluff, near Denham.
Dugongs
Dugongs can be found year round in the
Shark Bay and Ningaloo Marine Parks.
The Shark Bay area alone supports 10
per cent of the world’s dugong population.
Dugongs can grow up to three metres
in length and weigh as much as 400
kilograms. Dugongs cannot hold their
breath under water for very long, so
they can often be spotted coming to the
surface for air. Take a wildlife cruise or
scenic flight into the Shark Bay or Ningaloo
Marine Parks, departing from Monkey Mia,
Denham, Coral Bay or Exmouth.
Kalbarri Canoe and Cray Festival
Airing of the quilts, Northampton
Blessing of the Fleet, Dongara/Port Denison
Gascoyne Growers’ Market, Carnarvon
Calendar of Events
Feb 11-12
Kitestock
Dongara/Port Denison
Jul 10
Community Market Day and Fun Fair
Shark Bay
Mar 4-6
Kalbarri Fishing Classic
Kalbarri
Aug 27-28
Mullewa Polocrosse Weekend
Mullewa
Aug 28 4 Sep
Mullewa Annual Wildflower Show
Mullewa
Mar 6 May 29
Mid West Art Prize Exhibition
Geraldton-Greenough
Mar 5-6
Chapman Valley Off Road 300 @ Nukara
Nanson,
Chapman Valley
Mar 19
Mar 20
Mar 27
Nukara Music Festival
Harmony Day Celebrations
Geraldton Cup
Nanson,
Chapman Valley
Geraldton-Greenough
Geraldton-Greenough
Aug TBC
Taste of the Gascoyne
Carnarvon
Sep 3
Mullewa Agricultural Show
Mullewa
Sep 9-1
Big Sky Readers & Writers Festival
Geraldton-Greenough
Sep 16-17
Big Ideas Festival
Geraldton-Greenough
Sep 13-16
Country Arts WA – Arts Gathering
Geraldton-Greenough
Sep 30 Oct 4
HMB Endeavour Geraldton visit
Geraldton-Greenough
Oct 1
Silverdale Olive Orchid Art and Craft Exhibit
Dongara/Port Denison
Oct 2
Shark Bay Market Day
Shark Bay
Oct 2-3
Mid West Show & Shine
Geraldton-Greenough
Oct 3-15
Geraldton-Greenough Sunshine Festival
Geraldton-Greenough
Oct-30
Blessing of the Fleet Geraldton
Geraldton-Greenough
Apr 2
Relay for Life
Geraldton-Greenough
Apr 9-10
Midwest Golden Bowls Carnival Weekend
Mullewa
Apr 16-17
Geraldton Boat, Caravan & Camping Show
Geraldton-Greenough
Apr 17
Indian Ocean Rowing Race Start
Geraldton-Greenough
Apr 16-17
Mullewa Autumn Roundup Weekend
Mullewa
Apr 18 May 23
“Syndicate” An Exhibition in Sculpture
Geraldton-Greenough
Apr 22-24
Jurien Easter Festival
Jurien Bay
Oct 15
Airing of the Quilts
Northampton
Apr 22-24
Cervantes Easter Festival
Cervantes
Oct TBC
Gascoyne Dash
Carnarvon
Apr 22-25
Easter Tennis Carnival
Geraldton-Greenough
Oct 28-30
Cervantes Art Festival
Cervantes
Apr 23
Easter Races and Markets
Dongara/Port Denison
Nov 19
Geraldton
May 7-13
Shark Bay Fishing Fiesta
Shark Bay
HMAS Sydney II 70th Anniversary Memorial
Service
May 15
National Motoring Heritage Day
Geraldton-Greenough
May TBC
Tropicool Festival
Carnarvon
May 28-29
Whale Shark Festival
Exmouth
May 29 June 5
Carnarfin Fishing Competition
Carnarvon
Jun 5
Kalbarri Canoe and Cray Festival
Kalbarri
Jul 9
Speedway Far Western Championships
Shark Bay
Nov 12
Jurien Bay Tryathlon
Jurien Bay
Nov 12-13
Blessing of the Fleet
Jurien Bay
Nov 5 TBC
Murchison River Music Festival
Kalbarri
Nov TBC
Blessing of the Fleet
Dongara
Dec TBC
Carols by Candlelight
Geraldton-Greenough
Regular Events
Saturday mornings from 8am - 11.30am from May to October
Gascoyne Growers’ and Craft Market
Carnarvon
May to September
Carnarvon Race Round
Carnarvon
Once monthly - See notices in town for details
Sunday Markets
Jurien Bay
Every Sunday morning April to October
Exmouth Local Craft Market
Exmouth
First Saturday every month 9am – 1pm at Town Park
Dongara Markets
Dongara-Denison
Check schedule with Kalbarri Visitor Centre
Parrotiso’s Outdoor Cinema
Kalbarri
Every Saturday 8am to 12pm, Maitland Park
Geraldton Farmer’s Markets
Geraldton-Greenough
First and fourth Sunday of the month
Markets on the Mall
Geraldton-Greenough
Second Sunday of the month at the visitor centre
Geraldton Craft Markets
Geraldton-Greenough
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 9
HMAS Sydney II Memorial
The Pinnacles Desert
Suggested Itineraries
Yardie Creek
Learmonth Airport
1 Day Cervantes
Cervantes to Perth return (Approx 400km)
Take the new Indian Ocean Drive north of Perth and head
towards the beachside town of Cervantes. Take a detour
to the Pinnacles Desert. The road into the Pinnacles is
sealed, and there is a car park within walking distance of the
limestone structures. Head to the Pinnacles Desert Discovery
Centre to learn more about these mystical formations. Drive
into Cervantes and spend some time relaxing at a beachside
cafe. Between November and June, head to the Indian
Ocean Rock Lobster Factory to join a tour of the factory
and buy some fresh seafood. Wildflowers are prolific in this
region, so be sure to look out for them, particularly between
July and November.
Day 3:
Coral Bay to Exmouth (Approx 150km)
Day 2:
Time to head north. The sealed road takes you up the east
side to Exmouth, 150 kilometres from Coral Bay. There
are a range of tours on offer, join a dive boat, head out to
Lighthouse Bay, or take a sea kayaking adventure. Between
mid March and mid July, go for a swim with the world’s
largest fish, the whale shark! Join a tour from Exmouth or
Coral Bay. Surfers have a few breaks to choose from at
either Dunes Beach, the ‘Bombie’ or further out at one of
the reef breaks. There are also safe beach conditions for
those wanting to learn to surf. Sunsets over the ocean from
the Vlamingh Head Lighthouse are not to be missed. Keen
divers might want to join a night dive trip before turning in.
Overnight: Exmouth
Dongara to Geraldton (Approx 66 kilometres)
Take a stroll along Dongara’s 1.6-kilometre walk trail of historic
buildings or head north to the Greenough Central Historic
Settlement and step back in time as you stroll through the 11
restored pioneer buildings on site. As you continue your drive
towards Geraldton, keep an eye out for unusual leaning trees
on the Greenough flats. Overnight: Geraldton
Day 4:
Dandaragan
New
w
Norcia
Norc
c
Find more
itineraries online at
australiascoralcoast.com
Page 10 | australiascoralcoast.com
Day 2:
Perth to Cervantes (See above itinerary for day one options)
Day 3:
Badgingarra
Take an early morning flight to Exmouth (Learmonth).
Transfer or drive to Coral Bay, a snorkeller’s paradise with
calm, protected waters and hundreds of fish and coral
species just metres from the shore. To explore further
out, take a glass bottom boat trip or join a snorkelling tour.
Spend the evening watching the sunset and dining at one of
Coral Bay’s great restaurants. Overnight: Coral Bay
Day 1:
Continue north along the Indian Ocean Drive, stopping
at Molah Hill and Grigson’s Lookouts. At Jurien Bay, jump
aboard a sea lion charter or skydive and land onto the beach!
Water lovers can explore the underwater wonderland of the
Jurien Bay Marine Park, home to tropical fish and coral.
On land, explore the caves of the Stockyard Gully National
Park, accessible only by four wheel drive. Continue north to
Dongara. Overnight: Dongara
Coorow
Learmonth to Coral Bay (Approx 120km)
4 Day Indian Ocean Drive
Cervantes to Dongara (Approx 149km)
Green Head
Day 1:
Stay another day in Coral Bay for more swimming and
snorkelling or throw in a line for some beach fishing. Fishing
safaris head out to sea regularly, and adventurous types can
join a scuba diving trip, a manta ray tour or swim with the
whale sharks from mid March to mid July annually. When it’s
time to dry off, take a 4WD along the coast or hire a quad
bike for some rugged adventure. Overnight: Coral Bay
Option 2: Why not extend your stay and head further north
along the Indian Ocean Drive? See below for additional
touring options.
Nabawa
5 Day Ningaloo Reef Adventure
Geraldton to Perth (Approx 420km)
Start your day at the recently upgraded Geraldton foreshore,
which features a picnic area, playground and water park.
Head up to the impressive HMAS Sydney II Memorial
commemorating 645 sailors who died in World War II. Free
walking tours are offered at 10.30am daily.
Optional: Consider taking a scenic flight from Geraldton
to the Houtman Abrolhos Islands where you can enjoy
snorkelling and guided walks.
After exploring Geraldton head back to Perth. Between
July and October, consider taking the inland route to view
wildflowers in bloom.
Day 4:
Spend another day fishing, swimming or diving because
here’s your opportunity to try one of the best diving
spots in the world - the Navy Pier. Or, if conditions are
right, take a day trip out to the nearby Muiron Islands.
Alternatively spend the day exploring the rugged gorges
and canyons of the Cape Range National Park either on
an adventure tour or a self drive. Turquoise Bay is a must,
with excellent drift snorkelling. Stop at Milyering Visitor
Centre for information about the marine and coastal range
environments. In the afternoon, follow the marked walk trail
up into the gorges of the Cape Range National Park and
visit Yardie Creek, a highlight for walkers and nature-lovers.
Overnight: Exmouth
Day 5:
Spend the morning enjoying Exmouth town and one last
swim before transferring to the airport for your flight back
to Perth.
Kalbarri National Park
Kayaking to the Blue Lagoon near Exmouth
4 Day Coastal Discovery
11 Day Ultimate Road Trip
Day 1:
Day 1:
Day 6:
Perth - Geraldton (Approx 420km)
Perth - Geraldton (Approx 415km)
Travel north along the Indian Ocean Drive (continues
north from Wanneroo Road), through the coastal towns
of Cervantes, Dongara, Port Denison and the Central
Greenough Historic Settlement - a charming National Trust
village. First stop is Cervantes and the unique Pinnacles
Desert. Continue along the Indian Ocean Drive to Geraldton,
where you’ll sample some of the freshest seafood in WA.
Overnight: Geraldton
Coral Bay
Stay another day in Coral Bay for more swimming and
snorkelling or throw in a line for some beach fishing.
Fishing safaris head out to sea regularly, and adventurous
types can join a scuba diving trip, a manta ray tour or
swim with the mighty whale sharks (between March and
July annually). When it’s time to dry off, take a 4WD along
the coast or hire a quad bike for some rugged adventure.
Overnight: Coral Bay
Day 2:
Day 7:
Geraldton - Carnarvon (Approx 480km)
This morning visit the impressive HMAS II Memorial providing
sweeping views across Geraldton and the Indian Ocean.
Continue north to the tropical fruit town of Carnarvon, a
popular holiday spot for those chasing the sun in winter.
Explore and sample the abundant fresh produce along the
Gascoyne Food Trail, particularly the delicious Carnarvon
bananas. Take an evening stroll along The Fascine
(Carnarvon’s central waterway), taking in the magnificent
sunset views before heading out for a locally caught seafood
meal. Overnight: Carnarvon
Coral Bay - Shark Bay (Approx 590km)
Head south along the North West Coastal Highway to
Shark Bay. Take in the interpretive signage of the Shark Bay
World Heritage Drive, visiting the stromatolites of Hamelin
Pool and Shell Beach, made entirely of millions of tiny
shells. Visit the cliff top lookout at Eagle Bluff for superb
ocean views. Enjoy a drink on the foreshore and watch a
magical sunset over the ocean. Overnight: Denham
Take the inland route north along the Great Northern
Highway. Meander through the quaint historic, agricultural
towns of Carnamah, Three Springs, Mingenew and
Mullewa. Take a look at the lovely murals and heritage
buildings including the Church of Our Lady of Mount
Carmel, Mullewa. Be sure to spot the carpets of everlastings
covering the ground during wildflower season. Then head
to Geraldton where you’ll sample some of the freshest
and most renowned seafood in Western Australia. The
impressive HMAS Sydney II Memorial is a must see
providing sweeping views across Geraldton and the Indian
Ocean. Overnight: Geraldton
Day 2:
Geraldton - Shark Bay (Approx 430km)
On your way out of Geraldton, stop in at the historic town
of Northampton, where you can experience a bygone era.
The daring can visit Oakabella Homestead, considered
Western Australia’s most haunted house. Travel north to
Shark Bay, taking in the interpretive signage of the Shark
Bay World Heritage Drive. Visit the stromatolites of Hamelin
Pool and Shell Beach, which is made entirely of millions of
tiny shells. Visit the cliff top lookout at Eagle Bluff where
you may be lucky to see some of the marine life the region
is renowned for. Relax and unwind on the foreshore at
Denham or Monkey Mia, or aboard a sunset catamaran
cruise. Overnight: Denham / Monkey Mia
Day 3:
Shark Bay - Kalbarri (Approx 380km)
Spend some time at the water’s edge in Monkey Mia where
you’ll meet the famous dolphins of Monkey Mia, but be
sure to get there early as the first feed is usually at 7.30am.
Continue your journey south to the popular coastal holiday
town of Kalbarri, located at the mouth of the Murchison River
and adjacent to the National Park. Kalbarri is an adventure
lover’s playground, so why not join one of the many tours on
offer, from horse riding to canoeing. At sunset, take a stroll
along the coastal cliff walk trails, where the stunning rock
face illuminates in the sinking sun. Overnight: Kalbarri
Day 4:
Kalbarri - Perth (Approx 577km)
Spend the morning exploring the spectacular Kalbarri
National Park by hiking, canoeing, abseiling, quad biking or
just simply enjoying the spectacular views from key lookout
points. Depart Kalbarri early afternoon and head south via
Geraldton to Cervantes. Enjoy the majesty of the Pinnacles,
located in the Nambung National Park, and perhaps stop
for a swim at nearby Hangover Bay, before continuing south
along the newly completed Indian Ocean Drive to Perth.
Day 3:
Carnarvon - Exmouth (Approx 370km)
As you head north out of Carnarvon, be sure to stop at the
Blowholes, where the sea water sprays metres into the air.
Travel north to Exmouth where the nearby pristine Ningaloo
Reef awaits just metres from the shore. Take a swim in the
afternoon, or join a glass bottom boat tour to see the amazing
coral gardens beneath the water. Marine enthusiasts may
want to join a night dive or explore the amazing underwater
gardens of the Navy Pier. Overnight: Exmouth
Day 4:
Exmouth
Take a boat cruise or spend the day snorkelling on the
reef. From late March to early July you can swim with
the world’s largest fish, the whale shark. Surfers can
catch a wave at Dunes Beach and also at ‘The Bomb’.
Nearby Cape Range National Park offers scenery
of deep canyons, limestone ranges and spectacular
gorges. Before heading back to Exmouth, pick up some
fresh prawns from the factory (in season), and catch the
unforgettable sunset from Vlamingh Head Lighthouse on
the west side of the cape. Overnight: Exmouth
Day 5:
Exmouth - Coral Bay (Approx 150km)
Depart Exmouth early for your drive to Coral Bay. Here, the
main beach is a snorkeller’s paradise with calm, protected
waters and hundreds of fish and coral species just metres
from the shore. To explore further out, take a glass-bottom
boat trip or join a snorkelling tour. Overnight: Coral Bay
Day 8:
Shark Bay
Spend some time at the Monkey Mia foreshore early
this morning where you’ll meet the famous Monkey
Mia dolphins. In the afternoon enjoy the resort facilities
at Monkey Mia or take one of the many tours on offer
throughout the region. Unwind on a sunset sailing cruise
before ending your day wining and dining on the shores of
Monkey Mia. Overnight: Monkey Mia
Day 9:
Shark Bay - Kalbarri (Approx 390km)
Head south to the popular coastal holiday town of Kalbarri,
located at the mouth of the Murchison River. Explore the
magnificent Murchison River gorges of Kalbarri National
Park, enjoy a fishing tour, river cruise or spend your day
relaxing and taking in the sights of this unique coastline.
Overnight: Kalbarri
Day 10:
Kalbarri
Today join a tour and enjoy some of the action packed
activities on offer, from abseiling and quad biking to
sandboarding or canoeing. Relax under the stars at the
popular outdoor cinema to watch one of the latest release
movies. Overnight: Kalbarri
Day 11:
Kalbarri - Perth (Approx 590km)
Check out the stunning views from the nearby coastal
gorges before heading south towards Perth. Be sure to
stop in for a photo at the stunning pink lake just south of
Kalbarri before rejoining the Brand Highway to Perth.
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 11
Roadside everlastings near the Chapman Valley
Floral displays in the Kalbarri National Park
Wildflowers
Yardie Creek
Learmonth Airport
Australia’s Coral Coast is wildflower country all
year round, however floral displays are at their
best from July to November when inland areas
explode into brilliant carpets of colour and the
region’s wildflower hotspots are a treasure trove
of unique species.
Wildflower Hotspots
No matter where you go along Australia’s Coral
Coast, the diverse range of wildflowers will dazzle
you - and you don’t even need to go off the beaten
track. Many species delight simply by growing along
the roadside. But if you’re after the places that are
sure to put on a show, check out these wildflower
hotspots below:
Coalseam Conservation Park
Coalseam Conservation Park, between Mingenew
and Mullewa grows a remarkable variety of
woody heath plants that flower profusely during
the wildflower season. The real draw-card is the
carpets of pink, gold, cream and white everlastings
transforming the usually sparse understory of wattle
scrub into a carpet of colour during the wildflower
season.
Nabawa
Western Flora Caravan Park
2287
Wildflower EXPERIENCE
Guided wildflower walks,
4.30pm daily, July to November.
A true nature experience with all
the facilities; chalet accommodation,
powered and unpowered sites.
Owned and operated by
Lorraine & Allan Tinker.
Western Flora Caravan Park
Brand Hwy, 22 kms North of Eneabba
Ph: +61 8 9955 2030
Email: wfl[email protected]
Everlastings
Lesueur National Park
Coorow
Green Head
Badgingarra
Dandaragan
New
w
Norcia
Norc
ca
Page 12 | australiascoralcoast.com
Mount Lesueur National Park is one of the most
diverse and rich floral areas in the world. The park is
home to almost 900 species, including many plants
found nowhere else in the world. This biodiverse
hotspot represents approximately ten per cent of the
State’s known flora.
Blue Leschenaultia
Kalbarri National Park
From July until November, some 800 species of
native flora progressively burst into bloom around
Kalbarri and within the National Park. Many of these
are endemic to the region, including the Kalbarri
Spider Orchid. Look out for wildflowers on the
coastal cliff tops and in the gorge country.
Kalbarri Spider Orchid
Donkey Orchid
Wildflower walk in Mullewa
Suggested Wildflower Itineraries
The Everlasting Trail
The North West Trail
Cape Range Trail
Duration: 3 days minimum
Duration: 5 days minimum
Duration: 3 days minimum
Highlights: Kangaroo Paw varieties at Badgingarra
National Park, a myriad of orchids at Lesueur National Park,
Mullewa’s wreath flower, fields of colourful everlastings at
Coalseam Conservation Park.
Highlights: The beautifully diverse Kalbarri National
Park, Shark Bay daisies in and around colourful Francois
National Park and the Kennedy Range National Park.
Highlights: The grandiose Cape Range National Park, its
unique brilliant red sturt desert pea and Australia’s largest
fringing reef, the Ningaloo Marine Park.
Base yourself: In and around Kalbarri, Shark Bay and
Carnarvon.
Base yourself: In and around Carnarvon and the
Ningaloo Reef region including Coral Bay, Exmouth and
nearby station stays.
Base yourself: In and around Cervantes, Jurien Bay,
Dongara–Denison and Geraldton-Greenough.
Day 1:
Depart Perth and head north along the new Indian
Ocean Drive and turn off to the Nambung National Park
and the Pinnacles. Here Tuart woodlands fill the valleys
between vast areas of heath, acacia and myrtle, banksias
and casuarinas. Head east from Cervantes towards
Brand Highway and wander through the two-kilometre
Badgingarra Nature Trail, promising to show off some of the
season’s best wildflower displays including smoke bush,
purple star flower, yellow buttercups, banksias, black,
red and green kangaroo paws, one-sided bottlebrush,
melaleucas and feather flowers in a rainbow of colours.
Further north is Coomallo Nature Reserve, home to more
than 200 wildflower species and just a short drive from
Coorow, renowned for spectacular displays of dryandra.
Day 2:
Day 1:
Head north towards Geraldton, past Dongara/Denison and
the historically rich Central Greenough Historic Settlement.
Colourful wildflowers of many varieties can be seen on
roadside areas along this drive. Take the detour just north
of Geraldton into the Chapman Valley where wildflowers
abound on the road side and gourmet delights will entice
you to stay a while in the region and explore. Travel along
the coast to Kalbarri.
Day 2:
Drive to the nearby Kalbarri National Park, home to
breathtaking coastal cliffs and deep river gorges that
contrast with endless sand plains. The National Park has
roughly 800 species of native flora, many of which are
endemic species, including the Kalbarri spider orchid. Back
near Kalbarri, take a stroll around the Kalbarri Wildflower
Centre where a 1.8-kilometre walk trail has interpretive
signage about the native flora.
Just east of Green Head is the Lesueur National Park.
Lesueur is widely renowned for its incredible floral diversity,
featuring more than 800 species, many of which are not
found anywhere else in the world. The National Park
represents approximately ten per cent of the State’s known
flora. Cockleshell Gully Road provides great views of the
Lesueur National Park and is best suited to four-wheel
drives. Alternatively, you can view many of the species
along the highway between Eneabba and Dongara, in
particular many varieties of banksias including the propeller
banksias, meganta starflower, smoke bush, verticordias,
hakeas, gravilleas and leschenaultias.
Day 3
Day 3:
The drive to Carnarvon will reward you with outstanding
wildflower displays of parakeelya, purple vetch, northern
bluebells and seasonal everlastings. Consider heading
east to the Kennedy Range National Park. Along the drive
you’ll find roadside displays of wildflowers. The Kennedy
Range National Park is home to more than 80 species of
annual wildflowers. Only accessible by four wheel drive.
Head inland to Mullewa and explore the eight surrounding
Everlasting Cultural Trails, rich with blooming flora and
history. On the Wildflower Walk, everlastings carpet
the ground with pink, white and yellow flowers. Mullewa
and nearby towns Mingenew, Three Springs and
Carnamah also offer spectacular displays of the wreath
flower, considered the only place in the world to view
them. Nearby, the wildflower hotspot of the Coalseam
Conservation Park is often carpeted in stunning white, pink
and yellow everlastings as far as the eye can see during
wildflower season. Enjoy the picturesque rural drive back
to Perth along the Great Northern Highway.
Head north to Shark Bay, home to the friendly dophins of
Monkey Mia. Visit Francois Peron National Park, where the
contrasting colours of the scenery range from deep reds
to ocean blues and are as vivid as the wildflowers. Those
travelling north of the Peron Homestad will require a four
wheel drive vehicle. Alternatively, join a tour of the National
Park from Denham or Monkey Mia. The Shark Bay Daisy,
wattles, Dampiera and purple peas are commonly found
in this area.
Day 4:
Days 5:
From Kennedy Range National Park head further east to
Mount Augustus, the world’s largest rock. Alternatively
head south via colourful displays of everlastings around
Mullewa, before passing through Australia’s only monastic
town, New Norcia on your way back to Perth.
Day 1:
North of Carnarvon at Minilya, the riverbanks offer the
shade of river gums and coolibahs. On the sand dunes
you’ll find grevilleas, hakeas and banksias while wattles
cap the ridges. The 11-kilometre side trip to Coral Bay is
well worth the trip to witness the unspoilt, natural beauty
of the pristine Ningaloo Marine Park. Here the reef starts
just metres from the shore, making it accessible for all
ages. The flat plains area between Minilya and Lyndon
River are good for spotting the the Minilya lily. Off Burkett
Road, station stays and tours make a great overnight stop.
The autumn rains generally produce abundant colourful
masses of wildflowers in the area’s fertile red soil.
Day 2:
Continue your journey north toward Exmouth where the
coastal plain of the Exmouth Gulf is a predominately wattle
shrubland interspersed with occasional stands of mallee
near dry creek beds. Bright red yulbah flowers are visible
in summer while in winter there’s the golden hue of spring
wattles, often infused with purple mulla mulla. You’ll find
particularly scenic wildflower viewing areas within the Cape
Range National Park. Displays are generally best at Mandu
Mandu Gorge, Shothole Canyon, Charles Knife Canyon
and Yardie Creek Gorge. Head to the Milyering Visitor
Centre for more wildflower information or take a scenic river
cruise on Yardie Creek.
Day 3:
The Cape Range National Park covers 50,581 hectares
of stunning limestone ranges, deep rugged canyons and
50 kilometres of pristine beach. It harbours more than
100 species of land birds, native marsupials and around
630 species of flowering plants. Look out for the brilliant
red sturt desert pea, which flowers in late winter. The red
centred sturt desert pea is one of 12 endemic species
that grow in the park. Other flowering plants include the
pretty purple mulla mullas, wattles, everlastings, native
fushias, fanflowers, Minilya lily, a shrubland of Cape
Range kurrajongs and dampier. Adjacent to the land is the
Ningaloo Reef. Over 500 species of fish and 250 species of
coral inhabit the Marine Park just off the coast, with some
areas of reef just metres from the shore.
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 13
While you’re booking your bed,
we’re checking for ticks.
Get there
faster...
...on the new,
scenic Indian
Ocean Drive
Cervantes and
Jurien Bay are now
half an hour closer
to Perth.
We make sure that when you travel, your
choice of accommodation meets the highest
standards of service and professionalism.
We check licences, practices, insurances and
systems, and if they meet the standard, they
earn the tick.
So whether you’re choosing accommodation,
tours or activities, look for the tick and you’ll
know that we’ve checked them out before
you check in!
For more information contact
Tourism Council WA or visit
trustthetick.com.au
Find out how to fill your days at
australiascoralcoast.com
2169
Page 14 | australiascoralcoast.com
With so much to do and see in Australia’s Coral Coast,
it helps to speak to a team with the experience to
recommend a holiday to suit your individual needs.
One call books it all...
Broome & The Kimberley Holidays are proudly
Western Australian owned and operated, plus we’re
as passionate about the Coral Coast as we are of our
whole state! Whether it’s swimming with whale sharks,
exploring the magnificent gorges of Kalbarri or feeding
a Monkey Mia dolphin, we can do it all in just one call.
Broome &
The Kimberley
Holidays
BE INSPIRED BY OUR EXPERIENCE
Call Broome & The Kimberley Holidays on
1300 245 565
Or visit www.broomekimberley.com.au
0413
ABN 37 053 109 185 Licence No. 9TA00613
DRIVE YOUR DOLLAR FURTHER IN THE CORAL COAST
s Cars, Buses & 4WD’s s Latest Model Fleet s One Way Rentals s 24hr Roadside Assist s
13 27 27
www.budget.com.au
Toll Free: 1300 305 888
[email protected]
CARNARVON - EXMOUTH - GERALDTON - LEARMONTH
Caravan Industry Association WA
2165
2452
Discover the
Coral Coast
from a different
perspective
Discover WA your WAY!
Caravan Parks in Western Australia are located near or in the state’s most beautiful
attractions. Whether travelling by caravan, camper trailer, motorhome or camping,
a unique holiday experience is waiting for you.
Find information on parks, products, destinations, towing tips and more,
visit www.caravanwa.com.au and let your adventure begin!
Caravan Industry Association WA
PO Box 721
Balcatta WA 6914
Ph: +61 8 9240 8208
Fax: +61 8 9240 6291
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.caravanwa.com.au
For suggested travelling routes explore
australiascoralcoast.com
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 15
Cervantes
PERTH
The Pinnacles Desert, Nambung National Park
Cervantes
Cervantes is the gateway to the magical Pinnacles Desert at Nambung National
Park. Great for a family getaway, Cervantes is perfect for kicking back and
relaxing. With a wonderful parade of wildflowers in season at Nambung National
Park, the area caters for a wide range of interests.
The new Indian Ocean Drive
Did you know?
The township was named after the
whaling ship, Cervantes, which was
wrecked on the coast in 1844.
Information
Population:
503
Distance from Perth:
200km
Pinnacles Visitor Centre
Cadiz Street Cervantes WA 6516
Tel: 1800 610 660
visitpinnaclescountry.com.au
Page 16 | australiascoralcoast.com
Pinnacles Desert
Desert Discovery Centre
Cervantes is the gateway to the world
famous Pinnacles in the Nambung
National Park. These amazing limestone
structures were created from ancient
shells – remnants of another epoch
rich in marine life. Over the millennia,
natural processes have combined to
remove surrounding material to result
in the limestone pinnacles jutting out
from their surrounds today. Such is their
unusual nature that the Pinnacles appear
otherworldly. In fact, Dutch sailors who first
sighted the area in the mid 1650’s mistook
the Pinnacles for ruins of an ancient
civilisation. Take the drive yourself or join
a tour from Cervantes. The Pinnacles are
a particularly stunning sight in the glow of
the setting sun. The road into the National
Park is sealed, and there is a car park in
close proximity to the Pinnacles. Take a
stroll through the Pinnacles or opt to stay
in your car and drive around the fourkilometre designated drive trail. Hangover
Bay, located inside the National Park
is a beautiful bay and a must see for all
visitors. The clear blue water is great for a
refreshing swim, and sometimes you can
even catch a wave off the breakers.
The Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre,
located in the Nambung National Park,
houses interpretive information about
the flora and fauna of the surrounding
region - as well as information on other
National Parks, nature reserves and a
retail outlet offering a range of locally
made gifts. The centre situated close to
the Pinnacles, with a short walk way to
the Pinnacles View lookout. The building
has been created in a sustainable and
environmentally sensitive manner. Open
daily from 9.30am to 4.30pm. Closed
Christmas day.
Indian Ocean Drive
The brand new Indian Ocean Drive is
now open, shaving approximately half
an hour off your trip north between Perth
and Cervantes. Stunning coastal vistas
welcome you to the Coral Coast region.
After exploring the Pinnacles Desert and
Cervantes’ surrounding attractions, why
not consider taking the beautiful coastal
route linking Cervantes to Geraldton and
stop on route at the quaint fishing towns
of Jurien Bay, Green Head, Leeman and
Dongara/Port Denison.
Thirsty Point, Cervantes
Emu Downs Wind Farm
The Pinnacles Desert
Indian Ocean Rock Lobster
This wind farm provides a fantastic
spectacle with 48 massive turbines
extending almost 120 metres into the air
when the blades are at their highest point.
An informative display depicts staggering
facts on wind and renewable energy
sources. View the turbines and displays
from the car park on Bibby Road, 30
kilometres east of Cervantes.
Western Rock Lobster provide a lucrative
industry for the coastal towns between
Cervantes and Kalbarri. Between
November and June crayfih boats head
out to sea and return loaded with their
bounty for processing. In Cervantes, a
stroll past the jetties will take you to the
Indian Ocean Rock Lobster Factory. Take
a tour of the factory and learn how the
lobster is processed, and be sure to pick
Wildflowers & Wildlife
up some delicious seafood to take away
Made up of 17,000 hectares of coastal or stop for a bite to eat in the outdoor
heathland, the Nambung National Park, picnic area.
is home to a wide variety of native plant
and animal species. Such is the diversity Lake Thetis & Stromatolites
of these species, that it created a rich Located two kilometres south east
habitat for the area’s Indigenous people of Cervantes, is one of only five sites
who referred to the land as “Kwongan”. in Western Australia that features
The richness of the area becomes even stromatolites. Growing in the lake, they are
more apparent in late winter and spring made up of the oldest known organisms
(July, August and September), as coastal on earth. Some fossil remains have been
wildflowers burst into life. Kangaroo Point, dated as old as 3.6 billion years! Enjoy the
located in the Nambung National Park is fantastic 1.5 kilometre walking trail with
one of the best wildflower viewing areas. interpretive signage.
Molah Hill Lookout
Purchase fresh seafood in Cervantes
Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre
Lookouts & Walking Trails
Located half way between Cervantes and
Jurien Bay, Molah Hill offers uninterrupted
views of the surrounding region. A path leads
you up to the lookout, where to the east you
can spot the distinctive Mount Lesueur and
the wind farm. Looking west you can watch
the sun set over the beautiful Indian Ocean.
Stunning views of the ocean and natural
environment are offered at many lookouts
in and around Cervantes. The lookout at
Hansen Bay, one kilometre south of town
provides a magic view of the bay, Lake
Thetis and the Cervantes townsite. For a
different perspective of the bay and the
islands, try the Thirsty Point or Molah Hill
Fishing
Lookout. Thirsty Point was given its name
If you love to fish, you’ll love Cervantes. during the war when the coastline was
Hangover Bay and Kangaroo Point guarded by the army and there was no
renowned for an abundance of fish.
drinking water to be found.
Thirsty Point Lookout
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 17
Cervantes Pinnacles Motel
Pinnacles Caravan Park
0425
Under 2 hours scenic drive from Perth along the new
Indian Ocean Drive, discover our pristine coastline in the
heart of wildflower country.
The Pinnacles Caravan Park in Cervantes, WA, boasts ideal beach-front holiday
accommodation and camping. The closest park to the Pinnacles!
With shady sites, room to move and a family friendly and pet friendly atmosphere we are the
park of choice for many travellers.
• Comfortable affordable rooms
• Standard, self contained & family options available
• Fully Licensed Restaurant open 7 days a week
• Swimming Pool • BBQs • Ample Parking
Cervantes Pinnacles Motel
7 Aragon Street
Cervantes WA 6511
Ph: +61 8 9652 7145
Fax: +61 8 9652 7214
Email [email protected]
Only minutes from the Nambung National Park & The Pinnacles
While visiting the park you can also take advantage of fantastic coffee and refreshments at
Seashells Cafe. Located at the entrance to the park and overlooking the beach our cafe offers
breakfasts, lunches and yummy treats not to mention giftware and shell displays.
2329
Pinnacles Caravan Park
35 Aragon Street
Cervantes WA 6511
Ph: +61 8 9652 7060
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.pinnaclespark.com.au
Pinnacles Edge Resort
Turquoise Coast Enviro Tours
Luxury Spa Suite or Studio getaways under 2 hours scenic drive
from Perth along the new Indian Ocean Drive
THE PINNACLES UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL
Guests can select from 2 bedroom 2 bathroom deluxe self-contained family apartments,
corporate and honeymoon spa suites, and deluxe studio rooms.
The Pinnacles Edge luxury resort is ideal for a short break from city life, and will appeal to
guests who appreciate stylish simplicity and modern functionality.
With 20 years experience as a National Park Ranger, owner/operator Mike Newton,
can show you the best of this unspoiled piece of WA.
0000
Pinnacles Edge Resort
7 Aragon Street
Cervantes WA 6511
Ph: +61 8 9652 7788
Fax: +61 8 9652 7214
Email [email protected]
2462
Full Day or Pinnacle Tours... Your Choice!
Turquoise Coast Enviro Tours
59 Seville Street
Cervantes WA 6511
Ph: +61 8 9652 7047
Fax: +61 8 9652 7531
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.thepinnacles.com.au
Cervantes Pinnacles Holiday Units
Cervantes Lodge & Pinnacle Beach Backpackers
0049
0301
Affordable Self Contained Units
Offering the closest accommodation to the Pinnacles. Spacious, comfortable 1, 2 & 3
bedroom units.
Weekly and overnight stays welcome. Centrally located, walking distance to shops and
beach.
Cervantes Holiday Homes
Cnr Malaga Court & Valencia Road
Cervantes WA 6511
Ph: +61 8 9652 7115
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.cervantesholidayhomes.com.au
Page 18 | australiascoralcoast.com
WA Tourism
Hall of
Fame.
Cervantes Lodge &
Pinnacle Beach Backpackers
Cervantes WA 6511
Freecall: 1800 245 232
Ph: +61 8 9652 7377
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.cervanteslodge.com.au
0120
Dandaragan
PERTH
Native flora, Dandaragan
Dandaragan
Dandaragan district boasts lush pastures and abundant crops produced from
the fertile farming land. It also has a beautiful year round wildflower viewing area
with most species flowering in the spring months.
St Anne’s Church
The Dandaragan Way
This
charming
Anglican
Church,
constructed between 1885 and 1887
has an interesting gothic arch for its entry
and is made from local soap stone from
“Kayanaba”, a nearby property. This
stone was soft when first quarried, so the
blocks could be easily sawn into shape.
Hardening occurred after contact with the
air. The church is open to the public.
A wonderful scenic tourist drive of running
creeks, rolling hills, historic buildings,
marri trees and flocks of white corellas
and cockatoos, the Dandaragan Way is
a recommended, alternative scenic drive
to the Brand Highway from Regan’s Ford
through Dandaragan to Badgingarra.
Wolba Wolba or
Aggie’s Cottage
St Anne’s Church
Did you know?
The name comes from Dandara
Spring, which was so named in 1849
by explorer Augustus Charles Gregory.
Regan’s Ford
A pleasant shady picnic spot on the
banks of the Moore River located just off
Brand Highway. The site of an old stone
Situated on the Badgingarra Road only crossing constructed in 1876, the Windmill
seven kilometres from Dandaragan, this
Roadhouse is situated 300 metres north
brick and stone cottage was erected in
west of the bridge.
1871 and is still used today by local craft
and historical groups. Only 50 metres
Wildflowers
away is a fresh water lake with many
different species of water birds.
Characteristic red and white gum trees
and a spectacular array of wildflowers
Historic Post Office
attract people between September and
Also made from local stone, the historic October annually. Temperatures start to
post and telegraph office opened for rise but the soil is still damp from winter
business in 1896. Although no longer rain. Why not visit a wildflower farm while
open to the general public, it is an in the area, or join an organised tour from
Perth?
attractive sight from the road.
Information
Population:
657
Distance from Perth:
168km
Shire of Dandaragan
Bashford Street, Jurien Bay WA 6516
Tel: +61 8 9652 0800
dandaragan.wa.gov.au
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 19
###
Badgingarra
PERTH
Badgingarra farmland
Badgingarra
Badgingarra, just east of the Brand Highway, sits at the edge of the Badgingarra
National Park, which showcases amazing flora during wildflower season.
Badgingarra is renowned for its incredibly diverse bushland and becomes ablaze
with the brilliant colours of wildflowers during spring.
Panizza sculptures
Did you know?
Badgingarra is an Aboriginal word.
‘Badgin’ means ‘manna gum’ and
‘garra’ means ‘water’.
Badgingarra National Park
Vern Westbrook Walk
The National Park, 13,121 hectares
in its entirety, has been set aside for
the preservation of many species of
wildflowers including the black kangaroo
paw (the Badgingarra emblem) which is
found in this vicinity. It is also home to
numerous reptiles, emus, kangaroos and
a variety of bird life including bustards and
the majestic wedge tail eagles.
On the North West Road, between the
original Badgingarra town site and the
new town centre, is a one and a half
kilometre heritage and circular wildflower
walk. Explore the banks along Hill River
and follow the footsteps of cattle drovers
of a century past. The vegetation changes
every time you cross one of the little
bridges over the river.
National Park Walk
Information
Population:
249
Distance from Perth:
205km
Shire of Dandaragan
Bashford Street, Jurien Bay WA 6516
Tel: +61 8 9652 0800
dandaragan.wa.gov.au
Page 20 | australiascoralcoast.com
A stimulating two kilometre walk trail
has been established on the western
side of the Brand Highway. Brochures
can be obtained from the Badgingarra
Roadhouse. The walk is over rugged
terrain, featuring a steep hill with a
lookout so a reasonable level of health
and fitness is required. Allow one and
a half hours for the walk, leaving your
car at the service station car park and
picking up a Department of Environment
and Conservation (DEC) booklet before
you start. For further information
contact the DEC Office in Cervantes on
+61 8 9652 7043 or the Pinnacles Visitor
Centre on 1800 610 660.
Lang Lookout
Take in expansive vistas of red earth and
green rolling pastures from this elevated
site on Watheroo West Road. A large
rock at the lookout commemorates local
farmer George Elliot Lang, credited for
the introduction of modern-day farming
techniques in the area.
Panizza Sculptures
Not wanting to waste good metal when
teaching his children to weld, Mr Panizza
uses scrap metals and together with his
children has made numerous sculptures
that you can see dotted over his property.
###
Jurien Bay
PERTH
Jurien Bay Jetty
Jurien Bay
Jurien Bay is a blissfully relaxed fishing town and with a National Park to the
east and a Marine Park just offshore, adventure is never far away. With perfect
weather conditions for swimming, windsurfing, surfing, boating and diving,
Jurien Bay is a water lover’s paradise.
Lesueur National Park
Jurien Bay Marine Park
This 26,987 hectare park is home to
exceptionally diverse flora and is special
for many reasons. The park is home
to almost 900 species, including many
plants found nowhere else in the world.
This biodiverse hotspot represents
approximately ten per cent of the State’s
known flora. The best time to visit is in
spring, but there are flowers blooming all
year round. Enjoy driving tracks, walking
trails and picnic areas with inland views, a
must during wildflower season. You may
also like to try your luck fishing at Island
Point. Tours to Lesueur National Park are
available from Cervantes.
The Jurien Bay Marine Park is sheltered
by a string of islands and reefs that make
the surrounding ocean perfect for marine
activities. The Marine Park was created
to protect a unique mix of tropical and
temperate species. As well as sea lions,
the Jurien Bay Marine Park is also a
significant seabird breeding area and you’ll
often see whales migrating each year
along the coast. Join a fishing charter or
get up close and personal on a tour visiting
cheeky seals, sea lions, dolphins and
whales. To help you make the most of your
marine experience, around 100 interpretive
signs are on display throughout the
park, explaining accepted and prohibited
activities, as well as providing information
about the area’s ecological values.
Sea Lions
Approximately 20 per cent of the Western
Australian population of sea lions live and
breed around Jurien Bay and the islands
in the Jurien Bay Marine Park. Watch them
lazing on sandy beaches or ducking and
diving through the water. The best way to
interact with these captivating creatures is
on a charter boat tour with a government
registered guide which departs from
Cervantes.
Jurien Bay Marina
Did you know?
The bay was named in 1801 by
French naval explorer, Nicholas Baudin
in honour of Charles Jurien, an officer
in the French Navy.
Information
Population:
1,472
Distance from Perth:
220km
Jurien Bay Marina
Take a stroll past the Jurien Bay Marina
and greet the fisherman as they return
with their daily catch. The marina has an
excellent concrete boat ramp, a protected
children’s beach, toilets and a shower.
Walking trails extend north and south of
the bay.
Jurien Bay Tourist
Information
Bashford Street, Jurien Bay WA 6516
Tel: +61 8 9652 0800
dandaragan.wa.gov.au
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 21
Professionals Jurien Bayview Realty
Skydive Jurien Bay
0444
2496
Australia’s Most Beautiful Beach Skydive
Holiday Accommodation
Surprise yourself with the most unforgettable experience of your life!
Largest range in Jurien Bay from
budget to executive apartments
& family homes.
Land on the beach at the beautiful Jurien Bay
To book phone +61 8 9652 2055 or
visit our website for availability
www.jurienbayholidays.com
Skydive Jurien Bay
36B Bashford St, (behind Lesueur’s Cafe)
Jurien Bay WA 6516
Ph: +61 8 9652 1320
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.skydivejurienbay.com
Professionals Jurien Bayview Realty
34 Bashford Street Jurien Bay WA 6516
Sales & Rentals: www.jurienbay.com
Jurien Charters
Jurien Bay Tourist Park
0070
0161
Be Touched by nature
Close to beautiful swimming / fishing beaches,
20 minutes from the famous Pinnacles.
• Try Scuba dives • Dive Charter • Self drive boat hire
We can take you on a tour of Jurien Bay Marine Park, with a government registered guide,
to see some of the most fascinating marine creatures you will ever encounter, including
Australian Sealions.
Jurien Charters
3 Dorcas Drive, Jurien Marina
Jurien Bay WA 6516
Ph: +61 8 9652 1109
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.juriencharters.com
0070
• Excellent Fishing
• Jumping Pillow
• Warm Climate
• Laundry
• Walking Distance to all
Amenities
• Barbecue Facilities
• Excellent Rates
• Close to new Marina
• Al Fresco Cafe
• Flat Screen TV’s
• Only 190km North of Perth
Jurien Bay Tourist Park
Luxury Chalets
Robert Street, PO Box 303
Spa & Disabled Chalets
Jurien Bay WA 6516
Ph: +61 8 9652 1595
Shaded and Powered
Ph: 1800 119 239
Caravans Sites
Fax: +61 8 9652 2724
Camping
Email: [email protected]
Relax,
stay a
while…
Discover ways to unwind at australiascoralcoast.com
Page 22 | australiascoralcoast.com
Green Head
PERTH
Dynamite Bay
Green Head
Situated on a headland, Green Head’s bays of white sandy beaches are great
for swimming and snorkelling. Offshore islands and reefs are perfect for fishing
and scuba diving and inland areas are awash with wildflowers during spring.
Sea Lions
Dynamite & South Bays
Fisherman’s Island, south of Green Head is
a breeding colony and home to one of the
largest population of sea lions in Western
Australia. You will spot these captivating
creatures lazing in the sun on the beach.
Fisherman’s Island also boasts a variety of
seabird colonies, Osprey and their nests
being just one of them. Sea Lion charters
depart from Green Head out to the island
with a government registered guide.
These secluded little bays offer peaceful
retreats for people wanting to get
away from the hustle and bustle of
city life. Dynamite Bay forms almost a
perfect circle and offers safe protected
swimming. South Bay is a long crescent
shaped beach, ideal for those who like
the solitude of walking along a deserted
beach.
Water Sports
Green Head is a water lover’s paradise with
protected bays for families and ideal weather
conditions for the more adventurous at
heart. Surfers can enjoy a good reef break
at Point Louise and excellent wind surfing
conditions when the breeze comes in.
There’s also a good chance you’ll be able
to catch your lunch fishing off the jetty
or beach or by taking a charter tour. A
protected concrete boat ramp is available
by the main jetty and another in South Bay.
Divers will enjoy a diverse array of northern
tropical species, mixed with temperate
water species of sea life.
Australian sea lions
Did you know?
There are three Aboriginal middens
situated on the headland, once used
by the Yued people.
Mount Lesueur National Park
The Mount Lesueur National Park
showcases the central west’s wildflowers
and native fauna. Situated east of Green
Head, Mount Lesueur National Park is
one of the most diverse floral areas in
the world. Dramatic land forms have
been created by the Lesueur Fault and
Cockleshell Gully formation. There is an
18 kilometre bitumen loop road providing
a scenic look throughout the park. Coal
can be found on the surface in some
areas. Fires are not permitted within the
park, and care should be taken not to
spread jarrah dieback.
Information
Population:
300
Distance from Perth:
250km
Shire of Coorow
Tourist Information
Leeman Administration Centre
20 Morcombe Rd, Leeman WA 6514
Tel: +61 8 9953 1388
coorow.wa.gov.au
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 23
Leeman
PERTH
Tee tree lookout, Leeman
Leeman
Leeman boasts turquoise waters, white sandy beaches and offshore islands
harbouring a great diversity of marine life. The coastline caters for an array of
water activities while the township supports a fishing fleet, which traverse the
bountiful oceans in search of western rock lobster.
Windsurfing
Stockyard Gully Cave
Did you know?
Leeman records some of WA’s
strongest summer winds which makes
the area great for windsurfing.
Information
Population:
539
Distance from Perth:
260km
Shire of Coorow
Tourist Information
Leeman Administration Centre
20 Morcombe Rd, Leeman WA 6514
Tel: +61 8 9953 1388
coorow.wa.gov.au
Page 24 | australiascoralcoast.com
Leeman is a windsurfing Mecca
with strong summer winds providing
excellent conditions. Some of the best
in the business are attracted to the
local windsurfing tournament held each
summer. Contact the Shire of Coorow for
further details. The conditions are also
great for sailing.
Sea Lions
Australian sea lions are among the rarest
of the world’s seal species. The waters
surrounding Leeman are renowned
for the significant sea lion populations.
It’s not unusual to spot one of these
captivating creatures lazing in the sun
on the beach. Beagle Island, north of
Leeman, is a breeding colony and home
to the largest population of the Australian
Stockyard Gully National Park Sea Lion in Western Australia, estimated
at between 150-250 animals depending
Cockleshell Gully Road leads you to the
on the breeding cycle.
Stockyard Gully Reserve, 20 kilometres
inland of Leeman. Accessible by four
Little Three Springs Reserve
wheel drive only, be sure to take your
torch and explore the fascinating, Little Three Springs Reserve is one of
ancient belowground river system of the the last natural watering holes left on the
Stockyard Gully Caves or join a tour from Old North Stock Route with picturesque
Green Head or Cervantes. The caves natural springs set among the trees.
form part of the Old North Stock Route, Some of the date palms around the
once used by stockmen to drive their springs were planted by cameleers who
stock from Walkaway in the north to North stopped in the area while taking their
Beach in the south. As the caves form a camels through to the goldfields. The
natural ravine, livestock could be kept on oasis-like picnic area is a delight to visit
overnight stops. Caution is required when and you may even be lucky enough to
visiting the caves, particularly after rain as see brumbies drinking at its banks.
they are subject to flooding.
Access is by four wheel drive only.
Leeman Caravan Park
Located amongst seven acres of shady trees and only 30
metres from the beach, we offer the perfect location to base
your Àshing, windsurÀng, snorkelling and diving holiday.
We offer a variety of accommodation options
from units to Shady tent and Van sites
• Guest Laundry
Leeman Caravan Park
Thomas St Leeman WA 6514
• Onsite Shop & Fuel
Indian Oce
an Dr
• Free BBQ’s
Thomas St
Facilities include:
Thomas St
• Fish Cleaning Bay
• Toddlers Playground
Phone: (+61 8) 9953 1080
Thomas Street Leeman, Western Australia 6514
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.leemancaravanpark.com.au
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 25
2284
Coorow
PERTH
Coorow Hotel
Coorow
Coorow is a charming inland farming town, whose first settlers raised sheep and
horses. Remnants of the previous farming history still stand around the town
today, amid beautiful gardens and thriving wildflowers.
Town Park
Did you know?
Pre-war local wheat farmer Gustav
Leibe built The Budapest Opera
House in Hungary and His Majesty’s
Theatre in Perth.
Information
Population:
250
Distance from Perth:
300km
Coorow Community
Resource Centre
Cnr Main & Bristol Street
Coorow WA 6515
Tel: +61 8 9952 1266
coorow.crc.net.au
Page 26 | australiascoralcoast.com
Town Park
Long Homestead
Situated on the main street of Coorow is
the delightful Town Park. Spend some
time relaxing in the lovely surrounds,
with well tendered gardens, a children’s
playground and a rotunda where you can
relax in the shade.
The Long family were the first to settle
in the Coorow area in 1862, creating a
living for themselves by selling livestock
such as horses and sheep. The ruins of
their homestead can be seen just outside
Coorow. Be sure to seek permission at
the community resource centre to view
the homestead, as it is now on private
property.
Alexander Morrison
National Park
Located on the Central West Coast
Sandplain, just 50 kilometres west of
Coorow, Alexander Morrison National
Park
boasts
beautiful
wildflower
displays, particularly between August
and November. The park consists of
low scrub and heath on undulating
sand plain hills, interspersed with rocky
outcrops and small streams cut across
the landscape. Tall eucalypts grow along
stream beds making for beautiful, shady
picnic locations. Mallee thickets are also
quite common throughout the park as
are heathland birds and mammals. No
formal camping facilities are provided
however, discreet camping is possible
after consultation with the local ranger.
Waddi Forest
At nearby Waddi Forest there is a
popular picnic spot which was originally
used by passing drovers to rest their
horses. The forest also once boasted
its very own bush ranger, who used to
waylay weary travellers and locals for
their wares and food!
Bird Watching
Bird watching enthusiasts should take a
trip to the Yarra Yarra Lakes, particularly
in spring, when the area is a haven
for migratory bird species. The Lakes
Lookout provides breathtaking views all
year round.
Mullewa
PERTH
Wildflower Walk, Mullewa
Mullewa
Mullewa lies deep in the heart of wildflower country and is frequented by people
wishing to view the best of the region’s dazzling wildflower displays. Mullewa is
particularly well known for its carpets of everlastings and the stunning wreath
flower that blooms between August and October.
Image
Monsignor Hawes Heritage Trail Everlasting Cultural Trails
Celebrating the enormous contribution
architect-priest, John Hawes made
to the region, the Monsignor Hawes
Heritage Trail highlights 15 buildings of
his design and other sites significant to
his life. Mullewa presents one of the best
examples of his work, the Church of Our
Lady of Mount Carmel and St Peter and
St Paul. Considered his crowning glory, it
took seven years to build, with Hawes its
architect, stonemason and carpenter.
Mullewa Wildflower Show
This week-long event starting Sunday,
28 August at the local town hall brings
the best of the bush to the town with all
that is flowering in the region. Visitors can
experience all the locally flowering plants
in one place. Morning and afternoon tea
is available, as well as souvenirs for sale.
De Grey Stock Route
This route, finishing in Mullewa was first
gazetted in 1905. The trail takes in three of
the southern-most government wells and
a natural watering hole, Hughie Rocks.
A total of 8.3 kilometres of walking
trails surround Mullewa. Explore the
breathtaking hinterland or historical
townscape of Mullewa, by walking on
one of the eight Everlasting Cultural
Trails. Wind your way through low
rolling hills, across creek valleys and
rocky ridges, or traverse the paths
of early settlers, and take time to
picture how the town grew from the
passion of the area’s pioneers. The
2.3-kilometre Bushland Trail highlights
the area’s many natural features and
provides panoramic views across the
Mullewa townsite. The 1.4-kilometre Rail
Heritage Loop showcases Mullewa’s
once-expansive rail precinct, a hub for
trains travelling between Geraldton and
Perth via Morawa, while the Town Heritage
Walk allows visitors to experience the
history of the town and it’s pioneers. The
2.82-kilometre Wildflower Walk begins
opposite the Mullewa Caravan Park
and showcases the stunning flora that
Mullewa is renowned for. Be sure to drop
into the Mullewa Community Resource
Centre for your free brochure and map
of the trails.
Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel
Did you know?
Mullewa and the surrounding area is
reportedly the only place in the world
to spot the fascinating wreath flower.
Information
Population:
1,200
Distance from Perth:
452km
Mullewa Community
Resource Centre
Jose Street, Mullewa WA 6630
Tel: +61 8 9961 1500
mullewatourism.com.au
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 27
Fields of flowers
Mullewa Wildflower Walk
Moorheads Local Artist Studio
Coalseam Conservation Park
Referred to as Ngyrlu Mulla-Mugah,
Meaning: Our Place, Our Home, the
Moorheads Local Artist Studio was
created to give the women of Mullewa
a place in which to paint, run programs
and facilitate general meetings. The newly
renovated building displays work by local
artists and is also open to the visiting
public. Visit the Mullewa Community
Resource Centre for opening hours.
Coalseam Conservation Park, between
Mingenew and Mullewa, is in the heart of
wildflower country and is considered one
of the region’s wildflower hotspots. The
park lies between the northern sandplain
to the west, where a remarkable variety
of woody heath plants flower profusely
during the wildflower season and the
arid lands of the Murchison, where winter
rains can trigger a late flowering of winter
annuals. Aptly named ‘Coalseam’, this
well known geological site is where the
first coal deposits in Western Australia
were discovered by the Gregory
Brothers in 1846. Wildflowers of all
varieties are in abundance here, with
carpets of pink, gold, cream and white
everlastings transforming the usually
sparse understorey of wattle scrub during
the wildflower season. Magnificent views
are offered from the lookout over the
Irwin River. Picnic and toilet facilities are
provided here making the Coalseam
Conservation Park a perfect place to
discover one of nature’s most exquisite
landscapes!
Mullewa Murals
The Mullewa townsite is adorned with
giant, colourful murals depicting different
aspects of Mullewa’s history. They include
the ‘Night Raid at Pindar’, ‘Raising Dough
on the Farm’, ‘The Old General’ and ‘End
of an Era’. You will see the murals by
simply taking a stroll around the town.
Scenic Drives
Mullewa Wildflower Show at the town hall
Local Indigenous art
Page 28 | australiascoralcoast.com
Enjoy the rolling hills and golden paddocks
surrounding Mullewa on a leisurely scenic
drive, where different pastures create
a tapestry over the land. Take in the
Coalseam Conservation Reserve, en route
to or from the quaint and friendly farming
town of Mingenew - a must see during
the wildflower season. Murals also cover
the main street of Mingenew and depict
scenes of yesteryear. Head to the Depot Hill
Reserve, a great wildflower viewing area.
The reserve was used as a firing range for
practice during World War I and II but now
you can enjoy a relaxing picnic here with
views of the Irwin River. Pick up a brochure
detailing scenic driving routes from the
Mullewa Community Resource Centre.
Butterabby Grave
The
Butterabby
grave
site
is
representative of many places around
Australia where conflict occurred due to
the displacement of Aboriginal people
from their traditional lands through the
establishment of agricultural and pastoral
properties. It is recognised by Aboriginal
communities through their oral tradition
as a site where five of their people were
executed, and is listed in the Aboriginal
Heritage sites register.
DongaraDenison
PERTH
Priory Hotel
Dongara-Denison
The beautiful Irwin River meanders between the twin towns of Dongara and
Port Denison, forming a scenic landmark. This serene backdrop continues along
Dongara’s shady Moreton Terrace, which is lined with giant Moreton Bay fig
trees, providing the perfect place to stop for a coffee.
Port Denison Marina
Fishermen’s Lookout
The Port Denison Marina is home to a
rock lobster fishing fleet. Enjoy the buzz
of activity that characterises the marina
by lazing back on the grassed foreshore,
which comes complete with barbecues,
shady seating areas and a children’s
playground.
This lookout at Port Denison features
sweeping views of the ocean. Stand on
the boardwalk and watch the waves rolling
in over the reef in one direction or look
over the hustle and bustle of the fishing
boat harbour during crayfish season. The
lookout also has an obelisk in memory of
sailors lost at sea.
Fishing
Historic Buildings
Dongara–Denison is best known for its
fresh Western Rock Lobster, however
the pristine waters are also home to a
range of other marine delicacies. Try your
luck at catching favourites such as tailor,
silver bream, whiting and mulloway. The
marina’s three jetties offer a great fishing
location - especially for the kids.
The best way of viewing Dongara’s
charming historical buildings is on the
heritage walk. Purchase a booklet from the
visitor centre and begin your journey back
in time. The 1.6-kilometre walk highlights 28
heritage buildings. Focal points of the walk
include the Royal Steam Roller Flour Mill
built in 1894, the Headmaster’s Residence
built in 1888, the old Police Station built in
1870 and charming Russ Cottage, built in
the late 1860s.
South Beach
Stroll along the wide white sandy beach,
or if you don’t feel like walking, cruise
along South Beach in your car. There are
also plenty of off road tracks to explore
including sand dunes, if you have a four
wheel drive.
The Drive-In
The drive-in is one of two still operating in
Western Australia and shows up to date
movies fortnightly on Saturday evenings.
A kiosk is open for dinner and snacks.
Port Denison Foreshore
Did you know?
The town’s main street, Moreton
Terrace, is lined with Moreton Bay fig
trees which were planted in 1906.
Information
Population:
3,700
Distance from Perth:
349km
Dongara Visitor Centre
9 Waldeck St, Dongara WA 6525
Tel: +61 8 9927 1404
irwin.wa.gov.au
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 29
A cafe at South Beach
Irwin River Mouth
Irwin District Museum
Markets
Housed in the old police station, the
Irwin District Museum provides an insight
into the hardships and triumphs of the
region’s pioneers. The building itself was
constructed in 1870 and served as a
police station, courthouse and jail. The
museum is open most mornings from
10am to 12pm and entry is $2.50.
For the buzz and excitement of a bustling
street market, stop in at the Dongara
Markets, held on the first Saturday of
every month from 9am to 1pm at the
Dongara Town Park.
Gourmet Delights
Olive lovers will pick up some tasty treats
and olive oil products at the local grove.
Enjoy a cappuccino in the shade of the
Dongara-Denison offers 12 different historic Moreton Bay fig trees (planted
walking trails, traversing the twin towns’ over 100 years ago) lining Moreton
most scenic locations. Stroll the banks Terrace, the main street of Dongara.
of the Irwin River, enjoy incredible
ocean views along the Shipwreck Trail Wildlife Encounters
commemorating shipwrecks and mishaps
along the Irwin Coast, or step back in time The delightful walks around Dongara and
Port Denison provide many opportunities
on the Historic Walk.
to spot a large number of local and
migratory birds that inhabit the region. For
Priory Lodge
a closer experience, head to a local animal
This fine historical establishment is
farm where you can interact with rabbits,
sprawled just a stone’s throw from the
Irwin River. Constructed in 1881 as a chickens and other farm animals. Near to
single storey limestone building, it first Dongara you’ll even have the opportunity
served as the Dongara Hotel before being to meet some friendly dingoes at a local
run by the Dominican Sisters as a school wildlife park. Contact the Dongara Visitor
and boarding college for 70 years. Visitors Centre for more information.
Walking Trails
South Beach
Old Mill
can now enjoy bar and restaurant facilities
in this heritage building.
Blessing of the Fleet
Fishing off Port Denison
Page 30 | australiascoralcoast.com
Held each year on a Sunday in November
is the entertaining and colourful Blessing
of the Fleet. The annual event marks the
beginning of rock lobster season and is
a celebration to wish the fleet a bountiful
season. On shore, the local Lions Club has
stalls, activities and entertainment all day.
Sport
The Irwin District Sports Centre, located
in a spacious complex offers facilities
for squash, badminton and basketball,
while nearby, tennis players can choose
a grass or hard court. The Denison
Bowling Club offers superb greens and a
friendly relaxed atmosphere. The 18-hole
Dongara Golf Course offers scenic views
from almost every hole.
Take the trail less travelled...
Discover the region’s walking trails and touring routes at australiascoralcoast.com
Situated in the heart of Dongara
“The hotel now has an international flair which can be experienced through its kitchen. Visitors and locals
should drop into Dongara’s best-kept secret for a hearty and delicious meal.”
- Vivienne Ryan – Coral Coast Happenings, Geraldton Newspapers Pty Ltd.
Call us on
(08) 9927 1023
12 Moreton Terrace Dongara
E: [email protected]
•
•
•
•
•
•
28 room Motel
Air conditioned rooms with separate ensuites
Alfresco Bars • Swimming Pool • Central location
Pensioner discounts • 10 minute stroll to the beach
Renowned wildflower region • Pub Tab facilities
Fox Sports in the Bar • Free Wi-Fi internet access
www.dongaramotel.com.au
Great food. Great service. Great location.
RESTAURANT
BAR
ENTERTAINMENT
2622
Best locatio
n
in town
FUNCTIONS
Lock in the co-ordinates for great food, great service and good times @ Southerlys on the Port Denison Marina. Our menu uses fresh produce
from the Irwin region including Dongara Crayfish (WA Rock Lobster) fresh from the sea at our door step daily, award winning Mid-West
Olives, famous Dongara Bakery Bread and local Irwin region wines and the freshest seafood direct from Geraldton. Check out our regular live
entertainment on the Mid-West events calendar www.midwestevents.com.au
TAB Facilities • Finalists in 2008 & 2009 AHA Awards “Regional Pub of the Year”• Voted AHA Awards “WA’s Best Redeveloped Outdoor Area”
Voted Coral Coast’s “Best country pub steak sandwich 2009 & 2010”
60 Point Leander Drive, Port Denison P: 08 9927 2207 F: 08 9927 1513 E: [email protected]
Open 7 days a week from 11:30am. Meals served 12.00pm - 2pm. Dinner 6.00pm - 8.30pm.
0000
2494
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 31
Dongara Tourist Park
Thalassa Beach House
0000
thalassa
Your Retreat on South Beach.
• Luxury Ensuite Cabins
Beach House
• Beautiful Ocean Views
• Grassed, Shaded & Large Slabbed Sites
• Dogs Welcome On Sites
• Excellent For Group Bookings
• WIFI Internet Access
Dongara Tourist Park
8 George St
Port Denison WA 6525
Ph: +61 8 9927 1210
Free Call: 1800 052 577
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.dongaratouristpark.com.au
2163
Old Mill Motel
2222
Port Denison Holiday Units
2678
The Old Mill Motel, Dongara offers 28 comfortable ground floor ensuite rooms close to the
town centre. Rooms are clean & comfortable with ensuite, A/C, heater, TV, kitchen facilities
& more. Each has a patio area to park at your door, or to relax at your patio setting. All
rooms have wireless internet access. We are family owned and operated with a licensed
restaurant. Our pool area includes BBQs, solar heated pool and comfortable seating in
tropical surrounds. At the rear of the property, there is ample off-the-street parking to safely
park trailers, trucks and larger vehicles.
Overlooking the Marina.
• Reverse cycle air conditioning
• Fully equipped, self contained, one and
two bedroom units with linen provided
• Kitchen includes microwave oven and
cooker, Sitting Room/Dinette
• Laundry and BBQ facilities
Port Denison Holiday Units
14 Carnarvon Street
Dongara WA 6525
Ph: +61 8 9927 1104
The Little Starfish Cafe´
Lazy Lobster Units & Chalets
2605
Lovely s/c accomm, modern
interior, clean comfy
affordable.
Set amongst shady trees, lawn. BBQs.
150m to Marina, shops, restaurants, fishing
etc. From $90 p/n. With linen. Pensioner
Discount - Stay 7 pay 6 nights.
Lazy Lobster Units & Chalets
45 Hampton Street
Port Denison WA 6525
Ph: +61 8 9927 2177
Fax: +61 8 9927 2177
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.lazylobster.net.au
0292
Irwin River Vineyard
2639
• 60 Metres from the ocean, shopping
centre, tavern and restaurant
Old Mill Motel
58 Waldeck St
Dongara WA 6525
Ph: +61 8 9927 1200
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.dongaraoldmillmotel.com.au
Absolute waterfront
Fantastic views
Luxury Beach house
3 Bedrooms – sleeps 10
• Fishing
• Snorkelling
• Surfing – wind surfing
• Bird watching
Short walk to shops & Tavern
Thalassa Beach House
Mob: 0417 966 931
Web: www.thalassabeachhouse.com.au
Boutique Local Winery
Grapes grown, hand-picked,
pressed and bottled on site
Cellar door tasting and sales
Open Friday to Sunday 12-5pm
Or by Appointment
Winners of the 2010 Australian Small
Wine Makers Show- Bronze Medal
Irwin River Vineyard
6 Foss Road
Irwin WA 6525
Ph: +61 8 9927 5076
Email: [email protected]
Silverdale Olive Orchard
2654
Smack on the Beach.
• Open daily (except Tuesdays) all year
round for breakfast and lunch.
Open Friday, Saturday & Sunday
(or by appointment) for tastings and sales
• We offset a percentage of our carbon
emissions
Tucked away, just one kilometre off the
Brand Highway some ten kilometres north of
Dongara is Silverdale Olive Orchard and
Olive Oil Processing Facility. If you are
travelling north for a spot of fishing, or inland
to enjoy the spring wildflowers, why not
include Silverdale in your itinerary?
´
The Little Starfish South Beach Cafe
White Tops Road
Dongara/Port Denison
Ph: 0448 344 215
Email: [email protected]
Silverdale Olive Orchard
130 Melaleuca Road
Dongara WA 6525
Ph: +61 8 9927 2674
Fax: +61 8 9927 2674
Email: [email protected]
• Evenings on request
• Now featured in the Lonely Planet
• Join The Little Starfish facebook page
Page 32 | australiascoralcoast.com
Search for
Australia’s Coral Coast
GeraldtonGreenough
PERTH
Ellendale Pool, Greenough
Geraldton-Greenough
Geraldton is situated on Champion Bay along the spectacular Batavia Coast.
Blessed with beautiful beaches and sunny weather, Geraldton is a Mecca for
water based activities, while Greenough features historic charm, uncrowded
beaches and a beautiful river.
Greenough
Leaning Trees
You’ll spot an interesting sight as you
drive along the Brand Highway through
Greenough. Here, prevailing southerly
winds have forced the trees to grow
horizontally rather than upwards and the
obscure sight has become something of
an icon for the region. Look out for the
two rest areas on the Brand Highway for
photo opportunities of one of the most
horizontal trees along the Greenough
flats.
Greenough River Nature Trail
This scenic river meanders 250 kilometres
through the countryside to meet the
ocean at Cape Burney. It’s a haven for
an amazing range of birds, from elegant
egrets and herons to the majestic osprey.
Bird watchers won’t be disappointed!
Fishermen frequent both the river and
the nearby beach to catch bream, tailor
and mulloway. One of the best ways to
experience the Greenough River is by
walking or cycling the Greenough River
Nature Trail or joining the local rowing
club for a row upstream.
Central Greenough
Historic Settlement
Step back in time by strolling through
11 beautifully restored stone character
buildings, remnants of a once thriving
community of 19th century pioneers. This
National Trust treasure is surrounded by
farm land and includes a café and visitor
information centre. The Central Greenough
Historic Settlement is open daily from
9.00am to 5.00pm (public holidays from
10.00am to 4.00pm, closed Christmas
day), just a 20-minute drive south of
Geraldton. Self guided tour booklets are
available. Other charming historic buildings
dot Central Greenough and its surrounding
areas. Highlights include Clinch’s Mill,
Gray’s Store, Convict Bridge and Wesley
Church. Call in for a drink at the historic
Hampton Arms Inn, built in 1864 and
browse through their impressive collection
of out of print books and the antique shop.
Ellendale Pool
This scenic watering hole is the ideal picnic
location and is great for bird watching and
photography. Giant gums and rocky cliffs
surround the pool. Barbecue and camping
facilities are on offer for a small fee.
Leaning tree
Did you know?
The HMAS Sydney II Memorial was
recently declared Australia’s second
national memorial by the Prime
Minister.
Information
Population:
37,000
Distance from Perth:
415km
Geraldton-Greenough
Visitor Centre
Bill Sewell Complex,
Chapman Rd Geraldton WA 6530
Tel: 1800 818 881
geraldtontourist.com.au
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 33
St Peter’s Church, Greenough
HMAS Sydney II Memorial, Geraldton
Flat Rocks
Geraldton
Located about 30 kilometres south of
Geraldton, Flat Rocks is a must stop
destination for keen fishermen and
surfers. Such is its quality, Flat Rocks
hosts a round of the State Surfing
Championships each year. Greenough
River Mouth offers another quality beach
break for surfing throughout the year.
HMAS Sydney II Memorial
Museums
Greenough Convent
Located in a beautifully restored, two storey
house alongside Maley’s Mill, the Pioneer
Museum offers an insight into a bygone
era. Open daily, you’ll find this treasure 19
kilometres south of Geraldton on the Brand
Highway. For one of the best displays of
railway memorabilia outside of Perth, visit
the Walkaway Railway Station Museum in
the Walkaway township. Open Every day
from 9am-5pm except Christmas day. Point Moore Lighthouse
Public holidays from 10.00am-4.00pm.
This bold, red and white striped landmark
has become something of a Geraldton
Wind Farm
icon. Overlooking waters at Point Moore,
Head along the Nangetty-Walkaway
the lighthouse stands 34 metres tall and its
Road from Walkaway townsite to view
beam can be seen 26 kilometres out to sea.
the 54 giant turbines of the Wind Farm. The structure is the only one of its kind in
A platform with interpretive signage Western Australia. Interpretive signage on
provides an ideal location to photograph the lighthouse’s interesting history can be
the wind farm against a backdrop of the found at its base.
surrounding rolling hills.
Olive Grove
Flat Rocks
Page 34 | australiascoralcoast.com
Recently declared Australia’s second
national memorial, this emotive landmark
commemorates the loss of Australian sailors
who met their fate in a World War II naval
battle in 1941. After 66 years of mystery, the
wreck of German vessel, the Kormoran was
found in March 2008 and a few days later
the Sydney was found approximately 250
kilometres from Shark Bay. The beautifully
designed memorial features a silver dome
of 645 seagulls to represent each sailor
lost in this war time disaster. A wall displays
photographs of the HMAS Sydney II and the
names of her crew. To the north, a bronze
statue of a woman gazes hopefully out to
sea as she awaits news of her sailor at sea.
Volunteer guides run tours daily at 10.30am
for a gold coin donation.
For a taste of the Mediterranean, visit
one of the local olive groves set among
landscaped gardens offering tastings of
olive oil, tapenades, chutneys and pickled
olives. Open between May and December
for light meals and delicious homemade
cake and coffee.
St Francis Xavier Cathedral
Built in stages from 1914 to its opening in
1938, the Byzantine style architecture of
this cathedral is one of Monsignor Hawes’
greatest masterpieces. Guided walking tours
are available for a small fee and the church is
part of the Monsignor Hawes Heritage Trail.
Contact the Geraldton-Greenough Visitor
Centre for tour days and times.
Batavia Coast Marina
Geraldton Foreshore
Batavia Coast Marina
The Geraldton foreshore redevelopment
has brought some exciting changes
to the city. Visitors can enjoy the white
sandy beaches and the huge multi-age
children’s playground with shaded toddler
area, complete with a water funpark.
This redevelopment complements the
refurbished Marine Terrace Mall, located
one block away. Take in the coast by strolling
the foreshore walk. Alternatively, ride or stroll
along the cycle way, stopping at some of
the beautiful beaches for a coffee at an
oceanfront cafe, swim or simply to admire
the scenery. Just 200 metres north, take
a stroll through the Batavia Coast Marina
where an artistically designed boardwalk
follows the water’s edge, starting from the
boat pens, past town houses and around
the WA Museum Geraldton. Public artwork
along the boardwalk also adds to the
contemporary feel of this growing precinct.
The Batavia Coast Marina is indicative of
a new level of sophistication in the coastal
city. Trendy residential housing and offices
line the streets and the waterfront. An
artistically designed boardwalk follows
the water’s edge, starting from the boat
pens, past town houses and around the
magnificent WA Museum Geraldton.
Public artwork along the boardwalk also
adds to the contemporary feel of this
growing precinct.
Water funpark, Geraldton Foreshore
St Francis Xavier Cathedral
WA Museum Geraldton
This state-of-the-art-facility on the Batavia
Marina offers a fascinating insight into the
region’s rich natural, social and maritime
history. It also features visiting exhibitions
and an excellent souvenir and book
shop. Learn about the Dutch trading
ship, Batavia, that became shipwrecked
at the Abrolhos Islands, and the ancient
culture of the Yamaji people. Opening
Lighthouse Keeper’s Cottage
times 9.30am - 4.00pm every day except
Located in the suburb of Bluff Point, the
Wednesdays.
cottage has been devoid of a lighthouse
keeper since 1943, but has been well Markets and Shopping
looked after. The Geraldton Historical
Society has been occupying the cottage Geraldton-Greenough has some great
since 1971, which houses a historical shopping facilities. The major shopping
collection. The cottage opens to visitors precincts are the Marine Terrace Mall,
for a small entrance fee. Check days and Centro Stirling Centre on Sanford Street,
Centro Northgate Plaza on Chapman Road
times with the visitor centre.
and Sunset Shopping Plaza. Geraldton is
Blessing of the Fleet
also becoming increasingly well known as
The Blessing of the Fleet heralds the start the place to purchase stunning Abrolhos
of Geraldton’s productive rock lobster black pearls, individually or crafted into
season in November. The Fisherman’s distinctive pieces of jewellery by local
Wharf comes alive with stalls and artists. Craft markets are held in different
activities. Don’t miss the opportunity to locations each Sunday and a farmers’
market is held each Saturday morning.
sample local seafood delicacies.
Point Moore Lighthouse
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 35
Bootenal Family Tavern
West Australian Museum Geraldton
Local Indigenous artwork
Page 36 | australiascoralcoast.com
Sunshine Festival
Meteorological Office Tours
Indigenous Culture
Ever wondered how the weather is
forecast? Find out at the Geraldton
Meteorological Office. See the giant
weather balloon released and learn
about the collation of data that formulates
our weather forecasts. You’ll find the
Geraldton Meteorological Office at the
Geraldton Airport. Tours are free but need
to be pre-booked. Contact the GeraldtonGreenough Visitor Centre for details.
Gain an insight into the lives, past and
present, of the local Yamaji people. Gain a
historical perspective at the WA Museum
Geraldton Mid West Gallery. For Yamaji
arts and crafts call into the Yamaji Art
Gallery in the Bill Sewell Complex, next
door to the Geraldton-Greenough Visitor
Centre.
Bill Sewell Complex
The Geraldton community celebrates its
enviable climate every October school
holidays. Capture the excitement of the
Midwest Show and Shine, float parade,
dragon boat races, market days and a
host of other fun family activities. Don’t
miss the impressive fireworks sky show
finale on the foreshore.
Sunshine Festival
This beautiful historical suite of buildings
in the heart of Geraldton was formerly
the Victoria District Hospital and later
the Geraldton Prison. The complex was
constructed in stages beginning in the
mid 1850s and today houses a host of
businesses and organisations, including
the Geraldton-Greenough Visitor Centre. Rock Lobster
Volunteer guides run a one hour tour
During the rock lobster fishing season
every Tuesday and Thursday at 2pm.
from November to June, Geraldton’s
Arts, Theatre and Films
waters burst into life as one of the
Geraldton boasts vibrant artwork, often country’s premier fishing fleets goes
by local artists whose work is seen about bringing in these ocean delicacies.
gracing banners in the Marine Terrace Around 300 boats fish in the Mid West’s
Mall, decorating roundabouts or in local waters and a large portion of these
galleries. Be sure to visit the Geraldton boats are Geraldton based. See them
Regional Art Gallery on the corner of come and go at the Fisherman’s Wharf.
Durlacher Street and Chapman Road. You can gain a firsthand insight into
You can also view local artwork at the the rock lobster industry on a guided
Arts and Cultural Development Council tour through the Geraldton Fishermen’s
Community Gallery, situated on Marine Cooperative Processing Factory. Tours
Terrace. For the latest in film releases, cost $10 per adult and $5 per child.
be sure to stop in at Orana Cinemas Tours run on weekdays at 9.30am from
Geraldton. For theatre, musicals, concerts November to June only. Be sure to
and more, check out what’s on at the sample some delicious fresh lobster at a
Queens Park Theatre.
local restaurant.
Bill Sewell Complex
Water Sports
Golf
Geraldton’s consistent summer winds
have made the city one of Australia’s
favourite windsurfing locations. Point
Moore, Sunset Beach, St Georges Beach
and Coronation Beach all provide excellent
windsurfing conditions. Mahomets’ Back
Beach and Greenough River Mouth offer
good beach breaks, while Sunset Beach is
popular during winter when bigger swells
create better surfing conditions. You can
hire or buy your surfing, windsurfing or
kitesurfing equipment in Geraldton and
also book lessons.
Geraldton is home to two excellent 18hole golf courses in the Spalding Park
Golf Club and the Geraldton Golf Club.
Both welcome visitors and feature
reticulated grassed fairways and excellent
grass greens.
Diving
Geraldton offers a great base for diving
opportunities at the South Tomi dive site
and also the Abrolhos Islands. The South
Tomi Dive Site, where the confiscated
fishing vessel was scuttled three nautical
miles from Geraldton shores in 2004,
serves as an artificial reef and dive
attraction. The hulls and holds which once
housed a diverse mix of fishermen who
plundered the high seas for Patagonian
Toothfish now host newly growing corals
and an abundance of marine life.
Sunshine Festival
Chapman Valley
Chapman Valley is a charming agricultural
region renowned for its fertile soils and
beautiful landscapes. Take a drive through
rolling green hills, breakaway country, rivers
and pristine coastline. Just 20 minutes
from Geraldton, head to Chapman Valley
to enjoy local gourmet delights.
Windsurfing in the Mid West
Chapman Valley Museum
Located in the heart of the Nanson Hamlet is
the Chapman Valley Museum. Step back in
time as you discover an impressive display
of old farm machinery, vehicles, local history
and photos. Open Wednesday’s from 9am
until 12pm and Sundays 12pm to 4pm.
Gourmet Delights
Chapman Valley is fast becoming a
destination for the gastronomically
motivated. The local winery offers
tastings and a great outdoor location
Fishing
to enjoy a glass of wine and bite to eat.
The newly opened lavender farm also
Geraldton boasts a host of quality river
provides delicious meals and lavender
and ocean fishing locations. Land based body products.
fishing provides the ideal way to unwind.
Point Moore and Separation Point are Chapman Valley Events
good locations to fish for whiting and Check the schedule of local events
herring, while the Batavia Coast Marina before visiting the valley. Local farms and
and Fisherman’s Wharf are ideal for wineries hold several music events which
draw large crowds from around the State.
dropping crab pots.
Lavender in the Chapman Valley
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 37
InTown Apartments
2355
0000
Spacious self-contained holiday accommodation.
Relax and enjoy all that Geraldton has to offer in clean and spacious self catering boutique
style apartments situated close to the HMAS Sydney memorial, Centro Northgate and the
new marina. The apartments are beautifully furnished and include everything needed for a
comfortable stay.
SELF CATERING
InTown Apartments
75 Eastern Rd,
Geraldton WA 6530
Ph: +61 8 9964 1750
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.intownapartments.com.au
Western Australian Museum - Geraldton
2443
Keep Your Eyes Open!
When early explorers sailed the Western Australian Coast their advice was simple – keep
your eyes open.
The wonders of the desert to the sea are revealed at the
Western Australian Museum – Geraldton
Batavia Coast Marina, Geraldton
Tel. (08) 9921 5080
For more information including opening times and event details go to
www.museum.wa.gov.au
Western Australian Museum - Geraldton
Museum Place, Batavia Coast Marina
Geraldton WA 6530
Ph: +61 8 9921 5080
Web: www.museum.wa.gov.au
Aboriginal Artworks
2356
Yamaji Art is 100% owned and governed Aboriginal Art Centre.
The Art Centre offers work for sale by artists from or residing in Yamaji Country (Mid
Western Australia), and includes work from more than five cultural groups.
Open: Monday to Friday 10am to 3pm or by pre-arranged appointment
Aboriginal Artworks from the Yamaji Region
Bill Sewell Complex
Corner Chapman Road and Bayly Street,
Geraldton WA 6530
Ph: +61 8 9965 3440
Page 38 | australiascoralcoast.com
M A R I N E R R E S O RT
Geraldton, Western Australia
Geraldton - take a fresh look
The regional hub of the entire Mid West.
Located about 450km north of Perth, the city is perched near beautiful coastline to the west
and rolling hills and breakaway ranges to the east. The Chapman and Greenough Rivers
frame the city to the north and south. This superb positioning, combined with the friendly feel
of a country town, makes for a truly memorable holiday experience.
To take advantage of our free accommodation,
tour and scenic flight booking service, contact the
Geraldton-Greenough Visitor Centre
Cnr Chapman Road & Bayly Street
Geraldton WA 6530
Phone + 61 8 9921 3999
Freecall 1800 818 881
Fax + 61 8 9964 2445
Email [email protected]
Web www.geraldtontourist.com.au
An initiative of
Licensed Travel Agent No 9TA1464
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 39
2631
Best Western Hospitality Inn Geraldton
Quality well appointed a/c motel rooms
•
•
•
•
2 and 3 bedroom apartments, spa rooms
Free Foxtel (6 channels) & in-house movies
Free wireless broadband
Fully licensed ‘a la carte’ restaurant - The Emerald
Room, cocktail bar
• Centrally located - close to city centre and beach,
child under 13 years stays FREE!
• Pool, BBQ facilities, laundry, mini bar
• Internet kiosk
Best Western Hospitality Inn Geraldton
169 Cathedral Ave
Geraldton WA 6530
Ph: +61 8 9921 1422
Fax: +61 8 9921 1239
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.hospitalityinngeraldton.com.au
0004
Lighthouse Artist: Bron Turner
An inspiring collection of Western Australian
Fine Art and Jewellery
A gr eat place to
visit
169 Marine Terrace, Geraldton
Ph (08) 99646601
Mon- Sat 9am-5.30pm
Sunday 9am-2pm
Situated in the “evolving”, west end of town, this wonderful bright and
spacious gallery invites you to take your time and appreciate the work of our
local artists. Beautiful handcrafted jewellery featuring Abrolhos Island pearls
and Argyle Diamonds of Australia. The originality of our amazing creations of
natural beauty will take your breath away.
www.latitudegallery.com.au
LATITUDE GALLERY
2493
Belair Gardens Caravan Park
Champion Bay Bed & Breakfast
0430
New airconditioned deluxe ensuited holiday units,
some with ocean views. Spa units available.
Heritage home with harbour views
Spacious Park, Close to Town, Beachfront Location, En-suite Powered Sites, Jumping
Pillow, Pool, Tennis Court, Sheltered Camp Sites, S/C Accom. No Dogs.
Budget Accommodation available.
Belair Gardens Caravan Park
463 Marine Tce
Geraldton WA 6530
Ph: +61 8 9921 1997
Fax: +61 8 9921 1887
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.belairgardenscaravanpark.com.au
Page 40 | australiascoralcoast.com
0061
5 minutes walk to city centre, beaches and
attractions. Ensuite & share bathrooms.
Discounts available for weekly and whole
house bookings.
Champion Bay Bed & Breakfast
31 Snowdon Street
Geraldton WA 6530
Ph: +61 8 9921 7624
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.westnet.com.au/championbay
relaxed
simple
fresh
home away from home
Under new management and recently refurbished, Ocean West Holiday Units is located along Western
Australia’s beautiful Coral Coast near one of the most popular beaches in Geraldton.
Individuals, couples and families on work travel or holiday will find Ocean West relaxing and private.
Some of the features of our rooms include:
•
•
•
•
•
Queen-sized beds
Cooking facilities
Microwave
Separate bathroom and toilet in most rooms
LCD Flatscreen TV’s
•
•
•
•
•
Foxtel
Individual patio area for all three bedroom units
Private car parking
New swimming pool
Undercover BBQ area
Relax and enjoy your stay in accommodation that has everything you need all in one place.
Ph 9921 1047
Email [email protected] 1 Hadda Way Geraldton
www.oceanwest.com.au
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 41
2596
Country Time Caravans
Geraldton-Greenough Visitor Centre
0021
2337
DL No 19073
Take advantage of our free accommodation,
tour and scenic flight booking service.
Lic No MRB 1015
• Insurance & Warranty Repairs
Friendly staff with expert local knowledge offering information on all there is to do and see in
Geraldton and Greenough, including seasonal wildflowers, the Abrolhos Islands, historical
and cultural attractions. Wide range of quality souvenirs, local products and maps available.
• Parts & Accessories • Servicing
Open 7 days Mon – Fri 9am – 5pm
Weekends & Public Holidays 10am – 4pm
Geraldton-Greenough Visitor Centre
Bill Sewell Complex, Cnr Chapman Road & Bayly Street
Free Call: 1800 818 881
Ph: +61 8 9921 3999
Fax: +61 8 9964 2445
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.geraldtontourist.com.au
Country Time Caravans
151-152 Flores Rd
Geraldton WA 6530
Ph +61 8 9964 4224
Fax +61 8 9964 4624
Email [email protected]
Web www.countrytimecaravans.com.au
Licensed Travel Agent No 9TA1464
Sunset Beach Holiday Park
2490
Geraldton Air Charter
2638
Mahomets Village Holiday Villas
0000
Fully self contained 2 & 3
bedroom villas
Absolute Beach Frontage
•
•
•
•
Full range of accommodation.
Chalets, Park cabins, Ensuite Sites.
Plenty of shade.
Disabled facilities available.
• Games & TV room.
• Large Campers kitchen.
• Net 4 Wireless internet.
Sunset Beach Holiday Park
Bosley Street,
Geraldton WA 6530
Ph: +61 8 9938 1655
Freecall: 1800 353 389
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.sunsetbeachpark.com.au
Also Weddings and Romantic tours,
tours to Monkey Mia, Pinnacles,
Kalbarri Cliffs Gorges & Pink Lakes
Specialists in air charter, aerial survey
and photography, freight, booking agents
for helicopter service.
Geraldton Air Charter
Brearley Terminal, Geraldton Airport
Geraldton WA 6530
Ph: +61 8 9923 3434
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.geraldtonaircharter.com.au
Salt Dish Cafe
O’Brien 4WD Centre
2345
Daily Tours to the
Abrolhos Islands
2650
• Linen supplied • Full cooking facilities
• Washing machine in all villas
• Each villa with own backyard
• Undercover parking • BBQ available
• Across the road from Back Beach & Surf Club
• Stay 7 nights pay 5½ • Corporate rates
available if staying 2 weeks or longer
Self Rated
Mahomets Village Holiday Villas
ve
Cnr Willcock & McAleer Drive
Geraldton WA 6530
Ph: +61 8 9921 6652
Fax: +61 8 9921 6653
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.mahometsvillage.com
Verity Jewellers
0315
0008
Lavender Valley Farm
2613
When Quality, Value and
Service really matter
it’s gotta be . . .
Food lover’s home away from home
Tucked away at the Northern end of Marine
Tce, opposite the beautiful sea is Salt Dish
Cafe, a food lover’s home away from home.
• Mechanical Repairs & Service
• New Aftermarket & Genuine Parts
• 4WD Accessories
O’Brien 4WD Centre
6 Boyd Street, Geraldton WA 6530
Ph: +61 8 9964 1068
Email: [email protected]
D/L: 19424 MRB146
A bright red door, dark wooden tables,
bent wooden chairs and a lush red wall
fill Salt Dish with a warm, inviting feeling
ideal for indulging in great food and friendly
welcoming service.
Open Mon - Sat 7.30am - 4pm
Salt Dish Cafe
35 Marine Terrace
Geraldton WA 6530
Ph: +61 8 9964 6030
Page 42 | australiascoralcoast.com
Creative Design &
Manufacture
• Abrolhos Pearls
• Broome Pearls
• Diamond Rings
• Diamond
Jewellery
• Swarovski Crystal
• Watches & Clocks
• Free Insurance
Quotes and
Valuations
Gift Shop and Cafe.
• Open Fri, Sat & Sun 10-5pm Apr-Dec
(Bookings recommended for weekends).
• Morning teas, light lunches. BYO.
• Handmade local gifts and products.
• Children’s play area.
• Enjoy our native gardens.
Verity Jewellers
Shop 3 Terrace Arcade, Marine Terrace
Geraldton WA 6530
Ph: +61 8 9921 7007
Fax: +61 8 9921 1492
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.verityjewellers.com.au
Lavender Valley Farm
1852 Chapman Valley Road
Geraldton WA 6530
Ph: +61 8 9920 5469
Ph/Fax: +61 8 9920 5069
Email: [email protected]
###
Abrolhos
Islands
PERTH
Abrolhos Islands
Abrolhos Islands
The Houtman Abrolhos Islands form one of Western Australia’s most unique
marine areas. With 122 islands in all, the closest 55 kilometres off the coast of
Geraldton, these islands are clustered into three main groups; Wallabi, Easter
and the Pelsaert.
Batavia Shipwreck
The Abrolhos’ Wallabi Group of islands
was the scene of the infamous Batavia
mutiny in 1629. The Dutch East Indies
trading ship, Batavia was wrecked on
Morning Reef at the islands. The ship’s
survivors made it to land, only to face a
bloody mutiny. Avid divers an explore
the site where the Batavia shipwreck
rests, although the dive site is weather
dependent and for highly experienced
divers only. Alternatively, visitors to the
WA Museum Geraldton can see part of
the Batavia’s hull on display.
Diving and Snorkelling
The Abrolhos Islands showcase an
abundance of marine life. Diving the
coral gardens is like entering another
world - an underwater fantasia of the
most incredible colours. See everything
from rays, to lobster, to clown fish. Many
of the coral reefs’ most spectacular
areas lie in shallow water and are just
as easily enjoyed with a snorkel and
mask, as with a scuba diving kit. It is
recommended that you check weather
conditions before heading out to the
islands. Scenic flights and boat charters
are available from Geraldton. Visit the
Fishing
Geraldton-Greenough Visitor Centre for
The Abrolhos Islands’ bountiful waters touring options to the islands.
have some of the ocean’s most prized
eating fish. Baldchin groper, dhufish, Bird Watching
snapper, coral trout and emperor are
popular catches, as are pelagic fish like The Abrolhos Islands are known as one
tuna and mackerel, not to mention the of the country’s best sea bird breeding
sought-after western rock lobster. 22 of colonies. More than 90 species of seabirds
the islands house fishermen who live there nest on the islands, among them crested
from March to June each year during the terns, lesser noddies and white breasted
islands’ western rock lobster season. sea eagles. Photographic enthusiasts will
Check exclusion zones before fishing.
love the up close encounters.
Abrolhos black pearls
Did you know?
Australia’s oldest European buildings
are located on West Wallabi Island.
Information
Population:
Fishermen during
Rock Lobster season
Distance from Perth: 479km
Geraldton-Greenough
Visitor Centre
Bill Sewell Complex,
Chapman Road Geraldton WA 6530
Tel: 1800 818 881
geraldtontourist.com.au
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 43
###
Northampton
PERTH
Our Lady in Ara Coeli Church
Northampton
Northampton is one of the oldest settlements in Western Australia outside of
Perth. It was declared a town site in 1864 and classified as a historical town by
the National Trust of Australia in 1993. Visitors to Northampton will be delighted
with the many attractions on offer.
Surrounding farmland, Northampton
Did you know?
The Northampton shire is home to
Western Australia’s most haunted
house, Oakabella Homestead.
Information
Population:
813
Distance from Perth:
475km
Northampton
Visitor Centre
202 Hampton Road,
Northampton WA 6535
Tel: +61 8 9934 1488
northamptonwa.com.au
Page 44 | australiascoralcoast.com
Historical Buildings
Oakabella Homestead
Be sure to grab a copy of the Hampton
Road Heritage Walk brochure from the
Northampton Visitor Centre. The centre
itself is of historical significance, as it was
formerly the Police Station and Court
House, built in 1882. Step back in time at
Chiverton House Museum. In the centre
of town, you will find Our Lady in Ara
Coeli Church (c. 1936) designed by the
legendary Monsignor Hawes. Next door
you will find the Sacred Heart Convent
built in 1919, also designed by Hawes.
The historic Northampton Family Store
building is still operating as a drapery and
manchester general store in its original
style. The Northampton Motors and
Machinery Restoration Shed houses a
collection of over 200 small engines and
machinery covering many vintages.
Visit the most haunted house in Western
Australia and take in the land of ghosts
and its beautiful scenery. With the first
lease taken up in 1851, this authentic,
pioneering stone homestead is classified
by the National Trust. Discover the old
homestead and mini museum on a tour
or simply stroll around the grounds. There
is farm equipment, relics, farm utensils
and Indigenous artefacts on display that
represent life in the 1800s. Oakabella
is closed to visitors for the month of
February.
Old Railway Station
In 1879 the first public railway of
Western Australia was opened between
Northampton and Geraldton. The
Northampton railway station has been
restored with parts of the old track and
bridges still visible.
Airing of the Quilts
If you are travelling in October, be sure
to stop in Northampton for the Airing
of the Quilts. The historic town’s main
street comes alive with people and colour
as lovingly made patchwork quilts are
displayed from buildings, roadsides and
shops. Enjoy the family entertainment,
stalls, food, craft, street parade and
carnival atmosphere. The Airing of the
Quilts is always held on the last Saturday
of the October school holidays.
Feeling
Freaky?
Test your nerves at
Western Australia’s most
haunted house, located
near Northampton.
Brace yourself and head to australiascoralcoast.com
Riverside Sanctuary
Northampton Family Store
Quality accommodation including self-contained houses
and large Shearing Shed Camping area with clean ablutions
on an operational family farm.
Take a Step
Back in Time
Walk trails, native pets, bush landscapes, seasonal wildflowers and protected river systems.
Inspiring guided tours tailored to your needs. Night tours and spectacular night skies.
Built in 1910 and
still very much original.
Geoff, Joy and Penny Cripps at
your service for clothing, manchester,
haberdashery, knitting yarn supplies,
footwear and gifts.
Great location to break up the long trip to/from Exmouth & Coral Bay.
Camping from $33 and houses from $132 per double per night. Sorry no dogs.
Riverside Sanctuary
442 Coolcalalaya Rd
Ajana WA
Ph/Fax: +61 8 9936 1021
Mob: 0429 105 646
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.riversidesanctuary.com.au
RIVERSIDE
S A N C T UA RY
0002
Northampton Visitor Centre
2643
Northampton Caravan Park
2513
Northampton Visitor Centre
‘Great place to stay, visit & enjoy’
Powered/Unpowered sites with discount
rates. Clean and tidy - Hot Showers,
including Disability Ablutions. On site
vans, 2 berth, 3 berth, 5 berth and 8
berth, all with Annex, Satelite TV and
Air Conditioning - Self service laundry.
Kitchen/Common Room - Entertainment
Area - BBQ - Pet Friendly.
Open: Mon to Fri 9am - 3pm Sat 9am -12 noon
Northampton Visitor Centre
202 Hampton Road
Northampton WA 6535
Ph: +61 8 9934 1488
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.northamptonwa.com.au
2319
Northampton Pharmacy
2318
Welcome to Northampton Visitor Centre in the Old Police Station, Hampton Road,
Northampton, built in 1885.
Our friendly staff provide visitors with a wealth of local information on this Historic area, the
location of wildflowers and interesting activities including the Airing of the Quilts Festival. We
carry a range of quality souvenirs and maps, children’s books and a book exchange.
Northampton Family Store
Hampton Road
Northampton WA 6535
Ph: +61 8 9934 1250
Email: [email protected]
Northampton Caravan Park
North West Coastal Hwy
Northampton WA 6535
Ph: +61 439 979 489
Web: www.northamptoncaravanpark.com.au
Supporting your local
community since 1966
Open Monday - Friday 8.30am - 5.00pm
Saturday 8.30am -12.00 noon
Northampton Pharmacy
Lot 20 Hampton Road
Northampton WA 6535
Ph: +61 8 9934 1007
Fax: +61 8 9934 2222
Email: [email protected]
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 45
###
Port Gregory
Horrocks
PERTH
The Pink Lake, near Port Gregory
Horrocks & Port Gregory
You’ll instantly feel on holidays at the picturesque coastal towns of Horrocks
and Port Gregory. Nestled along white sandy beaches, these two beachside
towns provide the ideal family getaways with sheltered waters, rock pools and
waves along the reefs. Both seaside towns boast fantastic fishing, diving and
swimming.
Horrocks Jetty
Did you know?
Beta carotene, which gives the Pink
Lake its hue is also what gives carrots
their orange colour.
Horrocks
Port Gregory
Bowes River
Pink Lake
The Bowes River Mouth is a scenic beach
favoured among surfers. The sandstone
escarpment following the river is rich in
Indigenous culture. Willigully Caves feature
rock art created by the Nanda people to
describe and communicate their traditions,
ideas and values. Obtain directions from
the Northampton Visitor Centre.
Port Gregory is bordered by the beautiful
Hutt Lagoon, known as the Pink Lake
due to its colour created by the naturally
occurring beta carotene. Offering stunning
reflections of the land on still days and
a pink haze through the skies on windy
days, the lake is always an intriguing site.
Beautiful sunsets on the changing colours
of the lake are not to be missed.
Whale Watching
Information
Population:
Horrocks 130 / Port Gregory 46
Distance from Perth:
Horrocks 469km / Port Gregory 520km
Northampton
Visitor Centre
202 Hampton Road,
Northampton WA 6535
Tel: +61 8 9934 1488
northamptonwa.com.au
Page 46 | australiascoralcoast.com
Migrating humpback whales are regularly Lynton Hiring Station
spotted in season, June to November, On the approach to Port Gregory is the
historic Lynton Hiring Station. Tucked at
from the whale watching lookout.
the foot of rolling hills, the station’s stone
Four Wheel Driving
buildings once housed convicts who
Four wheel driving tracks to Little Bay worked on the Geraldine Mine and local
and Bowes River Mouth are picturesque pastoral stations. The convict facilities
locations for picnics, fishing, wildflowers were built in 1853 and have been recently
and bird watching. The Bowes River is restored. Inside, the etched initials of
a significant habitat for bird life including convicts scar the cell walls.
pelicans, black swans, ducks, heron,
Boating
egrets, eagles, terns and osprey.
The town is protected by five kilometres
Fishing
of exposed coral reef. This protection
Cast a line from the jetty or the beach provides safe anchorage and boat
in search of ocean delights like tailor, launching areas for fishing and water
mulloway, snapper, whiting and herring.
sports.
###
Kalbarri
PERTH
The Murchison River Mouth
Kalbarri
Kalbarri is a truly spectacular getaway situated on the Murchison River. Be as
relaxed or as active as you want, leaving the hustle and bustle far behind. From
strolling the foreshore to abseiling down rugged gorges, it’s no wonder Kalbarri
has been a favourite holiday destination for generations.
Chinaman’s Beach
Pelican Feeding
Right in the heart of town, the calm
water of Chinaman’s Beach is a popular
playground for families. Here, you can
swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the
white sandy shores. Beach fishing is also
popular here.
Each morning at 8.45am, Kalbarri’s
resident pelicans head to the grassed area
on the foreshore near the Grey and Wood
Street intersection for their breakfast.
Volunteer guides meet the pelicans with
fish, allowing onlookers the opportunity to
feed these majestic birds their breakfast.
The tradition started with a local Kalbarri
fisherman who cleaned his catch and
threw the scraps to the pelicans. The
pelicans became accustomed to their
breakfast being served on the foreshore
and have been waddling up the beach
ever since.
Fishing
Kalbarri boasts some of the Coral Coast’s
best shore and boat angling year round.
Deep water adjacent to the shoreline
and coastal cliffs provide an ideal fishing
environment. Tailor and mulloway are the
main targets for shore anglers, however
whiting, gardie and samson fish are also
reeled in. Estuary fishing may result in
catches of whiting and mulloway, while
dropping a net may yield blue swimmer
and mangrove crabs. Further upstream
decent sized black bream are also around.
Fishing charters are extremely popular,
satisfying both the serious angler and
the novice. They regularly return with a
bounty of fish including snapper, dhufish,
cod, groper, tuna, Spanish mackerel,
samson fish and dolphin fish.
Jacques Point
Jacques (pronounced Jakes) Point is
renowned for its superb reef break,
considered one of the best surf breaks
along the Mid West coast. Waves break
along the point, allowing spectators on the
beach close up views of the surfing action.
This break is best suited to experienced
surfers. Nearby Jacques Bay offers safer
waves for less experienced surfers and
white sandy beaches for a day of fun in
the sun.
Pelican feeding on the foreshore
Did you know?
Kalbarri National Park is home to
nearly 800 species of flora, some of
which cannot be found anywhere else
in the world.
Information
Population:
1,800
Distance from Perth:
577km
Kalbarri Visitor Centre
70 Grey Street, Kalbarri WA 6536
Tel: 1800 639 468
kalbarri.org.au
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 47
Canoeing on the Murchison River
Guided tours of the National Park
Ross Graham Lookout
Kalbarri National Park
Z-Bend
Kalbarri National Park is one of the most
exciting and spectacular parks in Western
Australia. Covering 183,004 hectares, the
park is located on the lower reaches of the
Murchison River. Over the past 400 million
years the river has cut magnificent red and
white banded gorges for 80 kilometres,
as it makes its way to the sea. Explore
the depths and heights of the river gorges
and sea cliffs and admire the floral beauty
of the vast, rolling sandplains. Most roads
in the National Park are sealed, except for
roads to The Loop and Z-Bend, however
these are still suitable for all two wheel
drive vehicles.
An easy 500-metre walk from the car
park brings you to some of the most
breathtaking scenery in the National Park.
From the safety of the lookout, the gorge
plunges 150 metres to the river below
where majestic river redgums provide a
lush contrast to the earthy hews of the
Tumblagooda Sandstone.
River Gorges
Murchison River, Kalbarri National Park
Page 48 | australiascoralcoast.com
Ross Graham Lookout
This site provides the easiest place in
the park to access the river, with a short
walk from the car park bringing you to the
tranquility of the shaded river’s edge. This
provides an ideal location to take a dip in
the river or walk along its banks.
The Murchison River Gorges in the
Kalbarri National Park have been carved
over millions of years to form dramatic
sandstone cliff faces which plummet
into the Murchison River as it meanders
towards Kalbarri.
Hawk’s Head
Nature’s Window and The Loop
For those with greater levels of fitness and
experience, there are many gorge hiking
options available ranging from one day
excursions to four or five day extended
hikes. Further information about these
hikes is available from the Department of
Environment and Conservation office and
it is a strict requirement that all overnight
groups register with park staff before
making the trip. Drinking water is not
available in the National Park, so always
carry your own supply. Hiking through the
park is particularly spectacular between
August and October when the park bursts
into colour during wildflower season.
Located just 400 metres from the
Nature’s Window car park, this rock
border beautifully frames the rugged
upstream view. Nature’s Window marks
the beginning and end of The Loop, a sixhour (eight-kilometre) walk trail, providing
different views of the winding gorge
below. The Loop is not marked, but the
easiest route starts at Nature’s Window,
heading east along the cliff top to the first
river bend, then down along the ledges
and flood plain at water level, returning
to Nature’s Window, keeping the river to
your right at all times.
Enjoy the views from the picnic area or
wander down the wheelchair accessible
path to the lookout above the river.
River Gorge Hikes
Nature’s Window
Coastal Gorges
Eagle Gorge
Kalbarri’s
coastal
gorges
feature
magnificent, towering cliffs that plummet
to the waves below. From Red Bluff,
named by Willem de Vlamingh in 1697,
the spectacular coastal cliffs extend 13
kilometres to the National Park’s southern
boundary. Numerous signposted walking
trails allow you to explore the ruggedly
beautiful coastline and look for migrating
whales between June and November.
Please take care and stay clear of
cliff edges and overhangs. Pathways,
lookouts and balustrades have been
provided for your safety.
Enjoy the panorama from the crest or
wander down into the tranquil depths
of the gorge, where you will discover a
delightful beach. Watch as eagles soar in
the updrafts searching for hapless prey
below.
Red Bluff
Island Rock & Natural Bridge
The rustic earthly hues of Red Bluff herald
the start of the coastal gorges and the area
is well known for its scenery, snorkelling,
fishing and swimming spots. Red Bluff
boasts a picturesque white sandy beach,
contrasted against the rust red cliffs. The
cliffs are particularly spectacular in the
light of the setting sun.
As the coastline slowly yields to the force
of the Indian Ocean, the fracturing and
decaying of the cliffs has sculpted these
precarious rock formations. Stunning
views can be enjoyed from the safety of
the lookout enclosures provided, a short
walk from the car park. A wheelchair
accessible picnic shelter and toilets are
now available.
Pot Alley
The view south from the carpark truly
captures the splendour and beauty of this
remarkable coastline, particularly scenic
as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean.
Amble down the stepped path to the
secluded beach below.
Blue Holes
Just south of the townsite is the snorkelling
paradise of Blue Holes. Dozens of rock
pools and swimming holes offer protected
snorkelling and an array of marine life to
view.
Beach fishing in Kalbarri
Wittecarra Creek
South of the Kalbarri township is
Wittecarra Creek - thought to be the site of
the marooning of Dutch sailors punished
for their part in the Batavia mutiny at
the Abrolhos Islands in 1629. Wittecarra
Creek is today a popular fishing spot.
Kalbarri coastal cliffs
Mushroom Rock Nature Trail
See how nature has shaped this dramatic
coastal landscape along the three
kilometre Mushroom Rock Walk Trail.
Marvel at the varied geological formations
and witness kangaroos feeding (best
seen at dawn and dusk) amid the
beautiful coastal heath. Allow between
one and two hours to stroll the marked
circuit that connects Rainbow Valley and
Mushroom Rock. The interpretive signage
provides information on the botanical and
geographical features.
Whale spotting
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 49
Local bird park
Red Bluff beach
Bigurda Trail
Wildflowers
Avid hikers can take in the entire coastal
cliff area on the eight-kilometre Bigurda
Trail. Arrange to be dropped off at
Eagle Gorge and traverse south along
the coastal cliffs for three to five hours,
finishing up at Natural Bridge.
From July until November, some 800 species
of West Australian native flora progressively
burst into bloom around Kalbarri and within
the Kalbarri National Park. Here you’ll find
an array of flowers mainly along the tops of
coastal cliffs and gorges. Many species are
endemic to the region including the Kalbarri
Spider Orchid. Other flowers include
river gums, gold and orange banksias,
starflowers, grevilleas and eucalypts. Stop
by the Kalbarri Visitor Centre for the latest
wildflower hotspots and to pick up a map.
Check out the Kalbarri Wildflower Centre
and explore an easy 1.8 kilometre walk trail.
Tours and Activities
Flame grevillea
Sandboarding near Kalbarri
Page 50 | australiascoralcoast.com
Kalbarri is an adventure lover’s hotspot,
with so many places to explore, you’ll be
spoilt for choice. Tour operators provide
a host of activities, both in the Kalbarri
National Park and at surrounding spots
around the town. Canoeing up the
Murchison River is the perfect activity for
a sunny afternoon, while thrill seekers may
prefer abseiling the National Park’s river
gorges. Boat charters leave regularly for
for whale watching (seasonally between
June and November), fishing and river or
sunset cruises. South of Kalbarri, explore
the dunes on a sand board or quad bike.
If those options aren’t enough to get the
blood flowing, try horse riding, paddle
boating, windsurfing or hire a dinghy.
Call into the Kalbarri Visitor Centre for
more information or to book one of the
numerous tours on offer.
Parrot Sanctuary
Kalbarri is home to what is considered
one of Australia’s best parrot habitats,
and the country’s largest free flight aviary.
Walk through tropical gardens which are
home to hundreds of colourful birds from
Australia and overseas.
Outdoor Cinema
When the sun goes down, enjoy an evening
under the stars at the outdoor cinema.
Located just south of town, bring a picnic or
enjoy the licensed snack bar and gourmet
wood fired pizzas made on site.
Whale Watching
Kalbarri Canoe & Cray Carnival
The seasonal migration of humpback
whales brings them close to the Kalbarri
shoreline between June and November
annually. The best vantage points are from
the coastal cliffs of the Kalbarri National
Park, or get up close and personal with
these massive mammals on a whale
watching charter.
Kalbarri will become a hive of activity on
June 5 for the annual Kalbarri Canoe and
Cray Carnival. Held each year on the June
long weekend, the festival sees locals and
visitors race canoes 16.5 kilometres down
the Murchison River. Other canoe races,
entertainment and markets are held on the
River Mouth foreshore.
Kalbarri Cellars Liquor Store
2448
• Extensive Wine Range, Great choice of WA Wines, Huge Sparkling Selection
• ‘Ready to’ Drinks, Spirits & Liqueurs, Cocktail Supplies
• Australian, Boutique and International Beers
• Gourmet Cheeses, Patés & Olives
• Friendly Service
OPEN 7 DAYS
Monday to Saturday 10am - 8.30pm
Sunday 12 noon - 8pm
Kalbarri Cellars Liquor Store
Grey Street, Marine Shopping Centre next to the Post Office
Kalbarri WA 6536
Ph: +61 8 9937 1361
Email: [email protected]
Kalbarri Reef Villas
Relax at a superb tropical paradise.... RAC
Kalbarri Palm Resort is the perfect place for holidays,
getaways and business. Centrally located, Kalbarri
Palm Resort is just a short walk from the centre of
town, the river and the beach. With 78 rooms, including
spacious motel rooms and family apartments, there
is a style to suit all tastes. With fantastic facilities over
five acres, you can choose between two swimming
pools, outdoor spa, shaded barbecue areas, a central
playground, tennis, bowls and cricket. Why not enjoy
delicious local fare at the Blackrock Cafe overlooking
the water, just minutes from the resort.
• Centrally Located
• Cleanliness Guaranteed
• Foxtel / DVD Players
• Sparkling swimming pool
• Gas BBQ facilities
Fully self contained 2brm, 2 storey villas equipped
with all you need, including ALL linen and towels,
air-conditioner in both bedrooms.
Reef Villas are a non-smoking establishment
and smoking is permitted outside ONLY.
• Wi-Fi internet available
Kalbarri Reef Villas
Coles Street, PO Box 34
Kalbarri WA 6536
Ph/Fax: +61 8 9937 1165
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.reefvillas.com.au
KALBARRI
REEF VILLAS
0009
Kalbarri Sandboarding
0327
Four Wheel Drive and Sandboarding Adventure Tours
Kalbarri Sandboarding offers half day sandboarding and 4WD adventures operating daily
from Kalbarri. The day starts with safety gear on, a few training lessons and then the fun
begins. Once confident we take on the “superbowl”, a 280 foot high sand crater, and then
enjoy a cool off swim and lunch in the safe water of the lucky bay lagoon. An action packed
day with thrills, spills and speed catering for all age groups of 4 years and over.
Porter Street, Kalbarri 6536
Freecall: 1800 819 029
Tel: (08) 9937 2333
or book online at
www.kalbarripalmresort.com.au
Kalbarri Sandboarding
Ph: +61 8 9937 2377
Mobile: 0429 327 400
Web: www.sandboardingaustralia.com.au
0235
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 51
FLIGHTS FROM $59
• See the splendour of the Murchison River Gorges from the Air
• Fly, Snorkel, Discover the Abrolhos Islands
• Fly along Kalbarri’s Coastal Cliffs at Sunset
• Feed the Dolphins of Monkey Mia - just 1 hours flight from Kalbarri
Call 9937 1130
2336
FR
EE
S
on tay
ly 3 n
pa ig
y f hts
or &
2!
Visit www.kalbarricharter.com.au or call into 62 Grey St Kalbarri
Brand new resort, luxury 2 bedroom apartments, 1 bedroom spa suites and motel rooms in the heart of Kalbarri.
restaurant | dishwashers | spas | room service | king size beds | pool | gym | conference room
Receive one night FREE - Stay 3 nights and only pay for 2! PLUS anytime during your stay
come to our restaurant for a complimentary big Kalbarri cooked breakfast!
*Breakfast one morning only. *Conditions apply.
porter street, kalbarri
freecall 1800 286 155
www.kalbarriedge.com.au
email: [email protected]
2313
Kalbarri Adventure Tours
Kalbarri Seafront Villas
0041
0043
Quality holiday accommodation in the heart of Kalbarri.
With sensational river and ocean views, friendly service and comfortable accommodation
- look no further than Kalbarri Seafront Villas. Large, spacious 1 and 2 bedroom units, 4
bedroom/2 bathroom townhouse and studio apartments. All units are well air-conditioned,
with fans and are complemented by attractive gardens, pool and barbecue area. FOXTEL,
SBS, Internet access and direct dial phones are available in all units. Explore the waterways
in the free dinghy provided. Free secure offsite boat parking, with washdown facilities and
freezer space. Complimentary pick up service from the bus terminal.
Kalbarri Seafront Villas
108 Grey Street,
Kalbarri WA 6536
Ph: +61 8 9937 1025
Fax: +61 8 9937 1525
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.kalbarriseafrontvillas.com.au
Page 52 | australiascoralcoast.com
Kalbarri’s National Park
Specialists
• Canoe the Gorges
• Natures Window
• Wildflower Wilderness
• Group Charters
The only tour in Kalbarri
that takes you canoeing
through the Gorges
Kalbarri Adventure Tours
Ph: +61 8 9937 1677
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.kalbarritours.com.au
Kalbarri Visitor Centre
Murchison View Apartments
0115
Book with our local experts
• Tour bookings
• Souvenir sales
• Transwa bookings
• Accommodation enquiries and bookings
Luxury spacious apartments
with river & ocean views.
• Skywest bookings
• Greyhound bookings
Superbly located, 2 & 3 bedroom
apartments. Fully self contained with fully
equipped kitchen, air con living area,
ceiling fans in bedrooms, own laundry,
linen supplied, TV, DVD Player plus Foxtel
& microwave. Swimming Pool & BBQ area.
Complimentary pick up from bus or Kalbarri
Air Terminal.
For all bookings and enquiries contact the Kalbarri Visitor Centre
Kalbarri Visitor Centre
Located on the foreshore Allen Community Centre,
Grey Street, Kalbarri WA 6536
Licensed Travel Agent No TA 1098
Freecall: 1800 639 468
Ph: +61 8 9937 1104
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.kalbarri.org.au
0018
Kalbarri Tudor Holiday Park
Blue Ocean Villas Kalbarri
0338
Murchison View Apartments
Grey Street, Kalbarri WA 6536
Ph: +61 8 9937 1096
Fax: +61 8 9937 1522
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.kalbarrimurchisonviewapartments.com.au
0146
Seven Luxury Boutique Villas
• Foxtel • Air-con, TV, DVD, BBQ • Private laundry • Heated Saltwater Pool
In a perfect location,100 metres from the water’s edge, close to restaurants and shops.
Fully Self Contained Villas
Private carport & courtyard.
MODERN | SPACIOUS | COMFORTABLE
Blue Ocean Villas Kalbarri
Auger Street
Kalbarri WA 6536
Ph: +61 8 9937 2442
Web: www.blueoceanvillas.com.au
Blue Ocean Villas Kalbarri
380m from town centre
• New 18m Swimming Pool
• New 1 & 2 bedroom brick units
• Playground & TV room
• Ensuite powered sites
• Backpackers accommodation
• Ensuite chalets
• Campers Kitchen
• Park cabins
• Wireless Internet
• Tudor cabins
• Small dogs welcome in park by arrangement. OFF PEAK.
Kalbarri Tudor
Holiday Park
Kalbarri WA 6536
Ph: +61 8 9937 1077
Fax: +61 8 9937 1720
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.kalbarritudor.com.au
Pelican Shore Villas
Rainbow Jungle
Fully self contained two and three bedroom villas.
Open Mon to Sat 9am-5pm & Sunday 10am-5pm
2094
Located in a superb position overlooking the mouth of the Murchison River and the Indian
Ocean. Pelican Shore Villas offer spacious, fully self contained two and three bedroom villas
available as single or double storey, set in beautifully maintained gardens.
Features include air conditioning and ceiling fans, TV and DVD, Wi-Fi, fully equipped kitchen,
personal laundry, cot and high chair available. Covered parking, boat parking, pool, free gas
BBQ. RAC ++++ Rating
Pelican Shore Villas
Cnr Grey & Kaiber Streets
Toll Free: 1800 671 708
Ph: +61 8 9937 1708
Fax: +61 8 9937 2057
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.pelicanshorevillas.com.au
Come experience a touch of magic at the amazing Rainbow Jungle - Australia’s Best
Parrot Habitat. Wander amongst the parrots, along pathways, through landscaped tropical
gardens, past waterfalls, fountains and lily ponds. You may like to spot passing whales
from our whale watching tower or catch a night time movie at PARROTISO’S OUTDOOR
CINEMA @ RAINBOW JUNGLE.
• Free barbecue facility and picnic areas available • Ample parking
• Unique souvenirs and gifts • Refreshments
Rainbow Jungle
Red Bluff Road
Kalbarri WA 6536
Ph: +61 8 9937 1248
Web: www.rainbowjunglekalbarri.com
0?GL@MU(SLEJC
7KH$XVWUDOLDQ3DUURW%UHHGLQJ&HQWUH
0045
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 53
###
Shark Bay
PERTH
Stromatolites at Hamelin Pool
Shark Bay
Shark Bay is testimony to the wonders of the natural world. It became Western
Australia’s first World Heritage listed area in 1991. Shark Bay is renowned for its
white beaches, turquoise waters, rust red sand and marine life including whales,
dugongs, turtles, dolphins, manta rays and more.
Denham
Night entertainment at Monkey Mia
Did you know?
Dirk Hartog Island was the first ever
recorded landing of Europeans on
Australian soil.
Information
Population:
984
Distance from Perth:
838km
Shark Bay World
Heritage Discovery
and Visitor Centre
Tel: +61 8 9948 1590
sharkbayvisit.com
Page 54 | australiascoralcoast.com
Shark Bay World Heritage
Denham is the main service centre for the Discovery and Visitor Centre
Shark Bay World Heritage Area. A small,
friendly town, it offers safe swimming
beaches and a range of accommodation,
restaurants, shops, an airport and other
essential services. It is also a gateway for
exploring this beautiful and fascinating
region. Cruises and tours to nearby
attractions operate from Denham including
Dirk Hartog Island, Steep Point, Shell
Beach, Francois Peron National Park, and
the stromatolites at Hamelin Pool.
Wildlife
If you love wildlife, you will love Shark
Bay. Some 17 species of mammals, 98
species of reptiles and amphibians and
more than 230 species of birds have
been recorded in the area. Whether on
an organised tour or travelling on your
own steam, you’re sure to spot some of
the region’s fascinating wildlife. Project
Eden is a conservation project aimed
at re-establishing healthy numbers of
endangered and threatened species on
the Peron Peninsular. Find out more at the
visitor centre.
Shark Bay became World Heritage
listed in 1991, after meeting all four
natural criteria. It’s only one of a handful
of places in the world to do so. World
Heritage sites are created to preserve
the diversity, history and beauty of the
worlds treasures. The World Heritage
site covers 2.2 million hectares of land
and sea on the coast of Shark Bay.
The colourful and diverse landscapes,
rare flora and fauna and world class
examples
of
earth’s
ecological
processes all contribute to the region
being World Heritage listed. The Shark
Bay World Heritage Discovery and
Visitor Centre celebrates Shark Bay’s
biodiversity of ecosystems and explores
the area’s World Heritage listing, natural
landscape, bays, islands, lagoons,
marine and terrestrial landforms and
animals. Also call into the centre if you
require information regarding tours,
accommodation and related bookings in
the Shark Bay area. The centre is open
daily from 9.00am to 6.00pm except
Christmas day and Easter Sunday.
Bottle Bay, Francois Peron National Park
Hamelin Pool Stromatolites
Eagle Bluff
Hamelin Pool, located 90 kilometres
south east of Denham, is one of only a
few places on earth where living marine
stromatolites (the oldest living organisms
on the planet) exist. These rocky looking
lumps in the water resemble the oldest and
simplest forms of life on earth dating back
3.5 billion years. The water at Hamelin
Pool is twice as saline as usual sea water
due to sea grass banks situated across
the bay’s entrance and rapid evaporation
from the shallow water. Stromatolites are
composed of bacteria and algae and
animals that feed off these substances
cannot tolerate such saline conditions.
As a result stromatolites can grow here,
undisturbed. Most stromatolites are
extremely slow growing. Those in Hamelin
Pool grow at a maximum of 0.3mm a year,
so those which are up to a metre high are
hundreds, if not thousands of years old.
There is an excellent viewing platform out
over the water and interpretive displays at
the site and at the Hamelin Pool Telegraph
Station nearby which houses a small
museum.
Just 20 kilometres south of Denham is
Eagle Bluff. The scenic viewpoint features
a 100-metre walkway along the top of
a cliff face. The views from this vantage
point are breathtaking and sharks,
dugongs, rays and large fish are regular
visitors in the shallow waters below.
Shell Beach
This unique beach located approximately
50 kilometres south east of Denham is
made up of countless tiny cockle shells
layered up to ten metres deep and
stretching for over 120 kilometres. The
shells were once quarried and used to
build the walls of buildings in the area,
some of which can still be seen today.
On a still day, the ocean at Shell Beach
transforms into a palette of the most
intense greens and blues.
Denham foreshore
Peron Homestead Precinct
Situated in the Francois Peron National
Park, the Peron Homestead Precinct offers
a taste of life from the 1950s when the
park was a working sheep station. A self
guided walk around the precinct explores
the history of the area, visiting the shearing
shed, shearer’s quarters and stock yards.
Interpretive signs explain the station’s
interesting history and an interpretive
centre depicts stories of Indigenous
inhabitants, European colonisation and
current day conservation programs such
as Project Eden. There is a natural hot
tub fed from an artesian bore near the
homestead that originally supplied water to
the station’s stock and is now popular with
visitors. The nearby barbecue and lawn is
a great spot for picnics. Peron Homestead
is accessible by two wheel drive vehicles.
Shark Bay World Heritage Discovery and Visitor Centre
Eagle Bluff, Shark Bay
World Heritage Drive
Follow the interpretive signage along the
World Heritage drive to learn about this
amazing area and how it satisfies all four
of the natural criteria to become heritage
listed. The World Heritage drive starts at
the Overlander Roadhouse on the North
West Coastal Highway and continues 180
kilometres through to Monkey Mia.
Shell Beach
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 55
Hire a sailing boat
Indigenous tour at Monkey Mia
Little Lagoon
Francois Peron National Park
Five kilometres from Denham towards
Monkey Mia is Little Lagoon. This
pristine waterway is a natural nursery for
whiting. Beach and barbecue facilities
provide for a peaceful day swimming,
sun bathing, feasting on a picnic or
enjoying the sunset.
Francois Peron National Park lies just
north of Denham, adjacent to the Shark
Bay Marine Park. The park covers 52,500
hectares of arid shrublands, rolling
sandplains and spectacular coastal
scenery. Here, striking rust red sand
dunes give way to brilliant white beaches
and crystal blue ocean. The diversity
of vegetation also provides a colourful
spectacle in winter. The Wanamalu Trail
stretches for 1.5 kilometres along the cliff
edge between Cape Peron and Skipjack
Point and is a 45 minute (one way) walk
that provides excellent views of the
coastline. Interpretive signs along the trail
provide an introduction to the features of
the area and two viewing platforms at
Skipjack Point provide striking coastal
views and the opportunity to view Shark
Bay’s abundant marine life. Vehicle
access to Francois Peron Park is from the
Monkey Mia road, about four kilometres
east of Denham. The road to the Peron
Homestead is accessible for two
wheeldrive vehicles but high clearance
four wheel drives are essential for travel
further north into the park. Designated
basic campsites at Big Lagoon, Bottle
Bay, Herald Bight Gregories and South
Gregories lead to fishing spots along the
coastline. Gas barbecues are supplied,
wood fires are not permitted and visitors
need to bring water supplies when
visiting the park. The park was named
after the French zoologist, Francois
Peron, who arrived in Shark Bay in 1801
on the vessel Geographe, under Captain
Baudin. Peron’s observations proved to
be of great importance to the natural
history of the region.
Project Eden
Francois Peron National Park
Project Eden is a nationally significant
project working to conserve the threatened
and endangered species that inhabit the
Peron Peninsular. The project removes
introduced species in the area and as a
result, there has been vast increase in
the number of local fauna. Bilbies, mallee
fowl and woylies have been successfully
reintroduced to the region as a result of
this project. Learn more about Project
Eden at the Shark Bay World Heritage
Discovery and Visitor Centre.
Shark Bay Pearls
Shark Bay sunset
Page 56 | australiascoralcoast.com
Around the same time as the first
pastoralists settled in Shark Bay, pearlers
also arrived in the region in the 1850s. An
American whaler first noticed oysters in
the area and shortly after pearlers could
be seen walking the sand banks in search
of pearls. A working pearling station now
operates off the coast of Monkey Mia
and is one of the industries Shark Bay is
known for. Tours to the farm provide an
insight into how pearls are cultivated and
you may even get the opportunity to taste
pearl meat. Pearls can be purchased at
the pearling station or in Denham.
Meeting the friendly dolphins of Monkey Mia
Monkey Mia
Dolphins
Monkey Mia Reserve is located on the
eastern shore of Peron Peninsula about
23 kilometres from the town of Denham.
Home to the world famous Monkey Mia
dolphins, it’s a must stop for families and
nature lovers alike. Monkey Mia also offers
many other attractions and tours including
beach camel treks, catamaran wildlife
sailing cruises and Indigenous tours.
Explore the area surrounding Monkey
Mia on the easy, 1.5-kilometre walk trail
starting at the Denham and Monkey Mia
Visitor Centre and heading into the sand
dunes before returning to the beach.
Access to Monkey Mia Reserve is subject
to a Department of Environment and
Conservation National Park entrance fee.
The dolphins of Monkey Mia are famous
for their daily ritual of swimming to
shore to interact with humans. As the
bottlenose dolphins are wild, numbers
and the exact time of their visit varies,
however they usually visit the shore up
to three times a day, usually starting at
7.30am. Seven dolphins regularly visit
the beach with up to 20 others visiting
occasionally. Monkey Mia dolphins
are protected by the Department of
Environment and Conservation (DEC).
Visitors may get the opportunity to feed
the dolphins under the supervision of
a National Park Ranger, though this
privilege is not guaranteed. DEC has
developed a management program that
aims to ensure the dolphins maintain their
hunting and survival skills. Therefore, the
dolphins are only fed a maximum of one
third of their daily intake of fish. Visitors
can also learn more about the Monkey
Mia dolphins at the Dolphin Information
Centre located inside the Denham and
Monkey Mia Visitor Centre. Souvenirs
and postcards are also on sale here,
proceeds of which support the Monkey
Mia appeal trust.
Indigenous Perspective
Gathaagudu is the Aboriginal name for
Shark Bay, meaning two waters. Long
before Europeans landed and settled
in the Shark Bay area, the land and
waters of Monkey Mia and surrounds
provided a livelihood for the local Nhanda
and Malgana people. You can get an
Indigenous perspective on Shark Bay
by taking a walking tour departing from
the Denham and Monkey Mia Visitor
Centre several times a day. Learn about
the Indigenous history of Shark Bay and
its many plants and animals. Become an
animal tracker and discover which plants
make good bush tucker and medicine.
Along the walk you will visit significant
cultural sites including a shell midden and
caves where archaeological evidence
has dated Indigenous occupation back
thousands of years.
Sailing tour
Canoe hire at Monkey Mia
Pelicans at Monkey Mia
Wildlife Cruises
Be sure to join a wildlife cruise aboard a
catamaran yacht tour. Sailing out into the
rich waters of Shark Bay Marine Park,
you may get the opportunity to get close
to dolphins, turtles, dugongs and many
more marine species. Alternatively head
out on a sunset cruise and relax with a
drink as the sun sets over the nearby rust
red cliffs.
Shark Bay beach
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 57
Camel rides on the beach
Image
Image
Sand dunes of Shark Bay
Image
Monkey Mia Jetty
Page 58 | australiascoralcoast.com
Shark Bay World Heritage Area
Abundant Marine Life
Dirk Hartog Island
Shark Bay Marine Park covers 1500
kilometres of coastline, making it the largest
marine embayment in Australia. On any
visit you’re likely to spot turtles, dolphins,
manta rays, whales and dugongs, be it
on a boat or from the shore. The shallow
waters support a diverse ecology, including
the largest number and area of seagrass
species in the world, providing nutrition
and shelter for the marine fauna. Shark
Bay is also an important turtle nesting
location with up to 6,000 marine turtles
living in the water including the precious
loggerhead turtle, considered the most
endangered turtle species in Australia.
Tours are available, offering visitors the
unique opportunity to witness Shark Bay’s
abundant marine life.
For those who like a little seclusion,
Western Australia’s largest island, Dirk
Hartog offers a peaceful retreat of beautiful
scenery and private white sandy beaches.
Dirk Hartog Island was the first recorded
landing on Australian soil by Europeans.
Captain Dirk Hartog announced his arrival
by erecting an inscribed pewter plate at
the site now known as Cape Inscription.
A replica of this plate can be seen at the
Shark Bay World Heritage Discovery and
Visitor Centre. Fishing is very good around
the island. Scuba diving, snorkelling and
walking are also great ways to explore the
surrounds. The island is open to visitors
from March to October. Air and land tours
and accommodation need to be prearranged and bookings are essential.
Dugongs
Steep Point and Zuytdorp Cliffs
Due to the vast sea grass meadows in
the Shark Bay Marine Park, dugongs
can be found year round near Shark
Bay. The Shark Bay area alone supports
10 per cent of the world’s dugong
population. They feed on the significant
sea grass meadows that blanket the
sea floor of the Shark Bay Marine Park.
You can’t help but be enchanted by
these graceful (if a little bizarre looking)
creatures. Dugongs can grow up to three
metres in length and weigh as much as
400 kilograms. Being mammals, they
cannot hold their breath under water for
very long, so they can often be spotted
coming to the surface for air. You can
experience dugongs on a wildlife cruise
from Monkey Mia or on a scenic flight
above Shark Bay to spot them.
Spectacularly beautiful Steep Point is the
most western point of mainland Australia
and is a Mecca for fishermen. In fact it’s
known to be one of the world’s most
successful land based game fishing
locations. Access is by four wheel drive
only and visitors are advised to exercise
caution and bring their own drinking water
and supplies. This area also features
the magnificent Zuytdorp (pronounced
Zurtoff) Cliffs towering up to 170 metres
above sea level. The Zuytdorp Cliffs that
begin at Kalbarri to the south and end at
Steep Point in the north make for some
amazing scenery, including blowholes
that shoot sea spray up to nine metres
into the air. Land and scenic air tours
are available to Steep Point and over the
Zuytdorp Cliffs.
Dolphins are just
the beginning...
lphin encounters.
Absolute beachfront accommodation. Magical do
World leading nature-based experiences. Only accommodation in Monkey Mia.
freecall 1800 653 611
phone +61 8 9948 1320
[email protected]
monkeymia.com.au
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 59
0210
Monkey Mia
Flash Backpackers
'HQKDP²0RQNH\0LD²6KDUN%D\
++++3URSHUW\
Quality budget accommodation.
Stunning beachfront location.
‡2FHDQIURQWURRPVZLWKSULYDWHEDOFRQ\
‡$OOURRPVKDYHNLQJVL]HEHGV
‡)XOO\OLFHQVHGUHVWDXUDQW
‡/RXQJHVDORRQEDUV ‡&RQIHUHQFHDQGPHHWLQJIDFLOLWLHV
‡3RRODQGVXQEDNLQJGHFN
‡7HDFRIIHHPDNLQJIDFLOLWLHV
‡79)R[WHOIUHHLQKRXVHPRYLHV
‡*XHVWODXQGU\
‡'LVDEOHGIDFLOLWLHV
‡'ULYHWKURXJKERWWOHVKRS
‡2SHQVHFXUHFDUSDUNLQJIDFLOLW\
‡$LUFRQGLWLRQLQJ
‡$70LQPDLQEDU
‡+LUHFDUVDQGVFRRWHUV
‡$LUSRUWWUDQVIHUVDYDLODEOH
‡$OIUHVFRGLQLQJRQEDOFRQ\RYHUORRNLQJ
WKH)UH\FLQHW%HDFK
‡%URDGEDQGLQWHUQHWDYDLODEOH
Unique, affordable,
world-leading activities and facilities.
Voted top ten flashpacker accommodation under
$100 in Australia by Australian Traveller Magazine.
[email protected] t freecall 1800 653 611
ph +61 8 9948 1320 t monkeymia.com.au
7)
.QLJKW7FH'HQKDP:$
(KUVE#ELJSRQGFRPt:KHULWDJHUHVRUWVKDUNED\FRPDX
2428
Page 60 | australiascoralcoast.com
0227
DISCOVER
SHARK BAY WORLD HERITAGE
Discover the wonder of Shark Bay’s world
heritage attractions along the new Shark
Bay World Heritage Drive. The 130km
fully signposted drive commences
at the Overlander Roadhouse on the
North West Coastal Highway through to
Monkey Mia.
Here you can get in touch with the
Earth’s evolutionary and biological
history, its unique natural formations and
seek out habitats where threatened
species survive.
Each attraction
includes interpretive signage helping
you to make the very most of your
experience.
DISCOVERY AND VISITOR CENTRE
SHARK BAY
Peron
Homestead
Monkey Mia
World Heritage
Little Lagoon
Discovery Centre
Denham
Ocean Park
Eagle Bluff
Shell Beach
Nanga
Hamelin Pool
Stromatolites
HAMELIN POOL STROMATOLITES
Stroll along the boardwalk, read about the history of Stumpy’s
Stromatolite Family and take in the biology of these ancient
organisms.
How did a stromatolite change the world?
What are Shark Bay’s very own land and sea animals?
Why is Shark Bay World Heritage Listed?
SHELL BEACH
Not your everyday sand beach, Shell Beach is made of trillions
of tiny shells. It is a sight to behold; tonnes of bleached white
shells forming a beach up to 1km wide, giving way to crystal
clear water of the most intense greens and blues.
EAGLE BLUFF
One of the best places in Shark Bay to view marine life. The
shallow waters of Henri Freycinet Harbour below the boardwalk
are teeming with life including rays, turtles, sharks and the
occasional dugong, especially in the summer months.
WORLD HERITAGE DISCOVERY CENTRE
Your one-stop informative display covering all of Shark Bay’s
natural and cultural features, this centre is a must-see for every
visitor to the area.
LITTLE LAGOON
Almost perfectly circular in shape, this pristine waterway is a
natural nursery for several fish species and a classified marine
recreation zone that allows recreational fishing but prohibits
the use of nets.
PERON HERITAGE PRECINCT
Located within the stunning Francois Peron National Park, the
Precinct provides a self guided walk trail exploring the area’s
history, visiting the shearing shed, shearer’s quarters and stock
yards.
MONKEY MIA
World famous for its dolphin interaction experience, don’t miss
the many other tours and attractions available for you to enjoy.
Look out for these signs as you drive
For a Shark Bay World Heritage Drive
brochure call (08) 9948 1590 or visit
www.sharkbayworldheritagedrive.com.au
SHARK BAY
VISITORS CENTRE
Visitor Information
on all the exciting Shark Bay experiences
Book all your accommodation
and tours with our helpful staff
Open 7 days, 9am to 6pm
(except Good Friday and Christmas Day)
Ph: 08 9948 1590
www.sharkbayvisit.com
53 Knight Terrace, Denham WA 6537
Email: [email protected]
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 61
2288
Join ‘Shotover’, the awesome 18 metre
sailing catamaran, for Australia’s only
pure sail, award-winning, wildlife
cruises.
Special deal: Take the afternoon
wildlife cruise and get the sunset
cruise for free.
A full day in the Francois
Peron National Park,
adventuring in splendid
isolation of stunning scenery,
gobsmacking colour and
incredible wildlife. Take a tour
and save 25% on cruises.
Specialists in getting you
accommodation on the beachfront
at either Monkey Mia or Denham
from as little as $99.
From the beach, explore our
stunning universe in the vivid
blaze of Monkey Mia’s night
sky.
[email protected]
www.monkeymiawildsights.com.au
Phone: (08) 99 481 481
Toll Free: 1800 241 481
0298
t Underwater Observation Windows t Family Concession t Free Boomnetting
t Liquor Licensed t Visit the Black Pearl Farm (inclusive of tour)
t See Dolphins, Dugongs, Turtles, Sharks and Rays
t Snorkelling t See Steep Point, Dirk Hartog Island, Whales, Zuytdorp Cliffs
0005
BOOK YOUR ADVENTURE
OCEAN PARK AQUARIUM AND LICENSED CAFÉ OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK · 9AM-5PM
AQUARIUM
4WD TOURS
OCEAN PARK LICENSED CAFÉ
Open air interactive aquarium is home
to some of the region’s most diverse and
dangerous residents.
Our experienced tour guides will show you
the raw beauty and pristine coastline of the
Shark Bay World Heritage Area.
Relax with a refreshing beverage whilst
soaking up the warm glow of the setting sun.
Moray Eels, Logger head Turtles, Sea Snakes, Clownfish
Rays, Pink Snapper, Red Emperor, Coral Trout, Rankin
Cod, Golden Trevally, Tailor, Mulloway, Barramundi,
Samson Fish, Cray Fish, Lemon Sharks, Sandbar
Sharks, Reef Sharks, Lion Fish, Squid and many more.
Ĕ Francois Peron National Park - Includes Ocean Park
Aquarium tour & Snorkeling tour.
Ĕ Steep Point - Includes the famous Zuytdorp Cliffs,
Blowholes, South Passage, Thunder Bay, False
Entrance & Bush Walk/Wild Flower tour.
Internet connection available, the café is the ideal spot to
stay in touch with family or make some new friends.
* Conditions apply.
08 9948 1765
[email protected]
oceanpark.com.au
2434
Page 62 | australiascoralcoast.com
Shark Bay Fishing Club
Bay Lodge
2647
2430
Shark Bay’s Annual Fishing
Fiesta 7th - 13th May 2011
Absolute Beachfront International Backpackers
& Family Accommodation
• Great Fishing • Great Prizes
• 1 & 2 bedroom bungalows • Doubles, singles, triples & quads • Swimming Pool
• Great Entertainment • Daily Weigh-in’s
• Barbecue area • Outdoor facilities • Airconditioning • Internet access
• Public telephones • Free return courtesy bus to Monkey Mia Resort for dolphin feeding
• Drink Can Regatta • Kids Activities
• Fireworks • Markets • Bar Facilities
• Food • Auction
Bay Lodge
113 Knight Terrace
Denham WA 6537
Freecall: 1800 812 780
T: +61 8 9948 1278
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.baylodge.info
Contact the Shark Bay World Heritage
Discovery Centre for any queries
Shark Bay Fishing Club
Ph: +61 8 9948 1590
Email: [email protected]
Denham Seaside Tourist Village
0225
Discover
stunning
contrasts
Absolute Beachfront Caravan Park
• Budget Cabins • Ensuite Sites • Caravan Bays • Camping Bays
• Deluxe Chalets - Modern, air conditioned, 1 & 2 bedroom, TV, DVD, microwave,
fridge/freezer and verandah
• Disabled facilities • Three ablution blocks (including unisex) • Fish cleaning facilities •
Campers Kitchen • Dogs by arrangement • Close to boat ramps
• SENIORS DISCOUNTS!
Denham Seaside Tourist Village
1 Knights Terrace
Denham WA 6537
Ph: +61 8 9948 1242
Fax: +61 8 9948 1196
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.sharkbayfun.com
Carbla Station
2603
Historic Homestead and Unique Outback Experience
The fully operational Carbla Station gives visitors the chance to experience the rugged
and beautiful Australian outback. The Station encompasses over 100,000 hectares of
picturesque rural land, with 20km of beautiful Shark Bay beach frontage. The Homestead
provides Shearer’s Quarters and Camping, with Luxury Tents coming soon. From
spectacular rocky outcrops and red sand dunes to sheep shearing, makes Carbla Station
an unforgettable Australian outback experience!
Outback Wilderness & Beach, Shearers Quarters & Camping* Luxury Tents (coming soon)
*Conditions and restrictions apply. All Retreats - Incorporating Maitraya, Ocean Park, Carbla Station, La Terrisse.
Carbla Station
Shark Bay WA 6537
Ph: +61 8 9948 1765
Ph: +61 8 9942 5915
Email: [email protected]
Web: carbla.com.au
Choose from a range of
activities and attractions at
australiascoralcoast.com
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 63
Shark Bay to Ningaloo…
An area so extraordinary it’s been nominated as
one of just 15 National Landscapes in Australia.
Find out why at australiascoralcoast.com
Blue Dolphin Caravan Park
2436
Oceanside Village
2263
Under New Management - Pet Friendly
Denham Beachfront holiday accommodation in Shark Bay.
Come and meet Barry, Trish and their faithful canine companion Buddy. The Blue Dolphin
Caravan Park is centrally located, only 50 metres from the main beach & shopping areas of
Shark Bay. Take a short walk to the Shark Bay Discovery Centre or meet the locals and enjoy
the tasty delights of the cafes and restaurants. We are a pet friendly park with a fun, family
orientated atmosphere. We offer shady, powered, unpowered caravan and camping sites,
self contained units, budget cabins and cabins with external ensuites.
Oceanside Village offers modern 3½ star self contained waterfront holiday villas at
excellent prices, directly on the ocean in Denham right in the heart of the Shark Bay World
Heritage Region.
Blue Dolphin Caravan Park
Denham WA 6537
Ph: +61 8 9948 1385
Fax: +61 8 9948 1368
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.ozpal.com/bluedolphin
Oceanside Village
117 Knight Tce
Denham WA 6537
Freecall: 1800 680 600
Ph: +61 8 9948 3003
Web: www.oceanside.com.au
CARAVAN PARK
Page 64 | australiascoralcoast.com
We offer 22 (1 and 2 bedroom ) free standing, air-conditioned luxury villas in an extremely quiet
location and we are just an easy 2 minute walk to supermarkets, restaurants and other shops.
Free WiFi and selected Foxtel channels, swimming pool, guest laundry and ample parking for
boats and trailers available. You couldn’t have a better location for your family holiday.
###
Carnarvon
PERTH
Carnarvon One Mile Jetty
Carnarvon
Carnarvon is a subtropical oasis where fresh fruit, vegetables and seafood is
plentiful. It is a great place to rest, relax and recharge, take in the Indigenous
and pioneering heritage of the region. Base yourself in Carnarvon for visits to the
rugged inland or the wilderness coast.
The Fascine
Gascoyne Growers’ Markets
Carnarvon’s central waterway, known as
The Fascine, was named after an 1800s
building technique used to construct the
embankment on the south arm of the
Gascoyne River. Stately palms line the
water way, making it a lovely spot for a
picnic or a stroll. The sunset views are
magnificent. You may even see a dolphin.
The Gascoyne Growers’ Markets operate
outside the Carnarvon Visitor Centre
every Saturday morning from May to
October. The market is run by the growers
themselves, who often pick their produce
the night before (or even that morning)
so it comes fresh to you at the market.
Purchase tropical fruits, homemade
icecreams, a wide variety of veggies,
herbs, honey, eggs, cakes, jams, relishes
and plants. Enjoy a coffee and a muffin
while you stroll through the stalls, listen to
the buskers and pick up a few tips from
the growers themselves. The markets are
plastic bag free, so be sure to take along
your green bags.
Produce Plantations
Carnarvon’s many plantations produce
millions of dollars worth of produce
annually, including more than half of WA’s
bananas. The region’s mild climate, pestfree status and the fertile land near the
Gascoyne River result in the production
of top quality fruit and vegetables. Many
plantation operators also produce a
range of quality sauces, jams, pickled
fruit, ice creams and dried fruit. Take a
drive down North or South River Roads,
join a tour to buy produce direct from the
growers’ stalls or head to the Growers’
Market. Contact the Visitor Centre for tour
information.
Taste of the Gascoyne
This annual celebration of local seafood
and produce features celebrity and local
chefs presenting new ways to enjoy the
abundant supplies of this outback oasis.
The first week in August will see a series of
events showcasing the best of Gascoyne
food.
Banana plantation
Did you know?
Carnarvon is the only town in Australia
where the central desert reaches out
to the sea.
Information
Population:
6,085
Distance from Perth:
905km
Carnarvon Visitor Centre
Robinson St, Carnarvon WA 6701
Tel: +61 8 9941 1146
carnarvon.org.au
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 65
Tasty local produce
Windsurfing
Gascoyne Food Trail
Fishing
Enjoy a taste of regional produce on
the Gascoyne Food Trail. The trail will
take you to producer direct seafood
and horticultural outlets as well as to
venues incorporating local produce in
their menu. Seasonally available produce
includes mangoes, grapes, watermelons
and a spectrum of fresh vegetables.
Prawns, scallops, crab and fish can be
purchased direct from the factories in
Carnarvon during the winter months.
Fruit ice-creams, preserves, dried and
frozen products are available direct from
producers all year round. Pick up a copy
of the Gascoyne Food Trail brochure and
map from the Carnarvon Visitor Centre.
Carnarvon is renowned for its many
recreational fishing locations. From the
jetties along The Fascine to the One Mile
Jetty and the beaches at Pelican Point
and Dwyers Leap you can cast a line
for whiting, tailor or mulloway. It is also a
great location for putting your small boat
in the water to explore the tidal creeks for
mangrove jack or to try for snapper or
groper in the bay. Head to the Carnarvon
Visitor Centre for maps to point you to
these locations.
Gwoonwardu Mia
Gascoyne Aboriginal Heritage
and Culture Centre
The OTC Dish
People from the five Aboriginal language
groups in the Gascoyne have come
together to showcase their history, art and
culture which you can share by visiting
Gwoonwardu Mia. Not only can you meet
local people and purchase artworks, you
can delight in the innovative local cuisine
available at the Yallibiddi, (Yingarrda for
emu) Café. open weekdays 10am-3pm.
OTC Dish
Dominating the Carnarvon skyline is an
Overseas Telecommunications (OTC)
Dish, a testament to the significant role
that Carnarvon played in the space race
of the 1960s and 1970s. Messages to
the Apollo mission that landed on the
moon were relayed through installations
in Carnarvon when the orbit passed
the southern hemisphere. It was also
from here that Australia received its first
satellite television broadcast. The station
closed in 1987 after assisting in tracking
Halley’s Comet in 1986. The area offers
a panoramic view of the town and
surrounding countryside.
Pioneer Park
Seafood
Red Bluff, north of Carnarvon
Page 66 | australiascoralcoast.com
A thriving prawn, scallop, crab and fishing
industry operates from Carnarvon. During
the months of May to October freshly
caught seafood can be purchased directly
from the factories.
Pioneer Park has two enormous bones
from a blue whale, forming an arch over
the entrance to a pleasant picnic spot.
Further along Olivia Terrace is Baxter
Park, which hosts a great children’s
playground.
The Coffee Pot Train
The Gascoyne Dash
Carnarvon Tramway
This locally run desert endurance motor
race draws competitors from around the
nation. The two day, 300 kilometre race
along outback station tracks and down
the sandy Gascoyne River bed stops the
town. If you are nearby in late October, be
sure to witness the Gascoyne Dash when
motorcycles, quad bikes, custom built
four wheel drives and buggies challenge
themselves as well as each other. Winning
is something, finishing is everything.
This 2.5-kilometre walk trail connects
the town with the heritage precinct. The
Tramway Bridge across the south arm
of the Gascoyne River was constructed
during the 1900s to transport goods
between the port of Carnarvon and the
town centre. The full walk trail continues
another two kilometres through the
heritage precinct and up the One Mile
Jetty. Signage on the local flora and fauna
can be found along the trail.
Carnarvon Heritage Precinct
War Memorial
Immerse yourself in local history, at the
Carnarvon Heritage Precinct, located on
the site of the 1890s Port of Carnarvon,
just three kilometres from the centre
of town.
Step back in time to the early 1900s. Take
a walk down memory lane through the
Lighthouse Keepers’ Cottage Museum,
restored to the times of our pioneers
who looked after the lighthouse. Visit
the Railway Museum - home of the fully
restored Kimberley Steam Train that
operated from the jetty to town in the
1950s. Don’t leave without enjoying a
coffee or ice cream at the kiosk open
daily from 9.00am to 5.00pm between
April and September.
The memorial was shipped from Perth and
erected in 1923 to serve as a reminder of the
tragic loss of life in the Great War. Plaques
for the Second World War, Korean and
Vietnam wars were added later. The Wall of
Remembrance was unveiled on November
23, 1991 to commemorate the 50th
anniversary of the sinking of HMAS Sydney
II off the shores of the region in 1941. This
event was the worst Australian maritime
tragedy during World War II. HMAS Sydney
II Memorial Drive was constructed at the
south entrance to Carnarvon in 2001. This
avenue of 645 plaques and palms along the
road identifies the individual loss of lives. A
cairn has been erected on Quobba Station
where the Kormoran (the German raider
that sunk the HMAS Sydney II) survivors
landed on life boats.
One Mile Jetty
Shearers Hall of Fame
Built in 1897, Carnarvon’s famous One
Mile Jetty is one of the longest jetties
in the southern hemisphere. Throw in a
fishing line, walk its length or catch the
quaint “Coffee Pot” train.
Learn about the golden days of the
Gascoyne’s shearing industry back in
the 1950s at Western Australia’s first
Shearing Hall of Fame. Discover the
region’s efficient shearing techniques.
Precinct Museums
The blowholes
The Fascine, Carnarvon
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 67
Ningaloo coastline
Surrounding attractions
Quobba Station /
Red Bluff and Gnaraloo
The Blowholes and
Marine Sanctuary Zone
Located about 70 kilometres north of
Carnarvon along sealed roads, the Blowholes
form a natural spectacle as the ocean is
forced through sea caves before exploding
out through holes in the rock. Depending on
the swell the spray can often reach up to 20
metres high. Just two kilometres south of the
Blowholes is a calm coral filled lagoon where
marine life abounds.
Rocky Pool
This deep, fresh water, billabong in the
Gascoyne River, 55 kilometres east of
Carnarvon is an ideal picnic site. The
water is lined with majestic gums, which
are home to a great range of bird life.
All aboard!
Red Bluff, Quobba
The Kennedy Ranges
Heading north of Carnarvon along the
coast, you’ll find beachside hideaways at
Quobba Station, Red Bluff and Gnaraloo.
This magnificent stretch of coast boasts
towering cliffs and sandy beaches, great
fishing, surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing,
swimming and sight seeing. In 2004 the
Ningaloo Marine Park was extended
to include the waters off this stretch of
coastline. The coastal cliffs provide the
ideal platform to view humpback whales
just metres off the coast during their
annual migration from June to November.
Gnaraloo Station staff also work closely
with DEC to protect the local marine
turtles that come onto the station land to
nest each year.
150 kilometres inland from Carnarvon, the
Kennedy Range National Park is simply
stunning. The ranges are 75 kilometres
long, up to 25 kilometres wide and are
the result of millions of years of erosion
where the natural force of winds, rains
and movement in the earth’s crust have
combined to etch out valleys and push
up spectacular cliff faces. Bush camping
is permitted at designated sites. There
are also several walk trails to particularly
scenic places, and a tourist road leads to
a picnic site where fossils can be found.
Keep an eye out for the beautiful stones,
opalite and mookarite. Your experience
will be heightened if visiting between
August and September, when a range of
beautiful wildflowers burst into colour.
Carnarvon Visitor Centre
0419
Your friendly, informative visitor’s centre.
• Tours, Accommodation and Greyhound bookings
• Maps • Souvenirs • Gifts • Internet Access
• Local Products & Preserves
Visit the Carnarvon Heritage
Precinct and ride the ‘Coffee
Pot’ train as it rumbles along
One Mile Jetty.
Make tracks at
australiascoralcoast.com
Conveniently located at the second roundabout, with
ample parking for caravans behind the centre
###
Page 68 | australiascoralcoast.com
Carnarvon Visitor Centre
Civic Centre, 21 Robinson Street
Carnarvon WA 6701
Ph: +61 8 9941 1146
Fax: +61 8 9941 1149
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.carnarvon.org.au
V i s i t o r C e n t r e
9TA 00030
2433
C
Ciin
nd
dy
ya
an
nd
dK
Keev
viin
nB
Ba
arrrreetttt iin
nv
viittee y
yoou
u ttoo
Stay awhile and
relax in Carnarvon!
LE,
WHETHER YOU’RE CAMPING OR TRAVELLING IN STY
YL
WE HAVE THE ACCOMMODATION FOR YOU!
For more details visit our website: www.carnarvonwa.com
CARNARVON
HOLIDAY RESORT
H
Fascine Lodge
Fa
‹‹‹‹ SELF RATED
‹‹
ÌÌÌÕ
Enjoy your stay in Carnarvon’s idyllic
cl
lim
mate. Close
Cl
climate.
to the CBD, scenic Fascine
walkwa
ays, tourist
t
walkways,
attractions & so much more!
AAA RATED
x Swimming pool
x Wireless internet
x Restaurant & Bar
x Ensuite aircon rooms
& family suites
x Executive rooms
x Secure parking
x Ideal venue for weddings,
seminars & functions.
Gateway to the Coral Coast
ast
Tel 08 9941 6900
x
x
x
x
x
x
Relax b
by the pool in a Balinese setting
Ideal for holiday and business stays
Ensuite aircon motel rooms
2 bedroom self-contained apartments
Wireless internet, children’s playground
Licensed restaurant open daily.
379 Robinson Street, Carnarvon
[email protected]
ÌFully self-contained
motel-style accommodation
on
ÌShady sites ÌPrivate ensuites
ÌSwimming pool ÌClose to shops
ÌInternet café ÌPets welcome
34 David Brand Dr, Carnarvon
[email protected]
477 Robinson Street, Carnarvon
[email protected]
Tel 08 9941 8101
Tel 08 9941 0600
DISCOUNT
RATES FOR
WEEKLY
BOOKINGS
Best Western Hospitality Inn Carnarvon
Ideally located on the banks of the Gascoyne River, just
800m from the city centre.
Hospitality Inn welcomes you to air conditioned affordable comfort in one of their 45
well appointed rooms complete with fridge, tea & coffee, Foxtel & free
in-house movies.
Enjoy the on-site facilities including pool, playground, BBQ area and superb licensed
Restaurant all set in attractive grounds.
Best Western Hospitality Inn
6 West Street
Carnarvon WA 6701
Ph: +61 8 9941 1600
Fax: +61 8 9941 2405
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.hospitalityinncarnarvon.com.au
0006
Carnarvon Sea Change Apartments
These brand new 1 & 2 bedroom apartments are centrally located on Olivia Terrace overlooking Carnarvon’s
magnificent fascine waterways. All units are fully self contained with many modern conveniences including:
• Air conditioning
• Wireless internet access
• Large 40” LCD TV
• BBQ
• Espresso Machine
• Dishwasher & Washing machine
• Double glazed
• Wheelchair accessible
Carnarvon Sea Change Apartments
Olivia Terrace
Carnarvon WA 6701
Ph: 0408 785 697
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.carnarvonseachangeapartments.com.au
2357
Coral Coast Tourist Park
Stay central at the only park right in town
Located right in the heart of Carnarvon, you’re walking distance from the town centre and magnificent
fascine waterways.
Choose from our two bedroom and spa deluxe park homes and cabin accommodation or a grassed
site with annex pad. A new camper’s kitchen and free barbecues are also available. Relax in our tropical
swimming pool, hire a bike and amuse the children in our playground.
Use us as your ideal base to explore all the sites and activities Carnarvon can offer.
P +61 8 9941 1438 • F +61 8 9941 1448
E [email protected] • W www.coralcoasttouristpark.com.au
108 Robinson Street, Carnarvon WA 6701
0003
Page 70 | australiascoralcoast.com
2122
Carnarvon’s Premier
Tourist Park
Winner - Best Tourism Development Business
2009 & 2010 Carnarvon CCI Awards
For your best stay
in Carnarvon phone
our friendly staff today
08 9941 8150
or Book Online
www.wintersuncaravanpark.com.au
➤ RELAX in deluxe accommodation
➤ UNWIND on a shady grassed site
➤ ENJOY FAMILY FUN in pool, rec room & bowling green
➤ MAKE NEW FRIENDS at pool side camp kitchen
➤ KEEP IN TOUCH with wireless internet
➤ HOLIDAY with your pet (conditions apply)
➤ ASK OUR FRIENDLY STAFF about great off peak specials
546 Robinson Street | T: 1300 555 585 (National) | E: [email protected]
TOURIST PARK
2109
Carnarvon Central Apartments
Capricorn Holiday Park
2432
Broome
Karratha
Caltex
Carnarvon
Town Centre
Shell
Park
Homely, self-contained units
at an affordable price.
A great place to stop overnight or stay awhile & relax...
• Enjoy our friendly park, in peaceful surrounds • Only minutes from the town centre
• Fully self contained ensuite and standard cabins • Spacious shady grass sites with annex pads
• Buses/motor homes welcome • Clean ablutions & laundry facilities • 24 hour shop nearby
• Campers kitchen, including stove, fridge & TV • Pets welcome at Manager's discretion
• Under New Management
Short stroll to centre of town, airport
and Fascine. Enjoy a relaxing holiday in
Carnarvon - ‘Home of the Winter Sun!’.
Children, business travellers and long stay
visitors are most welcome.
Perth
Capricorn Holiday Park
1042 North West Coastal Highway
Carnarvon WA 6701
Ph: +61 8 9941 8153
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.capricornholidaypark.com.au
0013
Carnarvon Central Apartments
120 Robinson St
Carnarvon WA 6701
Ph: +61 8 9941 1317
Fax: +61 8 9941 4184
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.carnarvonholidays.com
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 71
Celebrating Indigenous Culture in the Gascoyne
0375
Telomac Tackle
2394
Gwoonwardu Mia
• Cafe • Galleries • Artist in Residence
• Conference Rooms & Meeting Space for Hire • Gallery Shop.
Come and experience the Gascoyne’s Aboriginal history, art, heritage and culture visiting
Gwoonwardu Mia. Walk through the ethno botanical gardens and explore a variety of flora
native to the region and delight in the bush tucker cuisine available at the Yallibiddi Cafe.
See us for Local Advice
& Conditions.
• FISHING • DIVING
• CAMPING • ICE
• GAS • BAIT
Agents for Camec Caravan Parts.
Gascoyne Aboriginal Heritage & Cultural Centre
144-148 Robinson St, PO Box 929
Carnarvon WA 6701
Ph: +61 8 9941 1989
Fax: +61 8 9941 1929
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.gahcc.com.au
Telomac Tackle
348 Robinson St
Carnarvon WA 6701
Ph: +61 8 9941 1873
Fax: +61 8 9941 1903
Email: [email protected]
Quobba Station
2656
Stock
up on
supplies!
80kms of WA’s most spectacular coastline
80km of WA’s most spectacular coastline. A family operated sheep station, offering land
based game fishing, surfing, whale watching and snorkelling the Southern tip of the Ningaloo
Reef. Accommodation / Camping to suit all requirements is available. Travel another 60km to
experience the jewel of Quobba Station, Red Bluff.
Quobba Station
Gnarloo Rd
Carnarvon WA 6701
Ph: +61 8 9948 5098
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.quobba.com.au
0014
Advanced
EcoTourism
Get your two fruit
and five veg at the
Gascoyne Grower’s
market, held every
Saturday between
May and October,
outside the Carnarvon
Visitor Centre.
The Fish and Whistle Backpacker and Motel Accommodation
0014
Located in the Centre of Town
Located in the centre of town and within walking distance to the shopping centre &
speciality stores, restaurants, cafes, hotels, banks, cinema, fascine, town beach and post
office. Just 100m to bus terminal and many other essential services.
Backpacker & Motel Accommodation
• Motel rooms with private bathroom, fridge, airconditioning, TV, tea & coffee
• Rooms with private bathroom, fridge & TV • Single, double & triple rooms
• Shared bathroom facilities • No bunks • Spacious common areas
• Games room • Large guest kitchen
Other Features
• Guest Internet - 24 hr access including wireless hotspot.
• Work opportunities • Transport to work available
• Guest laundry (coin operated) • Off street parking
The Fish and Whistle
35 Robinson Street (Corner of Alexandra St)
Carnarvon WA 6701
Ph: +61 8 9941 1704
Fax: +61 8 9941 1835
Email: stay@fishandwhistle.com.au
Web: www.fishandwhistle.com.au
Page 72 | australiascoralcoast.com
For more details, visit
australiascoralcoast.com
###
Coral Bay
PERTH
Ningaloo coastline near Coral Bay
Coral Bay
As the southern gateway to the world renowned Ningaloo Reef, Coral Bay is
a marine paradise. Its dazzling underwater gardens start just metres from the
pristine white shores, bringing this underwater fantasia within reach of even the
youngest of swimmers.
Ningaloo Marine Park
Ningaloo Reef is Australia’s largest
fringing coral reef. In some places it
starts just metres from the shore. The
Ningaloo Marine Park extends 10 nautical
miles seaward and encompasses over
5,000 square kilometres of ocean. The
shallow lagoons formed by the reef, and
the deeper offshore waters create a
diverse array of habitats for a multitude of
colourful corals and species of fish. Over
200 species of soft and hard coral can be
found on the Ningaloo Reef.
Snorkelling/Scuba Diving
A snorkel or dive experience on the
Ningaloo Reef is a must on a trip to Coral
Bay. At Bill’s Bay, you can explore the
coral by just stepping off the sand. This
makes experiencing the reef easy for all
ages and levels of fitness. Incredible coral
gardens start just metres from the shore.
Further out, several hotspots are located
just within the outer reef. Here the fish
are colourful, sea life abounds and you’re
likely to encounter manta rays and turtles
swimming among the coral gardens. For
Beaches
a local’s insight, join a tour to experience
Situated right on the doorstep of Coral some of the best diving hotspots. Snorkel
Bay’s accommodation, Bill’s Bay is calm and dive equipment is available for hire
and protected, making it an ideal family
from Coral Bay.
swimming location. This is a sanctuary
zone; therefore no fishing is permitted,
making the fish life abundant and the Coral Spawning
snorkelling amazing. Here, the Ningaloo In March and April divers and snorkellers
Reef starts just metres from the shore, can witness an amazing spectacle at night
therefore is accessible for the whole family.
with lights when the ocean glows. Coral
Purdy Point is another safe swimming
beach at the end of the fish sanctuary, spawning occurs when coral releases
and is ideal for snorkelling. The crystal eggs and sperm into the surrounding
clear waters and brilliant white sand give ocean approximately 10 to 12 days after
the full moon.
Paradise Beach its name.
School of spangled emperor
Did you know?
Mantra rays have the largest brain
of all fish, which may explain their
inquisitive nature.
Information
Population:
192
Distance from Perth:
1,132km
Exmouth Visitor Centre
Murat Road, Exmouth WA 6707
Tel: 1800 287 328
exmouthwa.com.au
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 73
Image
Explore the reef by canoe
Snapper feeding, Coral Bay
Ningaloo Marine Park
Page 74 | australiascoralcoast.com
Swimming with manta rays at Ningaloo
Whale Sharks
Turtles
These gentle giants visit the Ningaloo
Marine Park from mid March to mid July
annually, following the mass spawning
of coral at Ningaloo Reef. Several tour
operators offer full day tours allowing you
to swim with these amazing creatures.
Whale sharks are the world’s largest fish
and can grow up to 18 metres in length.
They are filter feeders and are therefore
harmless to humans. The Ningaloo
Marine Park is considered one of the
most reliable and easily accessible places
on earth to swim with these gentle giants.
The Ningaloo Marine Park is an important
breeding ground for three of the world’s
seven
marine
species,
including
loggerhead, green and hawkesbill turtles.
Loggerhead turtles come ashore to the
sheltered beaches of Coral Bay to lay
their eggs during the summer months.
In February and early March the turtles
hatch and lucky visitors can watch them
venture into the sea.
Snapper Feeding
Visitors can head down to Bill’s Bay daily
at 3:30pm to feed the schools of norwest
Manta Rays
snapper that swim into shore. Be sure to
Swimming with manta rays is an bury your toes in the sand!
unforgettable experience. Manta rays
inhabit Coral Bay waters year round Shark Nursery
and their inquisitive nature makes it A 20-minute walk north of Bill’s Bay (past
fun to jump in the water and swim the boat mooring area) will bring you to
with these harmless creatures. Unlike Skeleton Bay. From October to March
sting rays, manta rays have no barb the waters of the bay turn into a reef
and are therefore safe to swim with. It shark nursery. Watch as up to 200 reef
is spectacular to watch these beautiful sharks lurk in the shallow waters.
and harmless creatures as they glide
elegantly through the water. Manta rays Nudibranch
often have a wingspan of several metres
Nudibranchs, casually known as ‘sea
wide.
slugs’ are some of the most beautiful
and diverse creatures in the ocean.
Whale Watching
The word “nudibranch” comes from the
It’s not just whale sharks that visit Coral Latin word nudas meaning naked, and
Bay but the mighty humpback whale the Greek word brankhia meaning gills.
too! While you can’t swim with these Ningaloo Reef is home to a plethora of
marine giants, Coral Bay is an ideal these colourful, slow moving creatures.
place to view their annual migration Despite their vivid colours, nudibranch
from June to November. Opportunities are often well disguised, so look for them
to see this spectacle are available from in shallow rock pools or grazing on the
coral reef.
the sea and the air.
Sunset over Bill’s Bay
Coral Viewing
Quad Bike Treks
You can see all the underwater sights at
Coral Bay without even getting your feet
wet aboard a glass bottom boat. Marvel
at the changing colours of the coral and
the parade of tropical fish, turtles and rays
as you snap photographs as a permanent
reminder of the experience.
See Coral Bay from a different perspective
on an exhilarating quad bike ride. A self
drive adventure like no other, you’ll explore
the beaches, bush tracks, pristine bays,
dunes and cliff-lines with a backdrop of
a picture perfect sunset. Or if you prefer
to have a guide, join one of the arranged
tours from Coral Bay.
Sea Kayaks
Double sea kayaks are the perfect way
to explore the sheltered lagoons, where
the water is rarely more than three metres
deep. They are smooth and quiet, allowing
you to get up close to wildlife. You can
hire kayaks off the beach or join a tour
with a knowledgeable local guide.
Fishing
With a mixture of subtropical and tropical
fish species, Coral Bay offers some of the
best game fishing in the world. Search
for red emperor, norwest snapper or
cod. Both deep sea bottom fishing and
light game fishing are offered. There are
also many good opportunities for beach
fishing away from the main swimming
beach. There are several sanctuary
zones around Coral Bay so be sure to
check fishing is allowed before dropping
in a line.
Liveaboard
Choose from a range of liveaboard
adventures that explore the pristine
Ningaloo Reef. Enjoy swimming in
untouched coral gardens, searching for
wildlife and simply relaxing. Tours depart
from Coral Bay and Exmouth.
Four Wheel Driving
A four wheel drive track approximately
ten kilometres north of Coral Bay allows
you to traverse the coast heading north.
The track eventually hits Ningaloo
Station at the southern end of Cape
Range National Park. You can head the
whole way to Exmouth via this route and
explore secluded beaches and striking
scenery along the route. Suitable only
for competent four wheel drivers. Be
sure to check with the Department of
Environment and Conservation (DEC)
that Yardie Creek is passable before
you set out.
Sailing catamaran tours
Four Wheel Drive Safari Tours
See the coastline around Coral Bay in the
comfort of a luxury four wheel drive tour.
Venture through the rugged landscapes
of Cape Range National Park or take in
stunning views of the crystal clear waters
of Ningaloo Marine Park. Alternatively,
enjoy an extended break from the coast
and head inland to explore the ancient
scenery of the Karijini National Park in the
Pilbara. Day trips and extended tours to
surrounding areas depart from Coral Bay
and Exmouth.
Quad bike trek at Coral Bay
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 75
&RUDO%D\·V
7RXUDQG
,QIRUPDWLRQ
6SHFLDOLVWV
&RDVWDO$GYHQWXUH7RXUV9LVLWRU&HQWUHDQG,QWHUQHW
&DIpLVORFDWHGLQWKHKHDUWRIWKH&RUDO%D\6KRSSLQJ
$UFDGHDQGRIIHUVDQDUUD\RILQIRUPDWLRQ
9LVLWRXUIULHQGO\VWDIIDQGRUJDQLVHDOO
\RXUKROLGD\DUUDQJHPHQWV
Superior Backpacker Accommodation
&RUDO%UHH]H6QRUNHO&UXLVHV
Best atmosphere in Coral Bay. Swimming pool. Entertainment area.
Alfresco poolside dining. Licensed Manta Bar. Internet access.
Tour bookings. Share kitchen. Laundry.
RATES FROM $27.00 pp.
-RLQ XV DERDUG RXU OX[XU\ VDLOLQJ
FDWDPDUDQ IRU D KDOI RU IXOO GD\
VQRUNHOFUXLVHRUDUHOD[LQJVXQVHW
VDLO6DLOWKHWXUTXRLVHEOXHZDWHUV
RIWKH1LQJDORR5HHIVHHDQDUUD\
RIPDULQHOLIHDQGVLWEDFNHQMR\
WKHSHDFHDQGWUDQTXLOLW\
ADVANCE ROOM BOOKINGS: (08) 9385 6655
DORMS & This week’s availability : (08) 9948 5100
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.ningalooclub.com
4XDG7UHN$GYHQWXUHV
6HOIGULYH$79DGYHQWXUHVLVDXQLTXH
DQG H[FLWLQJ ZD\ WR GLVFRYHU WKH
VSHFWDFXODU\HWLVRODWHGFRDVWOLQHWKDW
VXUURXQGV&RUDO%D\&KRRVHIURP
DKRXUWXUWOHDGYHQWXUHRUVXQVHW
WRXURUDKRXUVQRUNHOWRXU
3K)D[
6KRS&RUDO%D\6KRSSLQJ$UFDGH
(PDLOFRUDOEUHH]H#ELJSRQGFRP
:HEZZZFRUDOED\WRXUVFRPDX
Immerse yourself in nature & adventure.
Bayview offers everything you need to make
your holiday unforgettable.
&RUDO%D\·VRQHVWRSUHOD[DWLRQVKRS
Lodge • Villas • Chalets • Cabins
Caravan & Camping sites
(QMR\DLUFRQGLWLRQHGFRPIRUW
PDNHLWDKROLGD\WRUHPHPEHU
Ticket Office onsite for all your tour booking requirements, including
Coral Viewing & Snorkelling tours on our glass bottom boat,
Miss Coral Bay III and Manta, Nature or Whale Watching
(in season) on our 40ft vessel, MV Ningaloo.
0DVVDJH )DFLDO7UHDWPHQWV
0DQLFXUH3HGLFXUH *LIW9RXFKHUV
:D[LQJ +DLU7UHDWPHQWV&XWV&RORXUV
:HGGLQJ3DFNDJHV %RG\7UHDWPHQWV
+DLU%HDXW\3URGXFWV0XFK0RUH
ADVANCE BOOKINGS: (08) 9385 6655
ONSITE : (08) 9942 5932
BOOK ONLINE: www.coralbaywa.com
Email: [email protected]
Immerse yourself in the ultimate reef experience.
0284
Page 76 | australiascoralcoast.com
)25$332,170(1763/($6(&$//
:HDUHORFDWHGDW6KRS&RUDO%D\6KRSSLQJ$UFDGH
0401
Daily boat tours on the magnificent
Ningaloo Reef for snorkelling, scuba diving
and marine animal interaction tours.
1LQJDORR5HHI'LYH
&RUDO%D\
All tours are guided by our highly experienced
divemasters to ensure you enjoy the best the
Ningaloo Reef can offer.
• PADI Dive Courses
• Whale Shark Tours
• Manta Interaction Tours
• Reef Dive & Snorkel Tours
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.ningalooreefdive.com
/LFHQVHH7RQMD3RZHOO
&RPPHUFLDO/LF1R
+4:6&
+4&%
Phone 08 9942 5824
Fax 08 9942 5836
2445
Whalesharks are just the beginning...
Absolute beachfront accommodation. Mystical marine encounters.
Internationally acclaimed coral reef experiences. Beautiful Coral Bay seascapes.
freecall 1800 795 522tph +61 8 9942 [email protected]
0319
Coral Bay Charter & Glass Bottom Boats
Bullara Station Stay / CQR Station Tours
2335
2141
‘An Essential Coral Bay Experience’
Outback station stay,
bound for Ningaloo
Coral Bay Charters, the original family glass bottom boat operators since 1973.
We offer excellent tours for all ages, launching right off the beautiful beach in Coral Bay,
including Coral Viewing & Snorkelling, Turtle Tours and Whale Watching (in season).
Over 450 species of fish & 180 species of coral abound in the tropical waters of the Ningaloo
Reef, only metres from the shore.
Coral Bay Charter & Glass Bottom Boats
P.O. Box 611
Claremont WA 6910
Ph: +61 8 9385 6655
Bookings: +61 8 9942 5932
Fax: +61 8 9385 6867
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.coralbaywa.com
Bullara Station stay offers a unique and NEW
experience for those who wish to visit a working
cattle station without venturing far from the pristine
Ningaloo Coast. Stylish new accommodation
in the “Shearers lodge” sleeps up to 16. Fully
equipped communal kitchen, dining, bar and
BBQ facilities, fabulous campground, caravans
welcome. Station Tours.
Bullara Station Stay
Ningaloo WA 6701
Ph: +61 8 9942 5938
Fax: +61 8 9942 5850
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.bullara-station.com.au
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 77
Coral Bay Adventures
Coral Bay Ocean Game Fishing Charters / Montebellos Sport Fishing Charters
0285
0267
Coral Bay Ocean Game Fishing Charters.
We offer full day charters out of Coral Bay, to the outer waters of the Ningaloo Reef.
Experience the unique opportunity to bottom and game fishing in the one day, on the
biggest Boat in the Bay, the Mahi Mahi II.
Ningaloo Reef Marine
Interaction Specialists.
Est. since 1994 Coral Bay Adventures offer:
• Whale Shark Cruises • Manta Ray Cruises
Montebellos Sport Fishing Charters
• Humpback Whale Watching
Depart from Exmouth from October through to March, 6 days live aboard, maximum
6 people, game, bottom, popper fishing, diving, snorkelling and sightseeing.
• Coral Viewing • Snorkel Cruises
For further information and bookings
Contact booking office, Coral Bay Discoveries
Shop 13, Coral Bay Arcade Shopping Centre
Robinson Street, Coral Bay, WA, 6701
Tel/Fax: +61 8 99 425 874
Email: [email protected]
Web: mahimahicoralbay.com.au
• Learmonth Airport Transfers
Coral Bay Adventures
Shop 11, Coral Bay Arcade
Coral Bay WA 6701
Ph: +61 8 9942 5955
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.coralbayadventures.com.au
Ningaloo Experience
Sub Sea Explorer
2418
Join the Ningaloo Experience crew and discover
the beauty and biodiversity of Ningaloo Reef.
Coral Viewing & Snorkel Tours
Join Ningaloo Experience to discover the beauty and bio-diversity of Ningaloo Reef. Enjoy a
personal experience with our small groups of 12 passengers per tour. Join us on our “Outer
Reef Experience” - snorkel with Manta Rays, discover beautiful coral gardens with abundant
tropical fish on our guided snorkels, observe marine life such as Dolphins, Dugongs, Turtles,
and Humpback Whales (July – November) or join us on our Whale Shark Experience (March
– June). Located in Coral Bay, “the heart of the Ningaloo Reef”, join our experienced crew to
discover the wonders this pristine environment has to offer.
Peter Shaw Lic.HQ68743WSC
Ningaloo Experience
Coral Bay WA 6701
Ph/Fax: (08) 9942 5877
A/H: 0427 425 877
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.ningalooexperience.com
Nature Tourism
0409
Sail Ningaloo
2635
Step aboard Ningaloo Reefs only semisubmersible coral viewing vessel. Seated
beneath the surface you get a divers view
of the incredible reef in carpeted comfort,
protected from the wind and sun. Well
researched commentary and fantastic photo
opportunities. Fish feeding on every tour.
Sub Sea Explorer
Shop 11, Coral Bay Arcade
Coral Bay WA 6701
Ph: +61 8 9942 5955
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.coralbayadventures.com.au
Sea Force Charters Coral Bay
2152
The all in one holiday. Accommodation. Sumptuous meals. Activities.
Deep Sea & Sport Fishing Charters
Licensed Fishing Charter Operators.
Our live-aboard sailing tours allow you to experience Ningaloo Reef in your own time and away
from the crowds, so treat yourself to some exclusive, affordable luxury. Sail Ningaloo offers
sailing, snorkelling, kayaking, scuba diving, whale watching and fishing. Accommodating a
maximum of 10 guests in comfortable and spacious cabins ensures your experience will
be personalised and unique. Experience the extraordinary Ningaloo Reef like never before.
• Bottom and light game fishing
3, 5 & 9 day tours depart from Coral Bay, March – October.
2011 Special Offer: Book a Tour and Get a Bonus Night FREE
• 50ft vessel with shaded deck
Shore Thing operates from Fremantle, November - February.
• Skipper 30 years experience
Sail Ningaloo Pty Ltd
Coral Bay WA 6701
Ph: +61 8 9942 5869
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.sailningaloo.com.au
Sea Force Coral Bay
Mob: 0429 034 540
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.seaforcecharters.net.au
Advanced
EcoTourism
Page 78 | australiascoralcoast.com
• Full and half days
•
•
•
•
All equipment provided
Exclusive group bookings
Reef Tours
Bookings direct or at any
Coral Bay ticket agent
Exmouth
###
PERTH
Whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef
Exmouth
Situated near the grandiose landscape of the Cape Range National Park and the
underwater wonders of the Ningaloo Marine Park, Exmouth offers a host of both
land based and ocean attractions. Visitors come from around the world to swim
with the awe inspiring gentle giants of the sea – the whale sharks.
Ningaloo Marine Park
Whale Sharks
The Ningaloo Marine Park is a divers’
and snorkellers’ paradise. At its closest
point the reef is within metres of the
shore, meaning it’s accessible for all
ages and swimming abilities. Extending
300 kilometres down the coast, it’s
Australia’s largest fringing coral reef.
The reef comprises 200 species of hard
corals and 50 species of soft corals. Its
close proximity to the shoreline means
it is easily accessible but a range of
charter operators can also take you to
their favourite spots on the outer reef.
You’re sure to encounter a fascinating
array of marine life including whale
sharks, manta rays, turtles, starfish,
anemones and about 500 recorded
species of tropical fish.
From mid March to mid July each year,
the Ningaloo Marine Park is home to the
world’s biggest species of fish - the mighty
whale sharks. Whale sharks congregate at
the Ningaloo Reef to feed on microscopic
creatures known as zooplankton. Despite
their size (up to 18 metres long!) the whale
shark is as harmless as it is majestic. The
Ningaloo Marine Park is considered one
of the most reliable and easily accessible
places on earth to swim with these gentle
giants. Tours operate daily during the
whale shark season.
Coral Spawning
One of the most impressive natural
events in the Ningaloo Marine Park is
the annual mass spawning of corals.
This is a remarkable sight for divers and
snorkellers. This phenomenon takes
place 10 to 12 days after the full moon
in March and April. The remarkable sight
can be seen at night with lights.
Manta Rays
Between May and November each year
the graceful manta rays can be found
in the pristine waters at Exmouth. The
rays migrate in schools and feed on
zooplankton. Divers and snorkellers can
swim with these majestic and playful
creatures. It’s amazing to watch these
beautiful and harmless animals as they
glide elegantly through the water with
wingspans of up to several metres wide.
Snorkelling the Ningaloo Reef
Did you know?
Ningaloo Reef is one of the best
places in the world to swim with the
world’s largest fish, the whale shark.
Information
Population:
2,400
Distance from Perth:
1,260km
Exmouth Visitor Centre
Murat Road, Exmouth WA 6707
Tel: 1800 287 328
exmouthwa.com.au
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 79
Tropic of Capricorn
Humpback whale
Fishing at Ningaloo
Diving
Whale Watching
Exmouth and the Ningaloo Reef are
renowned for having some of the best
natural and artificial reefs in Australia.
Take a trip to the tranquil Muiron Islands,
just 9.8 nautical miles off the tip of the
cape. Here you’ll discover coral gardens,
marine turtles, potato cod and much
more. The Navy Pier, located just north of
Exmouth, is one of the top ten dive sites
in Australia. The pier has a maximum
depth of 15 metres and caters to a wide
range of divers. The site is still a working
defence facility, so contact the visitor
centre for tour information. Snorkel and
dive equipment is available for hire or
purchase in Exmouth town.
Humpback whales migrate between
summer breeding grounds near the
North West Shelf and winter feeding
grounds in the Antarctic. The seasonal
migrations mean humpback whales are
regularly spotted in the coastal waters of
the Ningaloo Marine Park between June
and November before they make their
southerly migration. Watch them frolic
from the viewing points at Vlamingh Head
Lighthouse, Town Beach and Bundegi
Beach or take a closer look by joining a
whale watching cruise.
Boating
Ningaloo coastline
Page 80 | australiascoralcoast.com
Fishing
Exmouth is a fishing Mecca renowned
for prized fish such as groper, coral trout,
snapper and emperor. Game fishing for
species like marlin, sailfish mahi mahi and
mackerel is also popular. You can fish
from the shores, from your own boat, on
a charter or from a hire boat or throw in a
line from the Learmonth Jetty.
Exmouth has three boat launch areas.
Exmouth Boat Harbour in town, Bundegi
Beach Boat Ramp located 13 kilometres
north of Exmouth and Tantabiddi Boat
Ramp situated 36 kilometres from town
on the western side of the cape. Bring Jurabi Turtle Centre
your own boat or hire one from Exmouth. Located just south of the Vlamingh Head
Lighthouse, the Jurabi Turtle Centre
Surfing
provides information about Ningaloo
marine turtles. There is a pictorial turtle
Best swells for surfing off the North West
display and shaded seating. From
Cape occur from July to October so grab November to April annually, marine turtles
your board, head north and catch some nest on the beaches of the Ningaloo
waves. Dunes Beach is the most popular Marine Park. You can participate in a
reef break in Exmouth. ‘The Bombie’ is guided experience from the Jurabi Turtle
a bit of a paddle, but it’s well worth the Centre. Bookings are essential and can
effort for a left handed ride. For beginners be made at the Exmouth Visitor Centre.
and grommets (young surfers), Wobiri Visit ningalooturtles.org.au for more
Access beach is ideal.
information.
Sandy Bay
Cape Range National Park
Vlamingh Head Lighthouse
The beauty of Exmouth doesn’t end
at the sea shores. On the west side of
North West Cape you can experience an
outback holiday in the ruggedly beautiful
Cape Range National Park. Covering
over 50,000 hectares, the National Park
includes breathtaking canyons, limestone
ranges and 50 kilometres of pristine
beaches. Wildlife in the park is equally
as exciting with emus and red kangaroos
regularly sighted and wildflowers in late
winter change the landscape. A diverse
range of flora and fauna can be discovered
within the park due to the North West
Cape originally being an island, cut off
from the mainland of WA. The cape now
boasts 630 species of plants, including 12
endemic and six near endemic species
with the Sturt desert pea and bird flower
being highlights. There are also over 90
camping bays available which cannot be
pre booked. Most of these are accessible
by conventional vehicles, but with limited
facilities, be sure to take along plenty of
water and supplies.
History and views in one. 19 kilometres
north of Exmouth, this lighthouse was
built in 1912 and offers sweeping views of
the cape. Ruins of a world war radar are
also visible at the site.
Turquoise Bay
Turquoise Bay is the ideal beach to just
sit back, relax and soak up the beautiful
surroundings and sunshine. The white,
sandy shores give way to incredibly clear
waters harbouring a plethora of marine
wonders. The reef starts just metres from the
shore and exploring it is easy at the snorkel
drift. Jump in the water at the south end of
the beach and let the current take you over
the reef for a fantastic snorkelling experience.
Currents can be strong, especially around
the sandbar and at the southern most point
of the bay, so take care. This snorkel site is
suited to swimmers of average fitness and
snorkelling ability in calm conditions.
Oyster Stacks
This snorkel site offers great views of
marine life and is best accessed on a high
or incoming tide. Be careful entering the
West Side
water as the oyster shells and rocky areas
Milyering Visitor Centre
can be sharp. It is best to enter the water
The Milyering Visitor Centre is 52 at the end of the track and then snorkel
kilometres from Exmouth in the heart of north or south.
the Cape Range National Park. The centre
Mangrove Bay
offers interpretative information to open
your eyes to the wonders of the National This sanctuary zone includes a bird hide,
Park and nearby Ningaloo Marine Park. overlooking a lagoon area. A variety of birds
It features a range of models, videos, roost in the lagoon at high tide and many
a library selection and many graphic feed on small fish and other marine life in
displays. There is also the Exmouth Visitor the shallow waters. You may even spot an
osprey or brahminy kite while you are there.
Centre located in town on Murat Road.
Vlamingh Head lighthouse
Sunset at Lighthouse Bay
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 81
Yardie Creek
Charles Knife Canyon, Cape Range National Park
Mandu Mandu Gorge
Shothole Canyon
A three kilometre walk trail allows
access into this dry gorge and follows
the northern ridge of the gorge offering
stunning panoramic views. The trail leads
down into the creek bed where you follow
the base of the gorge back to the car
park.
This canyon was named after the shot holes
left by seismographic explosions during
the search for oil in the 1950s. Access is
from Minilya Road 16 kilometres south of
Exmouth and the gravel road meanders
over dry creek beds and the gorge floor,
offering close examination of the colourful
rock layers of the sheer canyon walls.
Yardie Creek Gorge
Four wheel driving in Cape Range National Park
Snorkelling at Turquoise Bay
Page 82 | australiascoralcoast.com
This ancient landscape in the Cape
Range National Park is just 90 kilometres
from Exmouth. The rust red cliffs give
way to deep blue waters, providing
dramatic scenery. The gorge is home
to an assortment of wildlife, including
the rare black-footed rock wallaby. You
can explore the gorge on walking trails
or from the comfort of a cruise boat.
The Department of Environment and
Conservation run daily river gorge cruises
that take roughly one hour. Times vary
due to the tides, so contact the Exmouth
Visitor Centre to book.
Charles Knife Canyon
Take this scenic journey for views across
razor backed ridges and down steep
gorges. Starting 23 kilometres south
of Exmouth, the views during this drive
change from dawn to dusk. Early birds
will be rewarded watching the sun rise
over the gulf from the top of the Charles
Knife Road.
Muiron Islands
These two islands lay just 9.8 nautical miles
off the tip of North West Cape. Abundant
marine life surround them and the
atmosphere is truly tranquil. You can camp
on the islands but require permission.
East Side
Surfing and fishing tours regularly visit the
Beaches
islands. For more information contact the
There are endless beaches to explore or Exmouth Visitor Centre.
relax at around Exmouth. Town Beach is the
Mildura Wreck
closest to Exmouth itself and also provides
for four wheel drive access. 12 kilometres From Lighthouse Bay you can see the
north you’ll find Bundegi Beach, the start wreck of the SS Mildura, a cattle ship that
of the Ningaloo Marine Park. This is an was lost en-route from the Kimberley during
excellent location for swimming, snorkelling a cyclone in 1907. The hull sat on the reef
and fishing. Surfers can head to Dunes undisturbed until World War II when allied
Beach, 17 kilometres north of Exmouth. planes used it for bombing practice! These
Lighthouse Bay offers great fishing and days it provides an ideal sanctuary for
swimming. You can access it via tracks baby sharks. Salvaged timbers and irons
can be seen today at Yardie Homestead.
along the Mildura Wreck Road.
Exmouth Cape
Potshot Hotel Resort
Holiday Park
Caravan/Camping/Villas
/
p g/
D
N
A
E
R
O
L
%SCAPIEENCEEXP%XMOUTH
EXPER
With tastefully appointed motel rooms, two bedroom family units
and three bedroom luxury apartments. We also cater for the budget
traveller, with a range of motel and backpacker accommodation.
Our complex is located within easy walking distance of the town
centre and is the perfect place from which to plan your visit to the
world famous Cape Range and Ningaloo Marine Parks. Chat with
the locals at Vances Bar, or simply relax with a drink in the tropical
surrounds of the Pool Bar.
Exmouth Cape Holiday Park
3 Truscott Cres (cnr Murat Road)
Exmouth WA
Tel: 08 9949 1101
Freecall 1800 621 101
[email protected]
Largest range of accommodation in Exmouth
Features of the Potshot Hotel Resort:
• 45 tastefully appointed hotel rooms, with ensuite, air cond,
TV, tea and coffee making facilities, bar fridge, telephone
• 20 Budget Motel rooms
Great Value Dormitory
Accommodation - modern
clean facilities with linen
provided. On-site dive
shop, Outdoor Cinema,
Swimming Pool and
Volleyball Court.
Blue Reef Backpackers
3 Truscott Cres (cnr Murat Road)
Exmouth WA
Tel: 08 9949 1101
Freecall 1800 621 101
[email protected]
for great value accommodation rates and on-line bookings please visit
aspenparks.com.au
58274
2213
• 24 x 2 bedroom standard apartments, 2 & 3 bedroom luxury
apartments all with cooking facilities
• Range of budget and backpacker accommodation
• Three swimming pools and
barbeque facilities
• Tour & fishing charters arranged
• Car and boat parking
• Guest laundry, Dive Shop
Potshot Hotel Resort
Murat Road
PO Box 82
Exmouth WA 6707
Ph (08) 9949 1200
Fax (08) 9949 1486
Email [email protected]
Web: www.potshotresort.com
0121
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 83
We stock a huge range of fishing products
and the largest variety of camping gear in
Exmouth, all at fantastic prices!
For top fishing and camping advice
come in and see the team at
134a Maidstone Crescent, Exmouth or
For all your Camping & Fishing needs...
• Tents • Sleeping Bags • Swags • Gas Stove & Lights • Eskies
• Camp Furniture & Accessories • Cooking & Lighting Equipment • Coolers
• Knives • Quality Snorkelling Equipment • Bulk Stock of all top brand rods
• Reels and Terminal tackle • Sales & Service • Gas Refilling
3+
ZZZH[PRXWKWDFNOHDQGFDPSLQJFRPDX
2249
0085
WS 000113 Peter McKossock
Are you looking for the Best
Whale Shark Experience in Exmouth?
Want To Join The Leading Team?
100% Sighting’s for both 2009 and 2010 Seasons!
Quality Tour, Unforgettable Experience
3
3
3
3
3
3
Offer 3 Year No Sighting Policy
Luxury Vessel
Safety Zodiac
Gourmet Buffet Lunch
Certified Guide
Whale Shark WA Members
3 National Award Winners
3 Gift Pack & Whaleshark for
every passenger
Free Call: 1800 811 338 | Ph: 08 9949 1119 | Email: [email protected]
Web: www.ningalooblue.com.au | www.youtube.com/WhaleSharkTv
Ningaloo Reef Dreaming
One of Western Australia’s leading dive operators.
• Whale shark cruises (March – July)
• Dive & snorkel tours on Ningaloo Reef
• Whale shark cruises with a big difference! On
average our customers spend longer in the water
swimming with whales sharks because we have
our own plane. Receive free photos of your day.
• Dive & snorkel tours to Muiron Islands
• Exclusive contract to the world renown Exmouth
Navy Pier, one of the ‘Top 10 dive sites in the world’
• A range of modern, well equipped vessels
Ningaloo Reef Dreaming
Maidstone Crescent , Exmouth
Ph: +61 8 9949 4777
Fax: +61 8 9949 4666
Freecall: 1800 994 210 (within Australia)
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.ningaloodreaming.com
Page 84 | australiascoralcoast.com
• Day and overnight dive and snorkel tours
• Internationally recognised dive courses
• Friendly and experienced staff and crew
Matthew Winter
HQ68745WS
2147
Relax, unwind, rejuvenate...
at
Novotel Ningaloo Resort, Exmouth - Gateway to the Ningaloo Reef
Set on the beach between the world renowned Ningaloo Reef and Cape Range National Park. The
unique resort includes a range of hotel rooms, and one and two bedroom self contained apartments.
Three bedroom apartments are available on request.
Also enjoy the lounge, resort swimming pool and gymnasium with stunning beaches right outside your
door. Ideal venue for conferences, weddings and special events.
0369
Ph: +61 8 9949 0000
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.novotelningaloo.com.au
%HVW1HZ7RXULVP
'HYHORSPHQW
/LFHQVHG'LQLQJ
5HVWDXUDQW&RXQWU\
%HVW5HVRUW6W\OH
$FFRPPRGDWLRQ
Ningaloo Reef Sea Kayaking
Exmouth Visitor Centre
0296
0400
Exmouth Visitor Centre
Gateway to Ningaloo Reef and Cape Range National Park.
For a year round reef & outback experience,
book online at www.exmouthwa.com.au
for all your
All packages include transfers from your
accommodation in Exmouth.
• Accommodation
• Tours
• Car Hire
• Coach & Flight Travel
• Souvenirs and Local craft
Exmouth Visitor Centre
Toll Free: 1800 287 328
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.exmouthwa.com.au
Eco-Adventure Tours
Come and experience the magic of
kayaking and snorkelling the pristine
Ningaloo and Cape Range National Park.
3 hour and 1, 2 & 5 day tours available, all
abilities catered for.
Bookings: March - October
Ningaloo Reef Seakayaking
Ningaloo WA
Ph: +61 427 485 123
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.capricornseakayaking.com.au
Lic. 9TA00091
Kings Ningaloo Reef Tours
Exmouth Camper Hire
Swimming with Whale Sharks & Eco Sea Life Tours.
0295
At King’s Ningaloo Reef Tours we believe your experience swimming in the crystal clear waters
of the Ningaloo Reef should be relaxing, memorable and above all, enjoyable. We take that
extra step in making sure your day is exactly that, and guarantee our tours to be second to
none, always.
Take advantage of our companies 25 years of experience snorkelling with whale sharks,
dolphins, manta rays, and other sea life, that make Australia’s Coral Coast their home, whilst
also viewing humpback whales on their annual northern migration at play.
King’s Ningaloo Reef Tours has a 20-metre vessel which is comfortable, spacious shaded
deck areas, with environmentally friendly toilet facilities.
Not to mention that the skipper and owner has the best knowledge and years of experience to
get you to the right spot for your chance to swim with a whale shark. We also have 5 crew on
board for your safety including a videographer to film your day. Come aboard our whale shark
snorkel tour for an experience never to be forgotten.
All tours include:
•
•
•
•
•
Pickup from accommodation at approx. 0730
Snorkelling gear and wetsuit
Morning snorkel on the reef
Morning tea
Spotter plane to seek whale sharks,
humpback whales, dolphins and manta rays
Kings Ningaloo Reef Tours
Ph: +61 8 9949 1764
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.kingsningalooreeftours.com.au
License No: HW69181WS
2413
A Passion for Freedom.
Camper Van and Camper Trailer Hire
Exclusive to the Ningaloo area.
• Swimming with whale sharks
• Smorgasbord lunch featuring fresh local seafood
and also catering to vegetarians and non
seafood eater
• Afternoon snorkel on Ningaloo Reef
• Government DEC fee
• Transfer back to accommodation approx 1630
Exmouth Camper Hire
16 Nimitz Street
Exmouth WA 6707
Ph: (08) 9949 4050
Web: www.exmouthcamperhire.com.au
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 85
Lighthouse Caravan Park
Ningaloo Kite and Board
0117
2414
Situated 17kms from the town of Exmouth on the tip of the North West Cape, nestled at the base of
Vlamingh Head Lighthouse - protected by the Cape Range and just a stones throw from the world
renowned Ningaloo Marine Park. Ningaloo Lighthouse Caravan Park is close to surf beach, boat launching
facilities and our magnificent Cape Range National Park. You will truly feel the peace and tranquility of
outback living whilst enjoying your stay with us.
Making the most of the wind.
Retailing major Kite boarding brands to
enthusiasts flying through Exmouth.
Whether you are looking for an action packed stay, a fun-filled family adventure or a tranquil and relaxing
holiday; we can point you in the right direction at the Lighthouse Caravan Park. We offer a wide range of self
contained accommodation to suit all budgets. From the ‘Lookout Chalets to a Cabin’ we can accommodate
your needs. So what are you waiting for? You can choose to bring your own tent, caravan or RV to any of our
powered or unpowered shady sites and enjoy the brilliance of nature.
Facilities Inc: Pool, tennis court, general store, tackle, bait, fuel, seasonal café,
BBQ’s and campers kitchens
Ningaloo Kite and Board
16 Nimitz Street
Exmouth WA 6707
Ph: +61 8 9949 2770
Web: www.ningalookiteboarding.com.au
Ningaloo Lighthouse Caravan Park
Ph: +61 8 9949 1478
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.ningaloolighthouse.com
Ningaloo Lodge Exmouth
Ningaloo Pearls
2465
BEST RATES IN TOWN $125 PER ROOM PER NIGHT
DOUBLE AND TWIN ROOMS.
Deep Sea Fishing
& Eco Tours.
LOCATED IN THE CENTRE OF EXMOUTH! Ningaloo Lodge is a great place to relax. All 36
rooms have private ensuites, TV, air-conditioning, fan and fridge. Other facilities include a
swimming pool, wireless Internet available, games room, a large self catering dining room (do
your own cooking), outdoor BBQ area and a guest laundry. No facilities for children.
“We catch some of
the Biggest
fish in the world”.
Ningaloo Lodge Exmouth
Bookings Toll Free: 1800 880 949
Ph: +61 8 9949 4949
Fax: +61 8 9949 4900
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.ningaloolodge.com.au
)
5((
W
WHUQH
VV,Q
OH
:LUH
0359
Ningaloo Pearls
PO Box 239
Exmouth, WA 6707
Mob: 0417 944 820
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.ningaloopearls.com.au
Ningaloo Whaleshark n Dive
Ningaloo Safari Tours
2134
2293
Nature Tourism
Explore the Reef in Style
Top of the Range Safari
• Whaleshark Adventures • Learn to Dive with the experts
• Certified Diving • Introductory Diving
• Snorkelling Tours • Whale watching and sunset cruising
Join expert local guides on our “Top of the
Range Safari” to explore the beauty of Cape
Range National Park and Ningaloo Marine
Park. 4WD Safari includes Shothole and
Charles Knife Gorge, exclusive boat tour
of Yardie Creek and guided snorkeling at
Turquoise Bay.
Ningaloo Whaleshark n Dive
Inside reception at Exmouth Cape Holiday Park
Ph: +61 8 9949 1116
Fax: +61 8 9949 1113
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.ningaloowhalesharkndive.com.au
Page 86 | australiascoralcoast.com
Ningaloo Safari Tours
11 Maidstone Cres
Exmouth WA 6707
Ph: +61 8 9949 1550
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.ningaloosafari.com
Exmouth Escape Resort
Karijini Eco Retreat
0439
2438
Exmouth’s Newest Resort.
An Authentic Outback Experience!
Ideally located 3km from the town centre, with a short walk to Town Beach and the Marina.
Our relaxed, spacious, fully self-contained Deluxe Villas are the perfect base to explore the
magnificent Ningaloo Reef and Cape Range National Park. Each Villa has its own alfresco
bbq area, in-house movies, cable TV, internet and air-conditioning.
100% Owned by Gumala Aboriginal Corporation
• Unique Eco Tents, King beds, Linen • With en-suite!
• Licensed Alfresco Restaurant • Tours Arranged • Campsites also available
Facilities: • X Cafe and Restaurant
• Conference room
• Reception tour desk
• In-ground Pool with children’s wading pool
• Boat wash down & parking
Exmouth Escape Resort
27 Murat Road
Exmouth WA 6707
Ph:+61 8 9949 4800
Fax: + 61 8 9949 4899
Email:[email protected]
Web: www.exmouthescaperesort.com.au
Karijini Eco Retreat
Savannah Campground, off Weano Rd
Karijini National Park WA 6751
Ph: +61 8 9425 5591
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.karijiniecoretreat.com.au
Ocean Eco Adventures
Ningaloo Argo & Quad Tours
2420
2451
Spin.F.X. For The Ultimate Tour
Humpback Whale Discovery and Sunset Cruise
Earth to Sea, Red to Blue, navigate your way along winding red tracks to meet the
crystal blue waters of Exmouth. Whale, Manta Ray, Fish and Bird spotting whilst
cruising or climb aboard for a Wet ‘N’ Wild Amphibious Buggy Ride. Choose from
our Awesome Tours have Maximum fun and Live the Outdoor Dream.
Exmouth Gulf is regarded as a critical habitat for Humpbacks and provides the ultimate calm,
protected resting place for them and their calves on the annual breeding migration. Join the
Ocean Eco Adventures team and discover the beauty and magic of the Humpbacks as they
perform tale slaps, breaches, spy hops and many other acrobatic performances..
Spin.F.X. Unisex MotoX Store
Cnr Murat Rd & Pellew St
Exmouth WA 6707
Ph: +61 8 9949 4488
Mob: 0488 537 011
Budget: +61 8 9949 1534
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.ningalooargotours.com.au
•
•
•
•
Hydrophone on board to allow you to listen to the haunting whalesong.
Divine gourmet food served throughout the cruise featuring Exmouth Prawns.
Available from August to end October
Comfortable, well appointed 18m vessel “Keshi-Mer.”
Ocean Eco Adventures
Exmouth WA 6707
Ph: 0427 425 925
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.oceanecoadventures.com.au
Three Islands Whale Shark Dive
Ocean Eco Adventures
2421
0299
Whale Shark Discovery
Explore the aquatic wonderland of Ningaloo Reef.
5 Star service is just the beginning of your Ocean Eco Adventures Whale Shark Discovery.
From March to July enjoy a day of adventure and discovery with Three Islands Whale Shark
Dive. Swim alongside whale sharks, snorkel the reef and spot seasonal sealife such as
turtles, dugongs, manta rays, whales and more during this fun, safe and informative ecotour.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Exclusive use of private spotter aircraft allowing maximum time with the Whale Sharks.
Complimentary DVD of your day as a gift.
Comfortable, well appointed 18m vessel “Keshi-Mer.”
Gourmet food featuring local produce.
Safety Zodiac on hand.
Available from April to end July. Owners in their 16th Whale Shark season.
Full day reef experience also visiting several snorkel sites
Ocean Eco Adventures
Exmouth WA 6707
Ph: 0427 425 925
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.oceanecoadventures.com.au
The friendly, professional staff at Three Islands Whale Shark Dive offer an exceptional level
of service while delivering a whale shark interaction experience that you’ll treasure forever.
Three Islands Whale Shark Dive
Ningaloo Caravan & Holiday Resort
Exmouth WA
Freecall: +61 1800 138 501
Ph: +61 8 9949 1994
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.whalesharkdive.com
australiascoralcoast.com | Page 87
Australia’s Coral Coast
Unspoilt • Uncrowded • Underwater
WESTERN
AUSTRALIA
Perth
follow us on
Visit australiascoralcoast.com and subscribe to our e-newsletter
for regular updates on holiday deals and competitions.
Page 88 | australiascoralcoast.com
2515