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<strong>Australia</strong>’s <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Coast</strong><strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong>YOUR 2011/2012HOLIDAY GUIDE FROMTHE PINNACLES TONINGALOO REEF


“All Inclusive” 6 Day Package perpersonPerth “All Inclusive” 6 Day Holiday Package $842 *<strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Coast</strong>Special DealsNingaloo Reef Accommodation Exmouth & <strong>Coral</strong> Bay Deals$94ExmouthAccommodationEXCLUSIVESPECIAL*$438*Ningaloo ReefFlights + 2 Nights$842 *FREE Airport Transfers FREE Perth “Welcome” Tour FREE Bonus Voucher Book $36 *Car Hire “No Worries” Unlim kmscar per dayExmouth Lodge resort style facilities, FREE Internet #Exmouth Hotel Resort heart of Exmouth, pool, bars, dining<strong>Coral</strong> Bay Resort near the beach, self-cateringLuxury Resort Exmouth direct beach access, great facilitiesTours ildoers Day ourPinnacles ildoers Day ourMonkey Mia & Kalbarri Adventure Day afari ourPinnacles, Kalbarri, Dolphins Day Coach ourImageperroom$94 ** $98*$170$240 *$207 **$207$595 *$875 *Monkey Mia Dolphin Discovery 5 Day Luxury Coach ourPerth-Broome Discovery 10 Day Luxury Coach$2995 *Self-Drive Packages Pinnacles, Monkey Mia, Ningaloo, WildoersPackages Include: perpersonPinnacles, Geraldton, Kalbarri & ildoers 3 Day$235 *Dolphins & Kalbarri 5 Day Self-Drive Package $417 **$235Pinnacles & Kalbarri3 Day Self-DriveWest <strong>Coast</strong> Discovery 8 Day Self-Drive PackageFlight + Hotel PackagesExmouth Flights + 2 NightsNingaloo Lodge Exmouth FREE Internet #Potshot Hotel Resort popular accommodationNovotel Ningaloo Resort Exmouth luxuryPer person,Perth*438442584$719West <strong>Coast</strong> Discovery8 Day Self-DrivePerth to Broome (via <strong>Coast</strong>) 8 Day Self-DrivePerth to Broome (via <strong>Coast</strong> & Karijini) 9 Day 4WDWest <strong>Coast</strong> & Pilbara Explorer 10 Day 4WD Self-DriveWest <strong>Coast</strong>, Outback Stations & Pilbara 12 Day 4WD$719 * $ 2340 *Monkey Mia Accommodation Hot DealsDenham Beachfront Resort FREE Movies, FREE Internet #Monkey Mia Beach Resort right on Dolphin BeachKalbarri AccommodationKalbarri Bed & Breakfast home from home, tranquil locationKalbarri Beachfront Villas FREE Use of Dinghy #Kalbarri Luxury Resort ne luxury resort, great locationGeraldton AccommodationCall 1300 790 270*$366Monkey MiaFlights + 2 Nights*$114KalbarriAccommodationAsk for your FREE 130 pageDISCOVER WEST Bookperroom$130 **$172perroom$114 **$144*$170$90 *roomper*Geraldton Beach Holiday Park relax and unind$90Geraldton Hotel FREE Breakfast, FREE Movies, FREE Parking $115# *Per person,Geraldton Flights + 2 NightsPerth*Sunset Beach Holiday Park relax and unind 324All Seasons Geraldton FREE Breakfast349** 400 live$1144 *$2060 *$2166 *Flight + Hotel PackagesMonkey Mia Flights + 2 NightsOceanside Village Denham FREE MoviesMonkey Mia Dolphin Resort great facilitiesFlight + Hotel PackagesPer person,Perth*366408$1610 * 2636Part of


TURQUOISE BAYYARDIECREEKGNARALOO BAYRED BLUFFBLOWHOLESCAPE INSCRIPTIONSHELLBEACHPerthWESTERNAUSTRALIAAUSTRALIA’SCORAL COASTLearmonth AirportHAMELIN POOLSTROMATOLITESPage 4 | australiascoralcoast.com


Turquoise Bay, ExmouthThe new Indian Ocean DriveTravelling the <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Coast</strong>Getting HereBy AirAir services operate to towns in the <strong>Coral</strong><strong>Coast</strong> from Perth and Broome. SkywestAirlines fl y to Geraldton, Kalbarri, MonkeyMia, Carnarvon and Exmouth (Learmonth).Flight schedules and operators are subjectto change. Visit australiascoralcoast.comfor up to date information.By Road<strong>Australia</strong>’s <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Coast</strong> starts just twohours drive north of Perth at Cervantes.Excellent road conditions throughout theregion make getting around easy for thosewanting to explore at their own pace. Hirecars are available from Perth or in all majortowns in the region. A range of packagedtours are also available, from adventurousfour wheel drive vehicles to luxury coaches.Check with the local visitor centres listed onaustraliascoralcoast.com or contact the<strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong>n Visitor Centre on 1300361 351. TransWA and Greyhound operateregular coach services.Travelling TipsTake Regular BreaksThe <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Coast</strong> has long stretchesof road, so be sure to stop for regularbreaks. Maximum speed limit is 110kilometres per hour on the open road and50 kilometres per hour in built up areas.Private PropertySome tracks and roads are on privateproperty. These should not be usedwithout the owner’s permission. Pleaseleave gates as you found them.Page 6 | australiascoralcoast.comBe PreparedFood and fuel are generally availableevery 100 – 300 kilometres along themain highway, so be sure to plan ahead.Please note that LPG Autogas is notavailable in all regional areas. Some areasof <strong>Australia</strong>’s <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Coast</strong> are remote, soif you plan to explore off road, make sureyou are well provisioned. If your vehiclebreaks down or becomes bogged, staywith the vehicle. A car is easier to spot inthe event of a search.Road ConditionsHeavy rainfall can make some roadsand tracks impassable, so check roadconditions before departure with localShire offi ces or Main Roads WA. Someroads are unsealed, so beware of loosegravel and dust obscuring your vision.Driving RestrictionsPlease note it is illegal to drive in <strong>Australia</strong>with a blood alcohol reading over0.05. A zero tolerance policy applies toprobationary and learner drivers. It is alsoillegal for drivers to use a hand held phonewhile driving. Hands-free devices may beused with caution.Animals on the RoadBe wary of animals on or near the road.Kangaroos are prevalent, especially inthe early morning and evening. Emus areunpredictable and often travel in groups.Cattle occasionally venture on to roads atnight and can be hard to see.Other Road UsersBe mindful of other road users,particularly road trains and large truckswith up to four trailers attached. Alwaysleave approximately 200 metres betweenvehicles in a convoy to allow road trainsto pass, and only overtake a road train ifthe road is clear and visible for up to onekilometre ahead.Caring for the Environment• Only light fi res when permitted andin designated areas. Information canbe obtained from local visitor centresand Department of Environment andConservation (DEC) offi ces.• Always have pets on a lead and pleasenote they cannot be taken into any WAnational parks or nature reserves.• Dispose of rubbish in bins.• Do not take natural artefacts with youas souvenirs.• Be cautious when bushwalking orhiking. Stay on designated pathsand heed warning signs. Always letsomeone know of your plans.• Water safety. Always be aware ofcurrents, weather conditions and tidalmovements before entering the water.Never touch coral or marine life - youmay damage it or it may damage you.• Camping is permitted at designatedsites, so be sure to check with localvisitor centres before pitching your tent.


Camping on the <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Coast</strong>Kalbarri National ParkNational Park PassesA range of National Park passes areavailable from the Department ofEnvironment and Conservation (DEC).Day Pass - This pass covers entry intoone or more parks on any one day. Passesare available from rangers in the parks. Insome parks, a system of self-registrationapplies. Fees: $11/car (up to eightlegally seated people), $5/motorcycle,$4/passenger on commercial tourvehicles and buses.Holiday Park Pass - This pass entitlesentry to as many parks as you wish forany four-week period. Fee: $40/vehicle(up to eight people).Annual All Park Pass - This pass entitlesyou to unlimited access to all parks inWA. Valid for one vehicle, with up to eightlegally seated people. Fee: $80 or $50 forseniors, aged pensioners and veterans.Cards must be sighted.Park passes do not include camping.Separate fees apply. For more informationvisit dec.wa.gov.au or contact DEC on+61 8 9219 8000.Accredited Visitor CentresVisitor Centres offer advicewith accommodation andtour bookings, maps andlocal knowledge on anarea’s hidden gems. Look for the blueand yellow ‘i’ sign to fi nd an accreditedvisitor centre on your holiday route.Climate<strong>Australia</strong>’s <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Coast</strong> coversapproximately 1100 kilometres of<strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong>’s coastline stretchingfrom Cervantes to Exmouth. The regionis an ideal destination all year round, witha Mediterranean climate in the southbordering on sub tropical in the north.Important ContactsRoyal Automobile Club (RAC)Emergency breakdown servicePhone: 13 11 11Main RoadsRoad conditions and other informationon WA roadsPhone: 13 81 38mainroads.wa.gov.auEmergency ServicesPolice, ambulance and fi re brigadePhone: 000Bureau of Meteorology<strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong>n weather and warningsPhone: +61 8 9263 2222bom.gov.au/weather/waNational Tourism AccreditationThe National TourismAccreditation symbolindicates accreditedtourism businesses thathave achieved nationwideacclaim and are committed to a greatercustomer service and satisfaction.Average Maximum Temperatures (C˚)Dec-FebMar -MayJun -AugSep -NovJurien Bay 30 26 20 23Geraldton 32 28 20 25Kalbarri 33 29 22 26Denham 31 28 22 25Carnarvon 31 29 23 26Exmouth 37 33 25 322011 Public Holidays<strong>Australia</strong> DayLabour DayGood FridayEaster MondayANZAC Day(Public Holiday)Foundation DayQueen’s BirthdayChristmas Day(Public Holiday)Boxing Day(Public Holiday)Wednesday 26 JanuaryMonday 7 MarchFriday 22 AprilMonday 25 AprilTuesday 26 AprilMonday 6 JuneFriday 28 OctoberMonday 26 DecemberTuesday 27 December2011 WA School HolidaysAutumn 20 April to 4 May 2011Winter 9 July to 25 July 2011Spring 1 to 17 October 2011Summer 15 December 2011 to 31 January 2012australiascoralcoast.com | Page 7


DugongGreen turtle hatchings, Ningaloo<strong>Western</strong> rock lobsterManta rayNature’s CalendarTurtle Nesting SeasonDuring the summer months fromNovember to April, green, loggerheadand hawksbill turtles come ashore atnight to lay their eggs on the beachesadjacent to the Ningaloo Reef. Touristscan view this spectacle from the JurabiTurtle Centre, just west of Exmouth on aguided tour. Bookings are essential, socontact the Exmouth Visitor Centre. Thereis also a turtle nesting season in SharkBay. Avid turtle fans wanting to make adifference can join the Turtle Trackersgroup, who volunteer their time to monitorthe endangered marine turtles. For moreinformation visit ningalooturtles.org.au.<strong>Coral</strong> SpawningIn March and April divers and snorkellerscan witness an amazing spectacle at theNingaloo Reef. <strong>Coral</strong> spawning occurswhen coral releases eggs and sperm intothe surrounding ocean approximately 10to 12 days after the full moon.Whale SharksKrill and other tiny sea creatures swarmto Ningaloo Reef to feast shortly after theannual coral spawning. This phenomenonattracts mighty whale sharks, the world’slargest fi sh who migrate to Ningaloo Reefto feed on the krill. Ningaloo is consideredone of the most reliable and accessibleplaces on earth to swim alongside theseharmless giants. Tours depart daily from<strong>Coral</strong> Bay and Exmouth between midMarch and mid July.Page 8 | australiascoralcoast.comWhale MigrationHumpback whales travel close to the<strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Coast</strong> shoreline between June andNovember each year. Kalbarri offers plentyof cliff sites perched high above the water,providing excellent vantage points forwhale watching. The best locations arethe Natural Bridge, Eagle Gorge and RedBluff. The whales also visit the NingalooMarine Park, with the best viewing pointsat Town Beach, Bundegi Beach and theVlamingh Head Lighthouse near Exmouth.Whale watching boat tours operate out ofKalbarri, <strong>Coral</strong> Bay and Exmouth.Wildflower SeasonWildfl owers bloom all year roundthroughout <strong>Australia</strong>’s <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Coast</strong>,although the best season to see them isbetween July and November. The regionis home to many species of coastal andinland wildfl owers and is best known forvast carpets of everlastings. See page 12for more information.Rock Lobster Season<strong>Western</strong> rock lobsters can be found inabundance from Cervantes to Geraldtonand at the nearby Abrolhos Islands. FromNovember until June is rock lobster fi shingseason. You can purchase delicious freshlobster along the coast, or head to a localrestaurant for a superb feast. Cervantesand Geraldton have lobster processingfactories offering tours. You can also buylobster, scallops and octopus direct fromthe factory in Cervantes.Manta RaysManta rays can be seen year round atthe Ningaloo Marine Park. These majesticanimals are fi lter feeders and unlike thesting ray, they have no barb. Therefore,they are completely harmless, making itsafe to dive and snorkel with them. Take atour year round from <strong>Coral</strong> Bay, or betweenMay and November from Exmouth.DolphinsDolphins can be seen all year along<strong>Australia</strong>’s <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Coast</strong>. Friendlybottlenose dolphins visit the shoresof Monkey Mia regularly to meet withvisitors. Lucky bystanders may also getthe chance to feed the dolphins theirbreakfast. Dolphins can also be spottedwhile swimming, snorkelling or divinganywhere along the coast. Keep youreyes peeled at the coastal gorges ofKalbarri and at Eagle Bluff, near Denham.DugongsDugongs can be found year round in theShark Bay and Ningaloo Marine Parks.The Shark Bay area alone supports 10per cent of the world’s dugong population.Dugongs can grow up to three metresin length and weigh as much as 400kilograms. Dugongs cannot hold theirbreath under water for very long, sothey can often be spotted coming to thesurface for air. Take a wildlife cruise orscenic fl ight into the Shark Bay or NingalooMarine Parks, departing from Monkey Mia,Denham, <strong>Coral</strong> Bay or Exmouth.


Kalbarri Canoe and Cray FestivalAiring of the quilts, NorthamptonBlessing of the Fleet, Dongara/Port DenisonGascoyne Growers’ Market, CarnarvonCalendar of EventsFeb 11-12 Kitestock Dongara/Port DenisonMar 4-6 Kalbarri Fishing Classic KalbarriMar 6 -May 29Mid West Art Prize ExhibitionGeraldton-GreenoughMar 5-6 Chapman Valley Off Road 300 @ NukaraNanson,Chapman ValleyMar 19 Nukara Music FestivalNanson,Chapman ValleyMar 20 Harmony Day Celebrations Geraldton-GreenoughMar 27 Geraldton Cup Geraldton-GreenoughApr 2 Relay for Life Geraldton-GreenoughApr 9-10 Midwest Golden Bowls Carnival Weekend MullewaApr 16-17 Geraldton Boat, Caravan & Camping Show Geraldton-GreenoughApr 17 Indian Ocean Rowing Race Start Geraldton-GreenoughApr 16-17 Mullewa Autumn Roundup Weekend MullewaApr 18 -May 23“Syndicate” An Exhibition in SculptureGeraldton-GreenoughApr 22-24 Jurien Easter Festival Jurien BayApr 22-24 Cervantes Easter Festival CervantesApr 22-25 Easter Tennis Carnival Geraldton-GreenoughApr 23 Easter Races and Markets Dongara/Port DenisonMay 7-13 Shark Bay Fishing Fiesta Shark BayMay 15 National Motoring Heritage Day Geraldton-GreenoughMay TBC Tropicool Festival CarnarvonMay 28-29 Whale Shark Festival ExmouthMay 29 -June 5Carnarfi n Fishing CompetitionCarnarvonJun 5 Kalbarri Canoe and Cray Festival KalbarriJul 9 Speedway Far <strong>Western</strong> Championships Shark BayJul 10 Community Market Day and Fun Fair Shark BayAug 27-28 Mullewa Polocrosse Weekend MullewaAug 28 -4 SepMullewa Annual Wildfl ower ShowMullewaAug TBC Taste of the Gascoyne CarnarvonSep 3 Mullewa Agricultural Show MullewaSep 9-1 Big Sky Readers & Writers Festival Geraldton-GreenoughSep 16-17 Big Ideas Festival Geraldton-GreenoughSep 13-16 Country Arts WA – Arts Gathering Geraldton-GreenoughSep 30 -Oct 4HMB Endeavour Geraldton visitGeraldton-GreenoughOct 1 Silverdale Olive Orchid Art and Craft Exhibit Dongara/Port DenisonOct 2 Shark Bay Market Day Shark BayOct 2-3 Mid West Show & Shine Geraldton-GreenoughOct 3-15 Geraldton-Greenough Sunshine Festival Geraldton-GreenoughOct-30 Blessing of the Fleet Geraldton Geraldton-GreenoughOct 15 Airing of the Quilts NorthamptonOct TBC Gascoyne Dash CarnarvonOct 28-30 Cervantes Art Festival CervantesNov 19HMAS Sydney II 70th Anniversary MemorialServiceGeraldtonNov 12 Jurien Bay Tryathlon Jurien BayNov 12-13 Blessing of the Fleet Jurien BayNov 5 TBC Murchison River Music Festival KalbarriNov TBC Blessing of the Fleet DongaraDec TBC Carols by Candlelight Geraldton-GreenoughRegular EventsSaturday mornings from 8am - 11.30am from May to October Gascoyne Growers’ and Craft Market CarnarvonMay to September Carnarvon Race Round CarnarvonOnce monthly - See notices in town for details Sunday Markets Jurien BayEvery Sunday morning April to October Exmouth Local Craft Market ExmouthFirst Saturday every month 9am – 1pm at Town Park Dongara Markets Dongara-DenisonCheck schedule with Kalbarri Visitor Centre Parrotiso’s Outdoor Cinema KalbarriEvery Saturday 8am to 12pm, Maitland Park Geraldton Farmer’s Markets Geraldton-GreenoughFirst and fourth Sunday of the month Markets on the Mall Geraldton-GreenoughSecond Sunday of the month at the visitor centre Geraldton Craft Markets Geraldton-Greenoughaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 9


HMAS Sydney II MemorialThe Pinnacles DesertSuggested ItinerariesYardie CreekLearmonth AirportGreen HeadFind moreitineraries online ataustraliascoralcoast.comNabawaCoorowBadgingarraDandaraganNew Norcia1 Day CervantesCervantes to Perth return (Approx 400km)Take the new Indian Ocean Drive north of Perth and headtowards the beachside town of Cervantes. Take a detourto the Pinnacles Desert. The road into the Pinnacles issealed, and there is a car park within walking distance of thelimestone structures. Head to the Pinnacles Desert DiscoveryCentre to learn more about these mystical formations. Driveinto Cervantes and spend some time relaxing at a beachsidecafe. Between November and June, head to the IndianOcean Rock Lobster Factory to join a tour of the factoryand buy some fresh seafood. Wildfl owers are prolifi c in thisregion, so be sure to look out for them, particularly betweenJuly and November.Option 2: Why not extend your stay and head further northalong the Indian Ocean Drive? See below for additionaltouring options.4 Day Indian Ocean DriveDay 1:Perth to Cervantes (See above itinerary for day one options)Day 2:Cervantes to Dongara (Approx 149km)Continue north along the Indian Ocean Drive, stoppingat Molah Hill and Grigson’s Lookouts. At Jurien Bay, jumpaboard a sea lion charter or skydive and land onto the beach!Water lovers can explore the underwater wonderland of theJurien Bay Marine Park, home to tropical fi sh and coral.On land, explore the caves of the Stockyard Gully NationalPark, accessible only by four wheel drive. Continue north toDongara. Overnight: DongaraDay 3:Dongara to Geraldton (Approx 66 kilometres)Take a stroll along Dongara’s 1.6-kilometre walk trail of historicbuildings or head north to the Greenough Central HistoricSettlement and step back in time as you stroll through the 11restored pioneer buildings on site. As you continue your drivetowards Geraldton, keep an eye out for unusual leaning treeson the Greenough fl ats. Overnight: GeraldtonDay 4: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 Memorialcommemorating 645 sailors who died in World War II. Freewalking tours are offered at 10.30am daily.Optional: Consider taking a scenic fl ight from Geraldtonto the Houtman Abrolhos Islands where you can enjoysnorkelling and guided walks.After exploring Geraldton head back to Perth. BetweenJuly and October, consider taking the inland route to viewwildfl owers in bloom.5 Day Ningaloo Reef AdventureDay 1:Learmonth to <strong>Coral</strong> Bay (Approx 120km)Take an early morning fl ight to Exmouth (Learmonth).Transfer or drive to <strong>Coral</strong> Bay, a snorkeller’s paradise withcalm, protected waters and hundreds of fi sh and coralspecies just metres from the shore. To explore furtherout, take a glass bottom boat trip or join a snorkelling tour.Spend the evening watching the sunset and dining at one of<strong>Coral</strong> Bay’s great restaurants. Overnight: <strong>Coral</strong> BayDay 2:Stay another day in <strong>Coral</strong> Bay for more swimming andsnorkelling or throw in a line for some beach fi shing. Fishingsafaris head out to sea regularly, and adventurous types canjoin a scuba diving trip, a manta ray tour or swim with thewhale sharks from mid March to mid July annually. When it’stime to dry off, take a 4WD along the coast or hire a quadbike for some rugged adventure. Overnight: <strong>Coral</strong> BayDay 3:<strong>Coral</strong> Bay to Exmouth (Approx 150km)Time to head north. The sealed road takes you up the eastside to Exmouth, 150 kilometres from <strong>Coral</strong> Bay. Thereare a range of tours on offer, join a dive boat, head out toLighthouse Bay, or take a sea kayaking adventure. Betweenmid March and mid July, go for a swim with the world’slargest fi sh, the whale shark! Join a tour from Exmouth or<strong>Coral</strong> Bay. Surfers have a few breaks to choose from ateither Dunes Beach, the ‘Bombie’ or further out at one ofthe reef breaks. There are also safe beach conditions forthose wanting to learn to surf. Sunsets over the ocean fromthe Vlamingh Head Lighthouse are not to be missed. Keendivers might want to join a night dive trip before turning in.Overnight: ExmouthDay 4:Spend another day fi shing, swimming or diving becausehere’s your opportunity to try one of the best divingspots in the world - the Navy Pier. Or, if conditions areright, take a day trip out to the nearby Muiron Islands.Alternatively spend the day exploring the rugged gorgesand canyons of the Cape Range National Park either onan adventure tour or a self drive. Turquoise Bay is a must,with excellent drift snorkelling. Stop at Milyering VisitorCentre for information about the marine and coastal rangeenvironments. In the afternoon, follow the marked walk trailup into the gorges of the Cape Range National Park andvisit Yardie Creek, a highlight for walkers and nature-lovers.Overnight: ExmouthDay 5:Spend the morning enjoying Exmouth town and one lastswim before transferring to the airport for your fl ight backto Perth.Page 10 | australiascoralcoast.com


Kalbarri National ParkKayaking to the Blue Lagoon near Exmouth4 Day <strong>Coast</strong>al DiscoveryDay 1:Perth - Geraldton (Approx 420km)Take the inland route north along the Great NorthernHighway. Meander through the quaint historic, agriculturaltowns of Carnamah, Three Springs, Mingenew andMullewa. Take a look at the lovely murals and heritagebuildings including the Church of Our Lady of MountCarmel, Mullewa. Be sure to spot the carpets of everlastingscovering the ground during wildfl ower season. Then headto Geraldton where you’ll sample some of the freshestand most renowned seafood in <strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong>. Theimpressive HMAS Sydney II Memorial is a must seeproviding sweeping views across Geraldton and the IndianOcean. Overnight: GeraldtonDay 2:Geraldton - Shark Bay (Approx 430km)On your way out of Geraldton, stop in at the historic townof Northampton, where you can experience a bygone era.The daring can visit Oakabella Homestead, considered<strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong>’s most haunted house. Travel north toShark Bay, taking in the interpretive signage of the SharkBay World Heritage Drive. Visit the stromatolites of HamelinPool and Shell Beach, which is made entirely of millions oftiny shells. Visit the cliff top lookout at Eagle Bluff whereyou may be lucky to see some of the marine life the regionis renowned for. Relax and unwind on the foreshore atDenham or Monkey Mia, or aboard a sunset catamarancruise. Overnight: Denham / Monkey MiaDay 3:Shark Bay - Kalbarri (Approx 380km)Spend some time at the water’s edge in Monkey Mia whereyou’ll meet the famous dolphins of Monkey Mia, but besure to get there early as the fi rst feed is usually at 7.30am.Continue your journey south to the popular coastal holidaytown of Kalbarri, located at the mouth of the Murchison Riverand adjacent to the National Park. Kalbarri is an adventurelover’s playground, so why not join one of the many tours onoffer, from horse riding to canoeing. At sunset, take a strollalong the coastal cliff walk trails, where the stunning rockface illuminates in the sinking sun. Overnight: KalbarriDay 4:Kalbarri - Perth (Approx 577km)Spend the morning exploring the spectacular KalbarriNational Park by hiking, canoeing, abseiling, quad biking orjust simply enjoying the spectacular views from key lookoutpoints. Depart Kalbarri early afternoon and head south viaGeraldton to Cervantes. Enjoy the majesty of the Pinnacles,located in the Nambung National Park, and perhaps stopfor a swim at nearby Hangover Bay, before continuing southalong the newly completed Indian Ocean Drive to Perth.11 Day Ultimate Road TripDay 1:Perth - Geraldton (Approx 415km)Travel north along the Indian Ocean Drive (continuesnorth from Wanneroo Road), through the coastal townsof Cervantes, Dongara, Port Denison and the CentralGreenough Historic Settlement - a charming National Trustvillage. First stop is Cervantes and the unique PinnaclesDesert. Continue along the Indian Ocean Drive to Geraldton,where you’ll sample some of the freshest seafood in WA.Overnight: GeraldtonDay 2:Geraldton - Carnarvon (Approx 480km)This morning visit the impressive HMAS II Memorial providingsweeping views across Geraldton and the Indian Ocean.Continue north to the tropical fruit town of Carnarvon, apopular holiday spot for those chasing the sun in winter.Explore and sample the abundant fresh produce along theGascoyne Food Trail, particularly the delicious Carnarvonbananas. Take an evening stroll along The Fascine(Carnarvon’s central waterway), taking in the magnifi centsunset views before heading out for a locally caught seafoodmeal. Overnight: CarnarvonDay 3:Carnarvon - Exmouth (Approx 370km)As you head north out of Carnarvon, be sure to stop at theBlowholes, where the sea water sprays metres into the air.Travel north to Exmouth where the nearby pristine NingalooReef awaits just metres from the shore. Take a swim in theafternoon, or join a glass bottom boat tour to see the amazingcoral gardens beneath the water. Marine enthusiasts maywant to join a night dive or explore the amazing underwatergardens of the Navy Pier. Overnight: ExmouthDay 4:ExmouthTake a boat cruise or spend the day snorkelling on thereef. From late March to early July you can swim withthe world’s largest fi sh, the whale shark. Surfers cancatch a wave at Dunes Beach and also at ‘The Bomb’.Nearby Cape Range National Park offers sceneryof deep canyons, limestone ranges and spectaculargorges. Before heading back to Exmouth, pick up somefresh prawns from the factory (in season), and catch theunforgettable sunset from Vlamingh Head Lighthouse onthe west side of the cape. Overnight: ExmouthDay 5:Exmouth - <strong>Coral</strong> Bay (Approx 150km)Depart Exmouth early for your drive to <strong>Coral</strong> Bay. Here, themain beach is a snorkeller’s paradise with calm, protectedwaters and hundreds of fi sh and coral species just metresfrom the shore. To explore further out, take a glass-bottomboat trip or join a snorkelling tour. Overnight: <strong>Coral</strong> BayDay 6:<strong>Coral</strong> BayStay another day in <strong>Coral</strong> Bay for more swimming andsnorkelling or throw in a line for some beach fi shing.Fishing safaris head out to sea regularly, and adventuroustypes can join a scuba diving trip, a manta ray tour orswim with the mighty whale sharks (between March andJuly annually). When it’s time to dry off, take a 4WD alongthe coast or hire a quad bike for some rugged adventure.Overnight: <strong>Coral</strong> BayDay 7:<strong>Coral</strong> Bay - Shark Bay (Approx 590km)Head south along the North West <strong>Coast</strong>al Highway toShark Bay. Take in the interpretive signage of the Shark BayWorld Heritage Drive, visiting the stromatolites of HamelinPool and Shell Beach, made entirely of millions of tinyshells. Visit the cliff top lookout at Eagle Bluff for superbocean views. Enjoy a drink on the foreshore and watch amagical sunset over the ocean. Overnight: DenhamDay 8:Shark BaySpend some time at the Monkey Mia foreshore earlythis morning where you’ll meet the famous MonkeyMia dolphins. In the afternoon enjoy the resort facilitiesat Monkey Mia or take one of the many tours on offerthroughout the region. Unwind on a sunset sailing cruisebefore ending your day wining and dining on the shores ofMonkey Mia. Overnight: Monkey MiaDay 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 themagnifi cent Murchison River gorges of Kalbarri NationalPark, enjoy a fi shing tour, river cruise or spend your dayrelaxing and taking in the sights of this unique coastline.Overnight: KalbarriDay 10:KalbarriToday join a tour and enjoy some of the action packedactivities on offer, from abseiling and quad biking tosandboarding or canoeing. Relax under the stars at thepopular outdoor cinema to watch one of the latest releasemovies. Overnight: KalbarriDay 11:Kalbarri - Perth (Approx 590km)Check out the stunning views from the nearby coastalgorges before heading south towards Perth. Be sure tostop in for a photo at the stunning pink lake just south ofKalbarri before rejoining the Brand Highway to Perth.australiascoralcoast.com | Page 11


Donkey OrchidWildflower walk in MullewaSuggested Wildflower ItinerariesThe Everlasting TrailDuration: 3 days minimumHighlights: Kangaroo Paw varieties at BadgingarraNational Park, a myriad of orchids at Lesueur National Park,Mullewa’s wreath fl ower, fi elds of colourful everlastings atCoalseam Conservation Park.Base yourself: In and around Cervantes, Jurien Bay,Dongara–Denison and Geraldton-Greenough.Day 1:Depart Perth and head north along the new IndianOcean Drive and turn off to the Nambung National Parkand the Pinnacles. Here Tuart woodlands fi ll the valleysbetween vast areas of heath, acacia and myrtle, banksiasand casuarinas. Head east from Cervantes towardsBrand Highway and wander through the two-kilometreBadgingarra Nature Trail, promising to show off some of theseason’s best wildfl ower displays including smoke bush,purple star fl ower, yellow buttercups, banksias, black,red and green kangaroo paws, one-sided bottlebrush,melaleucas and feather fl owers in a rainbow of colours.Further north is Coomallo Nature Reserve, home to morethan 200 wildfl ower species and just a short drive fromCoorow, renowned for spectacular displays of dryandra.Day 2:Just east of Green Head is the Lesueur National Park.Lesueur is widely renowned for its incredible fl oral diversity,featuring more than 800 species, many of which are notfound anywhere else in the world. The National Parkrepresents approximately ten per cent of the State’s knownfl ora. Cockleshell Gully Road provides great views of theLesueur National Park and is best suited to four-wheeldrives. Alternatively, you can view many of the speciesalong the highway between Eneabba and Dongara, inparticular many varieties of banksias including the propellerbanksias, meganta starfl ower, smoke bush, verticordias,hakeas, gravilleas and leschenaultias.Day 3:Head inland to Mullewa and explore the eight surroundingEverlasting Cultural Trails, rich with blooming fl ora andhistory. On the Wildfl ower Walk, everlastings carpetthe ground with pink, white and yellow fl owers. Mullewaand nearby towns Mingenew, Three Springs andCarnamah also offer spectacular displays of the wreathfl ower, considered the only place in the world to viewthem. Nearby, the wildfl ower hotspot of the CoalseamConservation Park is often carpeted in stunning white, pinkand yellow everlastings as far as the eye can see duringwildfl ower season. Enjoy the picturesque rural drive backto Perth along the Great Northern Highway.The North West TrailDuration: 5 days minimumHighlights: The beautifully diverse Kalbarri NationalPark, Shark Bay daisies in and around colourful FrancoisNational Park and the Kennedy Range National Park.Base yourself: In and around Kalbarri, Shark Bay andCarnarvon.Day 1:Head north towards Geraldton, past Dongara/Denison andthe historically rich Central Greenough Historic Settlement.Colourful wildfl owers of many varieties can be seen onroadside areas along this drive. Take the detour just northof Geraldton into the Chapman Valley where wildfl owersabound on the road side and gourmet delights will enticeyou to stay a while in the region and explore. Travel alongthe coast to Kalbarri.Day 2:Drive to the nearby Kalbarri National Park, home tobreathtaking coastal cliffs and deep river gorges thatcontrast with endless sand plains. The National Park hasroughly 800 species of native fl ora, many of which areendemic species, including the Kalbarri spider orchid. Backnear Kalbarri, take a stroll around the Kalbarri Wildfl owerCentre where a 1.8-kilometre walk trail has interpretivesignage about the native fl ora.Day 3Head north to Shark Bay, home to the friendly dophins ofMonkey Mia. Visit Francois Peron National Park, where thecontrasting colours of the scenery range from deep redsto ocean blues and are as vivid as the wildfl owers. Thosetravelling north of the Peron Homestad will require a fourwheel drive vehicle. Alternatively, join a tour of the NationalPark from Denham or Monkey Mia. The Shark Bay Daisy,wattles, Dampiera and purple peas are commonly foundin this area.Day 4:The drive to Carnarvon will reward you with outstandingwildfl ower displays of parakeelya, purple vetch, northernbluebells and seasonal everlastings. Consider headingeast to the Kennedy Range National Park. Along the driveyou’ll fi nd roadside displays of wildfl owers. The KennedyRange National Park is home to more than 80 species ofannual wildfl owers. Only accessible by four wheel drive.Days 5:From Kennedy Range National Park head further east toMount Augustus, the world’s largest rock. Alternativelyhead south via colourful displays of everlastings aroundMullewa, before passing through <strong>Australia</strong>’s only monastictown, New Norcia on your way back to Perth.Cape Range TrailDuration: 3 days minimumHighlights: The grandiose Cape Range National Park, itsunique brilliant red sturt desert pea and <strong>Australia</strong>’s largestfringing reef, the Ningaloo Marine Park.Base yourself: In and around Carnarvon and theNingaloo Reef region including <strong>Coral</strong> Bay, Exmouth andnearby station stays.Day 1:North of Carnarvon at Minilya, the riverbanks offer theshade of river gums and coolibahs. On the sand dunesyou’ll fi nd grevilleas, hakeas and banksias while wattlescap the ridges. The 11-kilometre side trip to <strong>Coral</strong> Bay iswell worth the trip to witness the unspoilt, natural beautyof the pristine Ningaloo Marine Park. Here the reef startsjust metres from the shore, making it accessible for allages. The fl at plains area between Minilya and LyndonRiver are good for spotting the the Minilya lily. Off BurkettRoad, station stays and tours make a great overnight stop.The autumn rains generally produce abundant colourfulmasses of wildfl owers in the area’s fertile red soil.Day 2:Continue your journey north toward Exmouth where thecoastal plain of the Exmouth Gulf is a predominately wattleshrubland interspersed with occasional stands of malleenear dry creek beds. Bright red yulbah fl owers are visiblein summer while in winter there’s the golden hue of springwattles, often infused with purple mulla mulla. You’ll fi ndparticularly scenic wildfl ower viewing areas within the CapeRange National Park. Displays are generally best at ManduMandu Gorge, Shothole Canyon, Charles Knife Canyonand Yardie Creek Gorge. Head to the Milyering VisitorCentre for more wildfl ower information or take a scenic rivercruise on Yardie Creek.Day 3:The Cape Range National Park covers 50,581 hectaresof stunning limestone ranges, deep rugged canyons and50 kilometres of pristine beach. It harbours more than100 species of land birds, native marsupials and around630 species of fl owering plants. Look out for the brilliantred sturt desert pea, which fl owers in late winter. The redcentred sturt desert pea is one of 12 endemic speciesthat grow in the park. Other fl owering plants include thepretty purple mulla mullas, wattles, everlastings, nativefushias, fanfl owers, Minilya lily, a shrubland of CapeRange kurrajongs and dampier. Adjacent to the land is theNingaloo Reef. Over 500 species of fi sh and 250 species ofcoral inhabit the Marine Park just off the coast, with someareas of reef just metres from the shore.australiascoralcoast.com | Page 13


While you’re booking your bed,we’re checking for ticks.Get therefaster......on the new,scenic IndianOcean DriveWe make sure that when you travel, yourchoice of accommodation meets the higheststandards of service and professionalism.We check licences, practices, insurances andsystems, and if they meet the standard, theyearn the tick.So whether you’re choosing accommodation,tours or activities, look for the tick and you’llknow that we’ve checked them out beforeyou check in!Cervantes andJurien Bay are nowhalf an hour closerto Perth.For more information contactTourism Council WA or visittrustthetick.com.auFind out how to fill your days ataustraliascoralcoast.com2169Page 14 | australiascoralcoast.com


One call books it all...With so much to do and see in <strong>Australia</strong>’s <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Coast</strong>,it helps to speak to a team with the experience torecommend a holiday to suit your individual needs.Broome & The Kimberley Holidays are proudly<strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong>n owned and operated, plus we’reas passionate about the <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Coast</strong> as we are of ourwhole state! Whether it’s swimming with whale sharks,exploring the magnificent gorges of Kalbarri or feedinga Monkey Mia dolphin, we can do it all in just one call.Broome &The KimberleyHolidaysBE INSPIRED BY OUR EXPERIENCECall Broome & The Kimberley Holidays on1300 245 565Or visit www.broomekimberley.com.auABN 37 053 109 185 Licence No. 9TA00613DRIVE YOUR DOLLAR FURTHER IN THE CORAL COAST0413 Cars, Buses & 4WD’s Latest Model Fleet One Way Rentals 24hr Roadside Assist 13 27 27Toll Free: 1300 305 888www.budget.com.au reservations@budgetwa.com.auCARNARVON - EXMOUTH - GERALDTON - LEARMONTH24522165Caravan Industry Association WADiscover the<strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Coast</strong>from a differentperspectiveDiscover WA your WAY!Caravan Parks in <strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong> are located near or in the state’s most beautifulattractions. 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 WAPO Box 721Balcatta WA 6914Ph: +61 8 9240 8208Fax: +61 8 9240 6291Email: info@caravanwa.com.auWeb: www.caravanwa.com.auFor suggested travelling routes exploreaustraliascoralcoast.comaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 15


CervantesPERTHThe Pinnacles Desert, Nambung National ParkCervantesCervantes is the gateway to the magical Pinnacles Desert at Nambung NationalPark. Great for a family getaway, Cervantes is perfect for kicking back andrelaxing. With a wonderful parade of wildfl owers in season at Nambung NationalPark, the area caters for a wide range of interests.The new Indian Ocean DriveDid you know?The township was named after thewhaling ship, Cervantes, which waswrecked on the coast in 1844.InformationPopulation:503Distance from Perth:200kmPinnacles Visitor CentreCadiz Street Cervantes WA 6516Tel: 1800 610 660visitpinnaclescountry.com.auPage 16 | australiascoralcoast.comPinnacles DesertCervantes is the gateway to the worldfamous Pinnacles in the NambungNational Park. These amazing limestonestructures were created from ancientshells – remnants of another epochrich in marine life. Over the millennia,natural processes have combined toremove surrounding material to resultin the limestone pinnacles jutting outfrom their surrounds today. Such is theirunusual nature that the Pinnacles appearotherworldly. In fact, Dutch sailors who fi rstsighted the area in the mid 1650’s mistookthe Pinnacles for ruins of an ancientcivilisation. Take the drive yourself or joina tour from Cervantes. The Pinnacles area particularly stunning sight in the glow ofthe setting sun. The road into the NationalPark is sealed, and there is a car park inclose proximity to the Pinnacles. Take astroll through the Pinnacles or opt to stayin your car and drive around the fourkilometredesignated drive trail. HangoverBay, located inside the National Parkis a beautiful bay and a must see for allvisitors. The clear blue water is great for arefreshing swim, and sometimes you caneven catch a wave off the breakers.Desert Discovery CentreThe Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre,located in the Nambung National Park,houses interpretive information aboutthe fl ora and fauna of the surroundingregion - as well as information on otherNational Parks, nature reserves and aretail outlet offering a range of locallymade gifts. The centre situated close tothe Pinnacles, with a short walk way tothe Pinnacles View lookout. The buildinghas been created in a sustainable andenvironmentally sensitive manner. Opendaily from 9.30am to 4.30pm. ClosedChristmas day.Indian Ocean DriveThe brand new Indian Ocean Drive isnow open, shaving approximately halfan hour off your trip north between Perthand Cervantes. Stunning coastal vistaswelcome you to the <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Coast</strong> region.After exploring the Pinnacles Desert andCervantes’ surrounding attractions, whynot consider taking the beautiful coastalroute linking Cervantes to Geraldton andstop on route at the quaint fi shing townsof Jurien Bay, Green Head, Leeman andDongara/Port Denison.


Emu Downs Wind FarmThis wind farm provides a fantasticspectacle with 48 massive turbinesextending almost 120 metres into the airwhen the blades are at their highest point.An informative display depicts staggeringfacts on wind and renewable energysources. View the turbines and displaysfrom the car park on Bibby Road, 30kilometres east of Cervantes.Wildflowers & WildlifeMade up of 17,000 hectares of coastalheathland, the Nambung National Park,is home to a wide variety of native plantand animal species. Such is the diversityof these species, that it created a richhabitat for the area’s Indigenous peoplewho referred to the land as “Kwongan”.The richness of the area becomes evenmore apparent in late winter and spring(July, August and September), as coastalwildfl owers burst into life. Kangaroo Point,located in the Nambung National Park isone of the best wildfl ower viewing areas.Molah Hill LookoutLocated half way between Cervantes andJurien Bay, Molah Hill offers uninterruptedviews of the surrounding region. A path leadsyou up to the lookout, where to the east youcan spot the distinctive Mount Lesueur andthe wind farm. Looking west you can watchthe sun set over the beautiful Indian Ocean.FishingIf you love to fi sh, you’ll love Cervantes.Hangover Bay and Kangaroo Pointrenowned for an abundance of fi sh.Thirsty Point, CervantesIndian Ocean Rock Lobster<strong>Western</strong> Rock Lobster provide a lucrativeindustry for the coastal towns betweenCervantes and Kalbarri. BetweenNovember and June crayfi h boats headout to sea and return loaded with theirbounty for processing. In Cervantes, astroll past the jetties will take you to theIndian Ocean Rock Lobster Factory. Takea tour of the factory and learn how thelobster is processed, and be sure to pickup some delicious seafood to take awayor stop for a bite to eat in the outdoorpicnic area.Lake Thetis & StromatolitesLocated two kilometres south eastof Cervantes, is one of only fi ve sitesin <strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong> that featuresstromatolites. Growing in the lake, they aremade up of the oldest known organismson earth. Some fossil remains have beendated as old as 3.6 billion years! Enjoy thefantastic 1.5 kilometre walking trail withinterpretive signage.Lookouts & Walking TrailsStunning views of the ocean and naturalenvironment are offered at many lookoutsin and around Cervantes. The lookout atHansen Bay, one kilometre south of townprovides a magic view of the bay, LakeThetis and the Cervantes townsite. For adifferent perspective of the bay and theislands, try the Thirsty Point or Molah HillLookout. Thirsty Point was given its nameduring the war when the coastline wasguarded by the army and there was nodrinking water to be found.The Pinnacles DesertPurchase fresh seafood in CervantesPinnacles Desert Discovery CentreThirsty Point Lookoutaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 17


Cervantes Pinnacles Motel0425Pinnacles Caravan ParkUnder 2 hours scenic drive from Perth along the newIndian Ocean Drive, discover our pristine coastline in theheart of wildflower country.• Comfortable affordable rooms• Standard, self contained & family options available• Fully Licensed Restaurant open 7 days a week• Swimming Pool • BBQs • Ample ParkingCervantes Pinnacles Motel7 Aragon StreetCervantes WA 6511Ph: +61 8 9652 7145Fax: +61 8 9652 7214Email reservations.pinnacles@bigpond.com 2329Only minutes from the Nambung National Park & The PinnaclesThe Pinnacles Caravan Park in Cervantes, WA, boasts ideal beach-front holidayaccommodation and camping. The closest park to the Pinnacles!With shady sites, room to move and a family friendly and pet friendly atmosphere we are thepark of choice for many travellers.While visiting the park you can also take advantage of fantastic coffee and refreshments atSeashells Cafe. Located at the entrance to the park and overlooking the beach our cafe offersbreakfasts, lunches and yummy treats not to mention giftware and shell displays.Pinnacles Caravan Park35 Aragon StreetCervantes WA 6511Ph: +61 8 9652 7060Email: pinnaclespark@bigpond.comWeb: www.pinnaclespark.com.au0000Pinnacles Edge ResortTurquoise <strong>Coast</strong> Enviro ToursLuxury Spa Suite or Studio getaways under 2 hours scenic drivefrom Perth along the new Indian Ocean DriveGuests 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 toguests who appreciate stylish simplicity and modern functionality.THE PINNACLES UP CLOSE AND PERSONALFull Day or Pinnacle Tours... Your Choice!With 20 years experience as a National Park Ranger, owner/operator Mike Newton,can show you the best of this unspoiled piece of WA.Turquoise <strong>Coast</strong> Enviro ToursPinnacles Edge Resort7 Aragon StreetCervantes WA 6511Ph: +61 8 9652 7788Fax: +61 8 9652 7214Email reservations.pinnacles@bigpond.com 246259 Seville StreetCervantes WA 6511Ph: +61 8 9652 7047Fax: +61 8 9652 7531Email: miken@wn.com.auWeb: www.thepinnacles.com.au01200301Cervantes Pinnacles Holiday Units0049Cervantes Lodge & Pinnacle Beach BackpackersAffordable Self Contained UnitsOffering the closest accommodation to the Pinnacles. Spacious, comfortable 1, 2 & 3bedroom units.Weekly and overnight stays welcome. Centrally located, walking distance to shops andbeach.Cervantes Holiday HomesCnr Malaga Court & Valencia RoadCervantes WA 6511Ph: +61 8 9652 7115Email: enquiries@cervantesholidayhomes.com.auWeb: www.cervantesholidayhomes.com.auWA TourismHall ofFame.Cervantes Lodge &Pinnacle Beach BackpackersCervantes WA 6511Freecall: 1800 245 232Ph: +61 8 9652 7377Email: pbb@wn.com.auWeb: www.cervanteslodge.com.auPage 18 | australiascoralcoast.com


DandaraganNative flora, DandaraganPERTHDandaraganDandaragan district boasts lush pastures and abundant crops produced fromthe fertile farming land. It also has a beautiful year round wildfl ower viewing areawith most species fl owering in the spring months.St Anne’s ChurchThis charming Anglican Church,constructed between 1885 and 1887has an interesting gothic arch for its entryand is made from local soap stone from“Kayanaba”, a nearby property. Thisstone was soft when fi rst quarried, so theblocks could be easily sawn into shape.Hardening occurred after contact with theair. The church is open to the public.Wolba Wolba orAggie’s CottageSituated on the Badgingarra Road onlyseven kilometres from Dandaragan, thisbrick and stone cottage was erected in1871 and is still used today by local craftand historical groups. Only 50 metresaway is a fresh water lake with manydifferent species of water birds.Historic Post OfficeAlso made from local stone, the historicpost and telegraph offi ce opened forbusiness in 1896. Although no longeropen to the general public, it is anattractive sight from the road.The Dandaragan WayA wonderful scenic tourist drive of runningcreeks, rolling hills, historic buildings,marri trees and fl ocks of white corellasand cockatoos, the Dandaragan Way isa recommended, alternative scenic driveto the Brand Highway from Regan’s Fordthrough Dandaragan to Badgingarra.Regan’s FordA pleasant shady picnic spot on thebanks of the Moore River located just offBrand Highway. The site of an old stonecrossing constructed in 1876, the WindmillRoadhouse is situated 300 metres northwest of the bridge.WildflowersCharacteristic red and white gum treesand a spectacular array of wildfl owersattract people between September andOctober annually. Temperatures start torise but the soil is still damp from winterrain. Why not visit a wildfl ower farm whilein the area, or join an organised tour fromPerth?St Anne’s ChurchDid you know?The name comes from DandaraSpring, which was so named in 1849by explorer Augustus Charles Gregory.InformationPopulation:657Distance from Perth:168kmShire of DandaraganBashford Street, Jurien Bay WA 6516Tel: +61 8 9652 0800dandaragan.wa.gov.auaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 19


###BadgingarraPERTHBadgingarra farmlandBadgingarraBadgingarra, just east of the Brand Highway, sits at the edge of the BadgingarraNational Park, which showcases amazing fl ora during wildfl ower season.Badgingarra is renowned for its incredibly diverse bushland and becomes ablazewith the brilliant colours of wildfl owers during spring.Did you know?InformationPanizza sculpturesBadgingarra is an Aboriginal word.‘Badgin’ means ‘manna gum’ and‘garra’ means ‘water’.Population:249Distance from Perth:205kmShire of DandaraganBashford Street, Jurien Bay WA 6516Tel: +61 8 9652 0800dandaragan.wa.gov.auPage 20 | australiascoralcoast.comBadgingarra National ParkThe National Park, 13,121 hectaresin its entirety, has been set aside forthe preservation of many species ofwildfl owers including the black kangaroopaw (the Badgingarra emblem) which isfound in this vicinity. It is also home tonumerous reptiles, emus, kangaroos anda variety of bird life including bustards andthe majestic wedge tail eagles.National Park WalkA stimulating two kilometre walk trailhas been established on the westernside of the Brand Highway. Brochurescan be obtained from the BadgingarraRoadhouse. The walk is over ruggedterrain, featuring a steep hill with alookout so a reasonable level of healthand fi tness is required. Allow one anda half hours for the walk, leaving yourcar at the service station car park andpicking up a Department of Environmentand Conservation (DEC) booklet beforeyou start. For further informationcontact the DEC Offi ce in Cervantes on+61 8 9652 7043 or the Pinnacles VisitorCentre on 1800 610 660.Vern Westbrook WalkOn the North West Road, between theoriginal Badgingarra town site and thenew town centre, is a one and a halfkilometre heritage and circular wildfl owerwalk. Explore the banks along Hill Riverand follow the footsteps of cattle droversof a century past. The vegetation changesevery time you cross one of the littlebridges over the river.Lang LookoutTake in expansive vistas of red earth andgreen rolling pastures from this elevatedsite on Watheroo West Road. A largerock at the lookout commemorates localfarmer George Elliot Lang, credited forthe introduction of modern-day farmingtechniques in the area.Panizza SculpturesNot wanting to waste good metal whenteaching his children to weld, Mr Panizzauses scrap metals and together with hischildren has made numerous sculpturesthat you can see dotted over his property.


###Jurien BayJurien Bay JettyPERTHJurien BayJurien Bay is a blissfully relaxed fi shing town and with a National Park to theeast and a Marine Park just offshore, adventure is never far away. With perfectweather conditions for swimming, windsurfi ng, surfi ng, boating and diving,Jurien Bay is a water lover’s paradise.Lesueur National ParkThis 26,987 hectare park is home toexceptionally diverse fl ora and is specialfor many reasons. The park is hometo almost 900 species, including manyplants found nowhere else in the world.This biodiverse hotspot representsapproximately ten per cent of the State’sknown fl ora. The best time to visit is inspring, but there are fl owers blooming allyear round. Enjoy driving tracks, walkingtrails and picnic areas with inland views, amust during wildfl ower season. You mayalso like to try your luck fi shing at IslandPoint. Tours to Lesueur National Park areavailable from Cervantes.Sea LionsApproximately 20 per cent of the <strong>Western</strong><strong>Australia</strong>n population of sea lions live andbreed around Jurien Bay and the islandsin the Jurien Bay Marine Park. Watch themlazing on sandy beaches or ducking anddiving through the water. The best way tointeract with these captivating creatures ison a charter boat tour with a governmentregistered guide which departs fromCervantes.Jurien Bay Marine ParkThe Jurien Bay Marine Park is shelteredby a string of islands and reefs that makethe surrounding ocean perfect for marineactivities. The Marine Park was createdto protect a unique mix of tropical andtemperate species. As well as sea lions,the Jurien Bay Marine Park is also asignifi cant seabird breeding area and you’lloften see whales migrating each yearalong the coast. Join a fi shing charter orget up close and personal on a tour visitingcheeky seals, sea lions, dolphins andwhales. To help you make the most of yourmarine experience, around 100 interpretivesigns are on display throughout thepark, explaining accepted and prohibitedactivities, as well as providing informationabout the area’s ecological values.Jurien Bay MarinaTake a stroll past the Jurien Bay Marinaand greet the fi sherman as they returnwith their daily catch. The marina has anexcellent concrete boat ramp, a protectedchildren’s beach, toilets and a shower.Walking trails extend north and south ofthe bay.Jurien Bay MarinaDid you know?The bay was named in 1801 byFrench naval explorer, Nicholas Baudinin honour of Charles Jurien, an offi cerin the French Navy.InformationPopulation:1,472Distance from Perth:220kmJurien Bay TouristInformationBashford Street, Jurien Bay WA 6516Tel: +61 8 9652 0800dandaragan.wa.gov.auaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 21


2496Skydive Jurien BayProfessionals Jurien Bayview Realty0444<strong>Australia</strong>’s Most Beautiful Beach SkydiveSurprise yourself with the most unforgettable experience of your life!Land on the beach at the beautiful Jurien BayHoliday AccommodationLargest range in Jurien Bay frombudget to executive apartments& family homes.To book phone +61 8 9652 2055 orvisit our website for availabilitySkydive Jurien Bay36B Bashford St, (behind Lesueur’s Cafe)Jurien Bay WA 6516Ph: +61 8 9652 1320Email: jump@skydivejurienbay.comWeb: www.skydivejurienbay.comwww.jurienbayholidays.comProfessionals Jurien Bayview Realty34 Bashford Street Jurien Bay WA 6516Sales & Rentals: www.jurienbay.comJurien ChartersJurien Bay Tourist Park00700161Be Touched by nature• Try Scuba dives • Dive Charter • Self drive boat hireWe 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<strong>Australia</strong>n Sealions.• Excellent Fishing• Warm Climate• Barbecue Facilities• Al Fresco CafeClose to beautiful swimming / fishing beaches,20 minutes from the famous Pinnacles.• Jumping Pillow• Laundry• Excellent Rates• Flat Screen TV’s• Walking Distance to allAmenities• Close to new Marina• Only 190km North of PerthJurien Charters3 Dorcas Drive, Jurien MarinaJurien Bay WA 6516Ph: +61 8 9652 1109Email: sealions@juriencharters.comWeb: www.juriencharters.com0070Jurien Bay Tourist ParkRobert Street, PO Box 303Jurien Bay WA 6516Ph: +61 8 9652 1595Ph: 1800 119 239Fax: +61 8 9652 2724Email: stay@jurienbaytouristpark.com.auLuxury ChaletsSpa & Disabled ChaletsShaded and PoweredCaravans SitesCampingRelax,stay awhile…Discover ways to unwind at australiascoralcoast.comPage 22 | australiascoralcoast.com


Green HeadDynamite BayPERTHGreen HeadSituated on a headland, Green Head’s bays of white sandy beaches are greatfor swimming and snorkelling. Offshore islands and reefs are perfect for fi shingand scuba diving and inland areas are awash with wildfl owers during spring.Sea LionsFisherman’s Island, south of Green Head isa breeding colony and home to one of thelargest population of sea lions in <strong>Western</strong><strong>Australia</strong>. You will spot these captivatingcreatures lazing in the sun on the beach.Fisherman’s Island also boasts a variety ofseabird colonies, Osprey and their nestsbeing just one of them. Sea Lion chartersdepart from Green Head out to the islandwith a government registered guide.Water SportsGreen Head is a water lover’s paradise withprotected bays for families and ideal weatherconditions for the more adventurous atheart. Surfers can enjoy a good reef breakat Point Louise and excellent wind surfi ngconditions when the breeze comes in.There’s also a good chance you’ll be ableto catch your lunch fi shing off the jettyor beach or by taking a charter tour. Aprotected concrete boat ramp is availableby the main jetty and another in South Bay.Divers will enjoy a diverse array of northerntropical species, mixed with temperatewater species of sea life.Dynamite & South BaysThese secluded little bays offer peacefulretreats for people wanting to getaway from the hustle and bustle ofcity life. Dynamite Bay forms almost aperfect circle and offers safe protectedswimming. South Bay is a long crescentshaped beach, ideal for those who likethe solitude of walking along a desertedbeach.Mount Lesueur National ParkThe Mount Lesueur National Parkshowcases the central west’s wildfl owersand native fauna. Situated east of GreenHead, Mount Lesueur National Park isone of the most diverse fl oral areas inthe world. Dramatic land forms havebeen created by the Lesueur Fault andCockleshell Gully formation. There is an18 kilometre bitumen loop road providinga scenic look throughout the park. Coalcan be found on the surface in someareas. Fires are not permitted within thepark, and care should be taken not tospread jarrah dieback.<strong>Australia</strong>n sea lionsDid you know?There are three Aboriginal middenssituated on the headland, once usedby the Yued people.InformationPopulation:300Distance from Perth:250kmShire of CoorowTourist InformationLeeman Administration Centre20 Morcombe Rd, Leeman WA 6514Tel: +61 8 9953 1388coorow.wa.gov.auaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 23


LeemanPERTHTee tree lookout, LeemanLeemanLeeman boasts turquoise waters, white sandy beaches and offshore islandsharbouring a great diversity of marine life. The coastline caters for an array ofwater activities while the township supports a fi shing fl eet, which traverse thebountiful oceans in search of western rock lobster.Stockyard Gully CaveDid you know?Leeman records some of WA’sstrongest summer winds which makesthe area great for windsurfi ng.InformationPopulation:539Distance from Perth:260kmShire of CoorowTourist InformationLeeman Administration Centre20 Morcombe Rd, Leeman WA 6514Tel: +61 8 9953 1388coorow.wa.gov.auPage 24 | australiascoralcoast.comWindsurfingLeeman is a windsurfi ng Meccawith strong summer winds providingexcellent conditions. Some of the bestin the business are attracted to thelocal windsurfi ng tournament held eachsummer. Contact the Shire of Coorow forfurther details. The conditions are alsogreat for sailing.Stockyard Gully National ParkCockleshell Gully Road leads you to theStockyard Gully Reserve, 20 kilometresinland of Leeman. Accessible by fourwheel drive only, be sure to take yourtorch and explore the fascinating,ancient belowground river system of theStockyard Gully Caves or join a tour fromGreen Head or Cervantes. The cavesform part of the Old North Stock Route,once used by stockmen to drive theirstock from Walkaway in the north to NorthBeach in the south. As the caves form anatural ravine, livestock could be kept onovernight stops. Caution is required whenvisiting the caves, particularly after rain asthey are subject to fl ooding.Sea Lions<strong>Australia</strong>n sea lions are among the rarestof the world’s seal species. The waterssurrounding Leeman are renownedfor the signifi cant sea lion populations.It’s not unusual to spot one of thesecaptivating creatures lazing in the sunon the beach. Beagle Island, north ofLeeman, is a breeding colony and hometo the largest population of the <strong>Australia</strong>nSea Lion in <strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong>, estimatedat between 150-250 animals dependingon the breeding cycle.Little Three Springs ReserveLittle Three Springs Reserve is one ofthe last natural watering holes left on theOld North Stock Route with picturesquenatural springs set among the trees.Some of the date palms around thesprings were planted by cameleers whostopped in the area while taking theircamels through to the goldfi elds. Theoasis-like picnic area is a delight to visitand you may even be lucky enough tosee brumbies drinking at its banks.Access is by four wheel drive only.


Thomas StLeeman Caravan ParkLocated amongst seven acres of shady trees and only 30metres from the beach, we offer the perfect location to baseyour shing, windsur ng, snorkelling and diving holiday.We offer a variety of accommodation optionsfrom units to Shady tent and Van sitesFacilities include:• Guest Laundry• Free BBQ’s• Onsite Shop & Fuel• Fish Cleaning Bay• Toddlers PlaygroundLeeman Caravan ParkThomas St Leeman WA 6514Thomas StIndian Ocean DrPhone: (+61 8) 9953 1080Thomas Street Leeman, <strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong> 6514Email: leemancvpk@westnet.com.auWeb: www.leemancaravanpark.com.auaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 252284


CoorowPERTHCoorow HotelCoorowCoorow is a charming inland farming town, whose fi rst settlers raised sheep andhorses. Remnants of the previous farming history still stand around the towntoday, amid beautiful gardens and thriving wildfl owers.Did you know?InformationPopulation:250Distance from Perth:300kmCoorow CommunityResource CentreCnr Main & Bristol StreetCoorow WA 6515Tel: +61 8 9952 1266coorow.crc.net.auTown ParkPre-war local wheat farmer GustavLeibe built The Budapest OperaHouse in Hungary and His Majesty’sTheatre in Perth.Page 26 | australiascoralcoast.comTown ParkSituated on the main street of Coorow isthe delightful Town Park. Spend sometime relaxing in the lovely surrounds,with well tendered gardens, a children’splayground and a rotunda where you canrelax in the shade.Alexander MorrisonNational ParkLocated on the Central West <strong>Coast</strong>Sandplain, just 50 kilometres west ofCoorow, Alexander Morrison NationalPark boasts beautiful wildfl owerdisplays, particularly between Augustand November. The park consists oflow scrub and heath on undulatingsand plain hills, interspersed with rockyoutcrops and small streams cut acrossthe landscape. Tall eucalypts grow alongstream beds making for beautiful, shadypicnic locations. Mallee thickets are alsoquite common throughout the park asare heathland birds and mammals. Noformal camping facilities are providedhowever, discreet camping is possibleafter consultation with the local ranger.Long HomesteadThe Long family were the fi rst to settlein the Coorow area in 1862, creating aliving for themselves by selling livestocksuch as horses and sheep. The ruins oftheir homestead can be seen just outsideCoorow. Be sure to seek permission atthe community resource centre to viewthe homestead, as it is now on privateproperty.Waddi ForestAt nearby Waddi Forest there is apopular picnic spot which was originallyused by passing drovers to rest theirhorses. The forest also once boastedits very own bush ranger, who used towaylay weary travellers and locals fortheir wares and food!Bird WatchingBird watching enthusiasts should take atrip to the Yarra Yarra Lakes, particularlyin spring, when the area is a havenfor migratory bird species. The LakesLookout provides breathtaking views allyear round.


MullewaWildflower Walk, MullewaPERTHMullewaMullewa lies deep in the heart of wildfl ower country and is frequented by peoplewishing to view the best of the region’s dazzling wildfl ower displays. Mullewa isparticularly well known for its carpets of everlastings and the stunning wreathfl ower that blooms between August and October.ImageMonsignor Hawes Heritage TrailCelebrating the enormous contributionarchitect-priest, John Hawes madeto the region, the Monsignor HawesHeritage Trail highlights 15 buildings ofhis design and other sites signifi cant tohis life. Mullewa presents one of the bestexamples of his work, the Church of OurLady of Mount Carmel and St Peter andSt Paul. Considered his crowning glory, ittook seven years to build, with Hawes itsarchitect, stonemason and carpenter.Mullewa Wildflower ShowThis week-long event starting Sunday,28 August at the local town hall bringsthe best of the bush to the town with allthat is fl owering in the region. Visitors canexperience all the locally fl owering plantsin one place. Morning and afternoon teais available, as well as souvenirs for sale.De Grey Stock RouteThis route, fi nishing in Mullewa was fi rstgazetted in 1905. The trail takes in three ofthe southern-most government wells anda natural watering hole, Hughie Rocks.Everlasting Cultural TrailsA total of 8.3 kilometres of walkingtrails surround Mullewa. Explore thebreathtaking hinterland or historicaltownscape of Mullewa, by walking onone of the eight Everlasting CulturalTrails. Wind your way through lowrolling hills, across creek valleys androcky ridges, or traverse the pathsof early settlers, and take time topicture how the town grew from thepassion of the area’s pioneers. The2.3-kilometre Bushland Trail highlightsthe area’s many natural features andprovides panoramic views across theMullewa townsite. The 1.4-kilometre RailHeritage Loop showcases Mullewa’sonce-expansive rail precinct, a hub fortrains travelling between Geraldton andPerth via Morawa, while the Town HeritageWalk allows visitors to experience thehistory of the town and it’s pioneers. The2.82-kilometre Wildfl ower Walk beginsopposite the Mullewa Caravan Parkand showcases the stunning fl ora thatMullewa is renowned for. Be sure to dropinto the Mullewa Community ResourceCentre for your free brochure and mapof the trails.Church of Our Lady of Mount CarmelDid you know?Mullewa and the surrounding area isreportedly the only place in the worldto spot the fascinating wreath fl ower.InformationPopulation:1,200Distance from Perth:452kmMullewa CommunityResource CentreJose Street, Mullewa WA 6630Tel: +61 8 9961 1500mullewatourism.com.auaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 27


Fields of flowersMullewa Wildflower Show at the town hallLocal Indigenous artPage 28 | australiascoralcoast.comMoorheads Local Artist StudioReferred to as Ngyrlu Mulla-Mugah,Meaning: Our Place, Our Home, theMoorheads Local Artist Studio wascreated to give the women of Mullewaa place in which to paint, run programsand facilitate general meetings. The newlyrenovated building displays work by localartists and is also open to the visitingpublic. Visit the Mullewa CommunityResource Centre for opening hours.Mullewa MuralsThe Mullewa townsite is adorned withgiant, colourful murals depicting differentaspects of Mullewa’s history. They includethe ‘Night Raid at Pindar’, ‘Raising Doughon the Farm’, ‘The Old General’ and ‘Endof an Era’. You will see the murals bysimply taking a stroll around the town.Scenic DrivesEnjoy the rolling hills and golden paddockssurrounding Mullewa on a leisurely scenicdrive, where different pastures createa tapestry over the land. Take in theCoalseam Conservation Reserve, en routeto or from the quaint and friendly farmingtown of Mingenew - a must see duringthe wildfl ower season. Murals also coverthe main street of Mingenew and depictscenes of yesteryear. Head to the Depot HillReserve, a great wildfl ower viewing area.The reserve was used as a fi ring range forpractice during World War I and II but nowyou can enjoy a relaxing picnic here withviews of the Irwin River. Pick up a brochuredetailing scenic driving routes from theMullewa Community Resource Centre.Mullewa Wildflower WalkCoalseam Conservation ParkCoalseam Conservation Park, betweenMingenew and Mullewa, is in the heart ofwildfl ower country and is considered oneof the region’s wildfl ower hotspots. Thepark lies between the northern sandplainto the west, where a remarkable varietyof woody heath plants fl ower profuselyduring the wildfl ower season and thearid lands of the Murchison, where winterrains can trigger a late fl owering of winterannuals. Aptly named ‘Coalseam’, thiswell known geological site is where thefi rst coal deposits in <strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong>were discovered by the GregoryBrothers in 1846. Wildfl owers of allvarieties are in abundance here, withcarpets of pink, gold, cream and whiteeverlastings transforming the usuallysparse understorey of wattle scrub duringthe wildfl ower season. Magnifi cent viewsare offered from the lookout over theIrwin River. Picnic and toilet facilities areprovided here making the CoalseamConservation Park a perfect place todiscover one of nature’s most exquisitelandscapes!Butterabby GraveThe Butterabby grave site isrepresentative of many places around<strong>Australia</strong> where confl ict occurred due tothe displacement of Aboriginal peoplefrom their traditional lands through theestablishment of agricultural and pastoralproperties. It is recognised by Aboriginalcommunities through their oral traditionas a site where fi ve of their people wereexecuted, and is listed in the AboriginalHeritage sites register.


Dongara-DenisonPriory HotelPERTHDongara-DenisonThe beautiful Irwin River meanders between the twin towns of Dongara andPort Denison, forming a scenic landmark. This serene backdrop continues alongDongara’s shady Moreton Terrace, which is lined with giant Moreton Bay fi gtrees, providing the perfect place to stop for a coffee.Port Denison MarinaThe Port Denison Marina is home to arock lobster fi shing fl eet. Enjoy the buzzof activity that characterises the marinaby lazing back on the grassed foreshore,which comes complete with barbecues,shady seating areas and a children’splayground.FishingDongara–Denison is best known for itsfresh <strong>Western</strong> Rock Lobster, howeverthe pristine waters are also home to arange of other marine delicacies. Try yourluck at catching favourites such as tailor,silver bream, whiting and mulloway. Themarina’s three jetties offer a great fi shinglocation - especially for the kids.South BeachStroll along the wide white sandy beach,or if you don’t feel like walking, cruisealong South Beach in your car. There arealso plenty of off road tracks to exploreincluding sand dunes, if you have a fourwheel drive.Fishermen’s LookoutThis lookout at Port Denison featuressweeping views of the ocean. Stand onthe boardwalk and watch the waves rollingin over the reef in one direction or lookover the hustle and bustle of the fi shingboat harbour during crayfi sh season. Thelookout also has an obelisk in memory ofsailors lost at sea.Historic BuildingsThe best way of viewing Dongara’scharming historical buildings is on theheritage walk. Purchase a booklet from thevisitor centre and begin your journey backin time. The 1.6-kilometre walk highlights 28heritage buildings. Focal points of the walkinclude the Royal Steam Roller Flour Millbuilt in 1894, the Headmaster’s Residencebuilt in 1888, the old Police Station built in1870 and charming Russ Cottage, built inthe late 1860s.The Drive-InThe drive-in is one of two still operating in<strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong> and shows up to datemovies fortnightly on Saturday evenings.A kiosk is open for dinner and snacks.Port Denison ForeshoreDid you know?The town’s main street, MoretonTerrace, is lined with Moreton Bay fi gtrees which were planted in 1906.InformationPopulation:3,700Distance from Perth:349kmDongara Visitor Centre9 Waldeck St, Dongara WA 6525Tel: +61 8 9927 1404irwin.wa.gov.auaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 29


A cafe at South BeachSouth BeachOld MillFishing off Port DenisonPage 30 | australiascoralcoast.comIrwin District MuseumHoused in the old police station, theIrwin District Museum provides an insightinto the hardships and triumphs of theregion’s pioneers. The building itself wasconstructed in 1870 and served as apolice station, courthouse and jail. Themuseum is open most mornings from10am to 12pm and entry is $2.50.Walking TrailsDongara-Denison offers 12 differentwalking trails, traversing the twin towns’most scenic locations. Stroll the banksof the Irwin River, enjoy incredibleocean views along the Shipwreck Trailcommemorating shipwrecks and mishapsalong the Irwin <strong>Coast</strong>, or step back in timeon the Historic Walk.Priory LodgeThis fi ne historical establishment issprawled just a stone’s throw from theIrwin River. Constructed in 1881 as asingle storey limestone building, it fi rstserved as the Dongara Hotel before beingrun by the Dominican Sisters as a schooland boarding college for 70 years. Visitorscan now enjoy bar and restaurant facilitiesin this heritage building.Blessing of the FleetHeld each year on a Sunday in Novemberis the entertaining and colourful Blessingof the Fleet. The annual event marks thebeginning of rock lobster season and isa celebration to wish the fl eet a bountifulseason. On shore, the local Lions Club hasstalls, activities and entertainment all day.MarketsIrwin River MouthFor the buzz and excitement of a bustlingstreet market, stop in at the DongaraMarkets, held on the fi rst Saturday ofevery month from 9am to 1pm at theDongara Town Park.Gourmet DelightsOlive lovers will pick up some tasty treatsand olive oil products at the local grove.Enjoy a cappuccino in the shade of thehistoric Moreton Bay fi g trees (plantedover 100 years ago) lining MoretonTerrace, the main street of Dongara.Wildlife EncountersThe delightful walks around Dongara andPort Denison provide many opportunitiesto spot a large number of local andmigratory birds that inhabit the region. Fora closer experience, head to a local animalfarm where you can interact with rabbits,chickens and other farm animals. Near toDongara you’ll even have the opportunityto meet some friendly dingoes at a localwildlife park. Contact the Dongara VisitorCentre for more information.SportThe Irwin District Sports Centre, locatedin a spacious complex offers facilitiesfor squash, badminton and basketball,while nearby, tennis players can choosea grass or hard court. The DenisonBowling Club offers superb greens and afriendly relaxed atmosphere. The 18-holeDongara Golf Course offers scenic viewsfrom almost every hole.


Take the trail less travelled...Discover the region’s walking trails and touring routes at australiascoralcoast.comSituated in the heart of Dongara“The hotel now has an international flair which can be experienced through its kitchen. Visitors and localsshould drop into Dongara’s best-kept secret for a hearty and delicious meal.”- Vivienne Ryan – <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Coast</strong> Happenings, Geraldton Newspapers Pty Ltd.Call us on (08) 9927 102312 Moreton Terrace DongaraE: office@dongaramotel.com.au• 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 accesswww.dongaramotel.com.au2622Great food. Great service. Great location.RESTAURANT BAR ENTERTAINMENT FUNCTIONSBest locationin townLock in the co-ordinates for great food, great service and good times @ Southerlys on the Port Denison Marina. Our menu uses fresh producefrom the Irwin region including Dongara Crayfi sh (WA Rock Lobster) fresh from the sea at our door step daily, award winning Mid-WestOlives, famous Dongara Bakery Bread and local Irwin region wines and the freshest seafood direct from Geraldton. Check out our regular liveentertainment on the Mid-West events calendar www.midwestevents.com.auTAB Facilities • Finalists in 2008 & 2009 AHA Awards “Regional Pub of the Year”• Voted AHA Awards “WA’s Best Redeveloped Outdoor Area”Voted <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Coast</strong>’s “Best country pub steak sandwich 2009 & 2010”60 Point Leander Drive, Port Denison P: 08 9927 2207 F: 08 9927 1513 E: southerleys@bigpond.comOpen 7 days a week from 11:30am. Meals served 12.00pm - 2pm. Dinner 6.00pm - 8.30pm.0000 2494australiascoralcoast.com | Page 31


Dongara Tourist Park0000Thalassa Beach House2163Your Retreat on South Beach.• Luxury Ensuite Cabins• Beautiful Ocean Views• Grassed, Shaded & Large Slabbed Sites• Dogs Welcome On Sites• Excellent For Group Bookings• WIFI Internet AccessDongara Tourist Park8 George StPort Denison WA 6525Ph: +61 8 9927 1210Free Call: 1800 052 577Email: stay@dongaratouristpark.com.auWeb: www.dongaratouristpark.com.authalassaBeach HouseAbsolute waterfrontFantastic viewsLuxury Beach house3 Bedrooms – sleeps 10• Fishing• Snorkelling• Surfi ng – wind surfi ng• Bird watchingShort walk to shops & TavernThalassa Beach HouseMob: 0417 966 931Web: www.thalassabeachhouse.com.auOld Mill MotelPort Denison Holiday UnitsIrwin River Vineyard222226782639The Old Mill Motel, Dongara offers 28 comfortable ground fl oor ensuite rooms close to thetown 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. Allrooms have wireless internet access. We are family owned and operated with a licensedrestaurant. Our pool area includes BBQs, solar heated pool and comfortable seating intropical surrounds. At the rear of the property, there is ample off-the-street parking to safelypark trailers, trucks and larger vehicles.Old Mill Motel58 Waldeck StDongara WA 6525Ph: +61 8 9927 1200Email: bevclarke@westnet.com.auWeb: www.dongaraoldmillmotel.com.auOverlooking the Marina.• Reverse cycle air conditioning• Fully equipped, self contained, one andtwo bedroom units with linen provided• Kitchen includes microwave oven andcooker, Sitting Room/Dinette• 60 Metres from the ocean, shoppingcentre, tavern and restaurant• Laundry and BBQ facilitiesPort Denison Holiday Units14 Carnarvon StreetDongara WA 6525Ph: +61 8 9927 1104Boutique Local WineryGrapes grown, hand-picked,pressed and bottled on siteCellar door tasting and salesOpen Friday to Sunday 12-5pmOr by AppointmentWinners of the 2010 <strong>Australia</strong>n SmallWine Makers Show- Bronze MedalIrwin River Vineyard6 Foss RoadIrwin WA 6525Ph: +61 8 9927 5076Email: caesia@westnet.com.auLazy Lobster Units & ChaletsThe Little Starfish Cafe ´Silverdale Olive Orchard26052654Lovely s/c accomm, moderninterior, clean comfyaffordable.Set amongst shady trees, lawn. BBQs.150m to Marina, shops, restaurants, fi shingetc. From $90 p/n. With linen. PensionerDiscount - Stay 7 pay 6 nights.Lazy Lobster Units & Chalets45 Hampton StreetPort Denison WA 6525Ph: +61 8 9927 2177Fax: +61 8 9927 2177Email: lazylobster@westnet.com.auWeb: www.lazylobster.net.au 0292Smack on the Beach.• Open daily (except Tuesdays) all yearround for breakfast and lunch.• Evenings on request• Now featured in the Lonely Planet• Join The Little Starfi sh facebook page• We offset a percentage of our carbonemissionsThe Little Starfish South Beach Cafe´White Tops RoadDongara/Port DenisonPh: 0448 344 215Email: banksiadale@activ8.net.auOpen Friday, Saturday & Sunday(or by appointment) for tastings and salesTucked away, just one kilometre off theBrand Highway some ten kilometres north ofDongara is Silverdale Olive Orchard andOlive Oil Processing Facility. If you aretravelling north for a spot of fi shing, or inlandto enjoy the spring wildfl owers, why notinclude Silverdale in your itinerary?Silverdale Olive Orchard130 Melaleuca RoadDongara WA 6525Ph: +61 8 9927 2674Fax: +61 8 9927 2674Email: silverdale@bordernet.com.auSearch for<strong>Australia</strong>’s <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Coast</strong>Page 32 | australiascoralcoast.com


Geraldton-GreenoughEllendale Pool, GreenoughPERTHGeraldton-GreenoughGeraldton is situated on Champion Bay along the spectacular Batavia <strong>Coast</strong>.Blessed with beautiful beaches and sunny weather, Geraldton is a Mecca forwater based activities, while Greenough features historic charm, uncrowdedbeaches and a beautiful river.GreenoughLeaning TreesYou’ll spot an interesting sight as youdrive along the Brand Highway throughGreenough. Here, prevailing southerlywinds have forced the trees to growhorizontally rather than upwards and theobscure sight has become something ofan icon for the region. Look out for thetwo rest areas on the Brand Highway forphoto opportunities of one of the mosthorizontal trees along the Greenoughfl ats.Greenough River Nature TrailThis scenic river meanders 250 kilometresthrough the countryside to meet theocean at Cape Burney. It’s a haven foran amazing range of birds, from elegantegrets and herons to the majestic osprey.Bird watchers won’t be disappointed!Fishermen frequent both the river andthe nearby beach to catch bream, tailorand mulloway. One of the best ways toexperience the Greenough River is bywalking or cycling the Greenough RiverNature Trail or joining the local rowingclub for a row upstream.Central GreenoughHistoric SettlementStep back in time by strolling through11 beautifully restored stone characterbuildings, remnants of a once thrivingcommunity of 19th century pioneers. ThisNational Trust treasure is surrounded byfarm land and includes a café and visitorinformation centre. The Central GreenoughHistoric Settlement is open daily from9.00am to 5.00pm (public holidays from10.00am to 4.00pm, closed Christmasday), just a 20-minute drive south ofGeraldton. Self guided tour booklets areavailable. Other charming historic buildingsdot Central Greenough and its surroundingareas. Highlights include Clinch’s Mill,Gray’s Store, Convict Bridge and WesleyChurch. Call in for a drink at the historicHampton Arms Inn, built in 1864 andbrowse through their impressive collectionof out of print books and the antique shop.Ellendale PoolThis scenic watering hole is the ideal picniclocation and is great for bird watching andphotography. Giant gums and rocky cliffssurround the pool. Barbecue and campingfacilities are on offer for a small fee.Did you know?InformationLeaning treeThe HMAS Sydney II Memorial wasrecently declared <strong>Australia</strong>’s secondnational memorial by the PrimeMinister.Population:37,000Distance from Perth:415kmGeraldton-GreenoughVisitor CentreBill Sewell Complex,Chapman Rd Geraldton WA 6530Tel: 1800 818 881geraldtontourist.com.auaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 33


St Peter’s Church, GreenoughGreenough ConventFlat RocksPage 34 | australiascoralcoast.comFlat RocksLocated about 30 kilometres south ofGeraldton, Flat Rocks is a must stopdestination for keen fi shermen andsurfers. Such is its quality, Flat Rockshosts a round of the State Surfi ngChampionships each year. GreenoughRiver Mouth offers another quality beachbreak for surfi ng throughout the year.MuseumsLocated in a beautifully restored, two storeyhouse alongside Maley’s Mill, the PioneerMuseum offers an insight into a bygoneera. Open daily, you’ll fi nd this treasure 19kilometres south of Geraldton on the BrandHighway. For one of the best displays ofrailway memorabilia outside of Perth, visitthe Walkaway Railway Station Museum inthe Walkaway township. Open Every dayfrom 9am-5pm except Christmas day.Public holidays from 10.00am-4.00pm.Wind FarmHead along the Nangetty-WalkawayRoad from Walkaway townsite to viewthe 54 giant turbines of the Wind Farm.A platform with interpretive signageprovides an ideal location to photographthe wind farm against a backdrop of thesurrounding rolling hills.Olive GroveFor a taste of the Mediterranean, visitone of the local olive groves set amonglandscaped gardens offering tastings ofolive oil, tapenades, chutneys and pickledolives. Open between May and Decemberfor light meals and delicious homemadecake and coffee.HMAS Sydney II Memorial, GeraldtonGeraldtonHMAS Sydney II MemorialRecently declared <strong>Australia</strong>’s secondnational memorial, this emotive landmarkcommemorates the loss of <strong>Australia</strong>n sailorswho met their fate in a World War II navalbattle in 1941. After 66 years of mystery, thewreck of German vessel, the Kormoran wasfound in March 2008 and a few days laterthe Sydney was found approximately 250kilometres from Shark Bay. The beautifullydesigned memorial features a silver domeof 645 seagulls to represent each sailorlost in this war time disaster. A wall displaysphotographs of the HMAS Sydney II and thenames of her crew. To the north, a bronzestatue of a woman gazes hopefully out tosea as she awaits news of her sailor at sea.Volunteer guides run tours daily at 10.30amfor a gold coin donation.Point Moore LighthouseThis bold, red and white striped landmarkhas become something of a Geraldtonicon. Overlooking waters at Point Moore,the lighthouse stands 34 metres tall and itsbeam can be seen 26 kilometres out to sea.The structure is the only one of its kind in<strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong>. Interpretive signage onthe lighthouse’s interesting history can befound at its base.St Francis Xavier CathedralBuilt in stages from 1914 to its opening in1938, the Byzantine style architecture ofthis cathedral is one of Monsignor Hawes’greatest masterpieces. Guided walking toursare available for a small fee and the church ispart of the Monsignor Hawes Heritage Trail.Contact the Geraldton-Greenough VisitorCentre for tour days and times.


Geraldton ForeshoreThe Geraldton foreshore redevelopmenthas brought some exciting changesto the city. Visitors can enjoy the whitesandy beaches and the huge multi-agechildren’s playground with shaded toddlerarea, complete with a water funpark.This redevelopment complements therefurbished Marine Terrace Mall, locatedone block away. Take in the coast by strollingthe foreshore walk. Alternatively, ride or strollalong the cycle way, stopping at some ofthe beautiful beaches for a coffee at anoceanfront cafe, swim or simply to admirethe scenery. Just 200 metres north, takea stroll through the Batavia <strong>Coast</strong> Marinawhere an artistically designed boardwalkfollows the water’s edge, starting from theboat pens, past town houses and aroundthe WA Museum Geraldton. Public artworkalong the boardwalk also adds to thecontemporary feel of this growing precinct.Lighthouse Keeper’s CottageLocated in the suburb of Bluff Point, thecottage has been devoid of a lighthousekeeper since 1943, but has been welllooked after. The Geraldton HistoricalSociety has been occupying the cottagesince 1971, which houses a historicalcollection. The cottage opens to visitorsfor a small entrance fee. Check days andtimes with the visitor centre.Blessing of the FleetThe Blessing of the Fleet heralds the startof Geraldton’s productive rock lobsterseason in November. The Fisherman’sWharf comes alive with stalls andactivities. Don’t miss the opportunity tosample local seafood delicacies.Batavia <strong>Coast</strong> MarinaBatavia <strong>Coast</strong> MarinaThe Batavia <strong>Coast</strong> Marina is indicative ofa new level of sophistication in the coastalcity. Trendy residential housing and offi cesline the streets and the waterfront. Anartistically designed boardwalk followsthe water’s edge, starting from the boatpens, past town houses and around themagnifi cent WA Museum Geraldton.Public artwork along the boardwalk alsoadds to the contemporary feel of thisgrowing precinct.WA Museum GeraldtonThis state-of-the-art-facility on the BataviaMarina offers a fascinating insight into theregion’s rich natural, social and maritimehistory. It also features visiting exhibitionsand an excellent souvenir and bookshop. Learn about the Dutch tradingship, Batavia, that became shipwreckedat the Abrolhos Islands, and the ancientculture of the Yamaji people. Openingtimes 9.30am - 4.00pm every day exceptWednesdays.Markets and ShoppingGeraldton-Greenough has some greatshopping facilities. The major shoppingprecincts are the Marine Terrace Mall,Centro Stirling Centre on Sanford Street,Centro Northgate Plaza on Chapman Roadand Sunset Shopping Plaza. Geraldton isalso becoming increasingly well known asthe place to purchase stunning Abrolhosblack pearls, individually or crafted intodistinctive pieces of jewellery by localartists. Craft markets are held in differentlocations each Sunday and a farmers’market is held each Saturday morning.Water funpark, Geraldton ForeshoreSt Francis Xavier CathedralPoint Moore Lighthouseaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 35


Bootenal Family TavernWest <strong>Australia</strong>n Museum GeraldtonLocal Indigenous artworkPage 36 | australiascoralcoast.comMeteorological Office ToursEver wondered how the weather isforecast? Find out at the GeraldtonMeteorological Offi ce. See the giantweather balloon released and learnabout the collation of data that formulatesour weather forecasts. You’ll fi nd theGeraldton Meteorological Offi ce at theGeraldton Airport. Tours are free but needto be pre-booked. Contact the Geraldton-Greenough Visitor Centre for details.Bill Sewell ComplexThis beautiful historical suite of buildingsin the heart of Geraldton was formerlythe Victoria District Hospital and laterthe Geraldton Prison. The complex wasconstructed in stages beginning in themid 1850s and today houses a host ofbusinesses and organisations, includingthe Geraldton-Greenough Visitor Centre.Volunteer guides run a one hour tourevery Tuesday and Thursday at 2pm.Arts, Theatre and FilmsGeraldton boasts vibrant artwork, oftenby local artists whose work is seengracing banners in the Marine TerraceMall, decorating roundabouts or in localgalleries. Be sure to visit the GeraldtonRegional Art Gallery on the corner ofDurlacher Street and Chapman Road.You can also view local artwork at theArts and Cultural Development CouncilCommunity Gallery, situated on MarineTerrace. For the latest in fi lm releases,be sure to stop in at Orana CinemasGeraldton. For theatre, musicals, concertsand more, check out what’s on at theQueens Park Theatre.Indigenous CultureSunshine FestivalGain an insight into the lives, past andpresent, of the local Yamaji people. Gain ahistorical perspective at the WA MuseumGeraldton Mid West Gallery. For Yamajiarts and crafts call into the Yamaji ArtGallery in the Bill Sewell Complex, nextdoor to the Geraldton-Greenough VisitorCentre.Sunshine FestivalThe Geraldton community celebrates itsenviable climate every October schoolholidays. Capture the excitement of theMidwest Show and Shine, fl oat parade,dragon boat races, market days and ahost of other fun family activities. Don’tmiss the impressive fi reworks sky showfi nale on the foreshore.Rock LobsterDuring the rock lobster fi shing seasonfrom November to June, Geraldton’swaters burst into life as one of thecountry’s premier fi shing fl eets goesabout bringing in these ocean delicacies.Around 300 boats fi sh in the Mid West’swaters and a large portion of theseboats are Geraldton based. See themcome and go at the Fisherman’s Wharf.You can gain a fi rsthand insight intothe rock lobster industry on a guidedtour through the Geraldton Fishermen’sCooperative Processing Factory. Tourscost $10 per adult and $5 per child.Tours run on weekdays at 9.30am fromNovember to June only. Be sure tosample some delicious fresh lobster at alocal restaurant.


Water SportsGeraldton’s consistent summer windshave made the city one of <strong>Australia</strong>’sfavourite windsurfi ng locations. PointMoore, Sunset Beach, St Georges Beachand Coronation Beach all provide excellentwindsurfi ng conditions. Mahomets’ BackBeach and Greenough River Mouth offergood beach breaks, while Sunset Beach ispopular during winter when bigger swellscreate better surfi ng conditions. You canhire or buy your surfi ng, windsurfi ng orkitesurfi ng equipment in Geraldton andalso book lessons.DivingGeraldton offers a great base for divingopportunities at the South Tomi dive siteand also the Abrolhos Islands. The SouthTomi Dive Site, where the confi scatedfi shing vessel was scuttled three nauticalmiles from Geraldton shores in 2004,serves as an artifi cial reef and diveattraction. The hulls and holds which oncehoused a diverse mix of fi shermen whoplundered the high seas for PatagonianToothfi sh now host newly growing coralsand an abundance of marine life.FishingGeraldton boasts a host of quality riverand ocean fi shing locations. Land basedfi shing provides the ideal way to unwind.Point Moore and Separation Point aregood locations to fi sh for whiting andherring, while the Batavia <strong>Coast</strong> Marinaand Fisherman’s Wharf are ideal fordropping crab pots.GolfBill Sewell ComplexGeraldton is home to two excellent 18-hole golf courses in the Spalding ParkGolf Club and the Geraldton Golf Club.Both welcome visitors and featurereticulated grassed fairways and excellentgrass greens.Chapman ValleyChapman Valley is a charming agriculturalregion renowned for its fertile soils andbeautiful landscapes. Take a drive throughrolling green hills, breakaway country, riversand pristine coastline. Just 20 minutesfrom Geraldton, head to Chapman Valleyto enjoy local gourmet delights.Chapman Valley MuseumLocated in the heart of the Nanson Hamlet isthe Chapman Valley Museum. Step back intime as you discover an impressive displayof old farm machinery, vehicles, local historyand photos. Open Wednesday’s from 9amuntil 12pm and Sundays 12pm to 4pm.Gourmet DelightsChapman Valley is fast becoming adestination for the gastronomicallymotivated. The local winery offerstastings and a great outdoor locationto enjoy a glass of wine and bite to eat.The newly opened lavender farm alsoprovides delicious meals and lavenderbody products.Chapman Valley EventsCheck the schedule of local eventsbefore visiting the valley. Local farms andwineries hold several music events whichdraw large crowds from around the State.Sunshine FestivalWindsurfing in the Mid WestLavender in the Chapman Valleyaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 37


InTown Apartments23550000Spacious self-contained holiday accommodation.Relax and enjoy all that Geraldton has to offer in clean and spacious self catering boutiquestyle apartments situated close to the HMAS Sydney memorial, Centro Northgate and thenew marina. The apartments are beautifully furnished and include everything needed for acomfortable stay.InTown Apartments75 Eastern Rd,Geraldton WA 6530Ph: +61 8 9964 1750Email: info@intownapartments.com.auWeb: www.intownapartments.com.au2443<strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong>n Museum - GeraldtonSELF CATERINGKeep Your Eyes Open!When early explorers sailed the <strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong>n <strong>Coast</strong> their advice was simple – keepyour eyes open.The wonders of the desert to the sea are revealed at the<strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong>n Museum – GeraldtonBatavia <strong>Coast</strong> Marina, GeraldtonTel. (08) 9921 5080For more information including opening times and event details go towww.museum.wa.gov.au<strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong>n Museum - GeraldtonMuseum Place, Batavia <strong>Coast</strong> MarinaGeraldton WA 6530Ph: +61 8 9921 5080Web: www.museum.wa.gov.auMARINER RESORTGeraldton, <strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong>Aboriginal Artworks2356Yamaji 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<strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong>), and includes work from more than fi ve cultural groups.Open: Monday to Friday 10am to 3pm or by pre-arranged appointmentAboriginal Artworks from the Yamaji RegionBill Sewell ComplexCorner Chapman Road and Bayly Street,Geraldton WA 6530Ph: +61 8 9965 3440Page 38 | australiascoralcoast.com


Geraldton - take a fresh lookThe regional hub of the entire Mid West.Located about 450km north of Perth, the city is perched near beautiful coastline to the westand rolling hills and breakaway ranges to the east. The Chapman and Greenough Riversframe the city to the north and south. This superb positioning, combined with the friendly feelof a country town, makes for a truly memorable holiday experience.To take advantage of our free accommodation,tour and scenic flight booking service, contact theGeraldton-Greenough Visitor CentreCnr Chapman Road & Bayly StreetGeraldton WA 6530Phone + 61 8 9921 3999Freecall 1800 818 881Fax + 61 8 9964 2445Email tourism@geraldtontourist.com.auWeb www.geraldtontourist.com.auLicensed Travel Agent No 9TA1464An initiative of2631australiascoralcoast.com | Page 39


Best <strong>Western</strong> Hospitality Inn GeraldtonQuality 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 EmeraldRoom, cocktail bar• Centrally located - close to city centre and beach,child under 13 years stays FREE!• Pool, BBQ facilities, laundry, mini bar• Internet kioskBest <strong>Western</strong> Hospitality Inn Geraldton169 Cathedral AveGeraldton WA 6530Ph: +61 8 9921 1422Fax: +61 8 9921 1239Email: geraldton@hospitalityinns.com.auWeb: www.hospitalityinngeraldton.com.au 0004An inspiring collection of <strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong>nFine Art and JewelleryA great place tovisit169 Marine Terrace, GeraldtonPh (08) 99646601Mon- Sat 9am-5.30pmSunday 9am-2pmwww.latitudegallery.com.auLighthouse Artist: Bron TurnerSituated in the “evolving”, west end of town, this wonderful bright andspacious gallery invites you to take your time and appreciate the work of ourlocal artists. Beautiful handcrafted jewellery featuring Abrolhos Island pearlsand Argyle Diamonds of <strong>Australia</strong>. The originality of our amazing creations ofnatural beauty will take your breath away.LATITUDE GALLERY2493Belair Gardens Caravan Park0430Champion Bay Bed & BreakfastNew airconditioned deluxe ensuited holiday units,some with ocean views. Spa units available.Spacious Park, Close to Town, Beachfront Location, En-suite Powered Sites, JumpingPillow, Pool, Tennis Court, Sheltered Camp Sites, S/C Accom. No Dogs.Budget Accommodation available.Heritage home with harbour views5 minutes walk to city centre, beaches andattractions. Ensuite & share bathrooms.Discounts available for weekly and wholehouse bookings.Belair Gardens Caravan Park463 Marine TceGeraldton WA 6530Ph: +61 8 9921 1997Fax: +61 8 9921 1887Email: bookings@belairgardenscaravanpark.com.auWeb: www.belairgardenscaravanpark.com.au0061Champion Bay Bed & Breakfast31 Snowdon StreetGeraldton WA 6530Ph: +61 8 9921 7624Email: championbay@wn.com.auWeb: www.westnet.com.au/championbayPage 40 | australiascoralcoast.com


elaxedsimplefreshhome away from homeUnder new management and recently refurbished, Ocean West Holiday Units is located along <strong>Western</strong><strong>Australia</strong>’s beautiful <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Coast</strong> 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 areaRelax and enjoy your stay in accommodation that has everything you need all in one place.Ph 9921 1047Email stay@oceanwest.com.au 1 Hadda Way Geraldtonwww.oceanwest.com.auaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 412596


Geraldton-Greenough Visitor CentreCountry Time Caravans00212337Take advantage of our free accommodation,tour and scenic flight booking service.Friendly staff with expert local knowledge offering information on all there is to do and see inGeraldton and Greenough, including seasonal wildfl owers, the Abrolhos Islands, historicaland cultural attractions. Wide range of quality souvenirs, local products and maps available.Open 7 days Mon – Fri 9am – 5pmWeekends & Public Holidays 10am – 4pmDL No 19073 Lic No MRB 1015• Insurance & Warranty Repairs• Parts & Accessories • ServicingGeraldton-Greenough Visitor CentreBill Sewell Complex, Cnr Chapman Road & Bayly StreetFree Call: 1800 818 881Ph: +61 8 9921 3999Fax: +61 8 9964 2445Email: tourism@geraldtontourist.com.auWeb: www.geraldtontourist.com.auLicensed Travel Agent No 9TA1464Country Time Caravans151-152 Flores RdGeraldton WA 6530Ph +61 8 9964 4224Fax +61 8 9964 4624Email admin@countrytimecaravans.com.auWeb www.countrytimecaravans.com.au2490Sunset Beach Holiday ParkGeraldton Air Charter2638 0000Mahomets Village Holiday VillasSunset Beach Holiday ParkBosley Street,Geraldton WA 6530Ph: +61 8 9938 1655Freecall: 1800 353 389Email: info@sunsetbeachpark.com.auWeb: www.sunsetbeachpark.com.auAbsolute 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.Daily Tours to theAbrolhos IslandsAlso Weddings and Romantic tours,tours to Monkey Mia, Pinnacles,Kalbarri Cliffs Gorges & Pink LakesSpecialists in air charter, aerial surveyand photography, freight, booking agentsfor helicopter service.Geraldton Air CharterBrearley Terminal, Geraldton AirportGeraldton WA 6530Ph: +61 8 9923 3434Email: geroair@midwest.com.auWeb: www.geraldtonaircharter.com.auFully self contained 2 & 3bedroom villas• 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 ratesavailable if staying 2 weeks or longerSelf RatedMahomets Village Holiday VillasCnr Willcock & McAleer DriveGeraldton WA 6530Ph: +61 8 9921 6652Fax: +61 8 9921 6653Email: mahometsvillage@wn.com.auWeb: www.mahometsvillage.com0008O’Brien 4WD CentreSalt Dish CafeVerity JewellersLavender Valley Farm2345When Quality, Value andService really matterit’s gotta be . . .265003152613• Mechanical Repairs & Service• New Aftermarket & Genuine Parts• 4WD AccessoriesO’Brien 4WD Centre6 Boyd Street, Geraldton WA 6530Ph: +61 8 9964 1068Email: spares@obrien4wd.com.auD/L: 19424 MRB146Food lover’s home away from homeTucked away at the Northern end of MarineTce, opposite the beautiful sea is Salt DishCafe, a food lover’s home away from home.A bright red door, dark wooden tables,bent wooden chairs and a lush red wallfi ll Salt Dish with a warm, inviting feelingideal for indulging in great food and friendlywelcoming service.Open Mon - Sat 7.30am - 4pmSalt Dish Cafe35 Marine TerraceGeraldton WA 6530Ph: +61 8 9964 6030• Abrolhos Pearls• Broome Pearls• Diamond Rings• DiamondJewelleryCreative Design &Manufacture• Swarovski Crystal• Watches & Clocks• Free InsuranceQuotes andValuationsVerity JewellersShop 3 Terrace Arcade, Marine TerraceGeraldton WA 6530Ph: +61 8 9921 7007Fax: +61 8 9921 1492Email: verityjewellers@iinet.net.auWeb: www.verityjewellers.com.auGift 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.Lavender Valley Farm1852 Chapman Valley RoadGeraldton WA 6530Ph: +61 8 9920 5469Ph/Fax: +61 8 9920 5069Email: liz@lavendervalleyfarm.com.auPage 42 | australiascoralcoast.com


###AbrolhosIslandsAbrolhos IslandsPERTHAbrolhos IslandsThe Houtman Abrolhos Islands form one of <strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong>’s most uniquemarine areas. With 122 islands in all, the closest 55 kilometres off the coast ofGeraldton, these islands are clustered into three main groups; Wallabi, Easterand the Pelsaert.Batavia ShipwreckThe Abrolhos’ Wallabi Group of islandswas the scene of the infamous Bataviamutiny in 1629. The Dutch East Indiestrading ship, Batavia was wrecked onMorning Reef at the islands. The ship’ssurvivors made it to land, only to face abloody mutiny. Avid divers an explorethe site where the Batavia shipwreckrests, although the dive site is weatherdependent and for highly experienceddivers only. Alternatively, visitors to theWA Museum Geraldton can see part ofthe Batavia’s hull on display.FishingThe Abrolhos Islands’ bountiful watershave some of the ocean’s most prizedeating fi sh. Baldchin groper, dhufi sh,snapper, coral trout and emperor arepopular catches, as are pelagic fi sh liketuna and mackerel, not to mention thesought-after western rock lobster. 22 ofthe islands house fi shermen who live therefrom March to June each year during theislands’ western rock lobster season.Check exclusion zones before fi shing.Diving and SnorkellingThe Abrolhos Islands showcase anabundance of marine life. Diving thecoral gardens is like entering anotherworld - an underwater fantasia of themost incredible colours. See everythingfrom rays, to lobster, to clown fi sh. Manyof the coral reefs’ most spectacularareas lie in shallow water and are justas easily enjoyed with a snorkel andmask, as with a scuba diving kit. It isrecommended that you check weatherconditions before heading out to theislands. Scenic fl ights and boat chartersare available from Geraldton. Visit theGeraldton-Greenough Visitor Centre fortouring options to the islands.Bird WatchingThe Abrolhos Islands are known as oneof the country’s best sea bird breedingcolonies. More than 90 species of seabirdsnest on the islands, among them crestedterns, lesser noddies and white breastedsea eagles. Photographic enthusiasts willlove the up close encounters.Abrolhos black pearlsDid you know?<strong>Australia</strong>’s oldest European buildingsare located on West Wallabi Island.InformationPopulation:Fishermen duringRock Lobster seasonDistance from Perth: 479kmGeraldton-GreenoughVisitor CentreBill Sewell Complex,Chapman Road Geraldton WA 6530Tel: 1800 818 881geraldtontourist.com.auaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 43


###NorthamptonPERTHOur Lady in Ara Coeli ChurchNorthamptonNorthampton is one of the oldest settlements in <strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong> outside ofPerth. It was declared a town site in 1864 and classifi ed as a historical town bythe National Trust of <strong>Australia</strong> in 1993. Visitors to Northampton will be delightedwith the many attractions on offer.Surrounding farmland, NorthamptonDid you know?The Northampton shire is home to<strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong>’s most hauntedhouse, Oakabella Homestead.InformationPopulation:813Distance from Perth:475kmNorthamptonVisitor Centre202 Hampton Road,Northampton WA 6535Tel: +61 8 9934 1488northamptonwa.com.auPage 44 | australiascoralcoast.comHistorical BuildingsBe sure to grab a copy of the HamptonRoad Heritage Walk brochure from theNorthampton Visitor Centre. The centreitself is of historical signifi cance, as it wasformerly the Police Station and CourtHouse, built in 1882. Step back in time atChiverton House Museum. In the centreof town, you will fi nd Our Lady in AraCoeli Church (c. 1936) designed by thelegendary Monsignor Hawes. Next dooryou will fi nd the Sacred Heart Conventbuilt in 1919, also designed by Hawes.The historic Northampton Family Storebuilding is still operating as a drapery andmanchester general store in its originalstyle. The Northampton Motors andMachinery Restoration Shed houses acollection of over 200 small engines andmachinery covering many vintages.Old Railway StationIn 1879 the fi rst public railway of<strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong> was opened betweenNorthampton and Geraldton. TheNorthampton railway station has beenrestored with parts of the old track andbridges still visible.Oakabella HomesteadVisit the most haunted house in <strong>Western</strong><strong>Australia</strong> and take in the land of ghostsand its beautiful scenery. With the fi rstlease taken up in 1851, this authentic,pioneering stone homestead is classifi edby the National Trust. Discover the oldhomestead and mini museum on a touror simply stroll around the grounds. Thereis farm equipment, relics, farm utensilsand Indigenous artefacts on display thatrepresent life in the 1800s. Oakabellais closed to visitors for the month ofFebruary.Airing of the QuiltsIf you are travelling in October, be sureto stop in Northampton for the Airingof the Quilts. The historic town’s mainstreet comes alive with people and colouras lovingly made patchwork quilts aredisplayed from buildings, roadsides andshops. Enjoy the family entertainment,stalls, food, craft, street parade andcarnival atmosphere. The Airing of theQuilts is always held on the last Saturdayof the October school holidays.


FeelingFreaky?Test your nerves at<strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong>’s mosthaunted house, locatednear Northampton.Brace yourself and head to australiascoralcoast.comRiverside SanctuaryNorthampton Family StoreQuality accommodation including self-contained housesand large Shearing Shed Camping area with clean ablutionson an operational family farm.Walk trails, native pets, bush landscapes, seasonal wildfl owers and protected river systems.Inspiring guided tours tailored to your needs. Night tours and spectacular night skies.Great location to break up the long trip to/from Exmouth & <strong>Coral</strong> Bay.Camping from $33 and houses from $132 per double per night. Sorry no dogs.Riverside Sanctuary442 Coolcalalaya RdAjana WAPh/Fax: +61 8 9936 1021Mob: 0429 105 646Email: info@riversidesanctuary.com.auWeb: www.riversidesanctuary.com.auRIVERSIDESANCTUARY0002Take a StepBack in TimeBuilt in 1910 andstill very much original.Geoff, Joy and Penny Cripps atyour service for clothing, manchester,haberdashery, knitting yarn supplies,footwear and gifts.Northampton Family StoreHampton RoadNorthampton WA 6535Ph: +61 8 9934 1250Email: joy@northamptonstore.com.au 23192643Northampton Visitor Centre2513Northampton Caravan Park2318Northampton PharmacyNorthampton Visitor CentreWelcome 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, thelocation of wildfl owers and interesting activities including the Airing of the Quilts Festival. Wecarry a range of quality souvenirs and maps, children’s books and a book exchange.Open: Mon to Fri 9am - 3pm Sat 9am -12 noonNorthampton Visitor Centre202 Hampton RoadNorthampton WA 6535Ph: +61 8 9934 1488Email: nortour@wn.com.auWeb: www.northamptonwa.com.au‘Great place to stay, visit & enjoy’Powered/Unpowered sites with discountrates. Clean and tidy - Hot Showers,including Disability Ablutions. On sitevans, 2 berth, 3 berth, 5 berth and 8berth, all with Annex, Satelite TV andAir Conditioning - Self service laundry.Kitchen/Common Room - EntertainmentArea - BBQ - Pet Friendly.Northampton Caravan ParkNorth West <strong>Coast</strong>al HwyNorthampton WA 6535Ph: +61 439 979 489Web: www.northamptoncaravanpark.com.auSupporting your localcommunity since 1966Open Monday - Friday 8.30am - 5.00pmSaturday 8.30am -12.00 noonNorthampton PharmacyLot 20 Hampton RoadNorthampton WA 6535Ph: +61 8 9934 1007Fax: +61 8 9934 2222Email: northamptonpharmacy@westnet.com.auaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 45


###Port GregoryHorrocksPERTHThe Pink Lake, near Port GregoryHorrocks & Port GregoryYou’ll instantly feel on holidays at the picturesque coastal towns of Horrocksand Port Gregory. Nestled along white sandy beaches, these two beachsidetowns provide the ideal family getaways with sheltered waters, rock pools andwaves along the reefs. Both seaside towns boast fantastic fi shing, diving andswimming.Did you know?InformationHorrocks JettyBeta carotene, which gives the PinkLake its hue is also what gives carrotstheir orange colour.Population:Horrocks 130 / Port Gregory 46Distance from Perth:Horrocks 469km / Port Gregory 520kmNorthamptonVisitor Centre202 Hampton Road,Northampton WA 6535Tel: +61 8 9934 1488northamptonwa.com.auPage 46 | australiascoralcoast.comHorrocksBowes RiverThe Bowes River Mouth is a scenic beachfavoured among surfers. The sandstoneescarpment following the river is rich inIndigenous culture. Willigully Caves featurerock art created by the Nanda people todescribe and communicate their traditions,ideas and values. Obtain directions fromthe Northampton Visitor Centre.Whale WatchingMigrating humpback whales are regularlyspotted in season, June to November,from the whale watching lookout.Four Wheel DrivingFour wheel driving tracks to Little Bayand Bowes River Mouth are picturesquelocations for picnics, fi shing, wildfl owersand bird watching. The Bowes River isa signifi cant habitat for bird life includingpelicans, black swans, ducks, heron,egrets, eagles, terns and osprey.FishingCast a line from the jetty or the beachin search of ocean delights like tailor,mulloway, snapper, whiting and herring.Port GregoryPink LakePort Gregory is bordered by the beautifulHutt Lagoon, known as the Pink Lakedue to its colour created by the naturallyoccurring beta carotene. Offering stunningrefl ections of the land on still days anda pink haze through the skies on windydays, the lake is always an intriguing site.Beautiful sunsets on the changing coloursof the lake are not to be missed.Lynton Hiring StationOn the approach to Port Gregory is thehistoric Lynton Hiring Station. Tucked atthe foot of rolling hills, the station’s stonebuildings once housed convicts whoworked on the Geraldine Mine and localpastoral stations. The convict facilitieswere built in 1853 and have been recentlyrestored. Inside, the etched initials ofconvicts scar the cell walls.BoatingThe town is protected by fi ve kilometresof exposed coral reef. This protectionprovides safe anchorage and boatlaunching areas for fi shing and watersports.


###KalbarriThe Murchison River MouthPERTHKalbarriKalbarri is a truly spectacular getaway situated on the Murchison River. Be asrelaxed or as active as you want, leaving the hustle and bustle far behind. Fromstrolling the foreshore to abseiling down rugged gorges, it’s no wonder Kalbarrihas been a favourite holiday destination for generations.Chinaman’s BeachRight in the heart of town, the calmwater of Chinaman’s Beach is a popularplayground for families. Here, you canswim, snorkel, or simply relax on thewhite sandy shores. Beach fi shing is alsopopular here.FishingKalbarri boasts some of the <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Coast</strong>’sbest shore and boat angling year round.Deep water adjacent to the shorelineand coastal cliffs provide an ideal fi shingenvironment. Tailor and mulloway are themain targets for shore anglers, howeverwhiting, gardie and samson fi sh are alsoreeled in. Estuary fi shing may result incatches of whiting and mulloway, whiledropping a net may yield blue swimmerand mangrove crabs. Further upstreamdecent sized black bream are also around.Fishing charters are extremely popular,satisfying both the serious angler andthe novice. They regularly return with abounty of fi sh including snapper, dhufi sh,cod, groper, tuna, Spanish mackerel,samson fi sh and dolphin fi sh.Pelican FeedingEach morning at 8.45am, Kalbarri’sresident pelicans head to the grassed areaon the foreshore near the Grey and WoodStreet intersection for their breakfast.Volunteer guides meet the pelicans withfi sh, allowing onlookers the opportunity tofeed these majestic birds their breakfast.The tradition started with a local Kalbarrifi sherman who cleaned his catch andthrew the scraps to the pelicans. Thepelicans became accustomed to theirbreakfast being served on the foreshoreand have been waddling up the beachever since.Jacques PointJacques (pronounced Jakes) Point isrenowned for its superb reef break,considered one of the best surf breaksalong the Mid West coast. Waves breakalong the point, allowing spectators on thebeach close up views of the surfi ng action.This break is best suited to experiencedsurfers. Nearby Jacques Bay offers saferwaves for less experienced surfers andwhite sandy beaches for a day of fun inthe sun.Pelican feeding on the foreshoreDid you know?Kalbarri National Park is home tonearly 800 species of fl ora, some ofwhich cannot be found anywhere elsein the world.InformationPopulation:1,800Distance from Perth:577kmKalbarri Visitor Centre70 Grey Street, Kalbarri WA 6536Tel: 1800 639 468kalbarri.org.auaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 47


Canoeing on the Murchison RiverGuided tours of the National ParkMurchison River, Kalbarri National ParkPage 48 | australiascoralcoast.comKalbarri National ParkKalbarri National Park is one of the mostexciting and spectacular parks in <strong>Western</strong><strong>Australia</strong>. Covering 183,004 hectares, thepark is located on the lower reaches of theMurchison River. Over the past 400 millionyears the river has cut magnifi cent red andwhite banded gorges for 80 kilometres,as it makes its way to the sea. Explorethe depths and heights of the river gorgesand sea cliffs and admire the fl oral beautyof the vast, rolling sandplains. Most roadsin the National Park are sealed, except forroads to The Loop and Z-Bend, howeverthese are still suitable for all two wheeldrive vehicles.River GorgesThe Murchison River Gorges in theKalbarri National Park have been carvedover millions of years to form dramaticsandstone cliff faces which plummetinto the Murchison River as it meanderstowards Kalbarri.Nature’s Window and The LoopLocated just 400 metres from theNature’s Window car park, this rockborder beautifully frames the ruggedupstream view. Nature’s Window marksthe beginning and end of The Loop, a sixhour(eight-kilometre) walk trail, providingdifferent views of the winding gorgebelow. The Loop is not marked, but theeasiest route starts at Nature’s Window,heading east along the cliff top to the fi rstriver bend, then down along the ledgesand fl ood plain at water level, returningto Nature’s Window, keeping the river toyour right at all times.Z-BendRoss Graham LookoutAn easy 500-metre walk from the carpark brings you to some of the mostbreathtaking scenery in the National Park.From the safety of the lookout, the gorgeplunges 150 metres to the river belowwhere majestic river redgums provide alush contrast to the earthy hews of theTumblagooda Sandstone.Ross Graham LookoutThis site provides the easiest place inthe park to access the river, with a shortwalk from the car park bringing you to thetranquility of the shaded river’s edge. Thisprovides an ideal location to take a dip inthe river or walk along its banks.Hawk’s HeadEnjoy the views from the picnic area orwander down the wheelchair accessiblepath to the lookout above the river.River Gorge HikesFor those with greater levels of fi tness andexperience, there are many gorge hikingoptions available ranging from one dayexcursions to four or fi ve day extendedhikes. Further information about thesehikes is available from the Department ofEnvironment and Conservation offi ce andit is a strict requirement that all overnightgroups register with park staff beforemaking the trip. Drinking water is notavailable in the National Park, so alwayscarry your own supply. Hiking through thepark is particularly spectacular betweenAugust and October when the park burstsinto colour during wildfl ower season.


<strong>Coast</strong>al GorgesKalbarri’s coastal gorges featuremagnifi cent, towering cliffs that plummetto the waves below. From Red Bluff,named by Willem de Vlamingh in 1697,the spectacular coastal cliffs extend 13kilometres to the National Park’s southernboundary. Numerous signposted walkingtrails allow you to explore the ruggedlybeautiful coastline and look for migratingwhales between June and November.Please take care and stay clear ofcliff edges and overhangs. Pathways,lookouts and balustrades have beenprovided for your safety.Red BluffThe rustic earthly hues of Red Bluff heraldthe start of the coastal gorges and the areais well known for its scenery, snorkelling,fi shing and swimming spots. Red Bluffboasts a picturesque white sandy beach,contrasted against the rust red cliffs. Thecliffs are particularly spectacular in thelight of the setting sun.Pot AlleyThe view south from the carpark trulycaptures the splendour and beauty of thisremarkable coastline, particularly scenicas the sun sets over the Indian Ocean.Amble down the stepped path to thesecluded beach below.Blue HolesJust south of the townsite is the snorkellingparadise of Blue Holes. Dozens of rockpools and swimming holes offer protectedsnorkelling and an array of marine life toview.Eagle GorgeNature’s WindowEnjoy the panorama from the crest orwander down into the tranquil depthsof the gorge, where you will discover adelightful beach. Watch as eagles soar inthe updrafts searching for hapless preybelow.Wittecarra CreekSouth of the Kalbarri township isWittecarra Creek - thought to be the site ofthe marooning of Dutch sailors punishedfor their part in the Batavia mutiny atthe Abrolhos Islands in 1629. WittecarraCreek is today a popular fi shing spot.Island Rock & Natural BridgeAs the coastline slowly yields to the forceof the Indian Ocean, the fracturing anddecaying of the cliffs has sculpted theseprecarious rock formations. Stunningviews can be enjoyed from the safety ofthe lookout enclosures provided, a shortwalk from the car park. A wheelchairaccessible picnic shelter and toilets arenow available.Mushroom Rock Nature TrailSee how nature has shaped this dramaticcoastal landscape along the threekilometre Mushroom Rock Walk Trail.Marvel at the varied geological formationsand witness kangaroos feeding (bestseen at dawn and dusk) amid thebeautiful coastal heath. Allow betweenone and two hours to stroll the markedcircuit that connects Rainbow Valley andMushroom Rock. The interpretive signageprovides information on the botanical andgeographical features.Beach fishing in KalbarriKalbarri coastal cliffsWhale spottingaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 49


Local bird parkFlame grevilleaSandboarding near KalbarriPage 50 | australiascoralcoast.comBigurda TrailAvid hikers can take in the entire coastalcliff area on the eight-kilometre BigurdaTrail. Arrange to be dropped off atEagle Gorge and traverse south alongthe coastal cliffs for three to fi ve hours,fi nishing up at Natural Bridge.Tours and ActivitiesKalbarri is an adventure lover’s hotspot,with so many places to explore, you’ll bespoilt for choice. Tour operators providea host of activities, both in the KalbarriNational Park and at surrounding spotsaround the town. Canoeing up theMurchison River is the perfect activity fora sunny afternoon, while thrill seekers mayprefer abseiling the National Park’s rivergorges. Boat charters leave regularly forfor whale watching (seasonally betweenJune and November), fi shing and river orsunset cruises. South of Kalbarri, explorethe dunes on a sand board or quad bike.If those options aren’t enough to get theblood fl owing, try horse riding, paddleboating, windsurfi ng or hire a dinghy.Call into the Kalbarri Visitor Centre formore information or to book one of thenumerous tours on offer.Whale WatchingThe seasonal migration of humpbackwhales brings them close to the Kalbarrishoreline between June and Novemberannually. The best vantage points are fromthe coastal cliffs of the Kalbarri NationalPark, or get up close and personal withthese massive mammals on a whalewatching charter.Red Bluff beachWildflowersFrom July until November, some 800 speciesof West <strong>Australia</strong>n native fl ora progressivelyburst into bloom around Kalbarri and withinthe Kalbarri National Park. Here you’ll fi ndan array of fl owers mainly along the tops ofcoastal cliffs and gorges. Many species areendemic to the region including the KalbarriSpider Orchid. Other fl owers includeriver gums, gold and orange banksias,starfl owers, grevilleas and eucalypts. Stopby the Kalbarri Visitor Centre for the latestwildfl ower hotspots and to pick up a map.Check out the Kalbarri Wildfl ower Centreand explore an easy 1.8 kilometre walk trail.Parrot SanctuaryKalbarri is home to what is consideredone of <strong>Australia</strong>’s best parrot habitats,and the country’s largest free fl ight aviary.Walk through tropical gardens which arehome to hundreds of colourful birds from<strong>Australia</strong> and overseas.Outdoor CinemaWhen the sun goes down, enjoy an eveningunder the stars at the outdoor cinema.Located just south of town, bring a picnic orenjoy the licensed snack bar and gourmetwood fi red pizzas made on site.Kalbarri Canoe & Cray CarnivalKalbarri will become a hive of activity onJune 5 for the annual Kalbarri Canoe andCray Carnival. Held each year on the Junelong weekend, the festival sees locals andvisitors race canoes 16.5 kilometres downthe Murchison River. Other canoe races,entertainment and markets are held on theRiver Mouth foreshore.


Kalbarri Cellars Liquor Store2448• Extensive Wine Range, Great choice of WA Wines, Huge Sparkling Selection• ‘Ready to’ Drinks, Spirits & Liqueurs, Cocktail Supplies• <strong>Australia</strong>n, Boutique and International Beers• Gourmet Cheeses, Patés & Olives• Friendly ServiceOPEN 7 DAYSMonday to Saturday 10am - 8.30pmSunday 12 noon - 8pmKalbarri Cellars Liquor StoreGrey Street, Marine Shopping Centre next to the Post Offi ceKalbarri WA 6536Ph: +61 8 9937 1361Email: kalbarricellars@bigpond.comKalbarri Reef VillasKalbarri Palm Resort is the perfect place for holidays,getaways and business. Centrally located, KalbarriPalm Resort is just a short walk from the centre oftown, the river and the beach. With 78 rooms, includingspacious motel rooms and family apartments, thereis a style to suit all tastes. With fantastic facilities overfi ve acres, you can choose between two swimmingpools, outdoor spa, shaded barbecue areas, a centralplayground, tennis, bowls and cricket. Why not enjoydelicious local fare at the Blackrock Cafe overlookingthe water, just minutes from the resort.Relax at a superb tropical paradise.... RAC• Centrally Located• Cleanliness Guaranteed• Foxtel / DVD Players• Sparkling swimming pool• Gas BBQ facilities• Wi-Fi internet availableKalbarri Reef VillasColes Street, PO Box 34Kalbarri WA 6536Ph/Fax: +61 8 9937 1165Email: reefvillas@wn.com.auWeb: www.reefvillas.com.au0327Fully self contained 2brm, 2 storey villas equippedwith all you need, including ALL linen and towels,air-conditioner in both bedrooms.Reef Villas are a non-smoking establishmentand smoking is permitted outside ONLY.Kalbarri SandboardingKALBARRIREEF VILLAS0009Porter Street, Kalbarri 6536Freecall: 1800 819 029Tel: (08) 9937 2333or book online atwww.kalbarripalmresort.com.auFour Wheel Drive and Sandboarding Adventure ToursKalbarri Sandboarding offers half day sandboarding and 4WD adventures operating dailyfrom Kalbarri. The day starts with safety gear on, a few training lessons and then the funbegins. Once confi dent we take on the “superbowl”, a 280 foot high sand crater, and thenenjoy a cool off swim and lunch in the safe water of the lucky bay lagoon. An action packedday with thrills, spills and speed catering for all age groups of 4 years and over.Kalbarri SandboardingPh: +61 8 9937 2377Mobile: 0429 327 400Web: www.sandboardingaustralia.com.au0235australiascoralcoast.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 <strong>Coast</strong>al Cliffs at Sunset• Feed the Dolphins of Monkey Mia - just 1 hours flight from KalbarriCall 9937 1130Visit www.kalbarricharter.com.au or call into 62 Grey St KalbarriFREEStay 3 nights &only pay for 2!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 roomReceive one night FREE - Stay 3 nights and only pay for 2! PLUS anytime during your staycome to our restaurant for a complimentary big Kalbarri cooked breakfast!*Breakfast one morning only. *Conditions apply.2336porter street, kalbarri freecall 1800 286 155 www.kalbarriedge.com.au email: info@kalbarriedge.com.au2313Kalbarri Seafront VillasKalbarri Adventure Tours00430041Quality 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, 4bedroom/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 waterwaysin the free dinghy provided. Free secure offsite boat parking, with washdown facilities andfreezer space. Complimentary pick up service from the bus terminal.Kalbarri Seafront Villas108 Grey Street,Kalbarri WA 6536Ph: +61 8 9937 1025Fax: +61 8 9937 1525Email: info@kalbarriseafrontvillas.com.auWeb: www.kalbarriseafrontvillas.com.auKalbarri’s National ParkSpecialists• Canoe the Gorges• Natures Window• Wildfl ower Wilderness• Group ChartersThe only tour in Kalbarrithat takes you canoeingthrough the GorgesKalbarri Adventure ToursPh: +61 8 9937 1677Email: kalcanoe@wn.com.auWeb: www.kalbarritours.com.auPage 52 | australiascoralcoast.com


Kalbarri Visitor Centre0115Murchison View Apartments• Tour bookings• Souvenir salesKalbarri Visitor CentreLocated on the foreshore Allen Community Centre,Grey Street, Kalbarri WA 6536Licensed Travel Agent No TA 1098Freecall: 1800 639 468Ph: +61 8 9937 1104Email: bookings@kalbarri.org.auWeb: www.kalbarri.org.auBook with our local experts• Transwa bookings• Accommodation enquiries and bookingsFor all bookings and enquiries contact the Kalbarri Visitor Centre• Skywest bookings• Greyhound bookings0018Luxury spacious apartmentswith river & ocean views.Superbly located, 2 & 3 bedroomapartments. Fully self contained with fullyequipped 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 KalbarriAir Terminal.Murchison View ApartmentsGrey Street, Kalbarri WA 6536Ph: +61 8 9937 1096Fax: +61 8 9937 1522Email: kmva95@hotmail.comWeb: www.kalbarrimurchisonviewapartments.com.au0338Blue Ocean Villas Kalbarri0146Kalbarri Tudor Holiday ParkSeven Luxury Boutique Villas• Foxtel • Air-con, TV, DVD, BBQ • Private laundry • Heated Saltwater PoolIn a perfect location,100 metres from the water’s edge, close to restaurants and shops.Fully Self Contained VillasPrivate carport & courtyard.Blue Ocean Villas KalbarriAuger StreetKalbarri WA 6536Ph: +61 8 9937 2442Web: www.blueoceanvillas.com.auMODERN | SPACIOUS | COMFORTABLEBlue Ocean Villas Kalbarri380m 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 TudorHoliday ParkKalbarri WA 6536Ph: +61 8 9937 1077Fax: +61 8 9937 1720Email: kalbarritudor@bigpond.comWeb: www.kalbarritudor.com.au2094Pelican Shore VillasRainbow JungleFully self contained two and three bedroom villas.Located in a superb position overlooking the mouth of the Murchison River and the IndianOcean. Pelican Shore Villas offer spacious, fully self contained two and three bedroom villasavailable 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 gasBBQ. RAC RatingPelican Shore VillasCnr Grey & Kaiber StreetsToll Free: 1800 671 708Ph: +61 8 9937 1708Fax: +61 8 9937 2057Email: enquiries@pelicanshorevillas.com.auWeb: www.pelicanshorevillas.com.auOpen Mon to Sat 9am-5pm & Sunday 10am-5pmCome experience a touch of magic at the amazing Rainbow Jungle - <strong>Australia</strong>’s BestParrot Habitat. Wander amongst the parrots, along pathways, through landscaped tropicalgardens, past waterfalls, fountains and lily ponds. You may like to spot passing whalesfrom our whale watching tower or catch a night time movie at PARROTISO’S OUTDOORCINEMA @ RAINBOW JUNGLE.• Free barbecue facility and picnic areas available • Ample parking• Unique souvenirs and gifts • RefreshmentsRainbow JungleRed Bluff RoadKalbarri WA 6536Ph: +61 8 9937 1248Web: www.rainbowjunglekalbarri.com0045australiascoralcoast.com | Page 53


###Shark BayPERTHStromatolites at Hamelin PoolShark BayShark Bay is testimony to the wonders of the natural world. It became <strong>Western</strong><strong>Australia</strong>’s fi rst World Heritage listed area in 1991. Shark Bay is renowned for itswhite beaches, turquoise waters, rust red sand and marine life including whales,dugongs, turtles, dolphins, manta rays and more.Night entertainment at Monkey MiaDid you know?Dirk Hartog Island was the fi rst everrecorded landing of Europeans on<strong>Australia</strong>n soil.InformationPopulation:984Distance from Perth:838kmShark Bay WorldHeritage Discoveryand Visitor CentreTel: +61 8 9948 1590sharkbayvisit.comPage 54 | australiascoralcoast.comDenhamDenham is the main service centre for theShark Bay World Heritage Area. A small,friendly town, it offers safe swimmingbeaches and a range of accommodation,restaurants, shops, an airport and otheressential services. It is also a gateway forexploring this beautiful and fascinatingregion. Cruises and tours to nearbyattractions operate from Denham includingDirk Hartog Island, Steep Point, ShellBeach, Francois Peron National Park, andthe stromatolites at Hamelin Pool.WildlifeIf you love wildlife, you will love SharkBay. Some 17 species of mammals, 98species of reptiles and amphibians andmore than 230 species of birds havebeen recorded in the area. Whether onan organised tour or travelling on yourown steam, you’re sure to spot some ofthe region’s fascinating wildlife. ProjectEden is a conservation project aimedat re-establishing healthy numbers ofendangered and threatened species onthe Peron Peninsular. Find out more at thevisitor centre.Shark Bay World HeritageDiscovery and Visitor CentreShark Bay became World Heritagelisted in 1991, after meeting all fournatural criteria. It’s only one of a handfulof places in the world to do so. WorldHeritage sites are created to preservethe diversity, history and beauty of theworlds treasures. The World Heritagesite covers 2.2 million hectares of landand sea on the coast of Shark Bay.The colourful and diverse landscapes,rare fl ora and fauna and world classexamples of earth’s ecologicalprocesses all contribute to the regionbeing World Heritage listed. The SharkBay World Heritage Discovery andVisitor Centre celebrates Shark Bay’sbiodiversity of ecosystems and exploresthe area’s World Heritage listing, naturallandscape, bays, islands, lagoons,marine and terrestrial landforms andanimals. Also call into the centre if yourequire information regarding tours,accommodation and related bookings inthe Shark Bay area. The centre is opendaily from 9.00am to 6.00pm exceptChristmas day and Easter Sunday.


Hamelin Pool StromatolitesHamelin Pool, located 90 kilometressouth east of Denham, is one of only afew places on earth where living marinestromatolites (the oldest living organismson the planet) exist. These rocky lookinglumps in the water resemble the oldest andsimplest forms of life on earth dating back3.5 billion years. The water at HamelinPool is twice as saline as usual sea waterdue to sea grass banks situated acrossthe bay’s entrance and rapid evaporationfrom the shallow water. Stromatolites arecomposed of bacteria and algae andanimals that feed off these substancescannot tolerate such saline conditions.As a result stromatolites can grow here,undisturbed. Most stromatolites areextremely slow growing. Those in HamelinPool grow at a maximum of 0.3mm a year,so those which are up to a metre high arehundreds, if not thousands of years old.There is an excellent viewing platform outover the water and interpretive displays atthe site and at the Hamelin Pool TelegraphStation nearby which houses a smallmuseum.Shell BeachThis unique beach located approximately50 kilometres south east of Denham ismade up of countless tiny cockle shellslayered up to ten metres deep andstretching for over 120 kilometres. Theshells were once quarried and used tobuild the walls of buildings in the area,some of which can still be seen today.On a still day, the ocean at Shell Beachtransforms into a palette of the mostintense greens and blues.Eagle BluffBottle Bay, Francois Peron National ParkJust 20 kilometres south of Denham isEagle Bluff. The scenic viewpoint featuresa 100-metre walkway along the top ofa cliff face. The views from this vantagepoint are breathtaking and sharks,dugongs, rays and large fi sh are regularvisitors in the shallow waters below.Peron Homestead PrecinctSituated in the Francois Peron NationalPark, the Peron Homestead Precinct offersa taste of life from the 1950s when thepark was a working sheep station. A selfguided walk around the precinct exploresthe history of the area, visiting the shearingshed, shearer’s quarters and stock yards.Interpretive signs explain the station’sinteresting history and an interpretivecentre depicts stories of Indigenousinhabitants, European colonisation andcurrent day conservation programs suchas Project Eden. There is a natural hottub fed from an artesian bore near thehomestead that originally supplied water tothe station’s stock and is now popular withvisitors. The nearby barbecue and lawn isa great spot for picnics. Peron Homesteadis accessible by two wheel drive vehicles.World Heritage DriveFollow the interpretive signage along theWorld Heritage drive to learn about thisamazing area and how it satisfi es all fourof the natural criteria to become heritagelisted. The World Heritage drive starts atthe Overlander Roadhouse on the NorthWest <strong>Coast</strong>al Highway and continues 180kilometres through to Monkey Mia.Denham foreshoreShark Bay World Heritage Discovery and Visitor CentreEagle Bluff, Shark BayShell Beachaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 55


Hire a sailing boatFrancois Peron National ParkShark Bay sunsetPage 56 | australiascoralcoast.comLittle LagoonFive kilometres from Denham towardsMonkey Mia is Little Lagoon. Thispristine waterway is a natural nursery forwhiting. Beach and barbecue facilitiesprovide for a peaceful day swimming,sun bathing, feasting on a picnic orenjoying the sunset.Project EdenProject Eden is a nationally signifi cantproject working to conserve the threatenedand endangered species that inhabit thePeron Peninsular. The project removesintroduced species in the area and as aresult, there has been vast increase inthe number of local fauna. Bilbies, malleefowl and woylies have been successfullyreintroduced to the region as a result ofthis project. Learn more about ProjectEden at the Shark Bay World HeritageDiscovery and Visitor Centre.Shark Bay PearlsAround the same time as the fi rstpastoralists settled in Shark Bay, pearlersalso arrived in the region in the 1850s. AnAmerican whaler fi rst noticed oysters inthe area and shortly after pearlers couldbe seen walking the sand banks in searchof pearls. A working pearling station nowoperates off the coast of Monkey Miaand is one of the industries Shark Bay isknown for. Tours to the farm provide aninsight into how pearls are cultivated andyou may even get the opportunity to tastepearl meat. Pearls can be purchased atthe pearling station or in Denham.Indigenous tour at Monkey MiaFrancois Peron National ParkFrancois Peron National Park lies justnorth of Denham, adjacent to the SharkBay Marine Park. The park covers 52,500hectares of arid shrublands, rollingsandplains and spectacular coastalscenery. Here, striking rust red sanddunes give way to brilliant white beachesand crystal blue ocean. The diversityof vegetation also provides a colourfulspectacle in winter. The Wanamalu Trailstretches for 1.5 kilometres along the cliffedge between Cape Peron and SkipjackPoint and is a 45 minute (one way) walkthat provides excellent views of thecoastline. Interpretive signs along the trailprovide an introduction to the features ofthe area and two viewing platforms atSkipjack Point provide striking coastalviews and the opportunity to view SharkBay’s abundant marine life. Vehicleaccess to Francois Peron Park is from theMonkey Mia road, about four kilometreseast of Denham. The road to the PeronHomestead is accessible for twowheeldrive vehicles but high clearancefour wheel drives are essential for travelfurther north into the park. Designatedbasic campsites at Big Lagoon, BottleBay, Herald Bight Gregories and SouthGregories lead to fi shing spots along thecoastline. Gas barbecues are supplied,wood fi res are not permitted and visitorsneed to bring water supplies whenvisiting the park. The park was namedafter the French zoologist, FrancoisPeron, who arrived in Shark Bay in 1801on the vessel Geographe, under CaptainBaudin. Peron’s observations proved tobe of great importance to the naturalhistory of the region.


Monkey MiaMonkey Mia Reserve is located on theeastern shore of Peron Peninsula about23 kilometres from the town of Denham.Home to the world famous Monkey Miadolphins, it’s a must stop for families andnature lovers alike. Monkey Mia also offersmany other attractions and tours includingbeach camel treks, catamaran wildlifesailing cruises and Indigenous tours.Explore the area surrounding MonkeyMia on the easy, 1.5-kilometre walk trailstarting at the Denham and Monkey MiaVisitor Centre and heading into the sanddunes before returning to the beach.Access to Monkey Mia Reserve is subjectto a Department of Environment andConservation National Park entrance fee.Indigenous PerspectiveGathaagudu is the Aboriginal name forShark Bay, meaning two waters. Longbefore Europeans landed and settledin the Shark Bay area, the land andwaters of Monkey Mia and surroundsprovided a livelihood for the local Nhandaand Malgana people. You can get anIndigenous perspective on Shark Bayby taking a walking tour departing fromthe Denham and Monkey Mia VisitorCentre several times a day. Learn aboutthe Indigenous history of Shark Bay andits many plants and animals. Become ananimal tracker and discover which plantsmake good bush tucker and medicine.Along the walk you will visit signifi cantcultural sites including a shell midden andcaves where archaeological evidencehas dated Indigenous occupation backthousands of years.DolphinsMeeting the friendly dolphins of Monkey MiaThe dolphins of Monkey Mia are famousfor their daily ritual of swimming toshore to interact with humans. As thebottlenose dolphins are wild, numbersand the exact time of their visit varies,however they usually visit the shore upto three times a day, usually starting at7.30am. Seven dolphins regularly visitthe beach with up to 20 others visitingoccasionally. Monkey Mia dolphinsare protected by the Department ofEnvironment and Conservation (DEC).Visitors may get the opportunity to feedthe dolphins under the supervision ofa National Park Ranger, though thisprivilege is not guaranteed. DEC hasdeveloped a management program thataims to ensure the dolphins maintain theirhunting and survival skills. Therefore, thedolphins are only fed a maximum of onethird of their daily intake of fi sh. Visitorscan also learn more about the MonkeyMia dolphins at the Dolphin InformationCentre located inside the Denham andMonkey Mia Visitor Centre. Souvenirsand postcards are also on sale here,proceeds of which support the MonkeyMia appeal trust.Wildlife CruisesBe sure to join a wildlife cruise aboard acatamaran yacht tour. Sailing out into therich waters of Shark Bay Marine Park,you may get the opportunity to get closeto dolphins, turtles, dugongs and manymore marine species. Alternatively headout on a sunset cruise and relax with adrink as the sun sets over the nearby rustred cliffs.Sailing tourCanoe hire at Monkey MiaPelicans at Monkey MiaShark Bay beachaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 57


ImageImageImageCamel rides on the beachSand dunes of Shark BayMonkey Mia JettyPage 58 | australiascoralcoast.comAbundant Marine LifeShark Bay Marine Park covers 1500kilometres of coastline, making it the largestmarine embayment in <strong>Australia</strong>. On anyvisit you’re likely to spot turtles, dolphins,manta rays, whales and dugongs, be iton a boat or from the shore. The shallowwaters support a diverse ecology, includingthe largest number and area of seagrassspecies in the world, providing nutritionand shelter for the marine fauna. SharkBay is also an important turtle nestinglocation with up to 6,000 marine turtlesliving in the water including the preciousloggerhead turtle, considered the mostendangered turtle species in <strong>Australia</strong>.Tours are available, offering visitors theunique opportunity to witness Shark Bay’sabundant marine life.DugongsDue to the vast sea grass meadows inthe Shark Bay Marine Park, dugongscan be found year round near SharkBay. The Shark Bay area alone supports10 per cent of the world’s dugongpopulation. They feed on the signifi cantsea grass meadows that blanket thesea fl oor of the Shark Bay Marine Park.You can’t help but be enchanted bythese graceful (if a little bizarre looking)creatures. Dugongs can grow up to threemetres in length and weigh as much as400 kilograms. Being mammals, theycannot hold their breath under water forvery long, so they can often be spottedcoming to the surface for air. You canexperience dugongs on a wildlife cruisefrom Monkey Mia or on a scenic fl ightabove Shark Bay to spot them.Dirk Hartog IslandShark Bay World Heritage AreaFor those who like a little seclusion,<strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong>’s largest island, DirkHartog offers a peaceful retreat of beautifulscenery and private white sandy beaches.Dirk Hartog Island was the fi rst recordedlanding on <strong>Australia</strong>n soil by Europeans.Captain Dirk Hartog announced his arrivalby erecting an inscribed pewter plate atthe site now known as Cape Inscription.A replica of this plate can be seen at theShark Bay World Heritage Discovery andVisitor Centre. Fishing is very good aroundthe island. Scuba diving, snorkelling andwalking are also great ways to explore thesurrounds. The island is open to visitorsfrom March to October. Air and land toursand accommodation need to be prearrangedand bookings are essential.Steep Point and Zuytdorp CliffsSpectacularly beautiful Steep Point is themost western point of mainland <strong>Australia</strong>and is a Mecca for fi shermen. In fact it’sknown to be one of the world’s mostsuccessful land based game fi shinglocations. Access is by four wheel driveonly and visitors are advised to exercisecaution and bring their own drinking waterand supplies. This area also featuresthe magnifi cent Zuytdorp (pronouncedZurtoff) Cliffs towering up to 170 metresabove sea level. The Zuytdorp Cliffs thatbegin at Kalbarri to the south and end atSteep Point in the north make for someamazing scenery, including blowholesthat shoot sea spray up to nine metresinto the air. Land and scenic air toursare available to Steep Point and over theZuytdorp Cliffs.


Dolphins are justthe beginning...Absolute beachfront accommodation. Magical dolphin encounters.World leading nature-based experiences. Only accommodation in Monkey Mia.freecall 1800 653 611phone +61 8 9948 1320monkeymia@aspenresorts.com.aumonkeymia.com.auaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 590210


Monkey MiaFlash Backpackers Quality budget accommodation.Stunning beachfront location.Unique, affordable,world-leading activities and facilities.Voted top ten flashpacker accommodation under$100 in <strong>Australia</strong> by <strong>Australia</strong>n Traveller Magazine.monkeymia@aspenresorts.com.au freecall 1800 653 611ph +61 8 9948 1320 monkeymia.com.au24280227Page 60 | australiascoralcoast.com


Discover the wonder of Shark Bay’s worldheritage attractions along the new SharkBay World Heritage Drive. The 130kmfully signposted drive commencesat the Overlander Roadhouse on theNorth West <strong>Coast</strong>al Highway through toMonkey Mia.Here you can get in touch with theEarth’s evolutionary and biologicalhistory, its unique natural formations andseek out habitats where threatenedspecies survive. Each attractionincludes interpretive signage helpingyou to make the very most of yourexperience.SHARK BAYWorld HeritageDiscovery CentreDenhamOcean ParkPeronHomesteadEagle BluffLittle LagoonMonkey MiaNangaShell BeachHamelin PoolStromatolitesHAMELIN POOL STROMATOLITESStroll along the boardwalk, read about the history of Stumpy’sStromatolite Family and take in the biology of these ancientorganisms.SHELL BEACHNot your everyday sand beach, Shell Beach is made of trillionsof tiny shells. It is a sight to behold; tonnes of bleached whiteshells forming a beach up to 1km wide, giving way to crystalclear water of the most intense greens and blues.DISCOVERSHARK BAY WORLD HERITAGEDISCOVERY AND VISITOR CENTREHow did a stromatolite change the world?What are Shark Bay’s very own land and sea animals?Why is Shark Bay World Heritage Listed?EAGLE BLUFFOne of the best places in Shark Bay to view marine life. Theshallow waters of Henri Freycinet Harbour below the boardwalkare teeming with life including rays, turtles, sharks and theoccasional dugong, especially in the summer months.WORLD HERITAGE DISCOVERY CENTREYour one-stop informative display covering all of Shark Bay’snatural and cultural features, this centre is a must-see for everyvisitor to the area.LITTLE LAGOONAlmost perfectly circular in shape, this pristine waterway is anatural nursery for several fish species and a classified marinerecreation zone that allows recreational fishing but prohibitsthe use of nets.PERON HERITAGE PRECINCTLocated within the stunning Francois Peron National Park, thePrecinct provides a self guided walk trail exploring the area’shistory, visiting the shearing shed, shearer’s quarters and stockyards.MONKEY MIAWorld famous for its dolphin interaction experience, don’t missthe many other tours and attractions available for you to enjoy.Look out for these signs as you driveFor a Shark Bay World Heritage Drivebrochure call (08) 9948 1590 or visitwww.sharkbayworldheritagedrive.com.auSHARK BAYVISITORS CENTREVisitor Informationon all the exciting Shark Bay experiencesBook all your accommodationand tours with our helpful staffOpen 7 days, 9am to 6pm(except Good Friday and Christmas Day)Ph: 08 9948 1590www.sharkbayvisit.com53 Knight Terrace, Denham WA 6537Email: sbdc@sharkbay.wa.gov.auaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 612288


Join ‘Shotover’, the awesome 18 metresailing catamaran, for <strong>Australia</strong>’s onlypure sail, award-winning, wildlifecruises.Special deal: Take the afternoonwildlife cruise and get the sunsetcruise for free.A full day in the FrancoisPeron National Park,adventuring in splendidisolation of stunning scenery,gobsmacking colour andincredible wildlife. Take a tourand save 25% on cruises.Specialists in getting youaccommodation on the beachfrontat either Monkey Mia or Denhamfrom as little as $99.From the beach, explore ourstunning universe in the vividblaze of Monkey Mia’s nightsky.bookings@monkeymiawildsights.com.auwww.monkeymiawildsights.com.auPhone: (08) 99 481 481Toll Free: 1800 241 4810298 Underwater Observation Windows Family Concession Free Boomnetting Liquor Licensed Visit the Black Pearl Farm (inclusive of tour) See Dolphins, Dugongs, Turtles, Sharks and Rays Snorkelling See Steep Point, Dirk Hartog Island, Whales, Zuytdorp Cliffs0005BOOK YOUR ADVENTUREOCEAN PARK AQUARIUM AND LICENSED CAFÉ OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK · 9AM-5PMAQUARIUMOpen air interactive aquarium is hometo some of the region’s most diverse anddangerous residents.Moray Eels, Logger head Turtles, Sea Snakes, ClownfishRays, Pink Snapper, Red Emperor, <strong>Coral</strong> Trout, RankinCod, Golden Trevally, Tailor, Mulloway, Barramundi,Samson Fish, Cray Fish, Lemon Sharks, SandbarSharks, Reef Sharks, Lion Fish, Squid and many more.4WD TOURSOur experienced tour guides will show youthe raw beauty and pristine coastline of theShark Bay World Heritage Area. Francois Peron National Park - Includes Ocean ParkAquarium tour & Snorkeling tour. Steep Point - Includes the famous Zuytdorp Cliffs,Blowholes, South Passage, Thunder Bay, FalseEntrance & Bush Walk/Wild Flower tour.* Conditions apply.OCEAN PARK LICENSED CAFÉRelax with a refreshing beverage whilstsoaking up the warm glow of the setting sun.Internet connection available, the café is the ideal spot tostay in touch with family or make some new friends.08 9948 1765info@oceanpark.com.auoceanpark.com.au2434Page 62 | australiascoralcoast.com


2430Bay Lodge2647Shark Bay Fishing ClubAbsolute Beachfront International Backpackers& Family Accommodation• 1 & 2 bedroom bungalows • Doubles, singles, triples & quads • Swimming Pool• Barbecue area • Outdoor facilities • Airconditioning • Internet access• Public telephones • Free return courtesy bus to Monkey Mia Resort for dolphin feedingBay Lodge113 Knight TerraceDenham WA 6537Freecall: 1800 812 780T: +61 8 9948 1278Email: baylodge@wn.com.auWeb: www.baylodge.infoShark Bay’s Annual FishingFiesta 7th - 13th May 2011• Great Fishing • Great Prizes• Great Entertainment • Daily Weigh-in’s• Drink Can Regatta • Kids Activities• Fireworks • Markets • Bar Facilities• Food • AuctionContact the Shark Bay World HeritageDiscovery Centre for any queriesShark Bay Fishing ClubPh: +61 8 9948 1590Email: sharkbaytc@westnet.com.au0225Denham Seaside Tourist VillageDiscoverstunningcontrastsAbsolute 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 Village1 Knights TerraceDenham WA 6537Ph: +61 8 9948 1242Fax: +61 8 9948 1196Email: shark.bay@wn.com.auWeb: www.sharkbayfun.com2603Carbla StationHistoric Homestead and Unique Outback ExperienceThe fully operational Carbla Station gives visitors the chance to experience the ruggedand beautiful <strong>Australia</strong>n outback. The Station encompasses over 100,000 hectares ofpicturesque rural land, with 20km of beautiful Shark Bay beach frontage. The Homesteadprovides Shearer’s Quarters and Camping, with Luxury Tents coming soon. Fromspectacular rocky outcrops and red sand dunes to sheep shearing, makes Carbla Stationan unforgettable <strong>Australia</strong>n 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 StationShark Bay WA 6537Ph: +61 8 9948 1765Ph: +61 8 9942 5915Email: info@oceanpark.com.auWeb: carbla.com.auChoose from a range ofactivities and attractions ataustraliascoralcoast.comaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 63


Shark Bay to Ningaloo…An area so extraordinary it’s been nominated asone of just 15 National Landscapes in <strong>Australia</strong>.Find out why at australiascoralcoast.com2436Blue Dolphin Caravan Park2263Oceanside VillageUnder New Management - Pet FriendlyCome and meet Barry, Trish and their faithful canine companion Buddy. The Blue DolphinCaravan Park is centrally located, only 50 metres from the main beach & shopping areas ofShark Bay. Take a short walk to the Shark Bay Discovery Centre or meet the locals and enjoythe tasty delights of the cafes and restaurants. We are a pet friendly park with a fun, familyorientated atmosphere. We offer shady, powered, unpowered caravan and camping sites,self contained units, budget cabins and cabins with external ensuites.Denham Beachfront holiday accommodation in Shark Bay.Oceanside Village offers modern 3½ star self contained waterfront holiday villas atexcellent prices, directly on the ocean in Denham right in the heart of the Shark Bay WorldHeritage Region.We offer 22 (1 and 2 bedroom ) free standing, air-conditioned luxury villas in an extremely quietlocation 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 forboats and trailers available. You couldn’t have a better location for your family holiday.Blue Dolphin Caravan ParkDenham WA 6537Ph: +61 8 9948 1385Fax: +61 8 9948 1368Email: bluedolphin@westnet.com.auWeb: www.ozpal.com/bluedolphinCARAVAN PARKOceanside Village117 Knight TceDenham WA 6537Freecall: 1800 680 600Ph: +61 8 9948 3003Web: www.oceanside.com.auPage 64 | australiascoralcoast.com


###CarnarvonCarnarvon One Mile JettyPERTHCarnarvonCarnarvon is a subtropical oasis where fresh fruit, vegetables and seafood isplentiful. It is a great place to rest, relax and recharge, take in the Indigenousand pioneering heritage of the region. Base yourself in Carnarvon for visits to therugged inland or the wilderness coast.The FascineCarnarvon’s central waterway, known asThe Fascine, was named after an 1800sbuilding technique used to construct theembankment on the south arm of theGascoyne River. Stately palms line thewater way, making it a lovely spot for apicnic or a stroll. The sunset views aremagnifi cent. You may even see a dolphin.Produce PlantationsCarnarvon’s many plantations producemillions of dollars worth of produceannually, including more than half of WA’sbananas. The region’s mild climate, pestfreestatus and the fertile land near theGascoyne River result in the productionof top quality fruit and vegetables. Manyplantation operators also produce arange of quality sauces, jams, pickledfruit, ice creams and dried fruit. Take adrive down North or South River Roads,join a tour to buy produce direct from thegrowers’ stalls or head to the Growers’Market. Contact the Visitor Centre for tourinformation.Gascoyne Growers’ MarketsThe Gascoyne Growers’ Markets operateoutside the Carnarvon Visitor Centreevery Saturday morning from May toOctober. The market is run by the growersthemselves, who often pick their producethe night before (or even that morning)so it comes fresh to you at the market.Purchase tropical fruits, homemadeicecreams, a wide variety of veggies,herbs, honey, eggs, cakes, jams, relishesand plants. Enjoy a coffee and a muffi nwhile you stroll through the stalls, listen tothe buskers and pick up a few tips fromthe growers themselves. The markets areplastic bag free, so be sure to take alongyour green bags.Taste of the GascoyneThis annual celebration of local seafoodand produce features celebrity and localchefs presenting new ways to enjoy theabundant supplies of this outback oasis.The fi rst week in August will see a series ofevents showcasing the best of Gascoynefood.Banana plantationDid you know?Carnarvon is the only town in <strong>Australia</strong>where the central desert reaches outto the sea.InformationPopulation:6,085Distance from Perth:905kmCarnarvon Visitor CentreRobinson St, Carnarvon WA 6701Tel: +61 8 9941 1146carnarvon.org.auaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 65


Tasty local produceThe OTC DishRed Bluff, north of CarnarvonPage 66 | australiascoralcoast.comGascoyne Food TrailEnjoy a taste of regional produce onthe Gascoyne Food Trail. The trail willtake you to producer direct seafoodand horticultural outlets as well as tovenues incorporating local produce intheir menu. Seasonally available produceincludes mangoes, grapes, watermelonsand a spectrum of fresh vegetables.Prawns, scallops, crab and fi sh can bepurchased direct from the factories inCarnarvon during the winter months.Fruit ice-creams, preserves, dried andfrozen products are available direct fromproducers all year round. Pick up a copyof the Gascoyne Food Trail brochure andmap from the Carnarvon Visitor Centre.Gwoonwardu MiaGascoyne Aboriginal Heritageand Culture CentrePeople from the fi ve Aboriginal languagegroups in the Gascoyne have cometogether to showcase their history, art andculture which you can share by visitingGwoonwardu Mia. Not only can you meetlocal people and purchase artworks, youcan delight in the innovative local cuisineavailable at the Yallibiddi, (Yingarrda foremu) Café. open weekdays 10am-3pm.SeafoodA thriving prawn, scallop, crab and fi shingindustry operates from Carnarvon. Duringthe months of May to October freshlycaught seafood can be purchased directlyfrom the factories.FishingWindsurfingCarnarvon is renowned for its manyrecreational fi shing locations. From thejetties along The Fascine to the One MileJetty and the beaches at Pelican Pointand Dwyers Leap you can cast a linefor whiting, tailor or mulloway. It is also agreat location for putting your small boatin the water to explore the tidal creeks formangrove jack or to try for snapper orgroper in the bay. Head to the CarnarvonVisitor Centre for maps to point you tothese locations.OTC DishDominating the Carnarvon skyline is anOverseas Telecommunications (OTC)Dish, a testament to the signifi cant rolethat Carnarvon played in the space raceof the 1960s and 1970s. Messages tothe Apollo mission that landed on themoon were relayed through installationsin Carnarvon when the orbit passedthe southern hemisphere. It was alsofrom here that <strong>Australia</strong> received its fi rstsatellite television broadcast. The stationclosed in 1987 after assisting in trackingHalley’s Comet in 1986. The area offersa panoramic view of the town andsurrounding countryside.Pioneer ParkPioneer Park has two enormous bonesfrom a blue whale, forming an arch overthe entrance to a pleasant picnic spot.Further along Olivia Terrace is BaxterPark, which hosts a great children’splayground.


The Gascoyne DashThis locally run desert endurance motorrace draws competitors from around thenation. The two day, 300 kilometre racealong outback station tracks and downthe sandy Gascoyne River bed stops thetown. If you are nearby in late October, besure to witness the Gascoyne Dash whenmotorcycles, quad bikes, custom builtfour wheel drives and buggies challengethemselves as well as each other. Winningis something, fi nishing is everything.Carnarvon Heritage PrecinctImmerse yourself in local history, at theCarnarvon Heritage Precinct, located onthe site of the 1890s Port of Carnarvon,just three kilometres from the centreof town.Precinct MuseumsStep back in time to the early 1900s. Takea walk down memory lane through theLighthouse Keepers’ Cottage Museum,restored to the times of our pioneerswho looked after the lighthouse. Visitthe Railway Museum - home of the fullyrestored Kimberley Steam Train thatoperated from the jetty to town in the1950s. Don’t leave without enjoying acoffee or ice cream at the kiosk opendaily from 9.00am to 5.00pm betweenApril and September.One Mile JettyBuilt in 1897, Carnarvon’s famous OneMile Jetty is one of the longest jettiesin the southern hemisphere. Throw in afi shing line, walk its length or catch thequaint “Coffee Pot” train.Carnarvon TramwayThis 2.5-kilometre walk trail connectsthe town with the heritage precinct. TheTramway Bridge across the south armof the Gascoyne River was constructedduring the 1900s to transport goodsbetween the port of Carnarvon and thetown centre. The full walk trail continuesanother two kilometres through theheritage precinct and up the One MileJetty. Signage on the local fl ora and faunacan be found along the trail.War MemorialThe memorial was shipped from Perth anderected in 1923 to serve as a reminder of thetragic loss of life in the Great War. Plaquesfor the Second World War, Korean andVietnam wars were added later. The Wall ofRemembrance was unveiled on November23, 1991 to commemorate the 50thanniversary of the sinking of HMAS SydneyII off the shores of the region in 1941. Thisevent was the worst <strong>Australia</strong>n maritimetragedy during World War II. HMAS SydneyII Memorial Drive was constructed at thesouth entrance to Carnarvon in 2001. Thisavenue of 645 plaques and palms along theroad identifi es the individual loss of lives. Acairn has been erected on Quobba Stationwhere the Kormoran (the German raiderthat sunk the HMAS Sydney II) survivorslanded on life boats.Shearers Hall of FameLearn about the golden days of theGascoyne’s shearing industry back inthe 1950s at <strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong>’s fi rstShearing Hall of Fame. Discover theregion’s effi cient shearing techniques.The Coffee Pot TrainThe blowholesThe Fascine, Carnarvonaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 67


Ningaloo coastlineRed Bluff, QuobbaSurrounding attractionsThe Blowholes andMarine Sanctuary ZoneLocated about 70 kilometres north ofCarnarvon along sealed roads, the Blowholesform a natural spectacle as the ocean isforced through sea caves before explodingout through holes in the rock. Depending onthe swell the spray can often reach up to 20metres high. Just two kilometres south of theBlowholes is a calm coral fi lled lagoon wheremarine life abounds.Rocky PoolThis deep, fresh water, billabong in theGascoyne River, 55 kilometres east ofCarnarvon is an ideal picnic site. Thewater is lined with majestic gums, whichare home to a great range of bird life.All aboard!0419Quobba Station /Red Bluff and GnaralooHeading north of Carnarvon along thecoast, you’ll fi nd beachside hideaways atQuobba Station, Red Bluff and Gnaraloo.This magnifi cent stretch of coast boaststowering cliffs and sandy beaches, greatfi shing, surfi ng, windsurfi ng, kitesurfi ng,swimming and sight seeing. In 2004 theNingaloo Marine Park was extendedto include the waters off this stretch ofcoastline. The coastal cliffs provide theideal platform to view humpback whalesjust metres off the coast during theirannual migration from June to November.Gnaraloo Station staff also work closelywith DEC to protect the local marineturtles that come onto the station land tonest each year.Carnarvon Visitor CentreThe Kennedy Ranges150 kilometres inland from Carnarvon, theKennedy Range National Park is simplystunning. The ranges are 75 kilometreslong, up to 25 kilometres wide and arethe result of millions of years of erosionwhere the natural force of winds, rainsand movement in the earth’s crust havecombined to etch out valleys and pushup spectacular cliff faces. Bush campingis permitted at designated sites. Thereare also several walk trails to particularlyscenic places, and a tourist road leads toa picnic site where fossils can be found.Keep an eye out for the beautiful stones,opalite and mookarite. Your experiencewill be heightened if visiting betweenAugust and September, when a range ofbeautiful wildfl owers burst into colour.Visit the Carnarvon HeritagePrecinct and ride the ‘CoffeePot’ train as it rumbles alongOne Mile Jetty.Make tracks ataustraliascoralcoast.com###Your friendly, informative visitor’s centre.• Tours, Accommodation and Greyhound bookings• Maps • Souvenirs • Gifts • Internet Access• Local Products & PreservesConveniently located at the second roundabout, withample parking for caravans behind the centreCarnarvon Visitor CentreCivic Centre, 21 Robinson StreetCarnarvon WA 6701Ph: +61 8 9941 1146Fax: +61 8 9941 1149Email: info@carnarvon.org.auWeb: www.carnarvon.org.au9TA 00030V i s i t o r C e n t r ePage 68 | australiascoralcoast.com


2433Ciindy and Keviin Barrett iinviite you toStay awhile andrelax in Carnarvon!AAA RATEDWHETHER YOU’RE CAMPING OR TRAVELLING IN STYLE,WE HAVE THE ACCOMMODATION FOR YOU!For more details visit our website: www.carnarvonwa.comGateway to the <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Coast</strong>Tel 08 9941 6900 Relax 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, Carnarvonbookings@thegatewaymotel.comCARNARVONHOLIDAY RESORTFascine Lodge SELF RATEDEnjoyyour stay in Carnarvon’s idyllicclimate. Close to the CBD, scenic Fascinewalkways, tourist attractions & so much more!34 David Brand Dr, Carnarvonbookings@fascinelodge.com Swimming pool Wireless internet Restaurant & Bar Ensuite aircon rooms& family suites Executive rooms Secure parking Ideal venue for weddings,seminars & functions.Tel 08 9941 0600Fully self-containedmotel-style accommodation onShady sites Private ensuitesSwimming pool Close to shopsInternet café Pets welcome477 Robinson Street, Carnarvonbookings@carnarvonpark.com.auTel 08 9941 8101DISCOUNTRATES FORWEEKLYBOOKINGS


Best <strong>Western</strong> Hospitality Inn CarnarvonIdeally located on the banks of the Gascoyne River, just800m from the city centre.Hospitality Inn welcomes you to air conditioned affordable comfort in one of their 45well appointed rooms complete with fridge, tea & coffee, Foxtel & freein-house movies.Enjoy the on-site facilities including pool, playground, BBQ area and superb licensedRestaurant all set in attractive grounds.0006Best <strong>Western</strong> Hospitality Inn6 West StreetCarnarvon WA 6701Ph: +61 8 9941 1600Fax: +61 8 9941 2405Email: carnarvon@hospitalityinns.com.auWeb: www.hospitalityinncarnarvon.com.auCarnarvon Sea Change ApartmentsThese brand new 1 & 2 bedroom apartments are centrally located on Olivia Terrace overlooking Carnarvon’smagnificent 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 accessibleCarnarvon Sea Change ApartmentsOlivia TerraceCarnarvon WA 6701Ph: 0408 785 697Email: jjdwyer@bigpond.net.auWeb: www.carnarvonseachangeapartments.com.au 2357<strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Coast</strong> Tourist ParkStay central at the only park right in townLocated right in the heart of Carnarvon, you’re walking distance from the town centre and magnifi centfascine waterways.Choose from our two bedroom and spa deluxe park homes and cabin accommodation or a grassedsite with annex pad. A new camper’s kitchen and free barbecues are also available. Relax in our tropicalswimming 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 1448E info@coralcoastpark.com • W www.coralcoasttouristpark.com.au108 Robinson Street, Carnarvon WA 67010003Page 70 | australiascoralcoast.com


2122Carnarvon’s PremierTourist ParkWinner - Best Tourism Development Business2009 & 2010 Carnarvon CCI AwardsFor your best stayin Carnarvon phoneour friendly staff today08 9941 8150or Book Onlinewww.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 specials546 Robinson Street | T: 1300 555 585 (National) | E: info@wintersuncaravanpark.com.auTOURIST PARK2109Capricorn Holiday ParkCarnarvon Central Apartments2432CaltexCarnarvonTown Centre0013ShellPerthParkBroomeKarrathaA 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 ManagementCapricorn Holiday Park1042 North West <strong>Coast</strong>al HighwayCarnarvon WA 6701Ph: +61 8 9941 8153Email: stay@capricornholidaypark.com.auWeb: www.capricornholidaypark.com.auHomely, self-contained unitsat an affordable price.Short stroll to centre of town, airportand Fascine. Enjoy a relaxing holiday inCarnarvon - ‘Home of the Winter Sun!’.Children, business travellers and long stayvisitors are most welcome.Carnarvon Central Apartments120 Robinson StCarnarvon WA 6701Ph: +61 8 9941 1317Fax: +61 8 9941 4184Email: sunnywinters@westnet.com.auWeb: www.carnarvonholidays.comaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 71


Celebrating Indigenous Culture in the GascoyneTelomac Tackle03752394Gwoonwardu 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 visitingGwoonwardu Mia. Walk through the ethno botanical gardens and explore a variety of fl oranative to the region and delight in the bush tucker cuisine available at the Yallibiddi Cafe.Gascoyne Aboriginal Heritage & Cultural Centre144-148 Robinson St, PO Box 929Carnarvon WA 6701Ph: +61 8 9941 1989Fax: +61 8 9941 1929Email: gahcc@gahcc.com.auWeb: www.gahcc.com.auSee us for Local Advice& Conditions.• FISHING • DIVING• CAMPING • ICE• GAS • BAITAgents for Camec Caravan Parts.Telomac Tackle348 Robinson StCarnarvon WA 6701Ph: +61 8 9941 1873Fax: +61 8 9941 1903Email: telomac@bigpond.com265600140014Quobba Station80kms of WA’s most spectacular coastline80km of WA’s most spectacular coastline. A family operated sheep station, offering landbased game fi shing, surfi ng, whale watching and snorkelling the Southern tip of the NingalooReef. Accommodation / Camping to suit all requirements is available. Travel another 60km toexperience the jewel of Quobba Station, Red Bluff.Quobba StationGnarloo RdCarnarvon WA 6701Ph: +61 8 9948 5098Email: quobbastation@bigpond.comWeb: www.quobba.com.auAdvancedEcoTourismThe Fish and Whistle Backpacker and Motel AccommodationStockup onsupplies!Get your two fruitand five veg at theGascoyne Grower’smarket, held everySaturday betweenMay and October,outside the CarnarvonVisitor Centre.Located in the Centre of TownLocated in the centre of town and within walking distance to the shopping centre &speciality stores, restaurants, cafes, hotels, banks, cinema, fascine, town beach and postoffi ce. 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 kitchenOther Features• Guest Internet - 24 hr access including wireless hotspot.• Work opportunities • Transport to work available• Guest laundry (coin operated) • Off street parkingThe Fish and Whistle35 Robinson Street (Corner of Alexandra St)Carnarvon WA 6701Ph: +61 8 9941 1704Fax: +61 8 9941 1835Email: stay@fi shandwhistle.com.auWeb: www.fi shandwhistle.com.auFor more details, visitaustraliascoralcoast.comPage 72 | australiascoralcoast.com


###<strong>Coral</strong> BayNingaloo coastline near <strong>Coral</strong> BayPERTH<strong>Coral</strong> BayAs the southern gateway to the world renowned Ningaloo Reef, <strong>Coral</strong> Bay isa marine paradise. Its dazzling underwater gardens start just metres from thepristine white shores, bringing this underwater fantasia within reach of even theyoungest of swimmers.Ningaloo Marine ParkNingaloo Reef is <strong>Australia</strong>’s largestfringing coral reef. In some places itstarts just metres from the shore. TheNingaloo Marine Park extends 10 nauticalmiles seaward and encompasses over5,000 square kilometres of ocean. Theshallow lagoons formed by the reef, andthe deeper offshore waters create adiverse array of habitats for a multitude ofcolourful corals and species of fi sh. Over200 species of soft and hard coral can befound on the Ningaloo Reef.BeachesSituated right on the doorstep of <strong>Coral</strong>Bay’s accommodation, Bill’s Bay is calmand protected, making it an ideal familyswimming location. This is a sanctuaryzone; therefore no fi shing is permitted,making the fi sh life abundant and thesnorkelling amazing. Here, the NingalooReef starts just metres from the shore,therefore is accessible for the whole family.Purdy Point is another safe swimmingbeach at the end of the fi sh sanctuary,and is ideal for snorkelling. The crystalclear waters and brilliant white sand giveParadise Beach its name.Snorkelling/Scuba DivingA snorkel or dive experience on theNingaloo Reef is a must on a trip to <strong>Coral</strong>Bay. At Bill’s Bay, you can explore thecoral by just stepping off the sand. Thismakes experiencing the reef easy for allages and levels of fi tness. Incredible coralgardens start just metres from the shore.Further out, several hotspots are locatedjust within the outer reef. Here the fi share colourful, sea life abounds and you’relikely to encounter manta rays and turtlesswimming among the coral gardens. Fora local’s insight, join a tour to experiencesome of the best diving hotspots. Snorkeland dive equipment is available for hirefrom <strong>Coral</strong> Bay.<strong>Coral</strong> SpawningIn March and April divers and snorkellerscan witness an amazing spectacle at nightwith lights when the ocean glows. <strong>Coral</strong>spawning occurs when coral releaseseggs and sperm into the surroundingocean approximately 10 to 12 days afterthe full moon.School of spangled emperorDid you know?Mantra rays have the largest brainof all fi sh, which may explain theirinquisitive nature.InformationPopulation:192Distance from Perth:1,132kmExmouth Visitor CentreMurat Road, Exmouth WA 6707Tel: 1800 287 328exmouthwa.com.auaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 73


ImageExplore the reef by canoeSnapper feeding, <strong>Coral</strong> BayNingaloo Marine ParkPage 74 | australiascoralcoast.comWhale SharksThese gentle giants visit the NingalooMarine Park from mid March to mid Julyannually, following the mass spawningof coral at Ningaloo Reef. Several touroperators offer full day tours allowing youto swim with these amazing creatures.Whale sharks are the world’s largest fi shand can grow up to 18 metres in length.They are fi lter feeders and are thereforeharmless to humans. The NingalooMarine Park is considered one of themost reliable and easily accessible placeson earth to swim with these gentle giants.Manta RaysSwimming with manta rays is anunforgettable experience. Manta raysinhabit <strong>Coral</strong> Bay waters year roundand their inquisitive nature makes itfun to jump in the water and swimwith these harmless creatures. Unlikesting rays, manta rays have no barband are therefore safe to swim with. Itis spectacular to watch these beautifuland harmless creatures as they glideelegantly through the water. Manta raysoften have a wingspan of several metreswide.Whale WatchingIt’s not just whale sharks that visit <strong>Coral</strong>Bay but the mighty humpback whaletoo! While you can’t swim with thesemarine giants, <strong>Coral</strong> Bay is an idealplace to view their annual migrationfrom June to November. Opportunitiesto see this spectacle are available fromthe sea and the air.TurtlesSwimming with manta rays at NingalooThe Ningaloo Marine Park is an importantbreeding ground for three of the world’sseven marine species, includingloggerhead, green and hawkesbill turtles.Loggerhead turtles come ashore to thesheltered beaches of <strong>Coral</strong> Bay to laytheir eggs during the summer months.In February and early March the turtleshatch and lucky visitors can watch themventure into the sea.Snapper FeedingVisitors can head down to Bill’s Bay dailyat 3:30pm to feed the schools of norwestsnapper that swim into shore. Be sure tobury your toes in the sand!Shark NurseryA 20-minute walk north of Bill’s Bay (pastthe boat mooring area) will bring you toSkeleton Bay. From October to Marchthe waters of the bay turn into a reefshark nursery. Watch as up to 200 reefsharks lurk in the shallow waters.NudibranchNudibranchs, casually known as ‘seaslugs’ are some of the most beautifuland diverse creatures in the ocean.The word “nudibranch” comes from theLatin word nudas meaning naked, andthe Greek word brankhia meaning gills.Ningaloo Reef is home to a plethora ofthese colourful, slow moving creatures.Despite their vivid colours, nudibranchare often well disguised, so look for themin shallow rock pools or grazing on thecoral reef.


<strong>Coral</strong> ViewingYou can see all the underwater sights at<strong>Coral</strong> Bay without even getting your feetwet aboard a glass bottom boat. Marvelat the changing colours of the coral andthe parade of tropical fi sh, turtles and raysas you snap photographs as a permanentreminder of the experience.Sea KayaksDouble sea kayaks are the perfect wayto explore the sheltered lagoons, wherethe water is rarely more than three metresdeep. They are smooth and quiet, allowingyou to get up close to wildlife. You canhire kayaks off the beach or join a tourwith a knowledgeable local guide.FishingWith a mixture of subtropical and tropicalfi sh species, <strong>Coral</strong> Bay offers some of thebest game fi shing in the world. Searchfor red emperor, norwest snapper orcod. Both deep sea bottom fi shing andlight game fi shing are offered. There arealso many good opportunities for beachfi shing away from the main swimmingbeach. There are several sanctuaryzones around <strong>Coral</strong> Bay so be sure tocheck fi shing is allowed before droppingin a line.LiveaboardChoose from a range of liveaboardadventures that explore the pristineNingaloo Reef. Enjoy swimming inuntouched coral gardens, searching forwildlife and simply relaxing. Tours departfrom <strong>Coral</strong> Bay and Exmouth.Quad Bike TreksSee <strong>Coral</strong> Bay from a different perspectiveon an exhilarating quad bike ride. A selfdrive adventure like no other, you’ll explorethe beaches, bush tracks, pristine bays,dunes and cliff-lines with a backdrop ofa picture perfect sunset. Or if you preferto have a guide, join one of the arrangedtours from <strong>Coral</strong> Bay.Four Wheel DrivingA four wheel drive track approximatelyten kilometres north of <strong>Coral</strong> Bay allowsyou to traverse the coast heading north.The track eventually hits NingalooStation at the southern end of CapeRange National Park. You can head thewhole way to Exmouth via this route andexplore secluded beaches and strikingscenery along the route. Suitable onlyfor competent four wheel drivers. Besure to check with the Department ofEnvironment and Conservation (DEC)that Yardie Creek is passable beforeyou set out.Four Wheel Drive Safari ToursSee the coastline around <strong>Coral</strong> Bay in thecomfort of a luxury four wheel drive tour.Venture through the rugged landscapesof Cape Range National Park or take instunning views of the crystal clear watersof Ningaloo Marine Park. Alternatively,enjoy an extended break from the coastand head inland to explore the ancientscenery of the Karijini National Park in thePilbara. Day trips and extended tours tosurrounding areas depart from <strong>Coral</strong> Bayand Exmouth.Sunset over Bill’s BaySailing catamaran toursQuad bike trek at <strong>Coral</strong> Bayaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 75


Superior Backpacker AccommodationBest atmosphere in <strong>Coral</strong> Bay. Swimming pool. Entertainment area.Alfresco poolside dining. Licensed Manta Bar. Internet access.Tour bookings. Share kitchen. Laundry.RATES FROM $27.00 pp.ADVANCE ROOM BOOKINGS: (08) 9385 6655DORMS & This week’s availability : (08) 9948 5100Email: bcb@coralbaywa.comWeb: www.ningalooclub.com Immerse yourself in nature & adventure.Bayview offers everything you need to makeyour holiday unforgettable.Lodge • Villas • Chalets • CabinsCaravan & Camping sitesTicket Office onsite for all your tour booking requirements, including<strong>Coral</strong> Viewing & Snorkelling tours on our glass bottom boat,Miss <strong>Coral</strong> Bay III and Manta, Nature or Whale Watching(in season) on our 40ft vessel, MV Ningaloo.ADVANCE BOOKINGS: (08) 9385 6655ONSITE : (08) 9942 5932BOOK ONLINE: www.coralbaywa.comEmail: bcb@coralbaywa.comImmerse yourself in the ultimate reef experience.0284 0401Page 76 | australiascoralcoast.com


Daily boat tours on the magnificentNingaloo Reef for snorkelling, scuba divingand marine animal interaction tours.All tours are guided by our highly experienceddivemasters to ensure you enjoy the best theNingaloo Reef can offer.• PADI Dive Courses• Whale Shark Tours• Manta Interaction Tours• Reef Dive & Snorkel ToursEmail: info@ningalooreefdive.comWeb: www.ningalooreefdive.comPhone 08 9942 5824Fax 08 9942 5836Whalesharks are just the beginning...2445Absolute beachfront accommodation. Mystical marine encounters.Internationally acclaimed coral reef experiences. Beautiful <strong>Coral</strong> Bay seascapes.freecall 1800 795 522ph +61 8 9942 5934ningalooreef@aspenresorts.com.auningalooreefresort.com.au03192141<strong>Coral</strong> Bay Charter & Glass Bottom BoatsBullara Station Stay / CQR Station Tours2335‘An Essential <strong>Coral</strong> Bay Experience’<strong>Coral</strong> 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 <strong>Coral</strong> Bay,including <strong>Coral</strong> Viewing & Snorkelling, Turtle Tours and Whale Watching (in season).Over 450 species of fi sh & 180 species of coral abound in the tropical waters of the NingalooReef, only metres from the shore.<strong>Coral</strong> Bay Charter & Glass Bottom BoatsP.O. Box 611Claremont WA 6910Ph: +61 8 9385 6655Bookings: +61 8 9942 5932Fax: +61 8 9385 6867Email: tickethut@coralbaywa.comWeb: www.coralbaywa.comOutback station stay,bound for NingalooBullara Station stay offers a unique and NEWexperience for those who wish to visit a workingcattle station without venturing far from the pristineNingaloo <strong>Coast</strong>. Stylish new accommodationin the “Shearers lodge” sleeps up to 16. Fullyequipped communal kitchen, dining, bar andBBQ facilities, fabulous campground, caravanswelcome. Station Tours.Bullara Station StayNingaloo WA 6701Ph: +61 8 9942 5938Fax: +61 8 9942 5850Email: stay@bullara-station.com.auWeb: www.bullara-station.com.auaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 77


<strong>Coral</strong> Bay Ocean Game Fishing Charters / Montebellos Sport Fishing Charters<strong>Coral</strong> Bay Adventures02670285<strong>Coral</strong> Bay Ocean Game Fishing Charters.We offer full day charters out of <strong>Coral</strong> Bay, to the outer waters of the Ningaloo Reef.Experience the unique opportunity to bottom and game fi shing in the one day, on thebiggest Boat in the Bay, the Mahi Mahi II.Montebellos Sport Fishing ChartersDepart from Exmouth from October through to March, 6 days live aboard, maximum6 people, game, bottom, popper fi shing, diving, snorkelling and sightseeing.For further information and bookingsContact booking offi ce, <strong>Coral</strong> Bay DiscoveriesShop 13, <strong>Coral</strong> Bay Arcade Shopping CentreRobinson Street, <strong>Coral</strong> Bay, WA, 6701Tel/Fax: +61 8 99 425 874Email: mahimahi1@bigpond.comWeb: mahimahicoralbay.com.auNingaloo ExperienceNingaloo Reef MarineInteraction Specialists.Est. since 1994 <strong>Coral</strong> Bay Adventures offer:• Whale Shark Cruises • Manta Ray Cruises• Humpback Whale Watching• <strong>Coral</strong> Viewing • Snorkel Cruises• Learmonth Airport Transfers<strong>Coral</strong> Bay AdventuresShop 11, <strong>Coral</strong> Bay Arcade<strong>Coral</strong> Bay WA 6701Ph: +61 8 9942 5955Email: coralbay@bigpond.comWeb: www.coralbayadventures.com.auSub Sea Explorer2418Join the Ningaloo Experience crew and discoverthe beauty and biodiversity of Ningaloo Reef.Join Ningaloo Experience to discover the beauty and bio-diversity of Ningaloo Reef. Enjoy apersonal experience with our small groups of 12 passengers per tour. Join us on our “OuterReef Experience” - snorkel with Manta Rays, discover beautiful coral gardens with abundanttropical fi sh 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 <strong>Coral</strong> Bay, “the heart of the Ningaloo Reef”, join our experienced crew todiscover the wonders this pristine environment has to offer.Peter Shaw Lic.HQ68743WSC<strong>Coral</strong> Viewing & Snorkel ToursStep aboard Ningaloo Reefs only semisubmersiblecoral viewing vessel. Seatedbeneath the surface you get a divers viewof the incredible reef in carpeted comfort,protected from the wind and sun. Wellresearched commentary and fantastic photoopportunities. Fish feeding on every tour.Ningaloo Experience<strong>Coral</strong> Bay WA 6701Ph/Fax: (08) 9942 5877A/H: 0427 425 877Email: info@ningalooexperience.comWeb: www.ningalooexperience.comNature Tourism0409Sub Sea ExplorerShop 11, <strong>Coral</strong> Bay Arcade<strong>Coral</strong> Bay WA 6701Ph: +61 8 9942 5955Email: coralbay1@bigpond.comWeb: www.coralbayadventures.com.auSail NingalooSea Force Charters <strong>Coral</strong> Bay26352152The all in one holiday. Accommodation. Sumptuous meals. Activities.Our live-aboard sailing tours allow you to experience Ningaloo Reef in your own time and awayfrom the crowds, so treat yourself to some exclusive, affordable luxury. Sail Ningaloo offerssailing, snorkelling, kayaking, scuba diving, whale watching and fi shing. Accommodating amaximum of 10 guests in comfortable and spacious cabins ensures your experience willbe personalised and unique. Experience the extraordinary Ningaloo Reef like never before.3, 5 & 9 day tours depart from <strong>Coral</strong> Bay, March – October.2011 Special Offer: Book a Tour and Get a Bonus Night FREEShore Thing operates from Fremantle, November - February.Deep Sea & Sport Fishing ChartersLicensed Fishing Charter Operators.• Bottom and light game fi shing• Full and half days• 50ft vessel with shaded deck• Skipper 30 years experience• All equipment provided• Exclusive group bookings• Reef Tours• Bookings direct or at any<strong>Coral</strong> Bay ticket agentSail Ningaloo Pty Ltd<strong>Coral</strong> Bay WA 6701Ph: +61 8 9942 5869Email: enquiries@sailningaloo.com.auWeb: www.sailningaloo.com.auAdvancedEcoTourismSea Force <strong>Coral</strong> BayMob: 0429 034 540Email: seaforcecharters@westnet.com.auWeb: www.seaforcecharters.net.auPage 78 | australiascoralcoast.com


Exmouth###Whale sharks at Ningaloo ReefPERTHExmouthSituated near the grandiose landscape of the Cape Range National Park and theunderwater wonders of the Ningaloo Marine Park, Exmouth offers a host of bothland based and ocean attractions. Visitors come from around the world to swimwith the awe inspiring gentle giants of the sea – the whale sharks.Ningaloo Marine ParkThe Ningaloo Marine Park is a divers’and snorkellers’ paradise. At its closestpoint the reef is within metres of theshore, meaning it’s accessible for allages and swimming abilities. Extending300 kilometres down the coast, it’s<strong>Australia</strong>’s largest fringing coral reef.The reef comprises 200 species of hardcorals and 50 species of soft corals. Itsclose proximity to the shoreline meansit is easily accessible but a range ofcharter operators can also take you totheir favourite spots on the outer reef.You’re sure to encounter a fascinatingarray of marine life including whalesharks, manta rays, turtles, starfi sh,anemones and about 500 recordedspecies of tropical fi sh.<strong>Coral</strong> SpawningOne of the most impressive naturalevents in the Ningaloo Marine Park isthe annual mass spawning of corals.This is a remarkable sight for divers andsnorkellers. This phenomenon takesplace 10 to 12 days after the full moonin March and April. The remarkable sightcan be seen at night with lights.Whale SharksFrom mid March to mid July each year,the Ningaloo Marine Park is home to theworld’s biggest species of fi sh - the mightywhale sharks. Whale sharks congregate atthe Ningaloo Reef to feed on microscopiccreatures known as zooplankton. Despitetheir size (up to 18 metres long!) the whaleshark is as harmless as it is majestic. TheNingaloo Marine Park is considered oneof the most reliable and easily accessibleplaces on earth to swim with these gentlegiants. Tours operate daily during thewhale shark season.Manta RaysBetween May and November each yearthe graceful manta rays can be foundin the pristine waters at Exmouth. Therays migrate in schools and feed onzooplankton. Divers and snorkellers canswim with these majestic and playfulcreatures. It’s amazing to watch thesebeautiful and harmless animals as theyglide elegantly through the water withwingspans of up to several metres wide.Snorkelling the Ningaloo ReefDid you know?Ningaloo Reef is one of the bestplaces in the world to swim with theworld’s largest fi sh, the whale shark.InformationPopulation:2,400Distance from Perth:1,260kmExmouth Visitor CentreMurat Road, Exmouth WA 6707Tel: 1800 287 328exmouthwa.com.auaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 79


Tropic of CapricornHumpback whaleNingaloo coastlinePage 80 | australiascoralcoast.comDivingExmouth and the Ningaloo Reef arerenowned for having some of the bestnatural and artifi cial reefs in <strong>Australia</strong>.Take a trip to the tranquil Muiron Islands,just 9.8 nautical miles off the tip of thecape. Here you’ll discover coral gardens,marine turtles, potato cod and muchmore. The Navy Pier, located just north ofExmouth, is one of the top ten dive sitesin <strong>Australia</strong>. The pier has a maximumdepth of 15 metres and caters to a widerange of divers. The site is still a workingdefence facility, so contact the visitorcentre for tour information. Snorkel anddive equipment is available for hire orpurchase in Exmouth town.BoatingExmouth has three boat launch areas.Exmouth Boat Harbour in town, BundegiBeach Boat Ramp located 13 kilometresnorth of Exmouth and Tantabiddi BoatRamp situated 36 kilometres from townon the western side of the cape. Bringyour own boat or hire one from Exmouth.SurfingBest swells for surfi ng off the North WestCape occur from July to October so grabyour board, head north and catch somewaves. Dunes Beach is the most popularreef break in Exmouth. ‘The Bombie’ isa bit of a paddle, but it’s well worth theeffort for a left handed ride. For beginnersand grommets (young surfers), WobiriAccess beach is ideal.Whale WatchingFishing at NingalooHumpback whales migrate betweensummer breeding grounds near theNorth West Shelf and winter feedinggrounds in the Antarctic. The seasonalmigrations mean humpback whales areregularly spotted in the coastal waters ofthe Ningaloo Marine Park between Juneand November before they make theirsoutherly migration. Watch them frolicfrom the viewing points at Vlamingh HeadLighthouse, Town Beach and BundegiBeach or take a closer look by joining awhale watching cruise.FishingExmouth is a fi shing Mecca renownedfor prized fi sh such as groper, coral trout,snapper and emperor. Game fi shing forspecies like marlin, sailfi sh mahi mahi andmackerel is also popular. You can fi shfrom the shores, from your own boat, ona charter or from a hire boat or throw in aline from the Learmonth Jetty.Jurabi Turtle CentreLocated just south of the Vlamingh HeadLighthouse, the Jurabi Turtle Centreprovides information about Ningaloomarine turtles. There is a pictorial turtledisplay and shaded seating. FromNovember to April annually, marine turtlesnest on the beaches of the NingalooMarine Park. You can participate in aguided experience from the Jurabi TurtleCentre. Bookings are essential and canbe made at the Exmouth Visitor Centre.Visit ningalooturtles.org.au for moreinformation.


Cape Range National ParkThe beauty of Exmouth doesn’t endat the sea shores. On the west side ofNorth West Cape you can experience anoutback holiday in the ruggedly beautifulCape Range National Park. Coveringover 50,000 hectares, the National Parkincludes breathtaking canyons, limestoneranges and 50 kilometres of pristinebeaches. Wildlife in the park is equallyas exciting with emus and red kangaroosregularly sighted and wildfl owers in latewinter change the landscape. A diverserange of fl ora and fauna can be discoveredwithin the park due to the North WestCape originally being an island, cut offfrom the mainland of WA. The cape nowboasts 630 species of plants, including 12endemic and six near endemic specieswith the Sturt desert pea and bird fl owerbeing highlights. There are also over 90camping bays available which cannot bepre booked. Most of these are accessibleby conventional vehicles, but with limitedfacilities, be sure to take along plenty ofwater and supplies.West SideMilyering Visitor CentreThe Milyering Visitor Centre is 52kilometres from Exmouth in the heart ofthe Cape Range National Park. The centreoffers interpretative information to openyour eyes to the wonders of the NationalPark and nearby Ningaloo Marine Park.It features a range of models, videos,a library selection and many graphicdisplays. There is also the Exmouth VisitorCentre located in town on Murat Road.Vlamingh Head LighthouseHistory and views in one. 19 kilometresnorth of Exmouth, this lighthouse wasbuilt in 1912 and offers sweeping views ofthe cape. Ruins of a world war radar arealso visible at the site.Turquoise BayTurquoise Bay is the ideal beach to justsit back, relax and soak up the beautifulsurroundings and sunshine. The white,sandy shores give way to incredibly clearwaters harbouring a plethora of marinewonders. The reef starts just metres from theshore and exploring it is easy at the snorkeldrift. Jump in the water at the south end ofthe beach and let the current take you overthe reef for a fantastic snorkelling experience.Currents can be strong, especially aroundthe sandbar and at the southern most pointof the bay, so take care. This snorkel site issuited to swimmers of average fi tness andsnorkelling ability in calm conditions.Oyster StacksThis snorkel site offers great views ofmarine life and is best accessed on a highor incoming tide. Be careful entering thewater as the oyster shells and rocky areascan be sharp. It is best to enter the waterat the end of the track and then snorkelnorth or south.Mangrove BayThis sanctuary zone includes a bird hide,overlooking a lagoon area. A variety of birdsroost in the lagoon at high tide and manyfeed on small fi sh and other marine life inthe shallow waters. You may even spot anosprey or brahminy kite while you are there.Sandy BayVlamingh Head lighthouseSunset at Lighthouse Bayaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 81


Yardie CreekFour wheel driving in Cape Range National ParkSnorkelling at Turquoise BayPage 82 | australiascoralcoast.comMandu Mandu GorgeA three kilometre walk trail allowsaccess into this dry gorge and followsthe northern ridge of the gorge offeringstunning panoramic views. The trail leadsdown into the creek bed where you followthe base of the gorge back to the carpark.Yardie Creek GorgeThis ancient landscape in the CapeRange National Park is just 90 kilometresfrom Exmouth. The rust red cliffs giveway to deep blue waters, providingdramatic scenery. The gorge is hometo an assortment of wildlife, includingthe rare black-footed rock wallaby. Youcan explore the gorge on walking trailsor from the comfort of a cruise boat.The Department of Environment andConservation run daily river gorge cruisesthat take roughly one hour. Times varydue to the tides, so contact the ExmouthVisitor Centre to book.East SideBeachesThere are endless beaches to explore orrelax at around Exmouth. Town Beach is theclosest to Exmouth itself and also providesfor four wheel drive access. 12 kilometresnorth you’ll fi nd Bundegi Beach, the startof the Ningaloo Marine Park. This is anexcellent location for swimming, snorkellingand fi shing. Surfers can head to DunesBeach, 17 kilometres north of Exmouth.Lighthouse Bay offers great fi shing andswimming. You can access it via tracksalong the Mildura Wreck Road.Charles Knife Canyon, Cape Range National ParkShothole CanyonThis canyon was named after the shot holesleft by seismographic explosions duringthe search for oil in the 1950s. Access isfrom Minilya Road 16 kilometres south ofExmouth and the gravel road meandersover dry creek beds and the gorge fl oor,offering close examination of the colourfulrock layers of the sheer canyon walls.Charles Knife CanyonTake this scenic journey for views acrossrazor backed ridges and down steepgorges. Starting 23 kilometres southof Exmouth, the views during this drivechange from dawn to dusk. Early birdswill be rewarded watching the sun riseover the gulf from the top of the CharlesKnife Road.Muiron IslandsThese two islands lay just 9.8 nautical milesoff the tip of North West Cape. Abundantmarine life surround them and theatmosphere is truly tranquil. You can campon the islands but require permission.Surfi ng and fi shing tours regularly visit theislands. For more information contact theExmouth Visitor Centre.Mildura WreckFrom Lighthouse Bay you can see thewreck of the SS Mildura, a cattle ship thatwas lost en-route from the Kimberley duringa cyclone in 1907. The hull sat on the reefundisturbed until World War II when alliedplanes used it for bombing practice! Thesedays it provides an ideal sanctuary forbaby sharks. Salvaged timbers and ironscan be seen today at Yardie Homestead.


Exmouth CapeHoliday ParkCaravan/Camping/Villas Potshot Hotel ResortExmouth Cape Holiday Park3 Truscott Cres (cnr Murat Road)Exmouth WATel: 08 9949 1101Freecall 1800 621 101exmouth@aspenparks.com.auGreat Value DormitoryAccommodation - modernclean facilities with linenprovided. On-site diveshop, Outdoor Cinema,Swimming Pool andVolleyball Court.With tastefully appointed motel rooms, two bedroom family unitsand three bedroom luxury apartments. We also cater for the budgettraveller, with a range of motel and backpacker accommodation.Our complex is located within easy walking distance of the towncentre and is the perfect place from which to plan your visit to theworld famous Cape Range and Ningaloo Marine Parks. Chat withthe locals at Vances Bar, or simply relax with a drink in the tropicalsurrounds of the Pool Bar.Largest range of accommodation in ExmouthFeatures 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• 24 x 2 bedroom standard apartments, 2 & 3 bedroom luxuryapartments all with cooking facilities• Range of budget and backpacker accommodation• Three swimming pools andbarbeque facilities• Tour & fishing charters arranged• Car and boat parking• Guest laundry, Dive ShopBlue Reef Backpackers3 Truscott Cres (cnr Murat Road)Exmouth WATel: 08 9949 1101Freecall 1800 621 101exmouth@aspenparks.com.aufor great value accommodation rates and on-line bookings please visitaspenparks.com.au 582742213Potshot Hotel ResortMurat RoadPO Box 82Exmouth WA 6707Ph (08) 9949 1200Fax (08) 9949 1486Email potshotresort@bigpond.comWeb: www.potshotresort.com0121australiascoralcoast.com | Page 83


We stock a huge range of fishing productsand the largest variety of camping gear inExmouth, all at fantastic prices!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 Refi llingFor top fishing and camping advicecome in and see the team at134a Maidstone Crescent, Exmouth or2249WS 000113 Peter McKossockAre you looking for the BestWhale Shark Experience in Exmouth?0085Want To Join The Leading Team?100% Sighting’s for both 2009 and 2010 Seasons!Quality Tour, Unforgettable Experience3 Offer 3 Year No Sighting Policy3 Luxury Vessel3 Safety Zodiac3 Gourmet Buffet Lunch3 Certifi ed Guide3 Whale Shark WA Members3 National Award Winners3 Gift Pack & Whaleshark forevery passengerFree Call: 1800 811 338 | Ph: 08 9949 1119 | Email: tours@ningalooblue.com.auWeb: www.ningalooblue.com.au | www.youtube.com/WhaleSharkTvNingaloo Reef DreamingOne of <strong>Western</strong> <strong>Australia</strong>’s leading dive operators.• Whale shark cruises (March – July)• Whale shark cruises with a big difference! Onaverage our customers spend longer in the waterswimming with whales sharks because we haveour own plane. Receive free photos of your day.• Exclusive contract to the world renown ExmouthNavy Pier, one of the ‘Top 10 dive sites in the world’• Dive & snorkel tours on Ningaloo Reef• Dive & snorkel tours to Muiron Islands• Day and overnight dive and snorkel tours• Internationally recognised dive courses• A range of modern, well equipped vessels• Friendly and experienced staff and crewNingaloo Reef DreamingMaidstone Crescent , ExmouthPh: +61 8 9949 4777Fax: +61 8 9949 4666Freecall: 1800 994 210 (within <strong>Australia</strong>)Email: info@ningaloodreaming.comWeb: www.ningaloodreaming.comMatthew WinterHQ68745WS2147Page 84 | australiascoralcoast.com


Relax, unwind, rejuvenate...0369at Novotel Ningaloo Resort, Exmouth - Gateway to the Ningaloo ReefSet on the beach between the world renowned Ningaloo Reef and Cape Range National Park. Theunique 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 yourdoor. Ideal venue for conferences, weddings and special events.Ph: +61 8 9949 0000Email: reservations@novotelningaloo.com.auWeb: www.novotelningaloo.com.au0296Exmouth Visitor Centre0400Ningaloo Reef Sea KayakingExmouth Visitor CentreGateway to Ningaloo Reef and Cape Range National Park.For a year round reef & outback experience,book online at www.exmouthwa.com.aufor all your• Accommodation • Tours• Car Hire• Coach & Flight Travel• Souvenirs and Local craftExmouth Visitor CentreToll Free: 1800 287 328Email: reservations@exmouthwa.com.auWeb: www.exmouthwa.com.auKings Ningaloo Reef ToursLic. 9TA000910295Swimming with Whale Sharks & Eco Sea Life Tours.At King’s Ningaloo Reef Tours we believe your experience swimming in the crystal clear watersof the Ningaloo Reef should be relaxing, memorable and above all, enjoyable. We take thatextra step in making sure your day is exactly that, and guarantee our tours to be second tonone, always.Take advantage of our companies 25 years of experience snorkelling with whale sharks,dolphins, manta rays, and other sea life, that make <strong>Australia</strong>’s <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Coast</strong> their home, whilstalso viewing humpback whales on their annual northern migration at play.King’s Ningaloo Reef Tours has a 20-metre vessel which is comfortable, spacious shadeddeck areas, with environmentally friendly toilet facilities.Not to mention that the skipper and owner has the best knowledge and years of experience toget you to the right spot for your chance to swim with a whale shark. We also have 5 crew onboard for your safety including a videographer to fi lm your day. Come aboard our whale sharksnorkel 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 raysKings Ningaloo Reef ToursPh: +61 8 9949 1764Email: info@kingsningalooreeftours.com.auWeb: www.kingsningalooreeftours.com.auLicense No: HW69181WS• Swimming with whale sharks• Smorgasbord lunch featuring fresh local seafoodand also catering to vegetarians and nonseafood eater• Afternoon snorkel on Ningaloo Reef• Government DEC fee• Transfer back to accommodation approx 1630Eco-Adventure ToursCome and experience the magic ofkayaking and snorkelling the pristineNingaloo and Cape Range National Park.3 hour and 1, 2 & 5 day tours available, allabilities catered for.All packages include transfers from youraccommodation in Exmouth.Bookings: March - OctoberNingaloo Reef SeakayakingNingaloo WAPh: +61 427 485 123Email: bookings@capricornseakayaking.com.auWeb: www.capricornseakayaking.com.au2413Exmouth Camper HireA Passion for Freedom.Camper Van and Camper Trailer HireExclusive to the Ningaloo area.Exmouth Camper Hire16 Nimitz StreetExmouth WA 6707Ph: (08) 9949 4050Web: www.exmouthcamperhire.com.auaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 85


Lighthouse Caravan ParkNingaloo Kite and Board01172414Situated 17kms from the town of Exmouth on the tip of the North West Cape, nestled at the base ofVlamingh Head Lighthouse - protected by the Cape Range and just a stones throw from the worldrenowned Ningaloo Marine Park. Ningaloo Lighthouse Caravan Park is close to surf beach, boat launchingfacilities and our magnifi cent Cape Range National Park. You will truly feel the peace and tranquility ofoutback living whilst enjoying your stay with us.Whether you are looking for an action packed stay, a fun-fi lled family adventure or a tranquil and relaxingholiday; we can point you in the right direction at the Lighthouse Caravan Park. We offer a wide range of selfcontained accommodation to suit all budgets. From the ‘Lookout Chalets to a Cabin’ we can accommodateyour needs. So what are you waiting for? You can choose to bring your own tent, caravan or RV to any of ourpowered 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 kitchensNingaloo Lighthouse Caravan ParkPh: +61 8 9949 1478Email: lighthouse@nwc.net.auWeb: www.ningaloolighthouse.comMaking the most of the wind.Retailing major Kite boarding brands toenthusiasts fl ying through Exmouth.Ningaloo Kite and Board16 Nimitz StreetExmouth WA 6707Ph: +61 8 9949 2770Web: www.ningalookiteboarding.com.auNingaloo Lodge Exmouth2465Ningaloo PearlsBEST RATES IN TOWN $125 PER ROOM PER NIGHTDOUBLE AND TWIN ROOMS.LOCATED IN THE CENTRE OF EXMOUTH! Ningaloo Lodge is a great place to relax. All 36rooms have private ensuites, TV, air-conditioning, fan and fridge. Other facilities include aswimming pool, wireless Internet available, games room, a large self catering dining room (doyour own cooking), outdoor BBQ area and a guest laundry. No facilities for children.Deep Sea Fishing& Eco Tours.“We catch some ofthe Biggestfi sh in the world”.Ningaloo Lodge ExmouthBookings Toll Free: 1800 880 949Ph: +61 8 9949 4949Fax: +61 8 9949 4900Email: ningaloo.lodge@bigpond.comWeb: www.ningaloolodge.com.au0359Ningaloo PearlsPO Box 239Exmouth, WA 6707Mob: 0417 944 820Email: ningpe@bigpond.net.auWeb: www.ningaloopearls.com.auNingaloo Whaleshark n DiveNingaloo Safari Tours22932134Nature TourismExplore the Reef in Style• Whaleshark Adventures • Learn to Dive with the experts• Certifi ed Diving • Introductory Diving• Snorkelling Tours • Whale watching and sunset cruisingTop of the Range SafariJoin expert local guides on our “Top of theRange Safari” to explore the beauty of CapeRange National Park and Ningaloo MarinePark. 4WD Safari includes Shothole andCharles Knife Gorge, exclusive boat tourof Yardie Creek and guided snorkeling atTurquoise Bay.Ningaloo Whaleshark n DiveInside reception at Exmouth Cape Holiday ParkPh: +61 8 9949 1116Fax: +61 8 9949 1113Email: info@ningaloowhalesharkndive.com.auWeb: www.ningaloowhalesharkndive.com.auNingaloo Safari Tours11 Maidstone CresExmouth WA 6707Ph: +61 8 9949 1550Email: tours@ningaloosafari.comWeb: www.ningaloosafari.comPage 86 | australiascoralcoast.com


2438Exmouth Escape Resort0439Karijini Eco RetreatExmouth’s Newest Resort.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 themagnifi cent Ningaloo Reef and Cape Range National Park. Each Villa has its own alfrescobbq area, in-house movies, cable TV, internet and air-conditioning.Facilities: • X Cafe and Restaurant • In-ground Pool with children’s wading pool• Conference room• Boat wash down & parking• Reception tour deskExmouth Escape Resort27 Murat RoadExmouth WA 6707Ph:+61 8 9949 4800Fax: + 61 8 9949 4899Email:stay@exmouthescaperesort.com.auWeb: www.exmouthescaperesort.com.auAn Authentic Outback Experience!100% Owned by Gumala Aboriginal Corporation• Unique Eco Tents, King beds, Linen • With en-suite!• Licensed Alfresco Restaurant • Tours Arranged • Campsites also availableKarijini Eco RetreatSavannah Campground, off Weano RdKarijini National Park WA 6751Ph: +61 8 9425 5591Email: reservations@karijiniecoretreat.com.auWeb: www.karijiniecoretreat.com.au2451Ningaloo Argo & Quad Tours2420Ocean Eco AdventuresSpin.F.X. For The Ultimate TourEarth to Sea, Red to Blue, navigate your way along winding red tracks to meet thecrystal blue waters of Exmouth. Whale, Manta Ray, Fish and Bird spotting whilstcruising or climb aboard for a Wet ‘N’ Wild Amphibious Buggy Ride. Choose fromour Awesome Tours have Maximum fun and Live the Outdoor Dream.Spin.F.X. Unisex MotoX StoreCnr Murat Rd & Pellew StExmouth WA 6707Ph: +61 8 9949 4488Mob: 0488 537 011Budget: +61 8 9949 1534Email: 1behappy@westnet.com.auWeb: www.ningalooargotours.com.auHumpback Whale Discovery and Sunset CruiseExmouth 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 theOcean Eco Adventures team and discover the beauty and magic of the Humpbacks as theyperform tale slaps, breaches, spy hops and many other acrobatic performances..• 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 AdventuresExmouth WA 6707Ph: 0427 425 925Email: info@oceanecoadventures.com.auWeb: www.oceanecoadventures.com.au2421Ocean Eco Adventures0299Three Islands Whale Shark DiveWhale Shark Discovery5 Star service is just the beginning of your Ocean Eco Adventures Whale Shark Discovery.• 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 sitesOcean Eco AdventuresExmouth WA 6707Ph: 0427 425 925Email: info@oceanecoadventures.com.auWeb: www.oceanecoadventures.com.auExplore the aquatic wonderland of Ningaloo Reef.From March to July enjoy a day of adventure and discovery with Three Islands Whale SharkDive. Swim alongside whale sharks, snorkel the reef and spot seasonal sealife such asturtles, dugongs, manta rays, whales and more during this fun, safe and informative ecotour.The friendly, professional staff at Three Islands Whale Shark Dive offer an exceptional levelof service while delivering a whale shark interaction experience that you’ll treasure forever.Three Islands Whale Shark DiveNingaloo Caravan & Holiday ResortExmouth WAFreecall: +61 1800 138 501Ph: +61 8 9949 1994Email: info@whalesharkdive.comWeb: www.whalesharkdive.comaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 87


<strong>Australia</strong>’s <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Coast</strong>Unspoilt • Uncrowded • UnderwaterWESTERNAUSTRALIAPerthfollow us onVisit australiascoralcoast.com and subscribe to our e-newsletterfor regular updates on holiday deals and competitions.Page 88 | australiascoralcoast.com2515

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