Located in the heart of Western Australia’s Kimberley region, Derby is a small town with a big natural legacy—the iconic boab trees. These ancient giants, with their massive, swollen trunks and twisting branches, have long been a symbol of the Kimberley and hold deep cultural and environmental significance. Derby’s boab trees are not only striking in appearance but are also steeped in history, making them one of the region’s most unique natural wonders. Whether you’re an avid nature enthusiast or simply curious about these remarkable trees, here’s your guide to discovering the magic of Derby’s boab trees.
The Boab Tree: Nature’s Sculpture
Boab trees, also known as Adansonia gregorii, are part of the baobab family, which includes species found in Africa and Madagascar. What sets the Kimberley’s boabs apart is their distinct, bottle-shaped trunks that can reach diameters of up to 15 meters. These trees can store thousands of liters of water in their trunks, allowing them to survive in the region’s harsh, arid climate. Their thick, gnarled branches stretch out like arms, often leafless in the dry season, giving them a sculptural, almost otherworldly appearance.
One of the most fascinating aspects of boab trees is their longevity. Many of the boabs around Derby are believed to be thousands of years old, making them some of the oldest living organisms in Australia. Their slow growth and hardy nature have allowed them to thrive for centuries, even in challenging conditions.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
The Prison Boab Tree: A Living Monument
Just outside Derby, the Prison Boab Tree is one of the region’s most famous and culturally significant boabs. This massive tree, with a hollowed-out trunk, is believed to be over 1,500 years old. It was used as a temporary holding cell for Indigenous prisoners in the late 19th century as they were transported to Derby for trial. While its past use as a prison is a somber reminder of Australia’s colonial history, today the tree stands as a living monument to the region’s Indigenous culture and history.
Visitors can view the Prison Boab Tree and learn about its history through interpretive signage that provides insight into its significance. The tree’s immense size and unique shape make it a must-visit attraction for those exploring Derby and the surrounding Kimberley.
What we love: The Prison Boab Tree’s incredible size and historical significance, offering a tangible connection to both nature and the region’s past.
Good to know: The site is located about 7 kilometers from Derby’s town center, and while visitors can explore the area around the tree, climbing or entering the tree is prohibited out of respect for its cultural importance.
Location: Derby Hwy, Derby, WA 6728
The Myths and Legends of Boab Trees
For the Indigenous people of the Kimberley, boab trees hold great cultural and spiritual significance. Stories passed down through generations explain the origins of the boab’s unique shape and its connection to the land. According to some Indigenous legends, the boab tree was once a proud, vain tree that flaunted its beauty. As a punishment for its arrogance, the boab was uprooted and planted upside down, with its roots pointing toward the sky—giving it the appearance it has today.
These cultural stories highlight the deep connection between the local Indigenous communities and the land, with the boab tree serving as a powerful symbol of resilience and survival in the Kimberley.
What we love: The rich cultural stories surrounding the boab tree, offering a deeper understanding of the tree’s place in Indigenous traditions.
Good to know: Many local tours offer the opportunity to learn more about the cultural significance of boab trees from Indigenous guides.
Boab Nuts: Nature’s Art
In addition to their striking appearance, boab trees also produce large, hard-shelled fruit known as boab nuts. These nuts contain a powdery pulp that is rich in vitamin C and has been used for centuries as a food source by Indigenous Australians. Today, boab nuts are often turned into works of art, with local artists carving intricate designs into the shells, creating beautiful and unique souvenirs.
Visitors to Derby can purchase hand-carved boab nuts from local markets and galleries, providing a tangible connection to the region’s natural and cultural heritage. The carvings often depict scenes from the Kimberley’s landscape and wildlife, making them a meaningful keepsake from your trip.
What we love: The artistry of hand-carved boab nuts, which transform nature’s gift into beautiful works of art.
Good to know: Boab nuts are available at various galleries and souvenir shops in Derby, making them a unique and eco-friendly souvenir to take home.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
Exploring Derby’s Boab Trail
To truly appreciate the boab trees of Derby, consider exploring the town’s Boab Tree Heritage Trail. This self-guided tour takes you through the streets of Derby and into the surrounding countryside, where you’ll find some of the most impressive and ancient boab trees in the region. Along the trail, interpretive signs provide information about the trees’ history, ecology, and cultural significance, offering a deeper understanding of their role in the Kimberley landscape.
The trail is a great way to spend a morning or afternoon, allowing visitors to discover Derby’s unique natural beauty at their own pace. Whether you’re driving or walking, the Boab Tree Heritage Trail is a fantastic way to connect with the region’s natural heritage.
What we love: The flexibility of a self-guided tour, allowing you to explore Derby’s boabs at your own pace while learning about their history.
Good to know: Maps of the Boab Tree Heritage Trail are available at the local visitor center, along with information on nearby attractions.
Tips for Visiting Derby’s Boab Trees
- Best time to visit: The best time to explore Derby’s boab trees is during the dry season (May to October) when the weather is cooler and more pleasant for outdoor activities.
- Respect cultural sites: Many boab trees, such as the Prison Boab Tree, are of great cultural significance to the local Indigenous communities. Be respectful by following signage and guidelines when visiting these sites.
- Capture the moment: Boab trees make for stunning photographs, especially at sunrise or sunset when their unique silhouettes are highlighted against the sky.
- Take a guided tour: To gain a deeper understanding of the cultural significance and ecology of boab trees, consider joining a guided tour led by a local Indigenous guide.
Final Thoughts
Derby’s boab trees are more than just a natural wonder—they’re living monuments that tell the story of the Kimberley’s history, culture, and resilience. Whether you’re admiring the grandeur of the Prison Boab Tree or exploring the Boab Tree Heritage Trail, these ancient giants offer a glimpse into a world where nature and culture are deeply intertwined.
So next time you’re in Derby, take a moment to appreciate these majestic trees and the rich heritage they represent—you won’t be disappointed.