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 SculptureBoab 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 AustraliaThe Prison Boab Tree: A Living MonumentJust 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.