Kununurra, located in the East Kimberley region of Western Australia, is not only known for its breathtaking landscapes but also for its rich Indigenous culture. The Miriwoong and Gija people have called this land home for thousands of years, and their connection to the land is evident in the art, heritage sites, and stories that have been passed down through generations. If you’re looking to explore the vibrant Indigenous culture of Kununurra, here are the must-see art and heritage sites that offer an authentic and meaningful experience.1. Waringarri Aboriginal ArtsOne of the best places to immerse yourself in the local Indigenous art scene is at Waringarri Aboriginal Arts, one of the oldest Indigenous-owned art centers in Australia. The center showcases the work of Miriwoong artists, whose vibrant paintings, sculptures, and prints celebrate their deep connection to the land, water, and spiritual traditions of the East Kimberley.Waringarri offers a range of guided cultural tours that provide insights into the significance of the art and the stories behind each piece. You can even join a hands-on art workshop, where you’ll have the chance to create your own artwork under the guidance of local artists. Visiting Waringarri Aboriginal Arts is a great way to support the local Indigenous community while gaining a deeper understanding of their culture.What we love: The opportunity to learn directly from the artists and experience the creativity and cultural significance of Miriwoong art.Good to know: The center also has a shop where you can purchase authentic artworks, jewelry, and souvenirs, making it a perfect place to find a meaningful memento of your visit.

Broome, with its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history, is not just a paradise for adults—it’s also a fantastic destination for families. Whether your family is full of adventurers, nature lovers, or history buffs, Broome offers a variety of activities that are sure to create lasting memories. From camel rides on the beach to exploring ancient dinosaur footprints, here are the top family-friendly activities in Broome that everyone will enjoy.1. Sunset Camel Rides on Cable BeachNo trip to Broome is complete without experiencing a sunset camel ride on the iconic Cable Beach. This is a quintessential Broome experience that the whole family can enjoy. As the sun sets, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink, your family can relax atop a camel, taking in the breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. The gentle sway of the camels and the peaceful atmosphere make this an unforgettable adventure for kids and adults alike.Several operators offer camel rides, with friendly guides who share fascinating stories about the camels and the history of Broome along the way. It’s not just a ride; it’s a journey into the heart of Broome’s natural beauty.Location: Cable Beach, Broome, WA 6726Image © Tourism Western Australia

Broome, nestled on the pristine shores of Western Australia, is a town rich in cultural diversity, where the influence of Indigenous heritage is woven into every aspect of life. For visitors seeking a deeper connection to the land and its people, Broome offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of Indigenous art and culture. From ancient traditions to contemporary expressions, the Indigenous culture in Broome is vibrant, profound, and an essential part of the town’s identity.Discovering Indigenous Art in Broome’s GalleriesBroome’s art scene is a reflection of its diverse cultural heritage, with Indigenous art playing a central role. The town is home to several galleries that showcase the works of Indigenous artists, offering insights into the stories, traditions, and spiritual connections of the Yawuru people and other Indigenous groups in the region.One of the premier destinations for Indigenous art is Short St Gallery. Located in the heart of Broome, this gallery is renowned for its collection of contemporary Indigenous art from across Australia. The artworks on display are more than just beautiful; they are visual narratives that tell the stories of the artists’ connections to their land, ancestors, and communities. Visiting Short St Gallery is not just an opportunity to view stunning art but to gain a deeper understanding of the rich cultural heritage that shapes Broome.Image © Tourism Western AustraliaLocation: 7 Short St, Broome, WA 6725

Halls Creek, located in the heart of Western Australia’s Kimberley region, is not only known for its gold rush history but also for its deep cultural connection to the land. The town is situated on the traditional lands of the Jaru and Kija people, who have lived in the region for thousands of years. This part of the Kimberley is rich with Indigenous stories, art, and cultural sites that reflect the ancient traditions and deep spiritual significance of the land. For visitors looking to connect with the region’s Indigenous culture, Halls Creek offers a range of must-visit sites and immersive tours that provide an authentic and respectful experience. Here’s your guide to discovering the Indigenous heritage of Halls Creek.1. Yarliyil Art Centre: Celebrating Local ArtistsOne of the best places to experience the creativity and cultural expression of the local Indigenous community is the Yarliyil Art Centre. Located in the heart of Halls Creek, this community-run centre showcases the work of talented local artists, many of whom are Jaru and Kija people. The artworks at Yarliyil are a reflection of the deep connection the artists have with the land, featuring vibrant paintings that depict traditional Dreamtime stories, landscapes, and native animals.Visitors to the art centre can meet the artists, learn about the cultural significance of the pieces, and even purchase original artworks directly from the creators. Supporting the Yarliyil Art Centre is a meaningful way to contribute to the local community while taking home a unique piece of Indigenous art.What we love: The chance to meet local artists and learn about the stories behind their work while supporting Indigenous culture.Good to know: The art centre also offers workshops where visitors can try their hand at traditional painting techniques under the guidance of experienced artists.

Kununurra, a town nestled in the East Kimberley region of Western Australia, is known for its breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and agricultural success. But beyond its natural beauty, Kununurra has a rich history that tells the story of transformation, innovation, and resilience. From ancient Indigenous heritage to the modern development of the Ord River Scheme, Kununurra’s history is a journey through time that reflects the cultural and agricultural evolution of the region. Here’s a closer look at the key moments that shaped Kununurra into the vibrant town it is today.Indigenous Heritage: Miriwoong CountryLong before European settlement, the land around Kununurra was home to the Miriwoong people, who have lived in the East Kimberley region for thousands of years. The Miriwoong people have a deep spiritual connection to the land, and their culture is closely tied to the natural environment, including the rivers, wetlands, and rocky escarpments that define the landscape.The Miriwoong people’s stories, traditions, and art are rooted in their connection to Ngarranggarni (Dreaming), which explains the creation of the land and its features. Indigenous rock art sites, sacred landscapes, and stories passed down through generations offer a glimpse into the ancient history of the region, making Kununurra a place where the past and present coexist.Today, visitors can explore this rich Indigenous history through cultural tours and visits to art centers like Waringarri Aboriginal Arts, where local artists share their stories and traditions through paintings, sculptures, and performances.What we love: The deep connection between the Miriwoong people and the land, which remains an integral part of Kununurra’s cultural landscape.

Derby, a gateway to the Kimberley region of Western Australia, is known not only for its rugged landscapes and dramatic tides but also for its deep connection to Indigenous culture. The town is a hub for local Aboriginal artists, whose works reflect their profound relationship with the land, the Dreamtime stories, and the rich history of their people. Derby’s Indigenous art galleries provide a unique opportunity for visitors to connect with this heritage, offering a chance to view and purchase stunning artwork that speaks to the culture and history of the region. Here’s your guide to the top Indigenous art galleries in Derby, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant artistic traditions of the Kimberley.1. Mowanjum Art and Culture Centre: The Heart of Wandjina ArtA must-visit for anyone interested in Indigenous art, the Mowanjum Art and Culture Centre is one of the Kimberley’s most important cultural hubs. Located just outside Derby, the centre represents the Worrorra, Ngarinyin, and Wunumbal people, who are the traditional custodians of this land. The gallery is known for its incredible collection of Wandjina art, one of the most ancient and significant forms of Aboriginal art in the region. The Wandjina figures, depicted with large, halo-like heads and no mouths, are ancestral spirits believed to have created the land and everything in it.Visitors to the Mowanjum Art and Culture Centre can explore the gallery and see both traditional and contemporary interpretations of Wandjina art, as well as other forms of Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw) rock art. The centre also hosts workshops and cultural events where visitors can meet local artists, watch them at work, and learn more about the stories behind the art.What we love: The chance to explore the rich spiritual tradition of Wandjina art and gain insight into the culture of the Worrorra, Ngarinyin, and Wunumbal people.Good to know: The Mowanjum Festival, held annually in July, is a major event that celebrates Indigenous culture through dance, music, and art. It’s a great time to visit the centre and experience the vibrancy of the local culture.

Nestled in the heart of the Kimberley region, Derby is not only known for its stunning landscapes and dramatic tides but also for its deep historical significance. As one of the oldest towns in Western Australia’s north, Derby has played a key role in the region’s development, from its Indigenous heritage to its involvement in the cattle industry and its unique connections to Australia’s wartime history. For visitors eager to learn more about this fascinating past, here’s a guide to Derby’s top historical sites, where you can take a walk through time and discover the stories that shaped this remote town.1. The Boab Prison Tree: A Living MonumentOne of Derby’s most famous historical landmarks is the Boab Prison Tree, a massive, hollow boab tree believed to be over 1,500 years old. This tree holds a somber place in Derby’s history, as it was used as a temporary holding cell for Indigenous prisoners during the late 19th century. The tree’s hollow interior provided enough space to detain prisoners overnight as they were being transported to Derby for trial.Today, the Boab Prison Tree stands as a reminder of Australia’s complex and painful colonial history, particularly the treatment of Aboriginal people. Visitors can view the tree and learn more about its historical significance through interpretive signage. The site also serves as a testament to the resilience of the local Indigenous cultures, with the boab tree remaining a sacred and enduring part of the Kimberley landscape.What we love: The incredible age and size of the tree, coupled with its deep historical and cultural significance.Good to know: Visitors are asked to respect the cultural importance of the site by not climbing or entering the tree.

Derby, a small yet culturally rich town in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, is not only known for its stunning boab trees and natural beauty but also as a hub for Indigenous art. The town is home to many talented Aboriginal artists who share their stories, traditions, and connection to Country through their vibrant works. For visitors, exploring Indigenous art in Derby is not just an opportunity to appreciate beautiful craftsmanship but also to embark on a cultural journey, learning about the deep spiritual and historical ties that local communities have to the land. Here’s your guide to experiencing Indigenous art in Derby and connecting with the rich cultural heritage of the Kimberley region.The Importance of Indigenous Art in DerbyIndigenous art in the Kimberley is more than just creative expression—it is a visual language that has been passed down through generations. Aboriginal artists use their work to tell stories of their ancestors, the Dreamtime, and the land itself. In Derby, much of the Indigenous art you’ll encounter reflects the deep cultural and spiritual significance of the region, as well as the artists' connection to the local environment and its unique landscapes.Traditional Kimberley art often features vibrant ochre colors, dot paintings, and intricate patterns that represent the natural world, including rivers, bushlands, animals, and sacred sites. This art is rooted in tradition but also continually evolving, with contemporary Aboriginal artists blending ancient techniques with modern styles to create works that are both timeless and innovative.Image © Tourism Western Australia1. Mowanjum Art and Culture Centre: A Window into the DreamtimeOne of the most important places to experience Indigenous art in Derby is the Mowanjum Art and Culture Centre, located just outside the town. The centre is run by the Mowanjum community, made up of Worrorra, Ngarinyin, and Wunumbal people, and it serves as a cultural and artistic hub for both locals and visitors.