EasterN Kimberley TRAVEL
Kimberley rock, and while they may not seem like roughing it, these two properties are a good, soft introduction to everything the Kimberley stands for – wild gorges, wild fishing and overwhelming beauty. The last gasp of civilisation before you head north on the worst public road in the country is Ellenbrae Station. If you are a fan of scones, then this is your Graceland. I’ve had the scones here, and they are good. The boab out the back has a tap running through it connected to the well. In days gone past, the old owners would sell ‘boab water’ to APT bus tourists at a dollar a glass… ingenious, really. The old boab ensuite is still intact, but you have to go looking for it now. In the future, Ellenbrae’s considerable property will become more open to the public, with tracks and trails, but all of that is in development now, so stay tuned. More stories from Carlisle Rogers are available in 4WD Touring magazine (www.4wdtouringaustralia.com.au).
Fast Facts Home Valley Station A pastoral lease and cattle station located along the Gibb River Road in Western Australia’s Kimberley region, Home Valley is located approximately 114km from the town of Kununurra. Home Valley sprawls over a huge area of almost 3,500,000 acres and is bound by the Pentecost River and the neighbouring El Questro station. The station has been open for tourism since 2006 and offers visitors a range of accommodation.
El Questro A former cattle station, El Questro is now a privately owned wilderness park located 110km to the west of Kununurra and can be accessed via the Gibb River Road. The park encompasses an area of over 1,000,000 acres and extends approximately 80km into the heart of the Kimberley. Visitors to El Questro have the option of staying in safari cabins at Emma Gorge, bungalows or campsites at The Station, or hiring a luxury room at the Homestead.
Ellenbrae Station Located 476km from Derby or 229km from Kununurra along the Gibb River Road, the station offers travellers accommodation in double and twin huts. Visitors are welcome to stop and enjoy tea or coffee in Ellenbrae Station’s gardens and sample the famous homemade scones.
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