Broome Visitors Guide Issue 15

ISSUE 15 December 2016 - March 2017. Courtesy of the Broome Visitor Centre - visitbroome.com.au

V I S I T O R S

G U I D E

COLOURFUL CULTURE Chinatown’s rich history

EAT, DRINK & ENJOY THIS FESTIVE SEASON 2016 PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITION WINNERS REVEALED

Map on page 52 Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

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THE AUSTR ALIAN PEARL

PRISTINE • R ARE • PURELY AUTHENTIC

23 DAMPIER TCE, BROOME CYGNET BAY PEARL FARM, CAPE LEVEQUE RD 08 9192 5402 • CYGNETBAYPEARLS.COM.AU

visitbroome.com.au

Welcome to

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OPENING HOURS: December - February Weekdays open from 8.30am to 4pm Weekends open from 9am to noon March Monday to Friday open from 8.30am to 4pm Weekends open from 9am to 2pm Hours are subject to change.

Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

1 Hamersley St, Broome WA 6725 Call us on 08 9195 2200 or visit www.visitbroome.com.au or www.facebook.com/GoBroome View us on tripadvisor BROOME VISTOR CENTRE Twitter: #VisitBroome & #LoveBroome

t’s what we say and it’s with great pleasure we welcome you to the latest edition of the Broome Visitors Guide, celebrating all that makes this such a special part of the world.

The Broome Visitor Centre remains committed to making sure you leave Broome and the Kimberley knowing you have had amazing experiences that uplift the human spirit.

Broome is a unique town on a peninsula, where one of the world’s last great wildernesses meets the Indian Ocean.

Broome’s exotic pearling town past has left a rich history and a unique multicultural mix of people. Our pristine waters, wide empty beaches, abundant wildlife, tropical climate and breathtaking colours attract thousands of new and returning visitors each year.

For over 40 years, the Broome Visitor Centre has been guiding, assisting and welcoming visitors to our town and in 2017 we’re looking forward to improving the visitor experience with exciting new developments on the horizon.

In this issue you’ll find stories about pearl meat and fishing, the culturally diverse mix that makes Broome so unforgettable and attractions like the Horizontal Falls and the multi-award-winning Willie Creek Pearl Farm.

We hope you’ll agree that this is far more than a guide for visitors: the stories within are just a snapshot of what Broome and the Visitor Centre can offer. From the 10 things you must do in Broome to taking a cruise to meet the Roebuck Bay locals, we hope you’ll be inspired to come and learn from us where to dine, relax and discover the region’s natural wonders.

Make sure you visit our website too – visitbroome.com.au.

It’s an essential resource when you come to plan your time in Broome. My team is looking forward to seeing you here, in this town we love and call home, and we’ll happily share a few of our secrets with you too.

See you soon at the BVC and, in the meantime, happy reading and have a wonderful festive season.

Nick Nick Linton – GM Broome Visitor Centre.

U N L O C K N AT U R E ’ S M O S T B E AU T I F U L M YS T E RY Experience the wonder of Willie Creek Pearl Farm and marvel at the creation of the Australian South Sea Pearl.

FOR BOOKINGS AND MORE INFORMATION VISIT WILLIECREEKPEARLS.COM.AU 160717

DECEMBER ~ MARCH 2016⁄17

PREMIUM PUBLISHERS V I S I T O R S

G U I D E

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10 things to do in Broome

10

The future is bright

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Wildlife at sea

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Magic carpet ride

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The golden gateway

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A family affair

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Eat, drink & enjoy

CONTRIBUTORS AND PHOTOGRAPHY Dianne Bortoletto, Norman Burns, Carmen Jenner, Lisa Shearon, Yane Sotiroski.

COVER IMAGE Arthur van Vark ART & DESIGN Cally Browning cally@barecreative.com.au

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READ ON . . .

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A real pearler

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Colour & culture

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Book a little Broome time

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Animal magic

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The allure of pearls

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What’s on around Broome

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For the love of birds

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Out & about in Broome

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High flyers

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Winning ways

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Catch of the day

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Pioneers of pearling

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Fall for the falls

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Tides and other info

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Good reads

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Map of Broome

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List of BVC members

Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

ADVERTISING SALES Mel Virgo mel.virgo@visitbroome.com.au Ph 0438 297 600 EDITORIAL Managing Editor Gabi Mills gabi@premiumpublishers.com.au

FEATURES 8

Broome Visitor Guide published for the Broome Visitor Centre by Premium Publishers

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All statements, including product claims, are those of the person or organisation making the statement or claim. The Broome Visitor Centre (BVC) does not adopt any such statement or claim it as its own. Any such statement or claim does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the BVC. Advertisers and advertising agencies accept and assume liability for all content (including text, representations, illustrations, opinions, and facts) of advertisements printed, and also assume responsibility for any claims made against the BVC arising from or related to such advertisements.

The BVC reserves the right to reject any advertising which is not in keeping with the publication’s standards.

Advertising is booked on a ‘first come first served’ basis.

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© All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form by any means without the prior permission of the copyright owner. Enquiries should be made to the publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure that this magazine is free from error or omissions. However, the Publisher, the Authors, the Editor or their respective employees or agents, shall not accept responsibility for injury, loss or damage occasioned to any person acting or refraining from action as a result of material in this magazine whether or not such injury, loss or damage is in any way due to any negligent act or omission, breach of duty or default on the part of the Publisher, the Authors, the Editor, or their respective employees or agents.

visitbroome.com.au

LIFE NEEDS A DV E N T U R E

15 | December ~ March 2016/17 W A T C H ‘ L I F E N E E D S A D V E N T U R E ’ A T P A S P A L E Y . C OBroome M

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E X PE R I E NC E T H E WON DE R OF WILLIE CREEK PEARL FARM TOURS - ECO CRUISES - SCENIC HELICOPTER FLIGHTS - AQUACULTURE DISPLAY BARRAMUNDI FEEDING - LICENSED ALFRESCO DINING - JEWELLERY SHOWROOM

visitbroome.com.au 160718

JUST 38KMS NORTH OF BRO OME Situated on the pristine and perfectly protected tidal estuary of Willie Creek, lies one of Western Australia’s most awarded tourist destinations.

Exploring Willie Creek Pearl Farm is a must for those seeking a truly authentic and unforgettable Broome experience.

Touring the pearl farm and marvelling at the wonder of modern day pearl production or cruising the crystal blue waterways in search of exotic wildlife on-board an Eco Cruise is just the start of what you can discover at Willie Creek.

FOR BOOKINGS AND MORE INFORMATION VISIT WILLIECREEKPEARLS.COM.AU

Willie Creek

10 things

YO U M U S T D O I N

BROOME

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CATCH A MOVIE AT SUN PICTURES

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CELEBRATING ITS CENTENARY in 2016, Sun Pictures is believed to be the oldest operating picture garden in the world.

For that reason alone you’d be mad to miss the opportunity to take in a movie under the stars on a balmy Broome night.

There’s a fascinating collection of movie memorabilia in the foyer which serves as a poignant reminder that the picturehouse has withstood war, cyclones and king tides. You’ll find Sun Pictures in Chinatown and current movie releases are shown every night.

MATSO’S BEER TASTING

STAIRCASE TO THE MOON

When to catch it in March...

Full moon Sun 12 at 22.54 1st stairway Mon 13 at 18.43 2nd stairway Tue 14 at 19.22 3rd stairway Wed 15 at 20.01

WHY NOT COOL off with a frosty glass of Matso’s famous ginger beer? Learn the history of Broome’s beloved microbrewery and sample some of Matso’s best craft brews presented on a tasting handle. Housed in one of Broome’s oldest buildings, enjoy views of Roebuck Bay while you try a Pearler’s Pale Ale, Chilli or Lychee beers. Distributed Australia-wide, if you develop a taste for a Matso’s brew, don’t worry. You’ll be able to enjoy it wherever you are (just not with those stunning azure views).

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GANTHEAUME POINT

ARGUABLY ONE OF Broome’s most unique phenomenons, the Staircase to the Moon is caused when a full moon rises over Roebuck Bay’s exposed mudflats.

An extraodinarily beautiful optical illusion reveals itself before your very eyes: a golden staircase to the moon appears between March and October for three nights every month. Pick your location carefully to make the most of this stunning vista: we suggest the outdoor bar at the Mangrove Hotel and Town Beach. To celebrate this special sight, Staircase Markets take place during most staircase dates at Town Beach – head over for a delicious selection of food and local crafts.

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Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

TAKE A STEP back in time and discover dinosaur footprints at the deep pindan red cliffs at Gantheaume Point. Just a 10-minute drive from Broome but 120 million years from the present day, you can see this reminder of when giants walked the earth at very low tide. As the reef area is very fragile, care must be taken when exploring this area. For the benefit of visitors, a plaster cast of the tracks has been embedded at the top of the cliff. Footprints can be viewed at Gantheaume Point at tides below 2.16m.

As the rocks can be slippery and steep, a high level of mobility and sturdy shoes are required. Spectacular views from the cliff section of the Point can be reached by a short stretch of unsealed road; there’s some interpretative signage too which explains the history of the area.

visitbroome.com.au

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SUNSET AT CABLE BEACH IT’S THE PHOTO you’re guaranteed to post to Instagram and show your friends when you get home: that iconic moment the sun sets on Cable Beach. Countless versions of this natural light show have drawn people to this spot every night for as long as there have bee people to watch the sun setting. Why not make it extra special with a sunset camel ride or a sunset cruise? You’ll never forget the moment that great big orb dips behind the horizon, whether you’re sitting on the back of a dromedary, on deck or in a deckchair.

FLYING BOAT WRECK JUST OFFSHORE from Town Beach, you’ll see something remarkable. Dutch Flying Boat wrecks are visible, poignant evidence of the Japanese air raid on Broome during World War II. On March 3, 1942, at 9.30am, a force of 10 Japanese aircraft destroyed a flotilla of 16 large flying boats on the water and seven aircraft on the airstrip. The tragedy was that many of the flying boats were carrying women and children. The death toll is still uncertain, but probably exceeded 100; many of the bodies were never recovered. Thanks to the mud of Roebuck Bay, the aircraft have been preserved and at extremely low tides, the plane wrecks are visible to those who wish to walk the kilometre across the Roebuck Bay mud flats from Town Beach. The Catalina Boat Wrecks are only visible at tides less than 0.86m, so it’s recommended you allow an hour to walk out to the wrecks, and an hour to return to shore. Enclosed shoes are also recommended.

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BUY A BROOME PEARL

Broome’s pearling history is an intrinsic part of the town’s DNA. In its heyday, Chinatown was home to pearl luggers, divers, dealers and deckhands. The Pinctada Maxima was what they all sought, the largest pearl shell in the world. Just like a gold rush, Broome attracted divers from all over the world, keen to discover their own marine treasure. Nowadays pearls are still at Broome’s heart and it would be a crime not to invest in one of these beautiful gems, either farmed or more rarely, a natural Australian South Sea pearl.

Many of the jewellers who have made Broome their home are creating some truly beautiful items to showcase the town’s most famous natural resource.

FISHING

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IF YOU’VE GOT your eye on catching the big one while you’re in Broome there are plenty of tour operators who’ll take you on a quest to hook the ultimate tuna (May to January), sailfish (June until September) or mackerel if you head offshore. The creeks are rich with fish too - expect to find barra, threadfin, bluenose salmon, catfish and javelin fish if the fishing gods are smiling. Be aware of Broome’s infamous tides and stick with the experts if this is your first time with a rod in your hand in Broome. Top tip: Town Jetty offers one of the most incredible fishing platforms in the Southern Hemisphere, a spot some truly huge fish call home. Good luck!

BROOME MUSEUM

GET ALL HISTORICAL with a visit to one of the most fascinating buildings in Broome. Built in the late 1890s, the original museum building was a general store which stocked supplies for Newman Goldstein & Co’s fleet of 22 luggers, two schooners and a steam launch. Customs moved into the current museum buliding in 1910 and stayed there until 1979; two years later the Broome Historical Society took over the premises and the museum was born. Visitors will discover what it was like to live in Broome during the pearling boom, find out about Broome’s One Day War and learn about Aboriginal artefacts. A memorable way to spend an afternoon or two.

10 TRY PEARL MEAT

IT’S NOT JUST pearls that are harvested from the sea. The rise of a brand new ingredient - pearl meat - is taking the international foodie scene by storm. Jamie Oliver’s best mate Jimmy Doherty visited Broome in 2016 as part of his Australian Food Adventure and was smitten with the delicate seafood served to him at Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm. Celeb chefs like Adam Liaw and WA’s own Paul Fervor are putting pearl meat at the centre of some of their menus; a must-try while in town.

Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

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New look, new year The Broome Visitor Centre space is getting a facelift - and the friendly team can’t wait to introduce their new look to visitors.

T

he new look Visitor Centre in Broome will introduce interactive technology and displays to reflect the unique culture, history and natural environment of Broome and the Kimberley.

Thanks to an initial Royalties for Regions grant of $40k received earlier in 2016, the Broome Visitor Centre has been working towards a dynamic new fit-out designed to offer visitors an enhanced experience while they’re in town.

A further $80k will enable the visitor centre team to undertake the works which will be rolled out over various stages in the next six to 12 months.

Headed up by Nick Linton, the BVC team identified ways that this vital resource could serve visitors more effectively in coming years.

“We wanted to find out how we could improve a visitor’s experience at the centre, and help them make decisions about what

to do and see while holidaying in Broome,” said Nick.

Broome Visitor Centre is a success story – it’s by far one of the busiest in WA, attracting over 130,000 through its doors each year.

“In our busy periods, when it’s sometimes pretty hectic, we’ll be able to offer a more streamlined and efficient way to help the visitor thanks to the grant,” says Nick.

Broome’s extraordinary offering to visitors is one of its biggest advantages – its diversity, uniqueness and density of products on offer means that the role of the town’s visitor centre is vital to maintain the destination’s position as one of the mustvisit places in Australia.

“It’s the goal of our visitor centre to help visitors achieve the maximum number of activities while they’re in town, whether it’s a couple of days or a week or two,” says Nick.

Along with other innovative marketing strategies including advertising at Broome International Airport, a recently redesigned visitor magazine and a new look website planned for early 2017, it’s fitting that the Broome Visitor Centre has capped its 40th anniversary in 2016 with a new look thanks to the grant.

“The Broome Visitor Centre has been a major contributor to the tourism industry in our town for four decades and this new opportunity will help us to continue to grow with visitor requirements for many years to come.”

The Broome Visitor Centre (BVC) celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2016.

That story began on a wet, stormy night in January 1974 when Broome’s first Tourist Bureau literally “fell from the sky”.

After a 30-minute departure from Broome, the captain of a Garuda DC3 en

FAST FACTS

WARM WELCOME Head over to the Broome Visitor Centre and you'll find plenty of information about local attractions and advice from the friendly team.

route to Koepang, Indonesia, had to turn back due to starboard engine failure. He managed to land parallel to the Broome International Airport and all 16 passengers escaped without serious injury.

The DC3 was acquired by the Broome Shire, restored and repainted. It was then erected at the edge of town as the Broome Tourist Bureau.

Forty years ago, on the August 7, 1976, Allan Ridge, Minister for Tourism, officially opened the DC3 as Broome’s First Tourist Bureau. Between the opening in August 1976 and March 1978 the bureau welcomed

over 25,000 tourists.

With visitor numbers growing year on year, sometimes so great that there were queues down the street, the decision was made to build a larger centre.

In December 2006 the BVC moved into its current, multi-million dollar welcome centre. In recognition of the BVC’s heritage, the building was designed to represent an aircraft with sweeping wings either side and propeller-like fans.

The old BVC building has been taken over and renovated by local publishers Magabala Books.

ALL ABOUT BVC The BVC is a non-for-profit organisation, which, with the support of the Shire of Broome and its 350 or so members, welcomes 150,000 people to Broome each year.

Visitor Centre staff know and love the Broome region and will provide you with expert advice on local attractions, accommodation, tours, special events, tide times, local businesses and facilities.

They also provide the latest information on national parks as well as road and weather condition reports for Broome and the Kimberley and Pilbara regions.

Friendly and professional staff can tailor-make your holiday based on your budget, interests, and length of stay in Broome and the Kimberley region.

The Visitor Centre provides a free booking service for tours, accommodation and vehicle hire for Broome and the Kimberley region. It is open seven days a week and has a- gift shop with maps and local guides as well as a variety of local products including postcards, books,Indigenous art, souvenirs, gifts and holiday mementos.

Peak days can see over 1,000 visitors to the centre, while its website visitbroome. com.au saw 170,000 unique visitors in 2015.

If you are looking for the ideal accommodation, the perfect experience, a souvenir and, above all, a warm Kimberley welcome; visit the Broome Visitor Centre.

Did you know ...

BROOME HAS BEEN NAMED IN THE TOP TEN OF AUSTRALIA'S MOST CHARMING TOWNS

Meet the

Roebuck Bay locals While you’re in Broome, join a whale watching tour and you may spot one of the rarest dolphin species in the world - the snubfin, says Dianne Bortoletto.

B

roome is known for its beauty, for Cable Beach, the ancient landscape, the Staircase to the Moon and for having a laid-back vibe, but what many don’t know is that it’s also home to the world’s largest known population of the incredibly rare snubfin dolphin.

Snubfin dolphins live in Roebuck Bay, on the other side of town from Cable Beach, and it’s teeming with marine life.

The bay has two more dolphin species, namely the bottlenose and humpback, an array of fish, manta rays, eagle rays, dugongs and six of the seven different species of turtles worldwide.

The bay attracts 100,000 migratory shore birds that feed during the summer to fatten up before migrating to Siberia in winter. Scientists call the bay a “cetacean biologist’s dream”.

On board a spacious catamaran with accredited tour operator Broome Whale Watching Tours, we head out to Roebuck Bay in search of the snubfin dolphins.

Instantly I’m in awe of the colours of nature – the rusty-red dirt, the green scrub, the huge blue skies and the opaque aqua ocean. The morning already feels magical.

While I scan the ocean, owner of Broome Whale Watching Tours Cameron

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Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

Birch explains that snubfin dolphins are designed to live in zero visibility.

“Roebuck Bay is a tidal bay over mud flats and, as a result, it makes the water murky and muddy. That’s the perfect environment for snubbies - they are an estuarine dolphin and like shallow coastal areas. They are not an oceanic dolphin at all,” Cameron says.

We see a small pod on our morning cruise and follow them from a distance so as to not disturb them.

Unlike bottlenose dolphins that have a nose and are agile and fast, snubfin dolphins are very slow moving and have round heads with no beak. Snubfins are also able to bend their necks, which they

do as part of their hunting strategy.

Jason Fowler, Marine Projects Officer at Environs Kimberley, said snubfin dolphins are incredibly intelligent because they are able to hunt in an environment where other dolphins can’t.

“The visibility is zero because of the macro-tidal environment and the mudflats. Snubfins have really welldeveloped feeding strategies where they spit water out of their mouths, and when it lands on the surface the baitfish panic and often jump straight back toward the snubfin, and the dolphin just picks them up,” Jason said.

“Roebuck Bay is very productive – the mudflat is covered with a fine layer of algae growth, which is the basis of the food chain - millions of prawns and animals living off that and the whole food chain comes into effect, baitfish, other fish, so there’s a lot of food for snubfins.

“In fact, the mudflats have the highest diversity of marine invertebrates in the visitbroome.com.au

Fast facts

world - worms, clams, snails and crabs.”

However ideal Roebuck Bay is, snubfin dolphins are so rare that it’s possible that there are less than 1,000 in the world and they can only be found along the northern Australian coastline in small pods from Broome to Gladstone in Queensland.

Roebuck Bay has a relatively big permanent population of snubfin

dolphins, around 140 adults.

“Besides a few rogue young males that swim all the way up the coast to find a mate, the snubfin dolphins stay in Roebuck Bay - we call them ‘Roebuck Bay Locals’ because they’re always there,” Jason said.

These unique mammals were named as a new species in 2005, the first new species of dolphin discovered for over

50 years and it was a privilege to be able to see them in their natural habitat.

It’s rumoured that the BBC are doing a documentary on the snubfin dolphins.

“Let’s hope that once the word spreads, their habitat is always treated with the sensitivity it deserves so it doesn’t impact the population of snubfins that we’re so lucky to have in Roebuck Bay,” Jason says.

Broome Whale Watching Tours operates every day in Roebuck Bay Call: (08) 9192 8163 Email: admin@broomewhalewatching.com.au Visit: visitbroome.com.au to book a tour

Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

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Magic carpet ride Just one of three hovercraft tourism companies operating in the world, Broome Hovercraft offers a spectacularly memorable experience.

By NORMAN BURNS Images courtesy BROOME HOVERCRAFT

D

inosaur footprints would have been the furthest thing from English engineer Christopher Cockerill’s mind when he invented the world’s first hovercraft in the late 1950s.

Cockerill’s creation (amazingly, his first workshop tinkerings involved just a vacuum cleaner tube and an empty can of cat food placed inside a larger empty coffee can) was a revolutionary concept, neither plane nor boat, but a machine that could hover on a cushion of air and operate over surfaces such as mud, ice, marshes and water like no other craft with almost no environmental impact - making it a true “green machine”.

All of which makes the hovercraft the ideal mode of transport for visitors to get up-close-and-personal with one of Australia’s natural wonders, the 120 million-year-old fossilised tracks of dinosaurs at Gantheaume Point, just one of the highlights of a range of spectacular tours run by Broome Hovercraft.

A family-run business, Broome Hovercraft is the only commercial

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hovercraft tourism operation in the Southern Hemisphere, and just one of three in the world.

“Apart from viewing 120 million-yearold dinosaur trackways and getting there via a unique mode of transport, what sets us apart is we love what we do and we let it show,” says Broome Hovercraft’s Rebecca Penner (husband Myles is a hovercraft pilot and co-director of the business, with Roger and June Colless).

“We love meeting people and imparting the knowledge we have gained in this amazing location and we are passionate about creating an experience that is aweinspiring and that surpasses all of our customers’ expectations.”

The company operates two hovercraft — the 13-seat Spirit of Broome and the aptly named Big Bird (24 seats).

“Big Bird, our new hovercraft, is the first and only one of her kind in the world — the Ferrari of all hovercraft,” Rebecca says.

Broome Hovercraft operates up to five “flights” per day all-year around, even in

the wet season.

“Broome has the fifth-largest tidal movement in the world, so the water’s edge can move up to 1,500m from the shore/tide edge,” Rebecca says.

“This is the perfect environment for our hovercraft tours, as being amphibious we can fly over water or tidal flats and this allows us to get to places that no other transport can.”

And from the stunning dinosaur trackways, to other unforgettable attractions such as the wrecks of World War II Catalina flying boats and viewing the famous Staircase to the Moon that can only be viewed from out in Roebuck Bay, the Broome Hovercraft tours have almost no impact on the pristine, delicate environment that makes Broome’s coast one of Western Australia’s greatest attractions.

“Hovercraft are one of the most environmentally friendly forms of transport available; there are no propellers in the water, so no risk of sea life getting injured, tangled or killed by being caught visitbroome.com.au

up in the propellers,” says Rebecca. “The lack of propellers in the water means there is no disruption to the seafloor, causing ‘murkiness’ in the water. The hovercraft leaves a minimal footprint on the tidal flats and water’s surface; the only thing coming into contact with the tidal flats and water surface is the air contained within the hovercraft skirt system and ‘fingers’.

“The pressure exerted by this air on the tidal flats is equivalent to a seagull standing on one leg. The hovercraft can fly over flora and fauna living in the tidal flats (such as crabs, molluscs and sea grass) without damaging them.”

The most difficult choice for visitors will be which Broome Hovercraft tour to take — such as the hour-long Scenic and Prehistoric Tour, which culminates in passengers literally walking in the footsteps of those giant, long-gone, reptiles.

“The Sunset Tour includes everything from the Scenic and Prehistoric Tour — but there’s more,” says Rebecca. “After seeing the dinosaur trackways, passengers get back into the hovercraft and fly off to a secluded patch of tidal flats, the seabed that was 10 metres under the surface only hours prior.

“Passengers enjoy gourmet canapés and a complimentary glass of sparking wine while marvelling at the marine life and experience the speed of the tidal movement as they watch the tide either move away from them or come in and ‘encircle’ them on the sand bar they are exploring.”

Broome Hovercraft can also add a stunning “wow factor” for private functions, parties and especially weddings.

“We’ve expanded the business this year with the introduction of our function centre, the Thousand Stars Bar and Cafe, where we can host parties, corporate events and weddings, Many of the bridal parties from the weddings we’ve hosted — 74 in

total — have been brought over from the other side of Roebuck Bay by hovercraft, complete with white ribbons, to meet their guests awaiting their arrival at the hovercraft base — it sure beats the limo arrival.”

So whether you want to connect with the prehistoric past, soak up the amazing Broome coastal vista, have a picnic on the seabed, dazzle your wedding guests or just experience the thrill of “flying” on water, Broome Hovercraft offers “magic carpet rides” that are unforgettable.

Broome Hovercraft, Port Drive (1/2km before the Port of Broome), (08) 9193 5025.

Visit visitbroome.com.au to book a tour..

The golden

gateway

Part one

The Broome Airport story is a tale of heroic adventure, bravery, bloodshed - and the unquenchable spirit of a whole town.

By NORMAN BURNS.

J

ust as the railroad helped forge modern America, aviation was the catalyst that shaped the destiny of Broome and the North West.

Flying into the modern Broome Airport of today, it’s easy to forget that without the visionary efforts of aviation pioneers such as Norman Brearley (and the legendary Charles Kingsford-Smith) - and the fierce, independent spirit of Broome’s townsfolk things might be very different.

Indeed, the history of Broome Airport, and flying in the area, is a tale worthy of a Hollywood script involving equal parts bravery, mayhem, blood, sweat and tears and intrigue.

The man who got things rolling was 31-year-old Royal Flying Corps pilot Major (later Sir) Norman Brearley who proved he 16

Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

had a canny knack for business as well as being a tough nut; he’d been badly wounded and stranded in no-man’s land during the war but had evaded capture.

On his return to Australia in July 1919, Major Brearley brought with him two war surplus Avro 504 biplanes which he had intended to use in “barnstorming” exhibitions around the country.

His timing was impeccable as by 1920 the Commonwealth Government called for tenders to set up airmail services to remote regions, one of which was a weekly route between Geraldton and Derby.

Major Brearley’s Western Australian Airways won the tender to deliver the mail - and some parcels and hardy passengers along a 2,020km route via Carnarvon, Onslow, Roebourne, Port Hedland and Broome.

The Avro 504s were not suitable for this most challenging of mail runs, so Major Brearley bought a small fleet of Bristol Tourers for the task.

It was an inauspicious start; the inaugural flight on December 5, 1921, ended in tragedy when one of the Tourers crashed, killing the pilot and a passenger.

But, as Major Brearley knew from his WWI experience, flying was a risky business and without risk there was no reward.

He, and WAA, forged on. Just 13 days later, Major Brearley, accompanied by Lieutenant Charles Kingsford-Smith, made history with the first landing at Broome even though there was no airport as such.

Instead, the pair touched down on a track of smoothed sand on Cable Beach. By the mid-1920s, the WAA service - and other aircraft - could take off and land on a graded, dirt strip near the old Broome Racecourse.

This strip was to develop into the Broome Aerodrome, basically a large paddock without strengthened runways.

In 1934, WAA lost its mail delivery contract to MacRobertson-Miller Aviation Co Ltd but Major Brearley had sealed his place in history as an aviation pioneer of the North West.

visit broomeair.com.au

visitbroome.com.au

FLIGHT CLUB (Clockwise from opposite page); Aviation pioneer Norman Brearley is served a cup of tea before taking off on the Broome mail run in 1927; Western Australian Airways' first pilots (from left) Charles KingsfordSmith, Bob Fawcett, Major Norman Brearley, Len Taplin and Val Abbott; Norman Brearley survived being shot down in WWI; this Bristol Tourer bi-plane delivered mail, parcels and sometimes passengers - to Broome; a wrecked US Air Force Flying Fortress after the Japanese attack on Broome Airport in March 1942.

Images from State Library of WA collection and courtesy Broome Historical Society.

By the mid-1930s aircraft were getting bigger, and heavier, with more capacity and the Broome Aerodrome’s days as a paddock were numbered; in 1935 a main East West runway 1,500m long and a cross NorthSouth 1000m runway were built.

A year later came another milestone with the launch of the WA Section of the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

For Broome’s residents, getting airmail was one thing, having access to medical help by air another, and the RFDS was proof just how far aviation services had come in just a few short years.

In times of peace, airfields and airports like Broome Airport were vital links for commerce, social interaction and nascent tourism.

In time of war the airfield or airport became a strategic asset - or target.

When Japan attacked Pearl Harbour on December 7, 1941 and began its sweep

through south-east Asia, there was no doubt that Australia would eventually be in the firing line. It was only a question of when . . .

And on Tuesday March 3, 1942 Broome got the answer; by then Broome Airport was a vital refuelling stop for military aircraft.

Nearby Roebuck Bay was also a stopover for flying boat operations, including flights evacuating civilians from the Japanese advance in Asia.

Alas, Australia’s military had woefully underprepared for any assault on Broome - even though just two weeks’ earlier, on February 19, 1942, 188 aircraft of the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Force and Imperial Japanese Army Air Force had attacked Darwin, killing hundreds.

The Japanese planes swooped first on a fleet of Dornier flying boats anchored in the bay; tragically, most were filled with refugees, many women and children.

Fifteen Dorniers were destroyed, but the

visit broomeair.com.au

human toll was crushing; at least 70 died, either strafed to death, perishing in the burning wrecks - or taken by sharks.

The Japanese turned next to the airport, destroying every plane on the ground and badly damaging the runway and facilities.

Herein lies a twist in the tail, and one that has a direct link to the present day.

The Japanese raid sparked such hysteria people feared invasion was imminent - that authorities ordered the Broome Airport runway be destroyed. Had they done so the tourism mecca that is Broome today may not have existed.

There was an outcry from Broome residents and cooler heads prevailed; the runway was left intact, although the town was virtually abandoned for the duration of the war.

The air raid also has a curious sidestory; as the victorious Zero fighters were returning to their base they intercepted a Dutch DC-3 about 100km north of Broome at Carnot Bay. The DC-3 was riddle with bullets but pilot Captain Ivan Smirnoff managed to crash-land the plane in the shallow surf.

But there is more to the story; just before take-off from Java Dutch officials had given Captain Smirnoff a mysterious cigar-box sized package for “safe keeping”. Inside the box were diamonds - worth $20 million in today’s money.

The captain, a Russian and WWI flying ace who had allegedly once turned down a request from filmmaker Cecil B. DeMille to make a film about his flying exploits, claimed he never knew what was in the package, which was lost in the surf during the crash.

A few weeks afterwards though, dugong hunter and beachcomber Jack Palmer went out to the wreckage - and found the box and in it the dazzling diamonds.

Palmer linked up with two other drifters, pearler Jim Mulgrue and mechanic Frank Robinson and soon diamonds were showing up around Broome in two-up rings, pubs and clubs.

Police smelled a rat, arresting the trio.

But in court Captain Smirnoff could not shed any light on what was in the package and Palmer and his mates were acquitted.

As for the diamonds, less than a third were recovered.

Once the war ended, Broome began to get back on its feet; residents returned, many flying into Broome Airport, to rebuild their lives.

• The story continues with the dawn of the jet age. Read part two of the story of Broome Airport in the next issue.

Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

17

A family affair Galwey Pearls is a business built on a family’s passion for the beauty of Australian South Sea pearls, says Gabi Mills.

B

roome is ideally located in the Kimberley to allow one to luxuriate in the simple gifts of nature – the beach, the outback, sunsets and of course the pearls.

The Galwey Showroom, located on the Broome Pearler’s Boardwalk offers an exclusive look inside the pearl industry and the most precious of nature’s gems, with exquisite pearl jewellery for every occasion.

As part of Broome’s history, why not enjoy a one of a kind journey to experience pearls like never before and explore Galwey’s beautiful range of Kimberley pearls from the Pinctada Maxima shell?

Whether shopping for special celebrations, a gift for someone you love or simply to treat yourself, Galwey offers a wide range and variety of beautiful Australian South Sea pearls.

The Galwey staff will be happy to take you on a knowledgeable journey about pearls, where they will share their passion and answer all your questions. This can be a vital part of the pleasurable experience in discovering pearls and helping you choose a piece of the Kimberley to take home with you.

With a family history stretching back to the early days of pearling, and a retail operation approaching its second decade,

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Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

Galwey has forged a deep and lasting connection with pearls, the only gem to be grown inside a living organism.

Every piece of Galwey jewellery is lovingly crafted to showcase each pearl and reveal its virtues in the most exquisite way.

“Our authenticity certificates, matched with a photo, give our customers peace of mind as well as all the characteristics about their purchase,” says Galwey’s Prudence Galwey, daughter of founder Lyndal Galwey.

Based in the birthplace of the world’s best pearls – Galwey seeks out the most distinctive of pearls to create unique and beautiful jewellery.

“Our Australian South Sea pearl is unrivalled in rarity, quality, nacre thickness, natural lustre, size and value,” she says.

The array of possibilities offers a pearl to complement every skin tone – where gold pearls best suit olive or tan complexions and silver whites usually lighter or fair.

“The choice of pearls varies on personal preferences and budget, however, lustre and nacre – the very essence of pearls – should never be compromised.”

Galwey also showcases a comprehensive range of beautiful black pearls from the Abrolhos Islands, Tahiti and Cook Islands and South Sea gold pearls from Myanmar,

GALWEY HAS FORGED A DEEP AND LASTING CONNECTION WITH PEARLS, THE ONLY GEM TO BE GROWN INSIDE A LIVING ORGANISM

the Philippines and Indonesia, offering the most exclusive selection available in one location. A stunning new collection of pink argyle diamond jewellery is now available.

Lyndal and Prudence have each bought their own unique flair to the Galwey brand, but one thing has remained constant, according to Prudence.

“We believe that choosing your pearls in person is the best way to appreciate and understand their true beauty, as each piece is unique and individual.

"We encourage you to collaborate with us to create the right piece just for you.”

Galwey also offer an array of services in all types of jewellery design including repairs and restringing, restoration and redesign, insurance valuations and replacements and gift vouchers.

Over the years, Galwey has expanded their workshop connections and have an experienced team of jewellers and setters who are dedicated to producing exceptionally high quality, stylish jewellery, using only the finest quality pearls.

“We look forward to seeing you in our beautiful showroom as you experience the natural relaxing beauty of Broome,” says Prudence.

Visit galweypearls.com.au visitbroome.com.au

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Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

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19

Eat Drink

&Enjoy

A guide to eating out in Broome MODERN AUSTRALIAN 1861 RESTAURANT & BAR

CABLES RESTAURANT & BAR

99 Robinson Street Broome Map ref: M16

1 Lullfitz Dr Cable Beach Map ref: D9

08 9192 9513 08 9192 9500

08 9192 8088 08 9192 9500

Breakfast Mon-Fri 5.30am-9am Sat & Sun 7.30am-9.30am Dinner Mon-Sun 6pm-8.30pm The restaurant serves up breakfast and dinner daily, with a scrumptious selection of starters, mains and desserts that are sure to tantalise the tastebuds. www.oakshotelsresorts.com

ZANDERS AT CABLE BEACH Cable Beach Reserve, Cable Beach Map ref: E8 08 9193 5090 Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Jan-March Mon-Fri from 12 noon, Sat-Sun from 8am. April from 8am 7 days.

Zanders is the perfect destination to enjoy panoramic views of Cable Beach and Gantheaume Point whilst sipping on a cocktail, or enjoying your breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Take away available. www.zanders.com.au

THE BAY CLUB BAR AND RESTAURANT MANGROVE HOTEL The Mangrove Resort, 47 Carnarvon St, Broome Map ref: K17 08 9192 1303 Breakfast from 7am Lunch/ Dinner 11am-late Stunning views over Roebuck Bay pair perfectly with a new contemporary lounging atmosphere. Open all year round the Mangrove is also the perfect place to witness the “Staircase to the Moon”. www.mangrovehotel.com.au

INDIAN

Breakfast Mon-Fri 7am-9.30am Sat & Sun 7.30am-10.30am Dinner Mon-Sat 5.30pm-8.30pm (A la Carte) A popular dining option open for breakfast, dinner and evening drinks, the restaurant offers indoor and outdoor dining and the opportunity to soak in the Cable Beach sunset views. www.oakshotelsresorts.com

THE WHARF RESTAURANT End of Port Drive at Port of Broome Map ref: Y11 Bookings: 08 9192 5800; Gourmet Takeaway: 08 9192 5700 Lunch & Dinner 7 days 10am-10pm The way seafood should be: fresh, local and simple. Alfresco dining with views over Roebuck Bay. Half price oysters daily 2pm-5pm. Classic fish and chips to flavoursome chilli mud crab. The Wharf offers an extensive local WA seafood selection. Fully licensed, ice cold beer and sophisticated wine list.

JACK’S BAR & RESTAURANT CONTI RESTAURANT AND BAR Mercure, Weld Street, Broome Map ref: M16 08 9195 5900 Breakfast 7am-9.30am Dinner 6pm-9pm Come and try some of Broome’s best food, showcasing local produce with an international flair, in our fully air-conditioned restaurant, open all year round. www.mercure.com

THE DECK POOLSIDE BAR & RESTAURANT Kimberley Sands Resort and Spa 10 Murray Road, Broome Map ref: F9 08 9193 8388 Open 7 days - bookings recommended.

Breakfast 7am-10am All day dining 11am-6pm Dinner from 6pm Enjoy poolside dining that reflects Broome’s unique beauty culture and climate. Experience contemporary Australian cuisine prepared by our award-winning chef. www.kimberleysands.com.au

Ramada Eco Beach Resort, Great Northern Highway, South of Broome 08 9193 8015 Friday: Lunch 12-2pm, Dinner 5.30-7.30 Sat & Sun: Breakfast 8-10am Lunch 12-2pm, Dinner 5.30-7.30pm Monday: Breakfast 8-10am Featuring an ocean front bar and restaurant offering gourmet cuisine, wines and cocktails. A perfect setting for dining and relaxation whilst indulging in stunning views and mouth-watering cuisine. www.ramadaecobeach.com

PLEASE NOTE: The information contained in this section has been supplied by the individual establishments. The publisher cannot be held responsible for any information which is not accurate. You are advised to phone the venues and check opening hours and other details prior to a visit.

FINE DINING CLUB RESTAURANT

Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa, Cable Beach Road Map ref: E8 08 9192 0411 Club Boardwalk Café – Open Daily 8am-5pm for coffee and lunch.

December: Lunch 11am-3pm, Dinner Tue-Sat from 6pm Jan, Feb & Mar: CLOSED An opulent and memorable dining experience where you can enjoy local delicacies of pearl meat and barramundi or a delicious pasta from our menu with an Italian twist. cablebeachclub.com

LITTLE INDIAN RESTAURANT Shop 3, Cnr Frederick & Hamersley Sts, Broome Map ref: J17 08 9192 1697

Tue-Sun 4.30pm-late Bookings accepted. Authentic, homemade Indian cuisine,infused with flavours made famous from regions across India. Experience friendly outdoor or airconditioned dine-in service. BYO. www.facebook.com/LittleIndianRestaurant

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Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

visitbroome.com.au

60 Hamersley Street, Broome Map ref: L17 08 9193 5811 Open 7am-late every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The Kimberley’s award-winning microbrewery and a Broome treasure. Try their famous beers and ciders. Matso’s boasts its own Curry Chef, with the Curry Hut open 7 days a week in the courtyard. www.matsos.com.au

18 degrees

Seaview Shopping Centre.

Shop 4, 63 Robinson St. Map ref: N16 08 9192 7915 Tue-Sat from 5pm; 9-10pm Cocktail Happy Hour. Dinner menu runs to 9pm, late night menu from 9pm Thursday to Saturday.

Experience Broome’s most cosmopolitan restaurant without the hustle and bustle of the big city. With its fusion of International and Modern Australian style share plates, delicious desserts, award-winning cocktails and an extensive beer and wine list, just come along and soak up the ambience that is 18 degrees. www.18degrees.com.au

RAMBUTAN

THAI ORCHID

Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa, Cable Beach Road Map ref: E8

6 Hamersly St, Broome Map ref: J17 08 9192 6147

08 9192 0479 December: Thurs - Mon: 6pm till late Jan, Feb & Mar: CLOSED Rambutan presents exciting South East Asian cuisine, aligned to the melting pot of Broome cultures. www.cablebeachclub.com

BALI HAI CAFE

Bali Hai Resort & Spa 6 Murray Road, Cable Beach 08 9191 3100 December: Drinks and nibbles from 4pm Dinner from 6pm *Call to confirm opening times Jan, Feb & Mar: CLOSED

PUB GRUB

MURPHY’S IRISH PUB Mercure, Weld St, Broome Map ref: M16 08 9195 5900

12pm-late. Get your Guinness fix here, showcasing good hearty food and the coldest beer in town Fully air conditioned. www.mercure.com

CAFÉ

BAR AND BISTRO ASIAN

MATSO’S BROOME BREWERY

WILLIE CREEK GRILL Willie Creek Pearl Farm via Cape Leveque Road 08 9192 0000

Wed - Mon: 5-9.30pm

Sunday - Friday: 10-2pm Offering a 'Light Bites' menu

Thai Orchid dine in and takeaway restaurant proudly presents you with authentic Thai cuisine. All produce has been handselected from WA and only the finest ingredients are used to create the tantalising dishes.

Willie Creek Grill serves a selection of flame grilled skewers served with delicious sides and condiments.

Share plates, coffee, cakes & cold drinks.

www.facebook.com/ thaiorchidbroome

AZUKI JAPANESE FUSION 1/15 Napier Terrace Map ref: J17 08 9193 7211

Savour our flavours of East Asia along with some scrumptious western fare.

Fully licensed.

Lunch Mon-Fri 10am-3pm.

Last orders 2.45pm Dinner Tues and Wed from 5.30pm Delicious Japanese-style food both dine in and take away. Azuki also offers outside catering individually tailored to each client.

www.balihairesort.com

Call to confirm times. Closing December 9, re-open Feb 11 2017. www.azukicatering@bigpond.com

THE ZOOKEEPERS STORE 2 Challenor Drive, Cable Beach

Fully Licenced Café 08 9192 0015 Breakfast (daily): 7am - 12pm Lunch (Sat/Sun): 12-2pm Dinner (Thur-Mon): 5.30-9pm Come in early and indulge in our famous kronutz accompanied with a serious small batch roasted coffee or one of our organic teas. Pop in for lunch or dinner for our antipasti platters and share plates with a glass of beer, wine or even a cocktail. www.zks.com.au

TAKE AWAY MCDONALD’S Cnr Napier Tce & Hamersley St. Map ref: J17 08 9192 6999 Open 24hrs a day, everyday.

In air conditioned comfort, take advantage of our free Wi-Fi, a playground for the children, a wonderful array of cakes and coffees from McCafe as well as all your favourite McDonald’s menu items. www.mcdonalds.com.au

Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

21

Eat Drink

&Enjoy

A guide to eating out in Broome

AARLI BAR

Shop 1 and 2/16 Hamersley Street, Broome, Cnr Frederick & Hamersley Sts ...........................................................................(08) 9192 5529 BROOME RSL Broome SUB Branch RSL – Cnr Robinson & Barker Streets Broome.

Map ref: K16 – (08) 9192 1003 18 DEGREES Seaview Shopping Centre Shop 4, 63 Robinson St. Map ref: N16........................................................................................... 08 9192 7915 BLUEY’S PLACE FISH & CHIPS Cnr Frederick & Hamersley St Map ref: J17........................................................... 08 9192 1747 CABLE BEACH DELI 4 Sanctuary Road Broome ............................................................................................. 08 9192 7033 CABLE BEACH GENERAL STORE & CAFÉ Cnr Murray Road & Cable Beach Road. Map ref: F9 ......................................08 9192 5572 CAFÉ D’AMORE Jones Place, Broome Map ref: N14

.......................................................................... 08

9192 7606

ECHO’S CAFÉ Shop 17, Paspaley Plaza, Carnarvon St Map ref: I16....................................... 08 9192 7654 GALLEY BISTRO AT DIVERS 12 Cable Beach Road, Broome Map ref: F9 .......................................................08 9193 6066 GREEN MANGO CAFÉ Shop 2/12 Carnarvon St Map ref: J17 ...................................................................... 08 9192 5512 J’S PIZZA Mobile Wood Fired Pizza................................................................................................. 0427 842 244 LAND OF PHARAOHS Papaley Plaza, Canarvon St Broome........................................................................ 08 9192 6469 LITTLE INDIAN RESTAURANT Shop 3, Cnr Frederick & Hamersley Sts................................................................. 08 9192 1697 MOLLIE BEAN COFFEE Japanese Cemetery, Port Drive Map ref: L12.......................................................0488 800 159 OASIS EATERY Coghlan St, Broome Map ref: J16 .............................................................................. 08 9193 7989

CAIRO CAFÉ Shop 7, 16Frederick Street Map ref: J17 ................................................................. 08 9192 3283

PEARLERS DAMPIER TERRACE Map ref: J18 ....................................................08 9192 1221 RAUGI’S RESTAURANT Kooljaman at Cape Leveque, Dampier Peninsula..............................................08 9192 4970

DOMINO’S PIZZA 1 Hamersley St, Broome Map ref: J17 ..................................................................... 08 9192 2033

THE GOOD CARTEL Sun Cinema Carpark, 3 Weld St Map ref: J16 .................................................... 0499 335 949

Project1_Layout 1 21/04/2016 11:31 am Page 1

Please Note: The information contained in this section has been supplied by the individual establishments. The publisher cannot be held responsible for any information which is not accurate. You are advised to phone the places and check their opening hours and other details prior to a visit.

Johnny Chi Lane Broome

on al d’s

08 9193 7822 SHOP ON-LINE @ azurebeach.com.au

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Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

9/11/2016 1:43:06 PM

visitbroome.com.au

A real

pearler When in Broome, make sure you try pearl meat - it’s a delicious taste sensation making waves around the world. By DIANNE BORTOLETTO.

OCEAN DELICACY Guests at September's Matsuri Festival were treated to a pearl meat cook off, introducing many for the first time to the delicious seafood. Opposite, MasterChef's Adam Liaw is a fan of pearl meat too.

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Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

M

ost people know that Broome has a long and fascinating pearling history. In the 1800s, diving for pearls made the town prosperous and then in the 1900s, pearl farming and jewellery put Broome on the map. These days though, it’s a side product of pearl farming – pearl meat – which is gaining more attention.

Television chefs Karen Martini and the Surfing the Menu chefs featured pearl meat in recent programs and pearl meat was featured at this year’s Margaret River Gourmet Escape at a seafood satellite event in Augusta alongside prized oysters and abalone.

Willie Creek General Manager of Operations Paul Birch said that they held a ‘pearl meat cook off’ during the Shinju Matsuri Festival in September as part of an open day at the Willie Creek Farm.

“Pearl meat is a delicacy and I believe there’s a massive tourism opportunity surrounding pearl meat,” Paul said.

The quantity of pearl meat produced at Willie Creek fluctuates as it depends on the number of oysters harvested.

Paul explains that an oyster can be

seeded to grow a pearl up to four times.

“A technician checks the condition of the pearl and the oyster before deciding to seed it again. It takes two years to grow a pearl,” he says.

“Naturally, it’s not until the oyster is harvested that we have pearl meat, which is visitbroome.com.au

“PEARL MEAT IS SOMETHING THAT I DON’T GET A CHANCE TO COOK WITH OFTEN BUT WHENEVER I DO, I JUMP AT THE CHANCE, BECAUSE IT’S ICONIC OF THE CUISINE IN BROOME AND I LOVE COOKING WITH THAT WHENEVER I CAN.” ~ chef & presenter Adam Liaw

actually the abductor muscle or the hinge on the bottom of the shell that allows the oyster to open and close to feed and protect itself.

“Because it’s a muscle, the only thing that changes with age is its size, anatomically there’s no difference between the pearl meat of a younger oyster to that of

an older one.

“We use pearl meat in our own hospitality services that includes Zookeepers Store, in the pearl luggers tour and it’s on the menu at The Grill,” says Paul.

Fervor chef Paul Iskov says that last time

he was in Broome he held a dinner at Willie Creek Farm using their pearl meat in one of the entrees.

“We served it as a homemade ceviche, diced up and marinated with blood lime, some really nice olive oil and we also had a bit of gubinge powder on the top and some crisp samphire that was collected by elder Pat Torres,” Paul recounts.

“Pearl meat is quite a delicate seafood, we either cook it really, really quickly in a hot pan or over hot charcoal. More often than not we serve it raw and just marinate it or slightly cure it with some citrus like single lime, blood lime or desert lime.

“To describe pearl meat for somebody who’s never tried it, I’d say it’s meatier than a scallop, almost between a scallop and squid, or abalone. It has more texture than a scallop yet it’s more tender than abalone.

"Flavour wise, it tastes like the ocean, very clean and fresh.”

Like all seafood, look for translucent flesh and it shouldn’t have a strong seafood odour but fresh smell, like the ocean, and because it’s often served raw, it’s best consumed straight away.

Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

25

Broome Visitors Guide September-November 2016 25

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Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

visitbroome.com.au

culture

Broome is a melting pot - the people who make up its past, present and future have always been its lifeblood. By CARMEN JENNER. Images by YANE SOTIROSKI.

O

nce upon a Broome time, hundreds of wooden pearling luggers bobbed among the mangroves spanning Town Beach to Chinatown. Moored cheek to cheek and creating a fluid path for approximately two kilometres, pearlers would jump from boat to boat to reach the town’s saloons, bars, brothels, noodle houses, laundries, emporiums and opium dens. Broome was once referred to as the Wild West for good reason.

Remnants of Broome’s colourful past are still evident, particularly with its original tin buildings, a material which was favoured for its availability, cyclone rating and ease of transportation in the late 1880s. The iconic Sun Pictures building on Carnarvon Street constructed at the turn of the century is one prime example.

Originally owned by the Yamasaki family, it used to be a Japanese emporium and then a Japanese playhouse before it was sold and converted into a theatre. In keeping with its heritage, the red carpet on opening nights is often replaced with pindan; the red soil of the Kimberley.

Today, Chinatown’s streets are lined with pearls under the guise of Kailis, Cygnet Bay, Paspaley, Galwey and Allure South Sea Pearls. Co-founder of Allure Bill Reed is one of the most influential names in Australian and Tahitian pearling industries.

After spending 30 years as a marine biologist in far flung outposts in the Middle East, Persian Gulf, Tahiti and The Red Sea, he came to Broome 40 years ago on contract with Pearls Pty Ltd, Broome’s original pearling company. From there he drifted into pearl farming and then eventually jewellery.

Awarded with an Order of Australia in 2012 for his efforts in creating a thriving pearling and jewellery industry, as well as the promotion of Broome as a tourist

LOCAL HEROES Opposite, Doug Fong and Bill Reed are long-standing Broome residents and businessmen who have witnessed their town develop over the years. Below, Chinatown's Johnny Chi Lane.

destination, Bill appreciates its evolution and multi-cultural aspect. “I’d like to see more tourism and lower airfares," he says. "I’d also like to see a greater accent on the arts, particularly with artists and playwrights. I’d love to see Corrugation Road turned into a screenplay.” Screened at Sun Pictures, no doubt.

On the research and development front,

in the past 15 years, the pearling industry has made leaps and bounds with modern methods in pearl farming. “The South Sea Pearls indigenous to the region fetch double the price of other pearls,” Bill says.

Legends about Broome’s lustrous pearls spread to the Far East, attracting Japanese pearl farmers during the early 1900s, even though they already had their own pearling Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

27

industry.

“The Chinese and Japanese freshwater pearls don’t hold a candle to ours,” says Bill, comparing their pearls to zirconias and Broome’s to diamonds. With the influx of Chinese, Malay, Timorese, Filipino and European migrants, it didn’t take long for new a breed to evolve known as Broome creole.

While the white elite lived in gentile conditions, many foreigners suffered greatly in rudimentary conditions as the death rate of pearl divers rose, mostly from drowning or ‘the bends’, a decompression illness associated with joint pain; a condition they didn’t understand back then.

The Japanese Cemetery is the final resting place of over 900 Japanese divers who were recruited for their expertise, only to die for their jobs. Broome’s multi-culturalism and their sacrifice are honoured with Shinju Matsuri, the Japanese translation of “festival of the pearl.”

The festival celebrated its 46th anniversary in September and for the past 10 years, Doug Fong, the oldest Broome-

born Chinese man, has had the honour of removing Sammy the Dragon’s blindfold to open the festival.

In his lifetime the changes have been notable particularly with the increase in population. Born in 1938 remembers being evacuated and relocated to Perth for several years in the 40s during WWII as Japanese fight planes attacked.

Deeply committed to his bayside community, Doug runs Reflections Bed & Breakfast and walking tours through Chinatown, and recognises the cultural evolution in his lifetime.

“There are few pure-blood Indigenous left in town as many are now mixed race.

Even so, the Indigenous population are still coming to terms with 2016,” claims Doug, believing education and a steady attitude is required, as the Catholic missions once preached.

Just as the Kimberley lives by the gravitational pull of its tides, and pearls put the remote town on the map, its multiculturalism continues to connect Broome to its exotic neighbours and beyond.

Reed’s pearls of wisdom

W

ith a lifetime of adventures behind him, Bill Reed, one of the instigators of the modernisation of the Australian pearl farming industry, definitely has a story to tell.

This mild-mannered octogenarian hardly looks the sort who would escape from Persia one step ahead of the dreaded Savak, Secret Persian Police, set up home in a ramshackle palm frond shack on a remote Pacific Island (in the middle of a nuclear test zone), find himself attempting to print a book on fish species in the middle of civil war or motor hundreds of miles through the wilds of the upper reaches of the Niger in a 50-foot dugout canoe.

This is a swashbuckling story of a man who has, in his own words, led a very fortunate life. It’s also an extremely unpredictable one with twists and turns that read more like the Boy’s Own Adventure books of his childhood.

The Long Road to Broome Is Bill Reed AM’s incredible life story, full of laugh out loud moments of mirth from his many uproarious anecdotes and recollections of characters and places.

The Long Road to Broome

by Bill Reed. $29. Buy your copy at alluresouthseapearls.com.au or from the Broome Visitor Centre.

one of five copies of The Long WIN

Road to Broome - tell us in no more than 30 words what brought you to Broome and what you love about the town. Send your entries to win@premiumpublishers.com.au

by March 1 2017.

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Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

visitbroome.com.au

By CARMEN JENNER, GABI MILLS & LISA SHEARON

Broome with a view

If you’re booking a stay in Broome there’s plenty to choose from, whatever your budget.

OAKS SANCTUARY CABLE BEACH 1 Lullfitz Dr, Cable Beach WA 6726 Call: (08) 9192 8088 Visit: oakshotelsresorts.com/broomeaccommodation/oaks-cablebeach/

D

riving into Oaks Sanctuary Cable Beach feels like you’re entering a lush oasis, quite the contrast from the desert scrub across the road. Giant palm trees shade the stairs that lead to the indoor/ outdoor reception area, and just a few steps beyond there’s a gate that leads to large inviting pool area that indeed is three pools including one dedicated for kids, flanked with comfortable sun lounges, umbrellas and more palm trees.

It’s a large resort with 27 studio rooms, 62 one-bedroom apartments, 46 twobedroom apartments, four three-bedroom villas and two three-bedroom villas with a private plunge pool. There’s free parking out of the front of each and it is advisable to hire a car. The beach is reasonable stroll at 1.2 kilometres, which feels like 100 kilometres in the searing heat. Everything else is driving distance - Chinatown is just four kilometres away and Broome town centre seven kilometres away.

The one-bedroom apartment is spacious, tastefully decorated in neutrals. Once I pulled back the drapes, light filled the apartment and the view of the pool through palm trees was sigh-worthy. The bathroom was big and modern with a rain shower, and it’s so handy to have a washing machine and dryer. I wanted for nothing, the apartment was fully self-contained and included everything I needed including free Wi-Fi.

Having the option to self-cater was a welcomed relief, especially if you have kids, special dietary requirements or just prefer to cook your own meals in the comfort of your apartment.

A real home from home in fact. (CJ) BALI HAI RESORT 6 Murray Road, Cable Beach Call:08 9191 3100 Visit: balihairesort.com

T

he Bali Hai Resort is only a short stroll away from the famous Cable Beach

and its fine cafes, pearl shops and galleries.

The resort offers a variety of self-contained villas to suit your needs. You can shower under the stars in your private outdoor Mandi bathroom or refresh in the cool water of the sparkling swimming pool.

Your villa is surrounded by tropical gardens and manicured lawns. Walk into your own private oasis and leave the world behind. All the villas are self-contained with their own private courtyard and barbecue area. There is ample off street parking space available. The villas and public areas are suitable for guests with special needs. Make sure you visit the onsite cafe too - it captures the essence of Broome. Fresh produce and other high quality ingredients are used to create delicious food with an Asian twist. Enjoy the Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

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fresh breeze at sunset while you relax in the alfresco deck area or spend time in the cool of our air-conditioned café.

The spa, with seven treatment rooms, offers an exclusive range of health and beauty treatments that are as unique as the Australian outback and as exotic as the island of Bali. Experience the delights of Broome with a Passion of the Pearl treatment. A combination of finely ground mother of pearl shell, passionfruit and cocoa butter creates a romantic delight for couples. The Bali Hai Spa endeavours to provide every guest with a memorable experience that leaves them relaxed and rejuvenated. (GM)

COMFORT AND JOY Above and left, The Billi offers luxurious accomodation and facilities for your stay in Broome.

Below, Palm Grove Caravan Park prides itself on its excellent customer service and beautiful surroundings.

THE BILLI RESORT 23 Coucal St (Lullfitz Drive), Cable Beach, Broome 6725 Call: 08 9192 1711 Visit: thebilli.com.au

N

amed after Bilingurr – the local Indigenous name for the coastal area of Cable Beach – The Billi offers luxurious, self-contained accommodation in a stunning location close to Broome’s famous beach.

Providing a range of self-catering accommodation including one- and twobedroom villas, studio rooms and ultraglamorous eco tents, The Billi combines the luxury of a resort with the convenience of home.

Nestled under a superb canopy of trees and surrounding a stunning central pool area, The Billi is a unique, boutique-style resort, quite unlike anything else on offer in Broome.

“Because there are only 15 rooms, The Billi offers an intimate, personalised

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experience. Each of the villas are quite secluded, and our staff offer a personalised service. It’s a very different kind of resort,” general manager Bryce Guthrie says.

“Of course, our self-contained eco tents are a fantastic phenomenon. Nestled in among the trees, visitors love their cosy interiors.” (LS) PALM GROVE HOLIDAY RESORT Cnr Murray Road and Cable Beach Road West, Cable Beach, Broome 6726 Call: 1800 803 336 Visit palmgrove.com.au

S

et in a tropical landscaped setting, Palm Grove Holiday Resort provides comfortable accommodation in one of the best spots in the world. For the past 20 years, Palm Grove has been providing visitors to Broome with unforgettable accommodation just walking distance to beautiful Cable Beach.

Offering a variety of accommodation,

Palm Grove prides itself on its level of customer service. The tour desk is staffed by extremely knowledgeable staff who will go the extra mile to ensure their visitors experience Broome to the full, and arrange tours on their behalf. Palm Grove also boasts a 19-metre swimming pool, pool loungers, internet access, two ablution blocks, laundry room, covered campers’ kitchen, mini golf, general store and café.

Palm Grove offers both caravan sites and self-contained accommodation, including a one-bedroom studio, a family park home and standard park home. It’s a good idea to book early for the peak season. (LS) visitbroome.com.au

MANTRA FRANGIPANI 15 Millington Drive, Broome 6725 Call: 1300 987 604 Visit: mantra.com.au

L CABLE BEACH CARAVAN PARK Lot 8 Millington Road, Broome 6725 Call: 08 9192 2066 Email: cablebcp@iinet.net.au

D

escribed as a friendly, old-style caravan park by owner Ron Beacham, Cable Beach Caravan Park receives plenty of repeat custom. Having offered high-quality, down-to-earth sites for the past three decades, this is a caravan park with a true sense of community.

“We have people come back to the caravan park year after year after year,” Ron says. “They come to see friends and enjoy the wonderful climate and relaxed atmosphere.”

Cable Beach Caravan Park offers both powered and unpowered sites – all set in picturesque, shady surroundings – along with a state-of-the-art swimming pool, convenience shop, children’s playground, barbecues, tour bookings, internet facilities, gas bottle refills, telephones, clean, modern showers and toilets, plus coin laundries and fish-cleaning station.

Adjoining the caravan park is the muchloved Millie Café, a relaxed space serving delicious breakfasts, lunches, coffee and cakes. It’s open every day from 7am. (LS)

ocated within walking distance of the white sands and fantastic restaurants of Cable Beach, Mantra Frangipani is an architecturally designed resort offering a variety of self-contained one-, two- and three-bedroom accommodation.

Set among well-established manicured gardens, Mantra Frangipani offers peace, quiet and tranquillity. All apartments offer spacious living and dining areas, large bedrooms and a fully equipped kitchen, along with the resort’s signature private outdoor shower.

Mantra Frangipani has two large, temperature-controlled swimming pools – including one with a waterfall – set in lush,

tropical gardens. Large shade sails offer protection from the sun, while the gazebos and electric barbecue around the main swimming pool provide the perfect spot to end the day.

Mantra Frangipani is only a 10-minute drive into Broome town centre or Broome International Airport, making it a perfect holiday or business location. (LS)

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Animal magic The Zookeepers Store has a fascinating place in Broome’s rich history – and its food is pretty unforgettable too. By GABI MILLS.

L

ord McAlpine’s vision for his beloved Broome was broad and kaleidoscopic.

He saw so much potential in this red dusty town, from establishing a tourist hub at Cable Beach to opening the Pearl Coast Zoological Gardens. An ambitious wildlife project set up by McAlphine in the 1980s, it specialised in the acquisition and breeding of rare and endangered birds and animals.

Spread over 30 hectares of bushland and man-made tropical gardens, the project finally closed its doors in 1992, with the animal residents relocated to zoos all over Australia. The Banfield family took over the entrance and admin buildings of the zoo’s site and transformed them into what’s now the Willie Creek Pearls Cable Beach showroom and, in 1997, opened the Old Zoo Cafe. This morphed into Lord Mac’s - a family-friendly hamburger joint, before settling on its present incarnation: the Zookeepers Store in 2014.

So much for history, how about the cooking? Head chef Scott Pitt is a safe pair hands behind the pans. Serving up to over 60 patrons every day (it’s open during the wet season, a rarity in Broome),

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his contemporary Australian cuisine menu offers diners the opportunity to taste the Kimberley, literally. The Broome Experience, a mixed grill starring crocodile, Kimberley beef fillet and barramundi is a firm favourite with visitors.

“We bring in influences from all over the world and also use locally-sourced ingredients,” says Scott. “Our philosophy is that fresh is best so we like to make as

much on site as we can.”

That translates into freshly baked ciabatta loaves, homemade desserts and rich jus to adorn those delicious Kimberley meats.

“Using quality ingredients that you know are going to satisfy the customers is a big inspiration when creating menus.”

Thanks to the cafe’s proximity to Willie Creek, a standout ingredient is fresh pearl meat. visitbroome.com.au

“We will be looking to introduce pearl meat onto the menu more over the wet season,” says Scott.

Open all day serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, Scott and his team have plenty of opportunities to surprise and delight their customers.

“My personal favourite is the Breakfast Board,” says Scott. “It’s a true feast for the most important meal of the day.”

It’s a celebration of delicious ingredients - Italian prosciutto sliced inhouse, Tasmanian smoked salmon, Auriccino mozzarella made from buffalo milk in Campania, Italy, housemade pesto, aged balsamic marinated tomatoes, avocado and of course that house baked ciabatta. Make sure you bring your appetite.

Throughout the menu there’s a zoo theme - crunchy zoo granola, Keeper’s cake, Herbivore Board (that’s for the vegetarians among you- infact there are several imaginative veggie options on offer - try the watermelon tartare served with pine nuts, parmigiano and red pepper mayo).

Creating such imaginative dishes in this fascinating spot makes Scott’s job pretty enviable, he admits.

“Working with a great team of people makes going to Zookeepers every day enjoyable,” he says. “We share ideas, have a laugh and joke around. Sometimes we

Scott’s pearl meat sashimi with smoked sweet potato, kaffir lime, tomato tea & black miso salt Serves 4 Ingredients 200g pearl meat 750g sweet potato 15ml liquid smoke 70g butter 600g ripe tomatoes, if possible use vine tomatoes 2 cloves garlic 200g basil

towel or muslin, then strain the puree you will end up with a clear liquid and this is the tomato tea.

Kaffir lime gel Boil water, lime leaves, sugar, lime zest and juice for two miniutes. Place liquid in a blender and blend, slowly adding the agar agar till a gel forms. Set aside in the fridge till chilled.

15ml balsamic vinegar 15g brown sugar 500ml water 40g kaffir lime leaves 5g agar agar 150g sugar zest and juice of 2 limes 40g miso 100g black salt

even act like caged animals, but then we remember that this was the old zoo so surely that’s OK,” he laughs.

Zookeepers Store, 2 Challenor Drive, Broome.

Open from 7am to noon (breakfast), lunch from noon to 2pm (Saturday and Sunday only), dinner from 5.30 to 9pm (Thursday to Monday only). Open during wet season, fully licensed.Visit zks.com.au

Method Sweet potato mash Peel sweet potato and boil in water with a tsp of salt until soft then strain. In a blender, blitz the sweet potato, adding the liquid smoke and butter until it forms a puree.

Tomato tea Dice tomatoes and place in a bowl with the garlic, basil, balsamic vinegar and brown sugar. Use a stick blender, or a blender and blend to a puree. Line a strainer or colander with a clean tea

Black miso salt On a tray with greaseproof paper mix the miso and salt, then bake at 180 deg. for 20 minutes. Allow to cool to room temperature.

Pearl meat I find washing the pearl meat in lightly salted water adds a freshness to it - we used 10g of salt to 1lt of water. Slice the pearl meat very fine, running the knife down the meat so you have long strands.

Plate your ingredients, starting with the sweet potato mash, followed by the pearl meat and lime gel and season with the miso salt. As you serve, use a teapot to pour the tomato tea onto the plate. Enjoy!

Fun facts

The zoo housed buffalo, cheetah, zebra, kudu, antelope, camels, pigmy hippo, orax, Galapagos tortoise and the largest collection of parrots in the Southern Hemisphere.

Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

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The allure of pearls An Allure South Sea Pearl is the perfect souvenir of your stay in Broome, says Lisa Shearon.

W

hen Bill Reed and Lindsay Youd began Allure South Sea Pearls a decade ago, they couldn’t have quite anticipated the public’s response to their pearls. Originally sold through select retail jewellery stores on the east coast of Australia, Bill and Lindsay rebranded their flagship showroom in Broome as Allure South Sea Pearls in 2014, in response to the brand’s growing success.

In 2017, Allure will launch its first boutique store in Perth.

Allure South Sea Pearls’ success is due in no small part to its founders, Bill and Lindsay. With a combined 80 years’ experience in the pearling industry and an unwavering passion for their craft, the two men are dedicated to South Sea pearls.

Bill has more than 50 years’ experience as a marine biologist and pearl farmer.

His contributions to the pearling industry have been recognised by the Australian and Tahitian governments, and Bill was awarded the Order of Australia in 2012.

Lindsay is a second-generation watchmaker/jeweller, who became captivated by South Sea pearls in his father’s workshop more than 30 years ago.

“A miracle of nature, South Sea pearls have an inner glow from the layers of nacre reflecting light from within,” Lindsay says.

“Every pearl is unique, which means that no two pieces are ever the same.”

In addition to the uniqueness of every pearl, Bill and Lindsay are proud that Australia produces the finest-quality South Sea pearls in the world – known for their size, and stunning white, silver and pink tones.

“Allure has the largest collection of South Sea pearl jewellery in the country, featuring 34

Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

one-of-a-kind couture designs as well as timeless classics,” Lindsay says. “Handcrafted at our Broome showroom, there is a range of designs available to capture any audience.

“Many of the pieces in the couture collection are inspired by Broome – the home of pearling in Australia.”

Both men have strong ties to Broome; Bill has lived in Broome since the mid1970s, while Lindsay lived in Broome in the early 1990s, and now visits monthly.

“We both love Broome’s wonderful warm winters, the multicultural diversity and sense of community in a relatively small, remote town,” Lindsay says. “It also is the gateway to the beautiful Kimberley region.”

Allure South Sea Pearls use only the finest-quality pearls and diamonds in their collection. “The designs and craftsmanship are of the highest standard and will last for generations to come,” Lindsay says.

“Many customers return time after time, even if they live thousands of kilometres away. This level of trust and support is both humbling and rewarding after 30 years of

JEWELS OF BROOME Founders of Allure South Sea Pearls, above left, Bill Reed and Lindsay Youd. Above and right, examples of the beautiful range of pearl jewellery from Allure.

dedication to our clients.”

With the Allure South Sea Pearls showroom such a success in Broome, Bill and Lindsay feel the time is right to open a boutique in Perth.

Bound to be as popular as the flagship store, the two men are excited about the next chapter of their home-grown business.

Visit the Allure South Sea Pearls showroom at 25 Dampier Terrace, Broome, WA 6725, or the e-boutique at alluresouthseapearls. com.au visitbroome.com.au

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What's on D E C E M B E R , J A N U A R Y, F E B R U A R Y, M A R C H 2 0 1 6 / 1 7 WEEKLY REGULARS Monday Quiz night Murphy’s Irish Pub, call 08 9195 5900 Tuesday Open Mic Night Murphy’s Irish Pub call 08 9195 5900 Texas Hold’em Poker The Roey (Sports Bar), 6pm registration, 7pm start. 6pm free beginners tables.

Visit roey.com.au for details.

Wednesday Fame Trivia Night Beach Bar at the Divers Tavern Divers Tavern, 12 Cable Beach Rd. Visit diverstavern.com.au Pool Comp The Roey (Sports Bar), 7pm start $5 Entry.

Visit roey.com.au Thursday Wet T-shirt Competition The Roey (Oasis). Visit roey.com.au Thirsty Thursdays RnB & Hip Hop your way into the weekend!

Skylla Lounge Bar, 11pm to 4am, free entry before midnight. 18 Dampier Tce, Chinatown Pizza & Darts Night Broome RSL, 18 Barker St, Broome, Jan 5, 6 to 10pm Friday Club Friday BBQ Broome RSL, 18 Barker St, Broome, from 6pm. Call 08 9192 1003 Live Music at the Divers Tavern Beach Bar at the Divers Tavern. 12 Cable Beach Rd. Visit diverstavern.com.au Friday Night Acoustic Sessions All the best in live music & sport The Roey (Sports Bar), raffles at 6pm, music from 8pm til late, free event. Visit roey.com.au Feel Good Fridays! Throwback Fridays!

Request your favourite tunes all night! Skylla Lounge Bar, 18 Dampier Terrace, from 10pm to 4am, free entry all night.

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Saturday Courthouse Markets Broome Courthouse 8 Hamersley Street, Broome, 8am to 1pm Live Music at the Beach Bar at the Divers Tavern. Divers Taverm, 12 Cable Beach Rd. Visit diverstavern.com.au Saturday Night Live & Local Dance the night away to some of Broome’s finest musicians! The Roey (Oasis), 8pm til late, free event.

The Roey (Oasis) Visit roey.com.au Skylla Saturday Dance the night away to the hottest tunes in town! 18 Dampier Terrace, from 11pm to 4am, $5 Sunday Broome RSL Sunday Roast 18 Barker St, Broome, from 5.30pm Call 08 9192 1003 Crazy Crab Races Beach Bar at the Divers Tavern.

Divers Tavern, 12 Cable Beach Rd, 6 to 8.30pm. Visit diverstavern.com.au

Family Day Mangrove Hotel, 47 Carnarvon Street, from 3pm. Call 9192 1303 or visit mangrovehotel. com.au

EVENTS Beach Bar Christmas Party featuring Ghost ship Live music returns to the Beach Bar for just one big pre-Christmas show. It’s the Beach Bar Christmas Party featuring popular Broome band, Ghost Ship, plus a visit from Santa and his huge sack of giveaways. It’s a fantastic night to hold your work office. Beach Bar at the Divers Tavern, 12 Cable Beach Road, December 3, 7.30 to 11pm. Visit diverstavern.com.au Broome Christmas Party This year the Broome Christmas Party in Chinatown is being organised by volunteers in the Broome business community.

The evening will be a true celebration with Sun Pictures hosting a free movie for children, live music and Christmas carols, Christmas camels with three wise men, slime making, magic acts, alfresco dining and so much more. visitbroome.com.au

Chinatown, December 9, from 5 to 9pm, call 0410 967 509 or email ceo@broomechamber. com.au Christmas Lunch at the Mangrove Hotel Enjoy a festive lunch at the Mangrove Hotel.

Pricing: 18 and over, $180 per person, 13 to 17 years, $120 per person, four to 12 years, $75 per person, three years and under, free.

For more information on any of our Christmas packages, please contact our events department via email events@mangrovehotel. com.au or call (08) 9192 1303. Mangrove Hotel, 47 Carnarvon Street, Broome, December 25 from noon to 3pm. Visit mangrovehotel.com.au Christmas Lunch at the Club Restaurant Enjoy three courses plus appetiser. $90 per person (food only). Cable Beach Club, December 25. To book, call 0437 783 878 or email weddings@ cablebeachclub.com

Beach Road Cable Beach, 8pm to 2am. Visit diverstavern.com.au Combined Service Clubs Australia Day Breakfast Shire of Broome conducting a citizenship ceremony and presenting the 2016 Active Citizenship Awards.

Lions Pioneer Park at Town Beach Broome, Western Australia, 26 January, time TBC. Shire of Broome Australia Day Fireworks.

Celebrate Australia Day at the alcohol-free Shire of Broome Australia Day Fireworks & Family Concert. Lots of family-friendly fun finished off with a big firework display.

Lions Pioneer Park at Town Beach Broome, Western Australia, January 26 Visit.broome.wa.gov.au.

Saltwater Music Festival The Kimberley’s premier original music spectacular, this is their fourth year of showcasing the best of our local musicians.

Stay posted for special guest artists and lineup announcements in the next few months – it’s gonna be massive!

Bands, songwriters, dancers, comedians, performers of any kind please contact Tonchi saltwatermusicfestival@gmail.com  Divers Tavern, 12 Cable Beach Rd, February 25/26. Visit diverstavern.com.au Airnorth Cable Beach Polo 2017 Saturday 20 May – Sunday 21 May 2017 Visit cablebeachpolo.com.au Call 08 9192 0588 Pinctada McAlpine House High Tea M onthly from May until September Visit mcalpinehouse.com.au Call 08 9192 0588

Kimberley Sands Christmas Selene Function room, $160 per adult, $95 per child Kimberley Sands, 10 Murray Road, Cable Beach Broome, December 25. Call 08 9193 8388 or email info@kimberleysands.com.au Sam Male Room | Luau Themed New Year’s Eve party See in the new year at Cable Beach with a Polynesian Buffet. Cable Beach Resort, December 31, 7.30pm to 12.30am, $150 all inclusive. Call 0437 783 878 or email weddings@cablebeachclub.com New Year’s Eve in the Beach Bar Party in the New Year with entertainment by The Mexicans and the Stephen Pigram Allstars. Beach Bar at the Divers Tavern, 12 Cable

08 9193 7423 / 1800 18 44 88 bookings@redsuncamels.com.au

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SOBRANE

For the love of birds I FEATHERED FRIENDS Artist Sobrane (below) has galleries in Broome and Sydney, where her wellknown depictions of birds are featured.

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nternational Australian wildlife artist Sobrane uses a mix of mediums to create her large-scale works on linen, techniques fostered while attending Red Gate Arts Residency in Beijing two years ago. Sobrane magically transforms pigments of spray paint, inks, enamel, pastels and charcoal into her renowned, beautifully-created life-like pieces. She also loves to articulate her expression onto linen in an uninhibited joyous manner.

Sobrane’s love of birds began five years ago with a solo exhibition at Broome's worldfamous Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park.

From countless hours of birdwatching, observing the details that they make and how they react, she appreciates each animal for its individualism in its expressions and movements.

Identifying with their energy and

freedom, similar principles she lives by, she felt an instant connection to them.

This love has taken her on a beautiful journey with exhibitions in Singapore, Malaysia and Rome. She now runs two very successful galleries of her works, one in Broome and one in Sydney.

Her works have also been exhibited at the respected Art Gallery of Western Australia in Perth.

Stepping away from the limitations of white canvas, Sobrane has recently pushed her creativity further using walls in the form of urban artwork. Where pastels and charcoal create lines and marks on canvas, Sobrane is using spray paint to create those lines on large-scale installations. Her latest installation which features birds 10 metres tall, was in Soriano, Italy.

visitbroome.com.au

Out & About in Broome

Pearl Town Bus T/Table 052008

19/1/09

2:59 PM

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Telephone 9193 6585 7 DAYS PER WEEK. Shaded times operate May-mid October only from 7.10am to 7.10pm.

Shaded times operate all year round from 8.40am to 6.40pm.

ALL BUSES GO TO CHINATOWN AND CABLE BEACH.

WHERE KI TRAVEL DS

FREE

when ac co by a parmpanied ent

TO CABLE BEACH FROM CABLE BEACH 7.10am- 8.40am- Bus departs at minutes 7.10am- 8.40amBus departs at minutes 7.10pm 6.40pm 7.10pm 6.40pm past the hour: past the hour: Forrest St (Fong’s) .23 .53 .45 .15 CABLE BEACH Town Beach Club Vill. .24 .54 CB Caravan Park .47 .17 Town Beach / Museum .25 .55 Frangipani Resort .48 .18 Mercure Inn .26 .56 Oppo Oaks Cable Beach .49 .19 Blue Seas/CB Backpackers .50 Matso’s / Moonlight Bay .27 .57 .20 Willie Creek Pearls .51 .21 .28 .58 Mangrove Hotel Divers Tavern .52 .22 CHINATOWN Bali Hai / Pinctada Resort .53 .23 .30 .00 - DAMPIER TCE Cnr Cable Beach Rd & .32 .02 Visitor Centre .54 .24 - Gubinge Road .33 .03 Court House .55 Boulevard Shops .35 .05 - Charles Road .25 .55 - Reid Road .25 .37 Broome-Time Lodge .07 .56 .26 Broome Aquatic Centre Cnr Cable Beach Rd & .58 - Reid Road Boulevard Shops .28 .08 .38 .38 .00 .08 Sun Cinemas .30 - Charles Road .39 .09 Short Street oppo Visitor Cnt .02 .32 - Gubinge Road Palm Grove C/Van Pk CHINATOWN .42 .12 .33 .15 - CARNARVON ST .45 .03 CABLE BEACH CB Caravan Park .17 .05 Mangrove Hotel .47 .35 .18 .48 Frangipani Resort Matso’s / Moonlight Bay .06 .36 Oppo Oaks Cable Beach .19 Mercure Inn .49 .07 .37 Blue Seas/CB Backpackers .50 .08 .20 Town Beach / Museum .38 .21 .51 Town Beach Club Vill.

Willie Creek Pearls .39 .09 .52 .10 .40 Forrest St (Fong’s) Divers Tavern .22 First service each morning extends to GANTHEAUME POINT. Great for an early morning walk along Cable Beach (approx. 5km). Please take a hat & water bottle.

FULL TIMETABLE AVAILABLE AT ONE WAY FARES

Adults ......$4.00 Child ........$2.00 Conc. ........$2.00

CONCESSION FARES Available only to Australian Pension & Senior Cards, WA Health and Student Cards. Present when boarding.

Vacation Village Hunter St Depot Shell House on Guy

We have been helping visitors to the Kimberley for more than 20 years.

Choose from the latest model town cars, scooters, beach cars, 4WDs, IMAX & utes. Caring service with Insurance you can depend upon.

www.broomebus.com.au *FROM HUNTER STREET AREA 8.43 12.43 4.43 8.48 12.48 4.48 8.50 12.50 4.50

Habitat Resort & Golf Club turn off on request (at same times as Vacation Village)

VALUE ADDED DAY PASS CHEAPER BUY: THE MULTI RIDER Unlimited travel for normal 5 rides day services. PLUS specials Adults ....$18.50 Conc......$9.00 from local businesses for 10 rides Adults ....$34.00 Conc....$16.00 only $10/day.

NEED A TAXI?

PHONE (08) 9192 2210

www.broomebroome.com.au • Broome Taxis 13 10 08 • Chinatown Taxis 9192 3316 • Pearl Town Taxi Service 13 13 30 • Shinju Matsuri Pedicab Co 0474 118 090

Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

NEW PERSPECTIVE Seeing the amazing Broome landscape from above gives visitors the chance to experience the region in a completely new way.

High flyers Kimberley Aviation offers the opportunity for visitors to experience the incredible landscape of Broome from high above. By LISA SHEARON.

R

oss Humphries took over Kimberley Aviation in May 2016, after a career spent working in aircraft engineering for Air France and Air New Zealand. He moved from his home in the south-west of WA up to the very north of the State – a region that he’d lived in before, and is extremely fond of.

“I love the space and the natural beauty of the North West,” Ross tells me. “The scenery is always amazing, and the best way to see it is by flying over it.”

For more than seven years, Kimberley Aviation has been providing visitors to the area with a unique view of the breathtaking local landscape. Based in Broome, the company offers day trips and safaris to people who want to experience the

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Kimberley in the best way possible – by air.

Kimberly Aviation offers five scenic tours, of which two operate through the hot, wet season from November to March. The tours offer a unique view of the striking landscape, the eye-catching colours, the rich culture and the diverse community of the Kimberley.

One of Ross’s favourite tours is the Giant Tides Air Safari. Running all year round, this tour takes in King Sound and the Kimbolton Ranges, as well as the Horizontal Waterfalls, Buccaneer Archipelago, Cape Levenque and Kooljaman, where the tour stops for breakfast. This safari includes a visit to Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm, plus lunch in the restaurant, and a fast boat ride out to the magnificent Sunday Island group of islands.

Also running through the wet season is the Irresistible Islands Air Safari, which explores King Sound and the ancient Kimbolton Ranges. The tour flies over the Horizontal Waterfalls, takes in the Buccaneer Archipelago, and includes breakfast or lunch at Kooljaman. Both tours return to Broome flying over Pender Bay, Beagle Bay, Carnot

Bay, James Price Point, Willie Creek, Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm and Cable Beach.

According to Ross, Kimberley Aviation’s success is due in no small part to the line pilots, who are highly trained commercial pilots and impeccable tour guides.

“Our pilots look after the passengers very well,” Ross says. “They work hard to ensure the passengers enjoy their experience, and look after them all day long, making it a very pleasant experience.

It’s almost like being shown around the Kimberley by a good friend.”

Ross believes that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the Kimberley by air. “It’s the best way to see the magic of creation, in all its isolated beauty,” he says. “The islands are absolutely marvellous, and the beaches are lovely. You can see so much from the air, and it’s well worth it.”

For Kimberley Aviation bookings, phone 0429 112 407, email bookings@kimberleyaviation. com.au or visit visitbroome.com.au to book a tour. visitbroome.com.au

WITH KIMBERLEY AVIATION

Willie Creek has a long history of success at the WA Tourism Awards...

• 2010 Willie Creek Pearls was inducted into the Hall of Fame which was awarded for winning the same three categories for three consecutive years.

Winning ways

• Also in 2010 Willie Creek Pearls won the coveted Sir David Brand award for tourism, which is the pinnacle of the awards program and recognises outstanding achievement in the WA tourism industry.

• 2015 Awarded Gold in the Specialised Tourism Services category and Silver in the Tourist Attraction category.

• 2016 Awarded gold medals in the Specialised Tourism Services and Tourist Attractions categories.

Willie Creek Pearl Farm is remarkable in many ways, not least the fact that it’s one of WA’s most awarded tourist destination. By GABI MILLS. Images courtesy WILLIE CREEK PEARL FARM.

I

t feels like the edge of the world, albeit an edge tinged with the unmistakeable lustre of Australian South Sea pearls.

Willie Creek, just 38km from Broome, sits on a pretty tidal estuary and has been home to an incredible success story for two decades. During that period visitors have made their way to this unique location to discover more about the region’s most beautiful gems at Willie Creek Pearl Farm.

Through their multi-award winning Pearl Farm Tour, Willie Creek Pearls educates and enlightens visitors to the Broome region on the history and modern day workings of the Australian South Sea pearl industry.

Owned and operated by the Banfield family, Willie Creek has grown in prominence over the past 10 years, garnering multiple awards along the way. And now once again the business has scooped top honours, this time recognised with two gold medals at the 2016 Perth Airport WA Tourism Awards in November.

The awards, now in their 44th year, highlight the quality and diversity of tourism attractions, amenities and experiences that Western Australia has to offer.

Willie Creek was awarded gold medals in the Specialised Tourism Services and Tourist Attractions categories.

Managing Director Robert Banfield

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said: “The awards celebrate excellence and commitment to our industry. We are enthusiastic and passionate supporters of Broome and the Kimberley, so it was particularly pleasing to see other Kimberley attractions also recognised.”

Other Kimberley Tourism operations recognised included Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures, Ngurrangga Tours, Uptuyu Adventures, Kimberley Air Tours, Adventure Wild Kimberley Tours, Kimberleyland Holiday Park, Faraway Bay, Cable Beach Club Resort and Spa and the Mangrove Hotel.

The gold medallists will go on to represent Western Australia at the national Qantas Australian Tourism Awards.

Willie Creek Pearls also have five pearl retail showrooms, three located in Broome, at the idyllic Willie Creek Pearl Farm itself, in the Broome township at Chinatown, and at Cable Beach.

In Perth, you’ll find showrooms in Subiaco and at Hillarys Boat Harbour in the northern seaside suburb of Sorrento.

Since 2006, the Banfields have also owned and operated Pearl Luggers – the heritage attraction in Chinatown which was first established by the Arrow family. In 2010, they acquired Broome Sightseeing Tours and have continued to present this tour as a “must do” attraction for visitors to Broome.

Caring for your pearl PEARLS ARE REMARKABLY resilient, but will appreciate and respond to attention and care. To ensure your pearls maintain their colour and lustre, follow these suggestions. By following these suggestions and enjoying their beauty, your pearls will last you a lifetime.

A little care is needed when applying perfumes, hairsprays and other chemicals. Where possible apply these before you put on your pearls.

If your pearls are exposed to the above, wipe over with a soft cloth to remove residue. After cleaning, place back separately in jewellery box or container.

Try to avoid wearing pearls in chlorinated water and always remove your pearl jewellery before using hot soapy water.

Above all, remember pearls like to be worn and can benefit from your skin’s natural oils.

visitbroome.com.au

Catch of the day Fish Broome Charters gives visitors the chance to cast a line for some of the ocean’s most challenging fish, says Lisa Shearon.

A

love of the Kimberley and its pristine waters saw Mark Harris jump at the opportunity to take over Fish Broome Charters just over a year ago. Since 2008, the company had established itself as one of the must-do activities in the Kimberley, and Mark was keen to take the business to the next level.

“I purchased the business in 2015, and revamped the vessel and the business to service our Broome clients,” Mark says. “I wanted to offer a service that would not only

complement other charter companies in the region, but that would support the local tourism industry and recreational fishing.”

Fish Broome Charters offers a unique fishing trip, which Mark believes is incomparable.

“We only take 12 clients on board for the day, making it a very personalised experience,” he says.

“We have the best-quality fishing gear to use and the boat is well suited and set up to make it a very comfortable day with plenty of room.

“We always rig up all the gear and have the bait ready to go. The deckhand runs up and down to take the fish off the hook so the client can get the line straight back in the water to catch the next one.

“At the end of the day, clients board our 12-seater air-conditioned bus and are taken back to our facility, where we fillet all the

fish for them to take home. We are the only charter in Broome that offers this, as well as a pick-up and drop-off service.”

The owner and part-time skipper has lived in Broome for eight years, and has long been involved in fishing.

“I was a commercial rock-lobster fisherman at the Abrohlos Islands, and also did wet lining and tuna fishing,” Mark says.

“In the Kimberley, I have spent a lot of time recreational fishing at sea and in the creeks, so it was a natural move to get involved in the local charter fishing industry.”

Since Mark took over the business, Fish Broome Charters has continued to prosper – due in no small part to his love of the local area and passion for fishing.

“Broome has so much to offer visiting tourists,” he says. “Our clients get to experience not only great fishing for a variety of species, but also the chance to see humpback whales and other marine life such as turtles and sea snakes.

“We love seeing our clients enjoying a full day on the Indian Ocean, and go home with beaming smiles after a great day on the boat with the crew.”

Mark puts Fish Broome Charters’ continuing popularity down to full-time skipper Harley Cuzens, a Broome local, as well as the local deckhands. “Harley has a very strong background in fishing the waters off Broome and the Kimberley, and will always find the fish for the clients,” Mark says.

“We employ local people with local knowledge, who can give an insight into the fish and fishing, as well as all the marine life and Broome attractions in general.

“Our reviews are fantastic from every trip. Clients appreciate the personalised experience on a high-class and very fast vessel – and of course the fish they get to take home at the end of the day.”

Fish Broome Charters operates in Broome throughout the year. In 2017, the company will also be offering whale watching and sunset cruises.

For more information and to book visit visitbroome.com.au or call 08 9195 2200.

Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

43

Visit Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm and discover the magical Pinctada Maxima - the Australian South Sea pearl.

By CARMEN JENNER.

Pioneers of pearling

T

he drive from Broome to the Dampier Peninsula is long, bumpy and dusty.

The road radiates in the red hues of the Kimberly known as pindan, inviting us north to one of the most spectacular locations on earth.

Once visitors arrive on the peninsula, many don’t venture past Kooljaman at Cape Leveque, the wilderness camp bordered by red cliffs bleeding into the white sand. And you can’t blame anyone for not wanting to peel themselves away from the beach.

It’s another scene entirely during the wet season between October and March.

Many tourists shy away from the blistering heat, road closures, storms, torrential downpours, humidity, the odd crocodile and occasional cyclone.

However, many a local claims it’s their favourite time of the year. Marten Matthews from Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm concurs.

“I love the wet season. It’s the most spectacular time of the year because of the thunderstorms, clouds and dramatic colours contrasting against the landscape.

44

Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

visitbroome.com.au

“Eighty percent of the professional photos are taken during the wet season. It’s uncomfortable but beautiful.”

As with any tourist destination during its low season, many restaurants and attractions close. Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm is also located on the Dampier Peninsula, and its restaurant with sweeping views and accommodation close during the wet season, focusing on pearling operations during the quiet season. However, they still run a one-day tour flying in and out of Broome with Kimberley Aviation. The tour flies over the Horizontal Waterfalls, stops at Cape Leveque and includes a Giant Tides Sea Safari and Pearl Farm tour at Cygnet Bay. Boasting the world’s largest tropical tides, Sea Safaris are dependent on the weather and tidal conditions and include the Giant Tides Tour, cruising through giant whirlpools and standing tidal waves.

Another Sea Safari available during the wet season is the Waterfall Reef Tour, which is a tidal phenomenon causing a cascading waterfall to emerge in the ocean. Both tours depart from Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm aboard an amphibious Sealegs vessel from land and transfer to a 12 seater rib vessel with twin 250hp engines built to handle the high sea tides.

Back on dry land, the Pearl Farm Tour gives an insight into the workings of a pearl farm and the five virtues of a pearl: size, shape, colour, surface and lustre, which many believe is the most important.

What makes Kimberley pearls so unique are the enormous amount of shell beds in the region as well as the sheltered bays protecting the shells from the wild tropical weather.

Australian South Sea pearls are superior to other varieties, and that’s largely due to the annual temperature. The temperatures range from 18 to 31 degrees, and once the temperature drops below 25 degrees, the growth rate slows down creating a fine coating known as lustre.

The Pinctada Maxima shells found in the region are the only species producing South Sea Pearls. Farming pearls is a science and is reliant on a healthy shell (the host), a nucleus (from a mother of pearl shell) and graft (from another shell). Pinctada Maxima can grow up to 30cm in diameter and due to their size a larger nucleus can be inserted into the shell, ensuring a high success rate.

Shells can be re-seeded up to three times, and once the shells are no longer viable for farming, the meat is harvested and the shell is sold for its beautiful Mother of Pearl or ground up into a powder to be

BEAUTIFUL BAY After taking a Cygnet Bay tour why not choose a keepsake of your visit from the company's dazzling showroom on Dampier Terrace?

used for its pearlescent lustre. Pearl meat is likened somewhere between a scallop and abalone, and the onsite restaurant incorporates this delicacy into its menu during the dry season.

Apart from having access to an abundance of shells in perfect environmental conditions, what sets Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm apart is its research and development into cutting edge science at a genetic level. Owned and run by the Brown Family, with over 70 years of pearling experience, they’re considered the pioneers of pearling.

One of the most exciting aspects of the tour is saved until the end with the harvesting of an oyster shell in Broome, in Cygnet Bay’s brand new showroom on Dampier Terrace.

The anticipation is palpable as the treasure lying within reveals itself. You’re in the perfect place to pick up a keepsake

of the region, and it’s worth noting that you don’t select the pearls, the pearls choose you. With great privilege comes great responsibility to follow the golden rule of owning a set of pearls, and that’s to wear them regularly, or they lose their lustre. Even the manliest of men wear them, and it’s not uncommon to spy a lady dashing down to the shops for a loaf of bread with a string of pearls swinging in her wake.

Considering it can take up to 10 years to match up the pearls for a necklace, who’s going to argue with that logic?

Visit cygnetbaypearlfarm.com.au

Broome 15 | December January 2016/17

45

Fall

for the

Falls

A visit to the Horizontal Falls is a must for any visitor to Broome. Just remember to pack your camera. By CARMEN JENNER.

N

ot only does Broome have plenty of natural beauty, but it also has more than its fair share of natural phenomena too.

For example, during Staircase to the Moon, the full moon rises over the exposed mudflats at low tide to create an optical illusion of stairs reaching for the moon. A tidal phenomenon causes a cascading waterfall at Waterfall Reef, and giant whirlpools and standing tidal waves make up the Giant Tides of the Buccaneer Archipelago, off the tip of the Dampier Peninsula.

So let’s add the Horizontal Falls to the list. Located within the 1,000 islands of the Buccaneer Archipelago in Talbot Bay, the twin gaps in the McLarty Ranges have two ridges running parallel and approximately 300m apart.

Of the two gaps, the most seaward gap is about 20m wide and the second, the most spectacular gap, is about 10m wide.

The phenomenon is caused by seawater building up faster on one side of the channel, and as it becomes trapped being pushed out horizontally into a waterfall.

As the tide changes, so does the direction causing a whirlpool effect. It’s just another example of Broome living by its tides and the 10m differences between low and high tide.

Many a tourist has peered out from their

46

Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

WET & WILD The extraordinary natural phenomenon that is Horizontal Falls is on many people’s bucket list to experience.

airplane window in the hope of passing over the Horizontal Falls. It’s sometimes nicknamed the “Hairy Horries”, especially if you’re lucky enough to speed through its mouth with the family-run tour group Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures. Hold on to your waterproof camera, as you’re going to get wet, and love every second of it.

Without any road access, the only way to reach the Horizontal Falls is by boat or seaplane, and only the most experienced skippers can handle the 11m tides; definitely not for the novice boating enthusiast.

The utmost respect is expected for the Indigenous communities living in the area, not to mention a healthy dose of fear for the dangerous current and crocodiles and sharks lurking below.

Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures run a variety of half-day, full-day, overnight and extended tours from Broome and Derby. All tours include transfers to a 14-seat turboprop seaplane, and after a

spectacular landing among the limestone outcrops, transfer to a 900hp fast boat for a yarn-inducing ride of exhilaration through the Horizontal Falls; best likened to a big spa bath for the boat.

The excitement continues with the opportunity to swim in a shark cage to feed the friendlier creatures of the sea.

After breakfast or lunch, the return to Broome is equally unforgettable with a low flight over the Buccaneer Archipelago, Cape Leveque, Lombadina, Beagle Bay, Willie Creek Pearl Farm, Cable Beach and the Broome township. It’s almost worth the tour for the scenic flight alone.

Extended itineraries include overnight stays on the Barrashack houseboat ideal for fishing and adventure junkies with plenty of time to decompress.

Access to the Horizontal Falls resumes in 2017. Contact Horizontal Falls Aventures for seasonal dates.

For more information visit visitbroome.com. visitbroome.com.au

au.

08 9192 1172 horizontalfallsadventures.com.au

Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

47

TIDES, SUNRISE & SUNSET 2016/17 DECEMBER

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

22 SUN 0434 6.36 1032 4.59 1722 6.73 Sunrise 0531 Sunset 1833

1 THUR 0542 1.44 1140 8.87 1753 2.12 2341 9.33 Sunrise 0506 Sunset 1814

12 MON 0301 2.72 0903 7.93 1514 2.92 2116 8.81 Sunrise 0509 Sunset 1820

23 FRI 0444 6.55 1110 4.36 1736 6.91 Sunrise 0514 Sunset 1826

1 SUN 0001 9.30 0631 1.46 1228 8.91 1844 2.15 Sunrise 0519 Sunset 1830

11 WED 0339 2.50 0944 7.97 1554 2.96 2154 8.83 Sunrise 0524 Sunset 1832

2 FRI 0610 1.43 1207 8.85 1821 2.16 Sunrise 0506 Sunset 1814

13 TUES 0353 1.92 0952 8.55 1607 2.35 2202 9.39 Sunrise 0509 Sunset 1821

24 SAT 0030 4.48 0634 6.33 1255 4.50 1918 6.96 Sunrise 0514 Sunset 1827

2 MON 0031 9.27 0702 1.55 1259 8.90 1916 2.23 Sunrise 0519 Sunset 1830

12 THUR 0430 1.80 1032 8.58 1646 2.35 2240 9.35 Sunrise 0526 Sunset 1832

14 WED 0439 1.30 1037 9.02 1654 1.91 2244 9.79 Sunrise 0510 Sunset 1821

25 SUN 0212 4.09 0816 6.64 1423 4.23 2033 7.36 Sunrise 0515 Sunset 1827

3 TUE 0103 9.12 0734 1.78 1332 8.79 1948 2.44 Sunrise 0520 Sunset 1830

13 FRI 0515 1.29 1113 9.05 1732 1.87 2321 9.69 Sunrise 0526 Sunset 1856

15 THURS 0522 0.92 1118 9.30 1737 1.64 2324 9.97 Sunrise 0510 Sunset 1822

26 MON 0308 3.50 0912 7.14 1518 3.80 2121 7.85 Sunrise 0515 Sunset 1827

4 WED 0137 8.81 0806 2.13 1406 8.57 2022 2.76 Sunrise 0521 Sunset 1831

14 SAT 0557 1.00 1151 9.35 1812 1.59 2359 9.81 Sunrise 0527 Sunset 1856

16 FRI 0603 0.81 1158 9.40 1818 1.58 Sunrise 0510 Sunset 1823

27 TUES 0348 2.93 0952 7.64 1559 3.35 2159 8.31 Sunrise 0516 Sunset 1828

5 THUR 0214 8.37 0841 2.58 1446 8.26 2102 3.18 Sunrise 0521 Sunset 1831

15 SUN 0634 0.95 1228 9.47 1849 1.52 Sunrise 0528 Sunset 1833

26 THURS 0406 2.94 1015 7.65 1619 3.37 2219 8.30 Sunrise 0534 Sunset 1832

28 WED 0423 2.41 1027 8.07 1635 2.94 2231 8.70 Sunrise 0516 Sunset 1828

6 FRI 0258 7.81 0921 3.12 1532 7.88 2152 3.64 Sunrise 0521 Sunset 1831

16 MON 0036 9.72 0709 1.12 1303 9.41 1924 1.68 Sunrise 0528 Sunset 1833

28 FRI 0442 2.35 1047 8.18 1656 2.82 2251 8.80 Sunrise 0536 Sunset 1832

29 THURS 0456 1.99 1058 8.41 1708 2.59 2302 9.00 Sunrise 0517 Sunset 1829

7 SAT 0354 7.20 1016 3.68 1635 7.51 2312 4.00 Sunrise 0523 Sunset 1831

17 TUES 0111 9.43 0741 1.48 1337 9.18 1957 2.03 Sunrise 0529 Sunset 1833

29 SAT 0516 1.84 1117 8.64 1730 2.33 2322 9.20 Sunrise 0536 Sunset 1831

7 TUES 0020 4.18 0636 6.40 1247 4.48 1908 7.12 Sunrise 0541 Sunset 1828

30 FRI 00528 1.68 1129 8.66 1741 2.33 2332 9.20 Sunrise 0518 Sunset 1829

8 SUN 0527 6.74 1144 4.08 1808 7.37 Sunrise 0523 Sunset 1832

18 WED 0145 8.96 0811 2.00 1412 8.80 2029 2.53 Sunrise 0530 Sunset 1833

29 SUN 0549 1.46 1146 9.00 1804 1.95 2353 9.48 Sunrise 0513 Sunset 1757

8 WED 0220 3.79 0839 6.84 1438 4.08 2053 7.659 Sunrise 0541 Sunset 1828

9 MON 0108 3.87 0718 6.80 1325 4.02 1941 7.63 Sunrise 0524 Sunset 1832

19 THURS 0219 8.37 0840 2.61 1446 8.30 2100 3.12 Sunrise 0530 Sunset 1833

30 MON 0621 1.21 1216 9.27 1836 1.70 Sunrise 0537 Sunset 1831

9 THURS 0335 2.98 0944 7.66 1551 3.30 2154 8.42 Sunrise 0542 Sunset 1828

21 WED 0246 7.82 0911 3.19 1524 7.69 2136 3.80 Sunrise 0513 Sunset 1825

10 TUE 0235 3.26 0843 7.30 1448 3.58 2057 8.19 Sunrise 0524 Sunset 1832

20 FRI 0253 7.70 0907 3.27 1522 7.75 2133 3.75 Sunrise 0531 Sunset 1833

22 THURS 0336 7.13 0956 3.85 1618 7.22 2240 4.32 Sunrise 0513 Sunset 1826

11 WED 0339 2.50 0944 7.97 1554 2.96 2154 8.83 Sunrise 0525 Sunset 1856

21 SAT 0333 7.00 0939 3.95 1608 7.19 2223 4.35 Sunrise 0531 Sunset 1833

3 SAT 0009 9.26 0639 1.56 1236 8.75 1849 2.32 Sunrise 0506 Sunset 1815 4 SUN 0038 9.06 0708 1.83 1307 8.54 1918 2.61 Sunrise 0506 Sunset 1816 5 MON 0108 8.74 0738 2.21 1340 8.25 1949 2.99 Sunrise 0507 Sunset 1816 6 TUES 0142 8.31 0812 2.69 1418 7.88 2026 3.45 Sunrise 0507 Sunset 1817

17 SAT 0004 9.91 0642 0.96 1237 9.32 1857 1.73 Sunrise 0511 Sunset 1823

7 WED 0222 7.78 0851 3.23 1504 7.49 2113 3.93 Sunrise 0507 Sunset 1817

18 SUN 0043 9.63 0719 1.32 1316 9.08 1935 2.07 Sunrise 0511 Sunset 1824

8 THURS 0314 7.20 0945 3.75 1606 7.16 2225 4.31 Sunrise 0506 Sunset 1818

19 MON 0123 9.15 0756 1.86 1357 8.70 2013 2.58 Sunrise 0512 Sunset 1824

9 FRI 0438 6.74 1112 4.09 1739 7.08 Sunrise 0508 Sunset 1819

20 TUES 0203 8.52 0832 2.50 1439 8.21 2052 3.18 Sunrise 0512 Sunset 1825

10 SAT 0024 4.22 0636 6.77 1254 3.97 1912 7.46 Sunrise 0508 Sunset 1819 11 SUN 0156 3.57 0801 7.27 1412 3.51 2022 8.11 Sunrise 0508 Sunset 1820

30 FRI 0600 1.50 1158 8.83 1812 2.18 Sunrise 0518 Sunset 1829

23 MON 0038 4.64 0643 6.04 1300 4.86 1924 6.68 Sunrise 0533 Sunset 1832 24 TUES 0230 4.23 0848 6.44 1443 4.51 2055 7.14 Sunrise 0533 Sunset 1832 25 WED 0326 3.59 0939 7.05 1538 3.96 2143 7.73 Sunrise 0534 Sunset 1832

31 TUES 0023 9.61 0653 1.14 1245 9.43 1909 1.61 Sunrise 0537 Sunset 1831

1 WED 0054 9.58 0724 1.25 1316 9.44 1939 1.70 Sunrise 0538 Sunset 1831 2 THURS 0127 9.36 0754 1.55 1349 9.28 2012 1.99 Sunrise 0538 Sunset 1830 3 FRI 0201 8.93 0824 2.02 1423 8.94 2046 2.45 Sunrise 0539 Sunset 1830 4 SAT 0239 8.31 0858 2.64 1502 8.44 2124 3.07 Sunrise 0539 Sunset 1830 5 SUN 0324 7.56 0937 3.38 1550 7.83 2218 3.76 Sunrise 0540 Sunset 1829 6 MON 0429 6.79 1039 4.13 1708 7.25 Sunrise 0540 Sunset 1829

10 FRI 0426 2.17 1028 8.44 1642 2.49 2239 9.09 Sunrise 0542 Sunset 1828 11 SAT 0509 1.51 1106 9.06 1724 1.84 2316 9.55 Sunrise 0543 Sunset 1827 12 SUN 0547 1.09 1140 9.48 1802 1.42 2350 9.80 Sunrise 0543 Sunset 1827

19 SUN 0248 7.50 0853 3.51 1508 7.58 2121 3.85 Sunrise 0546 Sunset 1822 20 MON 0324 6.75 0919 4.24 1551 6.91 2208 4.56 Sunrise 0547 Sunset 1822

13 MON 0621 0.92 1212 9.70 1836 1.24 Sunrise 0544 Sunset 1826

22 WED 0125 4.78 0816 5.94 1356 5.05 2022 6.56 Sunrise 0547 Sunset 1821

14 TUES 0022 9.82 0652 0.98 1243 9.72 1906 1.29 Sunrise 0507 Sunset 1805 15 WED 0052 9.65 0720 1.24 1313 9.57 1935 1.55 Sunrise 0545 Sunset 1825 16 THURS 0123 9.29 0745 1.66 1342 9.24 2001 1.98 Sunrise 0545 Sunset 1824 17 FRI 0151 8.80 0808 2.19 1409 8.79 2027 2.52 Sunrise 0545 Sunset 1824 18 SAT 0219 8.19 0830 2.82 1437 8.22 2052 3.15 Sunrise 0546 Sunset 1823

21 TUES 0430 6.05 1010 4.98 1731 6.37 Sunrise 0547 Sunset 1821

23 THURS 0305 4.14 0926 6.66 1521 4.39 2126 7.27 Sunrise 0548 Sunset 1820 24 FRI 0349 3.38 0959 7.40 1604 3.63 2204 8.01 Sunrise 0548 Sunset 1819 25 SAT 0425 2.63 1029 8.11 1639 2.88 2235 8.69 Sunrise 0548 Sunset 1819 26 SUN 0458 1.95 1058 8.75 1715 2.19 2307 9.26 Sunrise 0549 Sunset 1818 27 MON 0532 1.39 1127 9.30 1748 1.60 2338 9.68m Sunrise 0549 Sunset 1817 28 TUES 0605 1.01 1156 9.71 1821 1.19 Sunrise 0549 Sunset 1817

Gantheaume Point dinosaur footprints visible on tides less than 2.16m.

Catalina Flying Boat Wrecks visible on tides less than 0.86m.

Staircase to the Moon viewing

The Bureau of Meteorology gives no warranty of any kind whether express, implied, statutory or otherwise in respect to the availability, accuracy, currency, completeness, quality or reliability of the information or that the information will be fit for any particular purpose or will not infringe any third party Intellectual Property rights. The Bureau’s liability for any loss, damage, cost or expense resulting from use of, or reliance on, the information is entirely excluded.

48

Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

visitbroome.com.au

{ GOOD READS } from Magabala Books

MARCH 1 WED 0210 8.15 0820 2.86 1424 8.21 2043 3.11 Sunrise 0550 Sunset 1816 2 THURS 0239 7.49 0843 3.53 1453 7.60 2114 3.81 Sunrise 0550 Sunset 1815 3 FRI 0314 6.78 0912 4.25 1536 6.94 2206 4.52 Sunrise 0550 Sunset 1815 4 SAT 0424 6.08 1013 4.98 1730 6.42 Sunrise 0550 Sunset 1815 5 SUN 0121 4.65 0759 6.07 1351 4.90 2013 6.75 Sunrise 0551 Sunset 1813 6 MON 0255 3.92 0916 6.91 1516 4.09 2121 7.60 Sunrise 0551 Sunset 1812 7 TUES 0347 3.02 0953 7.82 1605 3.14 2203 8.48 Sunrise 0551 Sunset 1812 8 WED 0428 2.14 1028 8.69 1647 2.21 2239 9.26 Sunrise 0552 Sunset 1811 9 THURS 0507 1.38 1101 9.44 1725 1.41 2315 9.85 Sunrise 0552 Sunset 1810 10 FRI 0543 0.84 1134 10.00 1802 0.84 2350 10.19 Sunrise 0552 Sunset 1809

11 SAT 0619 0.56 1206 10.34 1838 0.56 Sunrise 0552 Sunset 1809 12 SUN 0024 10.26 0652 0.58 1239 10.41 1911 0.61 Sunrise 0553 Sunset 1808 13 MON 0058 10.04 0723 0.89 1312 10.19 1944 1.00 1843 Sunrise 0553 Sunset 1807 14 TUES 0133 9.53 0754 1.47 1347 9.67 2017 1.69 1922 Sunrise 0553 Sunset 1806 15 WED 0210 8.78 0825 2.28 1424 8.90 2051 2.58 2001 Sunrise 0553 Sunset 1805 16 THURS 0251 7.87 0859 3.23 1505 7.98 2131 3.58 Sunrise 0554 Sunset 1805 17 FRI 0343 6.93 0943 4.21 1607 7.05 2254 4.47 Sunrise 0554 Sunset 1804 18 SAT 0527 6.23 1155 4.93 1817 6.52 Sunrise 0554 Sunset 1803 19 SUN 0201 4.42 0829 6.53 1434 4.51 2046 7.01 Sunrise 0554 Sunset 1802 20 MON 0318 3.65 0925 7.38 1535 3.65 2137 7.79 Sunrise 0554 Sunset 1801

21 TUES 0359 2.89 1000 8.15 1614 2.85 2212 8.45 Sunrise 0555 Sunset 1801 22 WED 0435 2.27 1030 8.76 1649 2.22 2243 8.96 Sunrise 0555 Sunset 1800 23 THURS 0506 1.82 1059 9.21 1720 1.76 2312 9.28 Sunrise 0555 Sunset 1859 24 FRI 0535 1.54 1126 9.49 1749 1.46 2339 9.45 Sunrise 0555 Sunset 1858 25 SAT 0602 1.41 1151 9.63 1816 1.31 Sunrise 0555 Sunset 1857 26 SUN 0005 9.48 0626 1.42 1215 9.66 1840 1.31 Sunrise 0556 Sunset 1855 27 MON 0029 9.40 0649 1.54 1239 9.57 1904 1.45 Sunrise 0556 Sunset 1856 28 TUES 0054 9.19 0711 1.80 1303 9.34 1928 1.75 Sunrise 0556 Sunset 1855 29 WED 0120 8.85 0733 2.19 1328 8.98 1952 2.20 Sunrise 0556 Sunset 1854 30 THURS 0147 8.37 0756 2.72 1354 8.47 2019 2.79 Sunrise 0557 Sunset 1853 31 FRI 0216 7.77 0820 3.36 1424 7.87 2049 3.48 Sunrise 0557 Sunset 1852

RETURN OF THE DINOSAURS Bronwyn Houston 2016, Paperback, 32 pages - $17.99

I

n a nutshell: Return of the Dinosaurs is a wonderfully charming and graphically vibrant children’s story that imagines what dinosaurs would do if they returned to the stunning shores of Broome.

A long time ago, dinosaurs lived around the Kimberley coast and their ancient footprints can still be found. Imagine if dinosaurs came back to visit Broome! What would they do?

Return of the Dinosaurs presents an amusing and imaginative look at what life would be like for dinosaurs today if they reappeared at Broome’s iconic landmarks. Reflecting the famous colours of north west Australia and its rugged environment, the richly textured collage layers of artwork in this clever ‘what if’ tale capture the character and beauty of the many dinosaurs, birds, and marine life that roamed the Kimberley coastline more than 130 million years ago.

With graphically vibrant illustrations that skilfully render the scale of giants such as the brachiosaurus, ceratosaurus, parasaurolophus and stegosaurus – complemented by witty commentary throughout – Return of the Dinosaurs fashions a gloriously entertaining and visually captivating story for early to middle readers

IMAGINE IF DINOSAURS CAME BACK TO VISIT BROOME! WHAT WOULD THEY DO?

that portrays these prehistoric creatures as curious and fun-loving in nature.

About the author and illustrator Bronwyn Houston is descended from the Nyiyaparli and Yindijibarndi people in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. She lives in Broome with her husband and three children. Bronwyn finds inspiration from the landscape and colours of Broome, and the natural world of the Kimberley region, where she was born.

A talented author and artist, Bronwyn has also created Loongie the Greedy Crocodile with Kiefer and Lucy Dann (2008), Staircase to the Moon (2010), My Home Broome with Tamzyne Richardson and friends (2011), Counting Aussie Animals in my Backyard (2014) and Animals in my Garden (2016).

Return of the Dinosaurs (paperback, $17.99) is available at the Magabala Books bookshop at 1 Bagot Street, online at magabala.com and all good book retailers.

Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

49

1st

Picture

perfect Our photographic competition drew entries of pictures of Broome and the Kimberley from far and wide, but, as the saying goes, there could only be one winner - Arthur van Vark.

T

he inspiration was the easy part; executing a brilliant, prizewinning shot was tougher as entrants to the Visit Broome Photographic Competition 2016 discovered. We received images capturing Lake Argyle at sunset, a submerged, lonely mangrove and kids jumping into a waterhole; all perfectly capturing this special place we call home.

However, it was Arthur van Vark’s incredible photograph of Indigenous children caught up in a dusty dance near Derby which really caught the judges' attention. The judges - Ben Houston and Yane Sotiroski (both photographers in the region), and Nick Linton, GM of the Broome Visitor Centre - were in agreement that Arthur had displayed great skill in creating a photograph with the exposure to have the boys’ faces so sharp and focused. The movement of the image through the dancing boys also created action and drama, and the light in the foreground showed impressive composition skills.

Arthur was thrilled to receive the top prize - a Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventure four-night Ultimate Kimberley Adventure for one, valued at $4,000.

“I’ve never won anything before but then I’ve never entered pictures for a competition before either,” he said.

“I entered by chance after showing some of my pictures to someone that knew there was a competition and so I thought 'why not?'”

That chance paid off - congrats Arthur!

The second prize was awarded to Matthew Moreton-Deakin for his image of a forlorn mangrove up to its boughs in water.

On hearing he had one a Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm experience including two-nights accommodation for two people (valued at $864), Matthew was over the moon.

“I’m absolutely stoked to have won second place and the amazing prize to spend two nights up at Cygnet Bay,” he said. Better pack your camera, Matt.

Finally the third prize was awarded to Charlotte Lissaman for her atmospheric snap of Lake Argyle at sunset. The judges were particularly impressed by the story the photo tells - about how infintesimal humanity is in the scheme of things.

Charlotte wins one night’s accommodation in a one-bedroom apartment at Oaks Cable Beach Sanctuary (worth $220).

Congratulations to all the winners and thanks to all who entered we’ve loved seeing your versions of Broome and the Kimberley.

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Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

2nd

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3rd

Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

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Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

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Broome’s Northern Beaches

Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

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BVC MEMBERS ACCOMMODATION BACKPACKERS & HOSTELS Beaches of Broome Cable Beach Backpackers The Kimberley Klub Broome’s Last Resort CARAVAN PARKS & CAMPING Broome Caravan Park Broome’s Gateway Broome Vacation Village Cable Beach Caravan Park Palm Grove Holiday Resort Roebuck Bay Caravan Park Tarangau Caravan Park GUESTHOUSES, BED & BREAKFASTS Courthouse B&B Pinctada McAlpine House Ochre Moon Reflections B&B HOTELS, MOTELS, RESORTS & SELF CONTAINED Bali Hai Resort Bayside Hoiliday Apartments Blue Seas Resort Breezes Apartments Broome Beach Resort Broome-Time Accommodation Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa Cable Beachside Villas Cocos Beach Bungalows Habitat Resort KIMBERLEY SANDS RESORT & SPA Mantra Frangipani Mercure Broome Moonlight Bay Suites Oaks Broome Oaks Cable Beach Sanctuary Roebuck Bay Hotel and Motel Seashells Resort Broome The Billi The Mangrove Resort Hotel The Pearle

E9 K16 J15 A18 Q10 D9 F9 O16 C9 K17 M15 E14 P14

F9 L17 E9 N10 F9 K12 E8 F9 D9 T10 F9 B9 M16 L17 M16 D9 J18 E9 D10 K17 C9

BROOME & BEYOND DAMPIER PENINSULA Ardyaloon Trochus Hatchery & Aquaculture Centre Brian Lee Tagalong Tours Bundy’s Cultural Tours Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm & Accommodation Gnylmarung Retreat Goombaragin Eco Retreat Kimberley Outback Xposure – Gumbanan Kooljaman At Cape Leveque Lombadina Community Nature’s Hideaway Middle Lagoon Mercedes Cove Ngarlan Yarn’n (Mena Lewis) Sacred Heart Church Beagle Bay Smyth’s Seaside Adventures Whalesong Cafe & Campground - Munget TRAVELLING NORTH APT Bell Gorge Wilderness Lodge APT Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge APT Kimberley Wilderness Adventure APT Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge Birdwood Downs Bougainvillea Lodge Bed & Breakfast Bungle Bungle Expeditions Bungoolee Tours Derby Lodge

Kadar Pearson & Partner Kimberley Training Insistute MGIB Financial Services Nagula Jarndu Pistol Club Roebuck Bay Medical Services Shell Australia - Broome

Derby Wharf Restaurant & Café Diggers Rest Station Drysdale River Station East Kimberley Tours El Questro Wilderness Park Fitzroy River Lodge Freshwater East Kimberley Apartments Girloorloo Tours - Mimbi Caves Hidden Valley Caravan Park Pty Ltd Home Valley Station Hotel Kununurra Imintji Aboriginal Corporation Kimberley Coastal Camp Kimberley Dreamtime Adventure Tours Kimberley Fine Diamonds Kimberleyland Holiday Park Kimberley Outback Tours Kimberley Hotel Kununurra Country Club Resort Kununurra Kamper Hire Kununurra Lakeside Resort Lake Argyle Resort & Caravan Park Mornington Wilderness Camp Mount Barnett Roadhouse Mowanjum Art and Cultural Centre Mt Hart Wilderness Lodge Outback Float Planes Over the Range Tyre & Mechanical Repairs Pinctada Kimberley Grande Sacred Earth Safari’s Pty Ltd Savannah Way Spinifex Hotel Spirit Safaris The Berkeley River Lodge The Rock Tour Triple J Tours Uptuyu Adventures Windjana Tours (Derby) Wunambal Gaambera Aboriginal Corporation TRAVELLING SOUTH Adventure Tours - Karinjini National Park Barn Hill Station Stay Coral Bay Ecotours Cooke Point Holiday Park Esplanade Hotel Port Hedland Exmouth Caravan Park Exmouth Diving Centre Karijini Eco Retreat Kings Ningaloo Reef Tours Mackerel Islands Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort Ningaloo Reef Resort Ningaloo Whale Shark Swim Ocean Eco Adventures Exmouth Pilbara Holiday Park Port Smith Caravan Park Ramada Eco Beach Resort Sail Ningaloo Pty Ltd Taunton Farm Holiday Park Three Islands Whale Shark Dive Wander Inn Bunbury Whim Creek Hotel

U10 J18

COMMUNITY SERVICES Broome Chamber of Commerce J15 Broome Civic Centre Broome Public Library L17 Broome Recreation & Aquatic Centre K12 Conservation Volunteers Australia J18 Department of Fisheries R10 Departments of Parks & Wildlife (DPAW) Department of Transport - Marine Safety Hutchinson Real Estate Kimberley Development Commission J18 Regional Development Australia L17 Shire of Broome L17 University of Notre Dame M12 Yawuru M10 HEALTH AND BEAUTY Ancient Earth Organics I18 Broome Sports Massage & Bowen Clinic J17 Jasmin Nail & Beauty I17 & J14 Kimberley Chiropractic L17 Kimberley Eyecare Kimberley Podiatry L17 Kimberley Sports Massage Centre J18 Life & Soul Health & Fitness Club Broome C15 Pearl Coast Chiropractic Clinic J16 Pearl Coast Dental Clinic L17 Sheree’s Health & Beauty J18 The Sandalwood Gallery J17 MAINTENANCE, HIRE AND SUPPLIES Allvolts Power Solutions N12 AutoPro Broome P12 BP Shinju M13 Broome 4x4 Megastore/ Broome Auto Excellence O13 Broome Cycles J17 Broome Mechanical C15 Broome Motors P11 Broome Progressive Supplies N12 Broome Towing & Salvage M13 Broome Toyota, Holden & Hyundai J10 Broomecrete N12 H&M Tracey Construction O13 Keshi Storage & Containers N12 Kimberley TV and Satelllite Services J15 Minshull Mechanical Repairs M13 MG Tyres Bridgestone Service Centre T9 Mickey Blu Australia T9 Mobile Wheel Bearing Services Overall Constructions & Caravan Maintenance Overall Range Tyres & mechanical Repairs Troppo Sound O13 MUSEUMS & GALLERIES

LOCAL BUSINESS All Creatures Veterinary Clinic Andimaps Australias North West Toursim Bell Chartered Accountants Broome Vet Clinic Commonwealth Bank Derek Hobbs Hypnotism Environs Kimberley Inc First National Real Estate Broome Gail Gower Consulting GRRoomtime (Pet Grooming) Hutchinson Real Estate

J17 J11 J17

K16 J17 K12 K17 O12 J17

Arteon W.G. Kimberley Treasures Broome Historical Museum SSJG Heritage Centre ART & PHOTOGRAPHIC GALLERIES Art House Framing & Art Supplies Broome Gallery Broome-Time Art Gallery Emma Blyth Krim Benterrak Art Studio Nadeen Lovell - Kimberley &

N16 K16 P12 J18 K12

J17

DISCLAIMER: No responsibility is accepted by the Broome Visitor Centre, Designer and/or Printer for the accuracy of information contained in the text or advertisements. Advertisements must comply with the relevant Trade Practices Act 1979. Responsibility for compliance with the act rests with the person, company or advertising agency submitting the advertisement.

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Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

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NEED TO BOOK? Broome Visitor Centre (08) 9195 2200

MEDIA SERVICES Destination Broome I18 Goolarri Media M12 LizArt Productions (Uniquely Broome) Redwave Media RETAIL / SHOPPING Australian Rangeland Meat (Yeeda) I17 Azure Beach & Resort Wear J17 Leading Edge M13 Magabala Books J17 Paspaley Plaza I17 Pearl Sea Dry Cleaning & Laundromat C14 Primewest Broome Boulevard Shopping Centre J14 Tackle World Broome J17 The Butcher & His Knife J14 Woolworths J14 JEWELLERY & PEARL SHOWROOMS Allure South Sea Pearls J18 Anastasia’s Family Jeweller Artissimo Cygnet Bay Pearls

J18 Galwey Pearls Jewels of the Kimberley I18 Kailis Australian Pearls J18 Lush Designs K17 Paspaley Pearls Tidal Elegance J18 Willie Creek Pearls - Showroom J18 RESTAURANTS/FOOD OUTLETS 18 degrees N16 Azuki Japanese Fusion J17 Bluey’s Place Fish and Chips J17 Broome RSL K16 Cable Beach General Store & Café F9 Cafe D’Amore N14 Cairo Café J17 Divers Tavern F9 Good Cartel, The J16 Green Mango Café J17 J’s Pizza Little Indian Restaurant J17 Matso’s Broome Brewery L17 McDonalds J17 Millie Café Mollie Bean L12 Oasis Eatery K17 Som Thai Restaurant J17 Thai Orchid J17 The Aarli J17 The Mango Place T15 Wharf Restaurant Y11 Zanders At Cable Beach E8 Zookeepers Store TOURS AND ACTIVITIES

Broome Whale Watching Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm Tours Fish Broome Fish N Trips Karma IV Kimberley Kayak Fishing Makaira Game Fishing West Kimberley Fishing Tours TRANSPORT SERVICES Broome International Airport Pty Ltd Broome Taxis Cape Leveque Mail Run Chinatown Taxis Derby Bus Service Greyhound Australia Integrity Coach Lines Pearl Town Bus Service Pearl Town Taxis Shinju Matsuri Pedicab Co Broome

J14

J17

J17

VEHICLE HIRE Auswest Car Rentals Broome Broome Car Rentals J17 Europcar J15 Thrifty Car Rental (NT & Kimberley) J15 Wicked Campers (Juicy Love T/as) P13 WEDDING, CONFERENCE Broome Convention Centre Chinatown Broome Florist Kimberley Weddings

J17

EVENT SERVICES Broome Turf Club Cable Sounds, Mellen Events Cygnet Bay Pearls Kimberley Performing Arts Council Learn to Trade Mowanjum Art & Culture Centre Shinju Matsuri Sun Pictures A Taste of Broome Theatre Kimberley Tura New Music Whispers from Beyond

R4 D7

J18 J17 M12 K12 8D

1 Ardyaloon Trochus Hatchery & Aquaculture Centre 2 Cygnet Bay Pearls 3 Gambanan Pty Ltd 4 Gnylmarung Retreat

Cape Leveque 6 10

5 Goombaragin Eco Retreat 6 Kooljaman at Cape Leveque

2

10 11

Hunters Creek Banana Well Getaway

Pender Bay

8

7

9

• Sunday Island

1 • One Arm Point

Cygnet Bay

Lombadina/Djaradjin •

7 Mercedes Cove 8 Natures Hideaway at Middle Lagoon 9 Whalesong Cafe & Campground

3

• Mudnunn

5

King Sound

4 Beagle Bay

Highway Sealed Road Unsealed Road - 4WD required River

11

•Beagle Bay Community

Dampier Peninsula

Derby

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Coulomb Point •

James Price Point • Quondong Point •

J18

Barred Creek •

t Grea

Broome

r

J15 J16 J15

ive

yR

zro

14

Willie Creek •

H i g h wa y ern rth o N Fit

4WD TOURS ADAMS Pinnacle Tours Amazing Kimberley Tours & Charters Aussie Wanderer Instyle Adventures Kimberley Adventure Tours Kimberley Safari Tours Kimberley Wild Expeditions Outback Camp Tours AIR TOURS AND SERVICES Ansett Aviation Aviair Broome Air Services Broome Aviation Broome Helicopter Services Helispirit

Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures KAS Helicopters I14 Kimberley Air Tours Kimberley Aviation I14 Kingfisher Tours King Leopold Air I14 Northwest Regional Airlines Outback Floatplane Adventures Scenic Helicopters EXTENDED CRUISES Ahoy Buccaneers Eco Abrolhos Kimberley Expeditions O12 Kimberley Quest J18 Lady M Cruising North Star Cruises J18 Ocean Dream Charters Odyssey Expeditions N13 One Tide Charters The Great Escape Charter Company J18 Unreel Adventure Safaris LAND BASED TOURS 12 Mile Bird Park Astro Tours Broome and Around Bus Charter O12 Broome Chinatown Walks Broome Bird Observatory U15 Broome Camel Safaris Broome Historical Walking Tours O16 Broome Sightseeing Tours J18 Broome Top Deck Tours Broome Trike Tours Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm Tours Grass Root Tours Narllijia Cultural Tours Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park T15 Pearl Luggers J18 Red Dirt Photography Tours Red Sun Camels J18 Willie Creek Pearl Farm S14 WATER BASED TOURS Absolute Ocean Charters Black Pearl Charters Broome Adventure Company Broome Bluewater Charters Broome Hovercraft W9

115

Beyond Exhibition J18 Mowanjum Art & Culture Centre Pearl Shed Framing and Gallery N13 Red Dirt Photographic Gallery J17 Sobrane J18 Suzi French Art Yane Sotiroski Photography J18

Roebuck Bay

Disclaimer: The details contained in this map are provided as a guide only.

Every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, however road changes, closures and realignments are beyond the control of the Broome Visitor Centre. c Broome Visitor Centre

Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

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Enjoy Broome & Cable Beach the Oaks way

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Oaks is the perfect base from which to explore beautiful Broome and Cable Beach, with two centrally located resorts to choose from.

Offering modern, spacious self-contained apartments and extensive leisure facilities, ideal for business travellers or holiday makers alike.

Book your Oaks stay now at oakshotels.com or call 13 62 57 Oaks Cable Beach Sanctuary 1 Lullfitz Dr, Cable Beach WA Oaks Broome 99 Robinson St, Broome WA *Terms and Conditions apply. On sale until 31 March 2017. Valid for travel from 1 November 2016 to 31 March 2017. Subject to availability, 2 night minimum stay applies, blackout dates may apply.

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The Broome Visitor Centre has been the first point of contact for visitors to Broome for OVER FORTY YEARS!!

Drop into the Visitor Centre and meet one of our helpful travel companions or

CALL 08 9195 2200 for help making the most of your time in Broome and the Kimberley.

V I S I T O R S

G U I D E

TO ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF BROOME VISITORS GUIDE call MEL VIRGO ON 0438 297 600

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Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

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Mantra Frangipani Ad

Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

59

DISCOVER BROOME’S PEARLING

PAST TO PRESENT IN AIR CONDITIONED COMFORT WITH

AUSTRALIA’S PEARLING PIONEERS

… the first

a’s pearling

company

pioneers ...

Local Bar di-Jawi man Aub pearl tec rey Tigan, hnician 1971

THE WO R BEAUTI LD’S MOST FUL

in the wo

rld to succ

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lture pear

ls withou

PEARLS Australia . con world’s fin sistently produces the est and mo st revere The thick d pearls. nacre of an Austr Pearl dis ali an plays a silk South Sea like lustre rise to a diverse ran and gives ge of sha pes and siz es.

Biddy, Tom , Katie Wig Audrey, gan, Wa Gingle & rren, Peter

t Japa

LYNDON nese assis BROWN SHARES of pearl tance THE SECR cultivatio n, he ET. Once Indigenou he had ma s men Tom started training stered the his collea the unique Wiggan, gues. The art Gordon situation first were Dixon and technicia in a global local Aubrey ns, there per spe Tigan. Thi ctive wh was one highly sec s create ere apart white ma retive inte d from the n and thr llectual ee aborig Japanese property inal men These thr (IP) of pea that held ee men rl cultiva and the Andrew tion.

Sampi, and many others Lyn don would Robin Hu growth of the Bro train, suc nter, wo uld go on Lyndon h ome pea Brown pea rling ind to play piv as Peter Hu nte rl skinning r, ustry. otal roles in the

…

1984

Side

Tom Wigga n gnet Bay captured in a rar . The y are e photo (ab w reefs, str iving pushing to ret rie ve ove) of the themselv a basket es and the of ir humble work arling ind ust ry bar ely exi ste g to lose, d and the this re seeme e to create photo captured d the spirit an ent irel of the peo y new Au orged wh ple stralian ilst liveliho indust ry. ods are cre always wo ated. rked and lived wit n par ticu h Abo lar lti- genera the Bardi and Jaw riginal people tional fam i people.

Perhaps the Wigga ily relation ns, s are legend spanning the ent ships has been ire sevent di man to ary in the Cygnet y wo Bay story. years.

David to explor rk with Dean Bro e even fur wn, whom the e pearlin he met g indust ry r nor th. Tom Wi ggan whilst wo ompanies rking wit that late h r rtise. Tom ent the is just one ered the indust ry the cultur of many ed pearlin Aborigina g l nd a pro found und indust ry with pea men erstandin rlin Jedda4 g of the Kim g – Shell divi berley ng

1946

THE BROW N FAMIL Y ENTERS THE PEAR LSHELL INDUSTR Dean Bro Y. wn purcha ses a lug and sails ger to the Kim berley coa st.

1940

1970

CYGNET BAY PEAR LS OPEN FIRST CU S BROO LTURED-P ME’S The DMEA the Roebu RL SHOP B, 21m ck Ho (73ft) alum opposite Cat tel ama on ran inium Damp ise ier holds 16t , cru speedrac 18ke. of seawat Ter nots, live

e 1961

1960 The second industry – Pinctada maxima cultured pearls

1950

IT TOOK THE CO 1949 LLAPSE TO ALLO OF AN IND W THE BIR USTRY TH OF TH E BEAU AUSTRAL TIFUL IAN CULTU The 1922 RED PEAR Pearling L. Act is rep plastics ealed aft devastate er d the mo fishing ind ther of pea ustry, ma king it leg rl pany, Pea Ltd, was al to cul pearling ture set up to rls at Kuri Bay start cul pearls in The com , 420 km tured WA. pany wa north of s majorityBroome.

Company owned by (New Yor Otto k), with smaller sta Gerdau Male and Co, and The com Brown and keholders pany for Dureau Ltd med a join experts, . t ventur who ove e with Jap rsaw all farming based in anese pea operatio Broome rling ns. The Ma and still living her le family, e, fished the oyster Steeped s. in Broom e history, the first the Males Australian were s in cultur edfarming via this ent pearl exiting the erprise, industry in the 90 ’s.

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Pin cta da ma xim ac ult ure dp ear ls

er for sportation

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1980

1960

1959 AUSTRAL A WORL IA’S EXPE D FIRST. RIMENT. Dean Bro Lyndon wn’s son Brown has Lyndon performs successfu experim lly cultur ents on Pinctada ed pearls and becomes maxima shell at the first Cygnet Japanese nonBay, in an to to develo attempt pearls com culture loose p culturedmercially. pearling technique s. At this Dean Bro time onl the Japane wn create y se, who s the firs all-Austra closely t guard the lian cultur ir secret ed-pearl farming s, could business, and is the culture pea first to be rls. granted a licence by the WA Governm ent.

1960s THE CO MMON GA A fence TE REM OVED. was the physical an aparth symbol eid-like of system, it illegal which ma for Aborig de inal peo in Broom ple e; they cou to ld only ent live town for er the work. Its removal significan marks a t point in Broome’s equ path to AUSTRALality for its first 1956 people IA’S FIR A joint Am and now ST PE ised erican-Aurecogn AR trad Lnal FAow itio RMner stralian Proprieta . s. com ry

es eco nd ind ust ry –

KURI BA Y CEAS ES PE IndAR ustLryPR ODUC pea 16 pearlin Kuri Ba ks witTIO h N. Au nce stralia 1,000,000 g licey, s and ove’sr oysters firstsee pea ded rl far annm, establish 2007 ually GLOBAL THE FIR a 19 ed d 90 by ’s Pearls ST SHINJ FINANCIA ncta Pty Ltd CRISIS. U QUEE L ADORNE (PPL) in – Pi THE NEXT Pearl wh N D IN CY 1956 stry 1989 WAVEcea olesale GNET BA OFses indu for the ina During the PEproductio market cra Y PEAR ond ugural Bro S. n.

1990’s the ARLER LS shes.

PASPALEY e sec Matsuri om h pea e T nex Shi rle t wave of BEGINS Festival rs emerg nju 1985 of the Pea PEARLIN ed. Few the indust rem G IN WA rl. ained in ry for a Last har .

Paspaley long tim d hat div new ent buys 1983 e, but the rants cre er.

1970 Pearls Pty ated ano in innova ARGYLE Ltd ther sur tion and ADVANC ge DIAMOND (PPL) and left their ING SAFE Broome MINE BE so mark on and the TY Cygne Pearls is GINS. begins cul pearling KAILIS EX t Bay 2008 instrume tur ind • Hutto ed ustry: ITS THE industry pearling n Family 19nta INDUSTR 78l in advancing CU1980s safety and in WA. — Maxim Kailis pea Y LTURED with the efficiency a Pearls • Nevill rls sells PE introdBL UE AR e cultured their SE Cra LIN uction A PE In the mid ne, Steve G INDUS neoprene pearl op LS TRY EXPA Lindsay Arrow and Beverleyof moAR 1980s pea der era wetsu n tions Bra and its and Kinney NDS. first wave rl prices dy — Da exits the equipment mpier Pea started of new pea late hus diving , industry.

• Larry to rep to soar and band Pet rls lace the rlers join House, Ma canvas sui • Steve the ed the ind rk t andwit h friend heavyer, Wa Arr An lsh cop ow and dy Muller ustry: and per s, Brian would be family — — Clipp ‘Snowy’ helme t. It anothe • Hirosh Arrow Pea er Pearls r 14 Co • Kal Bro i and Pea the entire rls rsunt befy and Royea wn — No rl Hama indust Reid, ore rwest Pea ry folld guchi fam • Lindsa ow • Tony ed sui rls ily — Ha establish y Brady Larard maguchi and Bru ed Bluet. ce Barke Pearls • Bruce Seas Pea r — Cossa Farley and rling Co ck Pearls . wife Tris • Alan h Grey Badger

1970

Dean Bro wns hom

PURPOS E BUILT PEARLIN Cygnet G CATAMA Bay Pea rls launch RAN. an alumin es the DM ium catam B, aran purpo built for pearl she se ll fishing of the larg , one est of its kind at the tim e.

... Austr

The thick alia’s oldest nacre pro pearl farme vides the greatest rs culturin longevity g pearls at of any pea allowing rl, Australia’s for a pre cious gift longest ru Australian of an n South Sea Pearl to be passed on through the genera Requirin tions. g no enhan cement or treatment to reveal their bea the South uty Sea 2009 natural wh pearl is the only truly ite pearl.

It ranges KIMBERL colour fro ... Australi EY MARIN in m white, a’s oldSTA E RESEAR silver wh est TIO silver to pearl N OP ite and CH soft yellow EN far EDrs me bycu Pea Cyltu s rls at Cy gnrin and intens golds. Ex et Ba gnet Ba g ype ceptiona y. The onl dedicated l pearls can e display sec y marine res ondary hu in the Kim earch sta es of bea tion berley. An pink and utiful three ind d one of green. It only ependent is easy to the Austr ly res see fun ali ear wh ded 2an ch statio y marine 00Sou ns in the most cov 0rl thin Sea Pearl is the world. eted pea the World .

Th

1970

PASPAL EY STARTS CULTURED PEARLING IN THE N.T .

Kununurr a establ ished - the Kim berley’s second largest tow n.

201

0

2009

ONLY TH REE PEAR LERS LEFT. Of the 16 com panies that hav e held pea rling licences in WA, onl y three producer s are left : Clipper Pearls, Pas paley Pea Cygnet rls and Bay Pea rls.

KAILIS EN TERS PEARLIN G INDUS TRY. Kailis inv ests in Broome Pearls, sta rted

by John Fox-Lowe The Mo rganand marin Family e bio log family wh are anothe ist r well-know became suc BilloRe Montebel cessful pea n old Bro lo Islaed. ome pearlin rl farmers, nds. They g Browns and eventually are true based at cultureddeveloped the pearling The Morga many asp pioneers ects of this ns exited like the the indust iconic Aus family frie ry around tralian Ind nds 2009. The ust leading role , and along with the ry. y remain Male’s and in establis respected hing the Paspaley’s cultured played a pearling industry.

Only tw o are sti ll opera There we ting re mother of many pearling com pea panies ope and the Pas rl shell industry, rating in but only paleys in the Brown the pearl far ming and Darwin successfu s at Cygnet lly transi are still pro To find out Bay tioned to ducing tod more abo cultured recomme ut the mo ay. nd the Bro the ome Museu r of pearl indust ry we m and Yaw uru’s Jetty to Jetty app .

Photo: oys ter spat und er microscop a e

HATCHE RIES EX PANDS GLOBAL PRODUC TION Advances in oyster hatchery techniqu es during the 1990s allo South Sea ws pearl cul turing to expand in Indone sia and the Philippin es on a vast sca le.

The world ’s larges t fine qu Harvested ality rou in 2004 this nd pearl round pea rl, 22.24m pearl is believed to be the rarity val m with a world’s lar pink hue ue across it is ges all the skills and knowle five virtues of pea an exceptional gem t fine q rl gradin pearl per dge gained g. This pea with ex fection by fro m dec Australia’ rl is a test s oldest pea ades of persevera nce in the rl farmers q at Cygnet Bay Pear

12 metre timeline covering 130 years of Broome’s pearling history 30 minute pearling video on rotation all day

See the “Australian Pearl” on display One of the largest and most valuable pearls ever produced

FREE ENTRY

60

Broome 15 | December ~ March 2016/17

2015

WILLIE C ENTERS P buying a quota. Thi tourism bu new ent ran the WA pe

1977

1973

FIRST MO DERN FIBREGL ASS PEARLIN G VESSEL. Cygnet Bay Pea rls launches Cygnet Lass in 1973, and leads the way in mo dernising the indust ry.

1961

CYGNET BAY PEAR L FARM OPENS TO THE PUBLIC. commercia The only l pearl far the public m opens to . Pearl far m and ma tours, pea rine rls direct to the pu dining and blic, accommo dation.

MONDAY TO FRIDAY 9.00-4.30PM SATURDAY 9.00-12.30PM

23 DAMPIER TCE, BROOME 08 9192 5402 • CYGNETBAYPEARLS.COM.AU

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