Tourism WA has thrown open the doors to developers, inviting them to invest in eco-accommodation projects on Bunuba Country in the West Kimberley. This initiative, in partnership with the Bunuba Dawangarri Aboriginal Corporation, seeks to transform three unique sites—Bandilngan (Windjana Gorge), Dimalurru (Tunnel Creek), and Darrambal (Lennard Gorge)—into sustainable tourism destinations. The call for Registrations of Interest marks a significant step in the state’s ongoing commitment to eco-tourism and cultural preservation.
The Kimberley region, known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, has long been a focal point for sustainable tourism development. This latest venture is part of Tourism WA’s $17.7 million National Park Tourism Experiences Development (NPTED) program, which aims to align tourism growth with the aspirations of Traditional Owners. The program supports new accommodation developments in some of Western Australia’s most iconic natural and cultural destinations.
In addition to the Bunuba projects, international travel company Abercrombie & Kent is set to develop a luxury eco-lodge in Purnululu National Park by 2027. This lodge, located near the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Bungle Bungle Ranges, will be the company’s first signature eco-lodge in Australia. These developments reflect a broader trend towards integrating cultural and environmental sustainability into tourism offerings.
The potential economic impact of these projects is significant. By boosting tourism in the Kimberley region, they are expected to create jobs and economic opportunities for local communities, including Indigenous people. However, the environmental implications cannot be ignored. While eco-lodges are designed to minimise their ecological footprint, the influx of tourists could still pose a threat to the region’s fragile ecosystems. The WA Government’s “Plan for Our Parks” initiative aims to strike a balance between conservation and sustainable tourism, but the challenge remains.
Culturally, the partnership with Aboriginal corporations underscores a commitment to preserving and sharing Indigenous heritage. This aligns with the WA Government’s Aboriginal Tourism Action Plan 2021-2025, which seeks to ensure that tourism development benefits Indigenous communities and authentically represents their cultures.
This initiative is not without its challenges. Environmental concerns, cultural sensitivity, and logistical issues related to the remote nature of these locations could pose significant hurdles. However, the potential rewards—in terms of both economic development and cultural preservation—make this a venture worth pursuing.
For those interested in exploring the Bunuba investment opportunities further, the West Kimberley Gorge Country – Bunuba Parks Investment Prospectus provides a comprehensive overview. As the state continues to develop its tourism offerings, these projects represent a promising step towards a more sustainable and culturally inclusive future.
Sources:
1. https://www.dpaw.wa.gov.au/images/documents/parks/management/nature-based-tourism-two-year-action-plan.pdf
2. https://www.environment.gov.au/heritage/places/world/purnululu
3. https://www.dbca.wa.gov.au/parks-and-wildlife-service/plan-for-our-parks
4. https://www.tourism.wa.gov.au/About-us/Strategies-and-plans/Pages/Aboriginal-Tourism-Action-Plan.aspx#/
5. https://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Pages/McGowan/2019/04/McGowan-Government-boosts-Kimberley-tourism-with-Purnululu-upgrades.aspx
