A disappointing finish to their Rio campaign saw Australia finish the 2016 Paralympics in sixth place.

The world champions went into the tournament with high hopes, and looked in the running for gold following an impressive start to the tournament.

The opening game saw a dominant display from Australia in a crushing 70-50 win over the Netherlands.

A comeback victory over Turkey followed, with the Rollers overcoming a six-point deficit in the final period to eventually salute 62-60.

Reigning Paralympic champions Canada were next to fall victim to what was shaping as an Australian juggernaut, the Rollers maintaining their perfect start with a hard-fought 78-53 victory in a bruising affair against the North Americans.

It was mostly downhill from there, however, as Ben Ettridge’s men lost their momentum at the tail end of a grueling schedule.

Just 16 hours after accounting for the Canadians, Australia had to back up against eventual silver medalists Spain in a match where fatigue clearly played a part, the Spaniards too good in a 75-64 win.

Normal order looked to have been restored in the next match as Australia bounced back to defeat Japan 68-55, rounding out the group stage with a 4-1 record.

That put Ettridge’s side into a quarter-final clash against Great Britain, which looked to be going according to plan as the Australians bounced their way to two-point lead at half-time.

But the tables were turned after the main break, a 45-20 demolition job from the Brits saw them race away 74-51 winners to end Australia’s gold medal hopes.

A disappointing end came via a tight 69-70 defeat to Brazil in a thrilling classification match, as the Australians had to settle for a sixth-placed overall finish.

The USA took out the gold medal after defeating Spain in the final, with Britain claiming bronze.

That rounded out a US clean sweep of gold medals in both the Olympic and Paralympic men’s and women’s competitions.

In spite of the abrupt end to their campaign, there was plenty of upside for the Australians in the tournament.

Seasoned stars Shaun Norris and Tristian Knowles were outstanding throughout, while a host of debutants established themselves as the future of Australian wheelchair basketball, including the likes of Matt McShane, Shawn Russell, Tom O’Neill Thorne, Joshua Allison and Adam Deans.

The new brigade will have a key role to play when the Rollers look to bounce back with Olympic gold in Tokyo in four years’ time.

Most people are probably not aware that Australian Oz Lotto is the ultimate and sole dispenser of products over the Internet together with other participating companies. Therefore, it would not be a surprise to know that the games are run under very careful supervising eyes of the government. Although this is the case, it is clearly stated that one does not have to be a citizen of Australia to play their lottery. The only thing exclusive about this lottery is that every game is done within Australia. But one should not be alarmed because he/she is truly assured of his/her prize money if ever he/she wins because the ticket you purchase will automatically be registered under your own name.

The Australia Oz Lotto can now be played using the Internet by anyone from anywhere around the world. Lottery in Australia is run a couple of times every week and of course, tickets for the following games are available at all lotteries.

The good thing about Australian Oz Lotto is that when you purchase ticket using the Internet, it is like you are actually buying the real thing because it will be printed in Australia and will be under the possession of Oz Lotteries temporarily. Another good thing about the Australian Oz Lotto is that people can just pay for a ticket by using their own credit cards. And if you are the lucky person who is able to win the prize money, the money will just be deposited in your account and can easily be withdrawn through different methods.

Right now, if one decides to sign up and buy a ticket using the Internet, he or she will then be able to create an account, which is free, plus an additional 5 bucks to get you going and buy you your free and first lottery ticket. Aside from this, in deciding to be associated with the Australian Oz Lotto, he/she will gain several benefits like the following: 1. One can easily play the game just by logging into the site and printing a ticket anytime that they want to; 2. Guidelines and other information are included in the site to help those who are having a hard time playing the game; 3. You can already transfer money into your account without much hassle; and 4. It allows a person to choose and pick several numbers in random.

The Australian Oz Lotto is truly something that anyone can enjoy because it simply promotes having fun and giving others the chance to become richer. And the fact that it is open for anyone around the entire world only proves that this lottery uses a very good and organized system. Of course, a system will not bee able to accommodate anyone in this world if the system is not that good. Therefore, the fact that it is open for anyone should be enough to assure a person that this is a company, which can truly fulfill the dreams of everyone in the entire world.

Joining lottery will eventually bring you several benefits because you might be the lucky person to bring home the jackpot prize money. But winning the lottery will require a person to use a proven and tested strategy so that you will be diverting your choices in your favor and increasing the chances of winning.

Broome is a remote outback town located on the Indian Ocean coastline of northwest Australia. It is the largest and best known settlement in the vast Kimberley region to the north of Western Australia, and has become an increasingly popular tour destination in recent years. Broome's popularity is due to it's unique history, unique cultural influences, it's magnificent beaches and landscapes and it's fantastic tropical climate.

Broome is situated between the vast Great Sandy Desert and the azure blue Indian Ocean, along the pure white sands of Cable Beach. Often referred to as the gateway to the Kimberley, Broome owes its existence to the discovery in Roebuck Bay in 1861 of the Pinctada Maxima, largest pearl oyster shell in the world. News of the giant oyster shells spread rapidly and pearl divers of all nationalities flocked to Broome to make their fortune, including Malaysian, Japanese and Chinese, who joined local Aboriginal pearl divers in the sometimes dangerous but rewarding quest for high quality pearls. Broome's pearling industry still produces the worlds finest pearls today.

Broome has a tropical climate characterized by hot, humid summers and warm winters. As in other tropical areas of Australia, the year has two distinct seasons, the Wet and the Dry. Broome's wet season officially commences in October but rain is rare before before December. Most of Broome's annual rainfall occurs from January to March and is sometimes accompanied by thunderstorms and tropical lows or cyclones. Daytime temperatures during the Wet average 33 C with the overnight temperatures averaging 25 C. Being located on a peninsula, Broome's tropical climate is moderated by reliable afternoon sea breezes during the warmer months. The Dry commences in April, when temperatures in Broome average 25 C to 30 C with overnight temperatures of around 12C. Rainfall is rare in Broome at this time of the year.

Broome is brimming with enjoyable outdoor activities for all ages and tastes. Start with a leisurely stroll along Cable Beach, a 22 kilometer stretch of pristine white sand overlooking the Indian Ocean. While there, you may have a chance to witness Broome's large tidal movement, often over 10 meters. At the end of the day, relax with a cool drink on Cable Beach and witness a spectacular Indian Ocean sunset.

Other attractions include Gantheaume Point, where vibrant red sandstone cliffs spill into the sea and 130 million year old dinosaur footprints are visible at low tide. Chinatown, which was once a busy hub of pearl shell dealers, billiard saloons, entertainment houses and Chinese eateries, remains a colorful and fascinating quarter of Broome where the finest pearl showrooms, shops, restaurants and cafes can be found. There are plenty of opportunities to learn about the often dramatic history of pearling in Broome, including a visit to a working pearl farm.

Enjoy the quiet serenity of Buddha's Sanctuary, where you can reflect, meditate and enjoy the ornamental gardens and visit the pavilion which is home to a magnificent 4 meter crystal Buddha. At the Japanese Cemetery, final resting-place for more than 900 pearl divers, you can learn more about Broome's fascinating history and the dangers of the early days of pearl diving.

The more adventurous can experience the adventure of a lifetime with an extended cruise along the rugged and spectacular Kimberley Coast north of Broome, or with a 4WD Safari inland into the rugged and majestic Kimberley Gorges. Broome also offers excellent fishing, so take boat and go catch yourself a tasty meal off the shores of Roebuck Bay or Cable Beach, or from the Deep Water Jetty in the Port of Broome.

If your goal is relaxation, Broome is an ideal holiday desination offering unique experiences like no other. But be careful … the colors, moods and enchanting tropical ambience of Broome may captivate you so much that you'll never want to leave!

Finding work in Australia is easy if you know how. Let’s look at some simple strategies you can put into action as soon as you arrive, or even if you are already in Australia.

Backpackers usually find jobs in a matter of hours. The backpacking community in Australia is a close-knit one, and if this is your preferred mode of travel you will find that others are happy to pass on their knowledge and their job to you, when they are ready to leave. This also helps the employer who of course doesn’t need to advertise the position, or experience a labour shortage in his/her business. You should also check the bulletin board at your hostel for work opportunities in the local area. Short term jobs are usually prevalent.

Another way to find work in Australia is to walk into any branch of Centrelink. This is a government organisation which operates in every city and regional town in Australia. They are authorised to assist unemployed people to find work, and you will find touch screen computer consoles in every Centrelink office around the country displaying positions vacant in the local area. Centrelink also has a designated job search website at jobsearch.gov.au which is always up to date.

Go online, most large employers and many smaller ones, utilise the services of seek.com.au. There are other online employment portals, but seek is the leader in its field. Another great resource geared towards the hospitality industry, is coffeejobs.com.au where as the name suggests, you can browse for hospitality related jobs around the country.

Some employers still advertise in the newspaper, and although jobs may be listed on any day of the week, it’s probably better not to waste your money on a newspaper looking for jobs unless you buy one on a Saturday. It’s also best to ask the newsagent “which is the best paper to buy for job listings?”

Get creative. Think on your feet. If you are out sightseeing, make sure you have some resumes with you. You never know if you are going to walk past a potential employer, and nobody is going to mind if you drop off your resume. Just say something like: “Hi, I’m looking for a job, and I’m wondering if it’s OK to drop off my Resume for the manager?” (Don’t forget to smile). This strategy can actually be highly effective and may be your fastest way of landing a job. Don’t be surprised if you get an interview immediately, and are asked to start tomorrow!

Employment agencies are a good resource, if you are looking for a specific job. Be aware that different employment agencies specialise in different areas. For example, one might predominately employ people in the mining industry, and another may specialise in the Health Industry. There are also employment agencies that are only able to find jobs for people with disabilities, so it is worth making enquiries to find one that services your employment niche.

Finally, the two best pieces of advice are:

• have a printed resume which includes your name, address, phone number, email address, key strengths, professional history, work experience, education, other skills, special achievements, interests and hobbies, and 2 or 3 referees with their contact details. Typically a resume for Australian employers will be 3-4 pages long.

• Make sure you smile at the interview, most interviews are quite casual and usually take the form of a conversation; question and answer format; group interview; or skills test based on Microsoft program. A formal type interview where you need to ‘perform under pressure’ is very rare in Australia.

Australian Battalion History Books were some of the first Australian military war books to be published about Australia's military involvement in WWI. At the start of World War One Australian Infantry Battalion soldiers were recruited from the Civil Militia Battalion Units. Subsequent recruitment was structured on the Pals Battalions as devised by Lord Kitchener. Kitchener recognizes that men who were from the same locality would be more inclined to join if they were serving alongside their friends – men from the same town or state. This formed a deep military camaraderie and mateship amongst the soldiers.

There were some Australian military books written prior to the ending of World War One. Some of the earliest were the ANZAC Gallipoli Books that were written by Anzac campaign veterans. These Gallipoli war books were mostly formed from the diary kept by the diggers during the Battle of Anzac. Books like, Love Letters of An Anzac (1916) by Oliver Hogue, Straits Impregnable (1917) by S. De Loghe and Over There With the Australians (1918) by RHKnyvett.

An important exception was the ANZAC BOOK which was written by the troops at Anzac during the 1915 Gallipoli Campaign. The ANZAC BOOK was the idea Australia's foremost military historian Charles Bean who at that time was the War Correspondent at Anzac Cove. It was the first Australian war book to document the military records or memories of the veterans of Gallipoli. When published in 1916, the ANZAC BOOK that was to benefit Patriotic Funds and early RSL Legacy movements, was very popular. This military book installed a sense of recording historical military facts amongst the troops of the Australian Imperial Forces AIF. Therefore, even before the end of WWI Australian diggers were collecting information to be included in their Battalion / Unit History Book. Men like Charles Bean (latter to publish the Official History of Australia in the War of 1914-1918 and inspired the Australian War Memorial) and General Monash encouraged the collection of war records to be included in the Battalion History. Thus it was not long after the end of World War One that the Australian Battalion History books started to appear.

Some of the earliest Battalion Regimental History Books were:

Whale Oil Guards 53rd Battalion by Chaplain Kennedy published 1919

History of The 7th Light Horse Regiment by Lt Col JD Richardson 1919

Westralian Cavalry in War – 10th Light Horse Regimental History by AC Olden

With the 22nd Battalion AIF by Captain E Gorman 1919

Cape Otway sits at the southernmost tip of the Australian mainland. It is home to the Cape Otway Lightstation which is Australia's oldest, surviving lighthouse. The light has actually been in continuous operation since 1848 although these days it is not operated manually. It still is of course a vital icon for shipping as the coast off Cape Otway is as treacherous as ever.

The lighthouse is perched atop high cliffs and looks out upon the Great Southern Ocean which is known for its sometimes malevolent approach to ships and men. In the early days Cape Otway was the first sight of land for the many thousands of European immigrants who had braved the oceans for many months in order to make a new start in this promised land. Unfortunately, this coast has laid claim to too many of these vessels and untold lives have been lost.

The Cape Otway Lightstation these days is one of the major tourist attractions along the entire Great Ocean Road. It doesn't cost much to have a look and a tour if you wish and really is one of the must sees for this region.

The grounds surrounding the Lighthouse is the traditional home of the Gadabanud people. You can find out more about their history when you take a tour of the Lighthouse and its precinct. There are also other tours available which shed more light on their history and also on the many shipwrecks which have occurred in this area. You can find more details once at the Lighthouse.

If you are intending on a visit to the Cape Otway Lightstation as part of your overall travels along the Great Ocean Road then more than likely you will be in need of some accommodation. You can actually stay at the Lighthouse if you wish in their heritage accommodation. Choose from the Head Lighthouse Keeper's House, the Lighthouse Keeper's Bed and Breakfast, the manager's house or the manager's B&B.

If you stay here be prepared for something different. To begin with you will have stunning views over the Southern Ocean. Weather permitting you'll see stunning sunsets and when you go to sleep and wake in the morning you'll do so to the sounds of the waves breaking on the rocks far below. You will really be experiencing what life used to be like for those who lived here long ago.

The Cape Otway Lightstation is also ideally situated to take in all the local attractions in this part of the world. So make sure this is part of your itinerary because you will not be disappointed. Have fun.

West Moore Island is located half way (about 1.5 hours drive) between Karratha and Port Headland in Western Australia’s northern Pilbara region. As fishing holidays go, this destination offers it all. Land based sport fishing to intensive deep sea game fishing is on offer together with a range of alternate non-fishing activities.

Guests can simply choose to explore the island and spot some of the many native animals, swim & snorkel, go bird watching, oyster picking, kayaking or take some time out to view the historical rock art. There is so much on offer that everyone in your party will be well and truly catered for. There can be no doubt that West Moore Island is one of the best fishing destinations in Australia.

Land Based Fishing

On the eastern extremities of the island lies a boundless rock pool system. All sorts of fish become entrapped in the pools and make for easy picking when the tides out. You’ll still need to have your game face on though as the fish seem to have a profound sense of fear when in this restricted space. Using baits instead of lures works well.

Off the front of the island it’s not unusual to be clobbered by colossal Queen Fish at high tide. They come in to feed on the bait swimming around in swarms. Smaller Golden Trevally will likely be around, plus assorted Salmon species and small sharks. Estuary Cod can be caught on the craggy eastern tip of the island.

The north side of the island is rocky, usually with a rolling swell of some kind inching in. At the right times, it’s possible to cast out and retrieve decent Whiting. Perseverance will result in catches of other reef fish, but to be honest, you’ll probably have a beer in your hand and couldn’t care less whether something smacks or not.

Inshore – Small Craft (Dinghy) Fishing

Small craft (4.2m Aluminium Dinghy’s) are available for use, fully inclusive in your tariff. Each dinghy carries a maximum of 4 people, and is arrayed with a 25hp outboard motor, sounder, radio and all required safety equipment.

Guests may use these dinghies to take advantage of the many easily accessible fishing options around the island. They are also perfect for exploring the creeks’ limitless snaps and mud crabbing.

Fuel is provided at $3 per litre. Lures proven to work in the inshore fishing grounds around the island are available for purchase on the island.

A Recreational Skippers Ticket, plus a Recreational Fishing Boat License is required for any general fishing activity conducted with the use of a powered boat anywhere in W.A. from the 2nd of March 2010. Guests keen to make use of the dinghies require both of these licenses.

Deep Sea – Charter Fishing

West Moore Island offers a selection of vessels to guests for charter trips to the local islands and offshore, including the Geographe Shoals and surrounding areas. Expect the unexpected: Experience strikes from large Cobia, schools of big Mackerel from nowhere and gigantic reef fish. Spangled Emperor, Red Emperor, a variety of Cod and pelagic species all feature, plus Honking Brassy and Golden Trevally provide challenging bottom fishing.

Staff will help you make the right choice for your group, considering the weather and what your group desires from their time on the island.

Day Charter Features & Pricing (Full Day):

• Fishing gear & tackle.
• A packed lunch, soft drinks and nibbles.
• Bait.
• Ice.
• Price: $3,000 for an 8-10 hour day, maximum of 12 people.

Anglers are not required to hold a Recreational Fishing Boat License when fishing from our licensed charter vessels.

You may prefer a more individual experience – guided excursions with an island host to secret fishing locations or a leisurely tour of Depuch and West Moore Islands can be tailored to suit your specific needs. The cost for a guided experience is around $100 per hour (minimum 4 hours).

Bag Limits:

The waters here are bountiful. We want our guests to return to the island and enjoy this awesome fishing experience for generations to come. West Moore Island imposes a bag limit of 10kg of fillets, or a maximum of 1 of our foam transport boxes, per person, per stay. 10kgs is a heap of fish, yet is a slightly smaller limit than the fisheries requirement. This applies to all guests of West Moore Island, with no exceptions.

Your catch will be vacuum packed and frozen ready for you to take home.

Tourist season starts at the beginning of March each year and runs through to the end of November. West Moore Island is one of the most unique fishing travel experiences available in Australia, or the world for that matter. Akin to a remote bush camp in an island setting, the entire operation is self-sustained. Power is generated on the island, and all the water and consumables are transported from the mainland. If your looking for an adventure to remember for years to come I highly recommend you consider West Moore Island in Western Australia for your next travel fishing holiday.

Australia just went through the worst drought in 50 years. Interestingly enough, their drought wasn't any worse as a percentage of average rainfall as it was 50 years ago, but unfortunately they have a lot more people now all vying for the same amount of water. Some folks have blamed global warming, but it appears it was the El Nino cycle is what changed things. Luckily, the drought is over, however their problems with over water use remain.

Each time there is a Drought it will appear to be more severe due to the water usage. If you'd like to learn more about how Australia dealt with this incredible drought situation, then I'd like to recommend a very good book to you, a project I actually participated in, and gave commentary for;

"Consultations on National Drought Policy; Preparing for the Future – Drought Review Panel" The Government of Australia, 2004.

The book describes the Australian government $ 1.2 Billion in Drought Assistance Program, and the importance for preparedness in the future due to climate variability, El Nino, and the cyclone season. This book is fully describes the regional and Social Impacts and why a National Drought Policy is paramount. It also describes future procedures for Drought Declarations and Alert Levels.

The Economics of Drought when there is a shortage of water there is also a drought in the business community. It obviously affects farming and agriculture, and that goes without saying, but it also affects nearly every industry. This is why water conservation is a key. It is my contention that the Australian government was very wise to be proactive in solving their problems and mitigating the drought situation. It is also my belief that every government should study this, because it is a blueprint for future success when calamity strikes. Indeed I hope you will please consider all this.

Palm Valley is a magical Central Australian tour destination located on hour or two west of Alice Springs in the magnificent Western MacDonnell Ranges. The Finke Gorge National Park covers an area of ​​46,000 hectares and includes the spectacular Palm Valley, home to over 400 plant types of which more than 30 are considered rare. These rare plants include the Red Cabbage Palm (Livistona mariae), of which there are more than 3000 examples in Palm Valley, many of which are hundreds of years old and form a lush oasis among the rugged red rocks and gorges of the Western MacDonnell Ranges . The palms are relics from a previous age when Central Australia, now an arid desert environment, was a much wetter tropical environment. The nearest similar palms are found 1500-2000 kilometers away on the Australian coast in Western Australia and New South Wales. The cycads found in Palm Valley are also unique to the area. The area's importance was recognized as early as 1923 when some sections were designated flora and fauna protection areas.

Palm Valley and the surrounding country have enormous cultural significance to the indigenous Western Arrernte people, who know Palm Valley as Pmolankinya. The Western Arrernte Dreamtime story for Palm Valley describes a disastrous bushfire which occurred in an area to the north. Many ancestors were burned during this catastrophe, with the younger men being carried off in flames by strong winds and dropped into Palm Valley where they became palms and cycads. According to Arrernte tradition, the suffering of these fire ancestors is represented by the blackened trunks of the palms, while the leaves of the palms represent the young men's long hair.

The first recorded European to come across the palm trees of Palm Valley was the explorer Ernest Giles, who was following the course of the Finke River in Central Australia in 1872 during his first attempt to reach the Western Australia coast from South Australia. Giles did not inspect the tributary of the Finke that flowed through Palm Valley because of threatening rain and the fear of the Finke River's mighty floods, as evidenced by debris tangled high up in the River Red Gum trees along the river. Palm Valley itself wasn't discovered by Europeans until the settlement of Hermannsburg mission in 1877.

Palm Valley has plenty to offer the adventure traveler, including bushwalks and remote camping in spectacular and colorful desert country. The main gorge features high red cliffs, clean white sand, cool waterholes, enormous river gums, and tall palms. The Finke Gorge National Park is about 140 km west of Alice Springs. Turn south off Larapinta Drive just west of Hermannsburg. The last 16 km of road into Palm Valley follows the sandy bed of the Finke River, claimed to be the oldest river in the world, and is limited to 4WD vehicles only. Heavy rains often make this section of the road impassable.

The most popular walk at Palm Valley is the Arankala Walk, a 1.5 km walk lasting about 80 mins return. An easy walk following the creek bed, it offers excellent views of the ancient Red Cabbage Palms, rugged red cliffs, abundant bird life and, in season, large rockpools teeming with fish and other aquatic life. There is also the longer Mpulungkinya Walk, a 5 km walk taking about 2 hrs return which meanders among a lush oasis of slender Red Cabbage Palms. Palm Valley has a camping site and spending a night and exploring the area thoroughly is the best way of experiencing the Finke Gorge National Park. With prior permission from the Ntaria Council at nearby Hermannsburg, a former Luthern Church mission that is another fascinating story in itself.

With good Broome accommodation in the Kimberly region of Western Australia, Broome hotels and resorts make a great base to explore the untouched environment of the Kimberley which I first discovered in 1974. Accommodation Broome-style used to be a bit rough in the 70's pioneer town I lived in but now the Broome resorts and Broome backpackers accommodation are world class Australian accommodation properties.

Broome can be reached by road or by plane from Perth, Darwin, Port Hedland or Bali.

The people of Broome are very friendly and relaxed. Many of them are Aboriginals. Sport and recreation is a large part of community life. Fishing in Broome is a popular recreational activity.

Broome has a great sub tropical climate and Broome's Cable Beach is one of the best beaches in the world (Cable beach, Broome is listed as one of the top 5 beaches in the world in top travel magazines).

Surfing at Cable Beach Broome in the dry season, April to Nov, is small, fast and enjoyable. During cyclones surf can get BIG at Grantheaume Point where seeing red sunsets and pindan (unique low native trees and bushes that thrive in the soils of the Kimberleys) are a must.

Also one of the biggest annual events is the Broome Races. The Races is a very popular Broome event and I recommend advanced Broome accommodation bookings.

In August Broome's main event is Shinju Matsuri (Festival of the Pearl). If you want to enjoy happy times of the festival, it pays to book your Broome accommodation well in advance.

When you first get into Broome and are ready to explore this incredible place your first stop should be the Broome Visitors Center which you will find on the corner of Broome Hwy & Bagot St. Ph: 9192-2222 or make a freecall on 1800-883-777. They can offer you a wide array of information on what to see and how to get there. They will also point you towards the types of events and sights that are tailored to your particular needs. So no being shunted off to see something that just doesn't work for you!

A bit on the local weather

Max temp 32.1ºC (av)

Min temp 21.1ºC (av)

Annual rainfall 580 mms (about 24 inches)

How wonderful is that Broome weather? Couldn't get better could it?

The Northern parts of Australia experience only 2 seasons a year – The Wet and The Dry.

The Wet: Oct – Mar is the monsoon season with it's spectacular tropical thunderstorms and balmy nights. Warning: Be aware that some of the remote areas may not be accessible by motor vehicle and this includes 4-wheel drives because of the rains.

The Dry: Apr – Sept for those seeking the sun but don't forget your 30+ sunscreen

Population

Broome Township 13,700

Local Radio Station

ABC 675AM

CRITICAL INFORMATION IF TRAVELING INTO REMOTE AREAS

Check with the Broome Visitors Center or the local Police before traveling into any remote areas. It is vital that you leave your travel details with Police and when you arrive safetly to let them know of your safe arrival. If you do NOT you could die (we have tourist that die regularly in the Australain Outback) or face a very heavy bill for any unnecessary rescue effort that may be instigated.

Places of Interest

Pearlers Row Gallery

The perfect place to see traditional Aboriginal ocher and art works. They also offer for sale work by local contemporary artists.

Anastasia's Pool

Located at Gantheaume Point and built of local sandstone by a former lighthouse keeper to help ease the pain suffered by his arthritic wife.

Bedford Park

Overlooking the spectacular Roebuck Bay. The park includes a replica of the chest that belonged to William Dampier, the discoverer of the area, the local War Memorial and numerous boab trees .

The Shell House

Developed from a private collection of shells from the waters of the local Kimberley coast. The collection, of over 6.000 shells, preserved fish and crustacea, is open to the public for viewing. It also contains a shop that sells souveneirs and Mother of Pearl items.

Broome Historical Society Museum

Well worth a visit and located in the Old Customs House.

Buccaneers Rock

Belived to be the location where William Dampier careened his ship The Roebuck. There is a plaque commemorating the event.

Anastasia's Pearl Gallery

The Gallery was established to be the local jewellry shop serving locals and visitors alike. But not only is there a wide array of pearl related jewellry but also diamonds (another big Kimberly industry) and other gemstone jewellry as well.

This business is a family affair and they will do all they can to make your visit something to remember.

Broome Bird Observatory

You will need transport to get to the observatory as it lays 25 kms east of the town (15 kms of unselaed roads).

The Broome Bird Observatory is recognized as one of the 5 top locations to observe wader bird in the world.

Broome Crocodile Park

Malcolm Douglas established the Crocodile Park in 1984 while a renowned producer of wildlife documentaries and adventure films. The park now houses over 4,500 crocodiles. There is also another area which is used to farm crocodiles for theior meat and skins. Please be aware that the crocodiles have not been removed from their natural habitats except where they have posed a danger to humans.

Captain Gregory's House

Built in 1917 by Capt Gregory on the corner of Hamersley and Carnarvon Streets in became his home and, being one of the most successful businessmen in the local pearling industry, it is a great example of what the richest people of the day selected as their suitable to house themselves and their families.

Cable Beach Camel Rides

One of the most unique experiences you can have in Broome is to take a camel ride along Cable Beach.

Each time of the day has its unique quality with an ride in the early evening probably the best for atmosphere as it offers you an opportunity to catch those incredible sunsets.

Courthouse Markets

These are the largest art and craft markets in the Kimberleys.

Held every Saturday morning on the corner of Frederick and Hamersley Streets between 8am – 1pm.

Massive array of arts and craft plus food and music – wonderful atmosphere.

Chinatown

A reminder of what this town used to be. in it's early heydays. It was here that the commercial and industrial ccntre of the town evolved with all its pearl sheds, saloons, entertainment houses and Chinese food halls.

Courthouse

The old Courthouse is built in distinctive 'Broome style' with which you will become very familiar with if you hang around Broome for a while.

The Court House was the original Cable House (that managed the telephone cable) after which Cable Beach is named.

Chinatown Markets

Normally on Sundays between 8am and 1pm in Johnny Chi Lane (seasonal). Large selection of local art and crafts.

Sinju Matsuri

The 'Festival of the Pearl' is held in Aug / Sept each year and celbrates the pearl harvest, the local Broome pearling industry and the town's multi-cultural heritage.

Cable Beach

The Beach is named after the telephone cable that was first laid to connect Australia with Indonesia. The beach lays 6 kms from the center of Broome township. Cable Beach is one of the top 5 beaches in the world and streches for 22 kms with beautiful white sand and deep blue Indian Ocean waters. It is a safe bean on which to swim and there is a wide selection of beach activities you can enjoy.

Caution: Nov – Apr there can be box jellyfish and stingers in the water.

Gibb River Road Bus Services

This is a transport service between Kununurra and Derby 6 days a week. It will give you the opportunity to explore the Gibbs River Road. The Gibbs River Express is a luxury 4×4 air-conditioned bus that thravels the 700kms from Derby to Kununurra in 11 ½ hrs and offers access to all destinations along the route such as the gorges, cattle stations and holiday destinations.

If you're into bird watching, hiking, camping, wanting to see the incredible Kimberly gorges or want to experience life on a typical Aussie cattle station then this is the way to do it. Make your choices, stay where and when you want with a multi-stopover ticket. Runs May – Sept only.

Dinosaur Footprints

You can find footprints left behind by dinosaurs millions of years ago. Only visible duringa very low tide (1.5metres or lower). If the tides are too high you can always check out the casts that have been made that sit at the top of the cliffs.

If you do get the chance to walk out and check the footprints please ensure you take care of the reef environment as it is very fragile and also wear think soled shoes as stonefish are known to live on the reef.

Horizontal Falls Adventure Tours

There is only one way to really capture the grandeur of the Kimberley and that is from the air. Once you step aboard this turbo-prop seaplane you know you will experience something you will never forget.

Enjoy a relaxed flight to Talbot Bay where you will transfer to the vessel 'Rare Breed' to experience 'Horizontal Falls', described by David Attenborough as "one of the greatest wonders of the World" and experience the unbelievable tidal powers that can be found in the Kimberleys. You will be taken straight through the falls (tidal conditions permitting) – this you won't forget.

Flying Boat Wrecks

The remains of these flying boats can be found about 1 km offshore from Town Beach and are only visible at very low tides (be aware of the need for thick soled shoes. See warning immediately above). The flying boats were ferrying civilians from Indonesia during the early invasion of Indonesia by the Japanese when they were pounced upon as they landed in the waters near Broome. A number of people were killed and boats sunk. What you can see are the remnants of these flying boats that were sunk by the Japanese attack.

Chinatown Natural Healing Center

If you need to relax or feel the need to refresh yourslef after a long and dusty trip then the Chinatown Natural Healing Center is just what you need.

Massage, aromatherapy, reflexology, naturaphy or homeopthy – there are all available here.

There is also a wide array of related items on sale such as books, tapes, incense, cards, oils and essences.

Chinese Cemetry

Located on Port Drive you will find this one-of-a-kind cemetry. It is here that the early Chinese settlers (many pearl divers who died doing their job) can be found.

A camera is a must for this visit.

Deep Water Point

If you arrive by boat you will probably anchor here as it is the anchor point for all visiting vessels.

Here you will find the Broome jetty (great for fishing off) and a small sheltered beach for swimming (safe for children) and picnics. There are also restaurant and kiosk facilities.

Willie Creek Pearl Farm

Want to find out all you ccan about pearl farming as it is practiced today? Wille Creek Pearl Farm is where you need to go.

At the farm (38kms north of Broome) you will understand how Broome develops the world's best cultured pearls. You will see the intricate art of seeding the shells so that they produce those wonderful round translucent gems of the sea. Discover the different types of pearl shells and get aboard the 'Willie Wanderer' to get to see the pearl shell beds in the creek.

Mamabulanjin Aboriginal Tours

The local indigenous people have a rich and diverse background. Mamabulanjin Tours offers visitors to Broome a wide range of indeigenous experiences including escorted bush walks, spear and boomerang throwing and local stories of The Dreamtime (or The Dreaming as it is sometimes called)

The tours can offer you an insight into the traditions, history and contemporary lifestlyes of the Broome Aborigines.

Staircase to the Moon

One of the most beautiful natural sights in Broome and seen across Roebuck Bay during a full moon, is the Staircase to the Moon.

The illusion of a staircase reaching up to the moon is caused by the moons reflection on the wet mud flats – a tedious explanation for a wonderful sight.

Gecko Gallery

Located in the heart of Chinatown the gallery is Broome's best gallery for local Aboriginal fine art. These art works are for sale and the gallery is also an outlet for drawing and painting supplys if you need them to capture, in your own way, your visions of this land.

A Bit of Broome History

The local indigenous people, the Yawuru, have lived in the area for many hundreds (some say thousands) of years. There is also evidence that people sailed all the way from Malaya and Indonesia in search of turtles, dugong and pearls.

Dugong feeding just off Broome William Dampier was the first European to visit the area in 1688 and Roebuck Bay was named after his ship the HMS Roebuck. But it wasn't until almost 200 years later that the town was officially recognized and named after the then Governor of the State, Sir Frederick Napier Broome.

It was the discovery of the world's largest pearl oyster (Pinctada maxima – producer of the White South Sea and Golden South Sea Pearls) that saw the beginings of the industry that has, over the years, made Broome famous – pearling!

In the 1910's Broome producted over 80% of the world's Mother of Pearl shell used in the production of a wide array of decorative items from buttons, furniture and jewellry. It was in 1913 that the local pearling fleet (examples of which can still be seen in Broome) reached it's peak of over 400 vessels.

The industry was very profitable for the ships Captains but the divers faced real dangers from sharks, sea snakes (the most venomous in the world), cyclones (submerged divers were cut adrift if one appeared over the horizon to allow the vessel to run for safety ), drowning when equipment broke or was faulty and the 'bends' (an agonising death).

The invention of the plastic button in the 1950's saw the rapid decline of the Mother of Pearl industry. However, in the late 50's the industry started a recovery as the cultured pearling industry took off. By the 70's Broome could again boast that it was the center of the world pearling industry meeting over 70% of the world demand.

In the 80's another industry started to impact upon Broome and this time it was people – tourists in fact. These days Broome hosts over 100,000 tourists a year and the numbers continue to rise as new resorts are built and older hotels refurbished. The real changes started when the road between Port Hedland and Broome was finally sealed allowing people to drive all the way in relative safety and comfort.

Broomes Cable Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world and the pindan cliffs (soils this time rather than the vegetation. See above), stark white sands and clear bblue waters of the Indian Ocean are part of this exotic towns appeal. Chinatown boasts an unusual style all of it's own which is a blend of Australian Colonial / Asian developed in the early days of the settlement and still surviving today.

Broome is also a haven for those of us who live the sport of fishing. There is either the massively long jetty (watch the local kids catch fish you would kill to catch yourself with only a line, hook and a birds feather as a lure), or in one of the many tidal creeks. But be aware that local King Tides can be dangerous and it is strongly advised to get a tide chart from the Broome Visitors Center.