Kununurra represents the antithesis of outback spirit. Located at the heart of the stunning East Kimberley in Miriwoong country it has grown from a difficult beginning to a now prosperous agricultural centre. A relatively new town it was only established in 1961 as a service centre for the Ord River Irrigation Scheme which struggled in its early development. Today the relaxed town is set in an oasis of lush farmland of tropical fruit and sandalwood plantations, thanks to Ord River irrigation.
Kununurra is the eastern gateway to some of the Kimberley’s most renowned attractions. It is the perfect base to explore the World Heritage listed Purnululu National Park and Bungle Bungle Range. There is an amazing variety of flora and fauna along the Ord River and it’s a very popular spot for fishing or a scenic boat cruise. From Kununurra you can adventure down dirt tracks to discover spectacular scenery, waterfalls, gorges and sprawling cattle stations.
Kununurra is a local aboriginal word meaning ‘meeting of big waters’. Initially sustained by a population of 400 people, today the town supports a population of 7500 – which can swell to double during the dry season when the tourists are in town!
One of Kununurra’s most famous landmarks is the Ord River Diversion Dam which was constructed in 1963 at a cost of roughly $20m. The dam plays a big part in controlling the flow of water for the irrigation of crops in the area. The dam wall is 335 metres wide and contains 20 radial gates which can be closed and opened depending on the need for water flow. Water is continually released from Lake Argyle, 55kms up river, into Lake Kununurra which in turn provides the water for approximately 18000 ha of farmland.
Kununurra enjoys dry, sunny days during the months May to October and you can expect clear blue skies to experience the rich red earth and rugged vistas.
