View from Bastion Lookout, Wyndham

Wyndham WA 6740 (Pop 840)

Wyndham is an isolated and unusual Kimberley settlement in far Northern WA surrounded by mudflats, salt lakes and desert. Australia’s most northerly town is located 3 162 km n-e of Perth and was established in 1885 as a port and trading station and boomed for a short time during the nearby goldrushes. It then served as a pastoral service town until the Wyndham Meatworks were completed (1919). Today Wyndham exports live cattle and minerals to Asia and has also established an export crocodile farm. Races (Aug), Art & Craft Show (Aug).

Tourist Attractions & Info:
The Big Crocodile measures 20 m and stands guard at the town’s entrance. Historical Society Museum, O’Donnell St housed within the old courthouse depicting the town’s interesting history. Zoological Gardens & Crocodile Park, Barytes Rd. Pioneer Cemetery, Great Northern Hwy.

Nearby:
Afghan Cemetery (1 km east) Many early Afghan camel supply drivers were buried here and their graves all point towards Mecca. Three Mile Valley (3 km north) sacred Aboriginal site ‘Trial Tree’ surrounded by stunning Kimberleys scenery. Crocodile Lookout, Wyndham Port where residue meatworks blood and scraps would drain into the Gulf. Wyndham Port (5 km north) together with old meatworks buildings. Koolama Wreck Site (5 km n-w) sunk by Japanese bombs (1942). Five Rivers Lookout (5 km north) located on Bastion Range’s highest point offering spectacular views over the five main rivers in this area. Moochalabra Dam (18 km s-w) unique damming project (1971) with 4WD access only. Aboriginal Rock Paintings (18 km s-w) 4WD access only. Parry Lagoons Nature Reserve (20 km s-e) features a lookout at Telegraph Hill and bird hide at Marlgu Billabong. Prison Tree (22 km s-w) ancient boab tree used as a temporary gaol by local police. The Grotto (36 km east) shaded deep rock waterhole offering year-round swimming.

Accommodation:
Wyndham has a couple of hotels, a couple of farmstays and a caravan park. Visitor Information Centre: Kimberley Motors, Great Northern Hwy. Tel (08) 9161 1281.

Airport:
Wyndham Airport (WYN), Great Northern Hwy.

Hospital:
Wyndham Hospital, Minderoo Rd. Tel (08) 9161 0222.