Movie Themes
Australian History Baz Luhrmann’s Australia is set in the Australian outback in the 1930s and 1940s. Significant historic events, such as the bombing of Darwin in 1942, are included in the film. In Western Australia, there are several locations in the Kimberley region to explore for those interested in Australian history. Kununurra Kununurra is the Kimberleyʹs youngest town, built in the early 1960s to serve the Ord River Irrigation Project. Although the town is young, the landscape is not. For most travellers, Kununurra is the gateway to the Kimberley, a remote and magnificent wilderness region of deep gorges, dramatic mountain ranges and waterfalls that cover the north‐western top of Australia (between Kununurra and Broome). The oldest rocks in the Kimberley were formed approximately 2000 million years ago, and there has been so little geological activity in the area since that the landscape has remained relatively unchanged, making it some of most ancient land on earth. Kununurra was one of the last areas in Australia to be settled by Europeans and was first explored in 1879 by Alexander Forrest, the brother of Western Australia’s first premier John Forrest. Forrest was soon followed by some of the most colourful characters in Australiaʹs pastoral and farming history such as Durack, Buchanan and MacDonald, who drove huge mobs of cattle from as far away as Goulburn in New South Wales and Thylungra in south‐western Queensland across largely uncharted territory to take up large tracts of land, many more than a million acres in size, in the newly opened north‐ west. Durack Family History The Durack family were the first to establish several successful cattle stations in the Kimberley area. Their history is immortalised in the Australian classic, Kings in Grass Castles by Mary Durack, and you can visit Argyle Homestead Museum in the reconstructed Durack family homestead originally on Argyle Downs Station (but moved to its present site when the lake was proposed). It was also a Durack (Kimberley Durack) who first began experimenting with the possibility of growing cash crops on the rich black alluvial soils of the Ord River valley. This was to later grow into the Ord River Scheme. Argyle Downs Homestead Museum The legacy of one of Australia’s early outback pioneers, the Durack family, lives on near Kununurra in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. In the late 1880s, at the beginning of the great Kimberley beef industry, Patsy Durack and his two brothers built the Argyle Downs Homestead after a two year trek from Queensland bringing with them wagons, carts and 2000 head of cattle. The homestead was dismantled and reconstructed stone by stone on its present site in 1971 as it was in danger of being flooded after the area was dammed. It has been preserved as a monument to the courageous and farseeing pioneers of the Kimberley. The homestead is now a museum and offers the visitor a look into life as it was for the early settling families.
The Battle of Broome Two weeks after the Japanese attack on Darwin in World War II, the small coastal town of Broome in Western Australia suffered Australiaʹs second worst air raid. On 3 March 1942 70 people were killed and 24 aircraft, including 16 flying boats were destroyed during a Japanese air raid. To this day visitors to Broome’s Roebuck Bay can still see the remains of the flying boats at low tide from the old Broome jetty. Broome’s War Memorial overlooking Roebuck Bay remembers residents who died during both World Wars and the Vietnam War. Outback Adventure Nicole Kidman’s character in Australia, Lady Sarah Ashley, finds herself in a completely foreign environment when she leaves England for outback Australia in search of her husband. Along the way, she experiences an outback adventure which ultimately changes her beliefs and her life, due to the transforming nature of this ancient landscape. Gibb River Road The Gibb River road travels some 700kms through the central Kimberley Plateau from King Sound at Derby to the Cambridge Gulf at Wyndham. The majority of the road surface is of dirt and gravel construction with only some floodways paved. Tackle the Gibb River Road by 4WD on a tour or self drive for some adventure. You can also choose to camp along your way for an even more thrilling experience. El Questro Wilderness Park One of the Western Australian locations filmed for ʹAustraliaʹ the movie, El Questro Wilderness Park is without doubt, one of the worldʹs unique holiday destinations. A working cattle station with a herd of approximately 5,000, El Questro provides a truly Australian holiday experience. A million acres in size, El Questro is located in Western Australia’s untamed Kimberley, and extends for approximately 80 kilometres into the heart of the region, most of which has never been explored. It is one of the last true frontiers. El Questro Wilderness Park offers unrivalled access to the far reaches of the Kimberley. Go barramundi fishing, set out on a horse trek, or explore remote areas by helicopter that only a lucky few have ever seen. Home Valley Station One of the Western Australian locations filmed for ʹAustraliaʹ the movie, Home Valley Station pride themselves on providing guests with the ultimate Australian outback experience. Accommodation across the Station provides options for all preferences ‐ from those who prefer their rugged outback adventure with a twist of luxury to those seeking a more intimate experience. The spacious grass castles on idyllic Bindoola Creek are lavishly appointed, providing the ultimate in outback lodging. Homestead guesthouse rooms provide a comfortable retreat and are perfect for couples and families. The safari‐style sand castle eco tents, located in a quiet bush setting, will impress those seeking to connect with nature. Digger’s Rest Station One of the Western Australian locations filmed for ʹAustraliaʹ the movie, Kimberley Pursuits at Digger’s Rest Station allows guests to experience the Kimberley by horseback. Choose from two to eleven day treks, taking in the extraordinary scenery as you follow the river systems and old stock routes used by drovers. Or if you prefer take in the scenery with the trail rides around Digger’s Rest.
Purnululu National Park (Bungle Bungle Range) One of the most fascinating geological landmarks in Western Australia. From an aircraft, the Bungle Bungle Range is an imposing sight. The orange and black stripes across the beehive‐ like mounds, encased in a skin of silica and algae, are clearly visible as you approach from the south. As you sweep further over the range a hidden world of gorges and pools is revealed, with fan palms clinging precariously to walls and crevices in the rocks. You can also explore Purnululu National Park (Bungle Bungle) by taking the guided walks or camp out for a couple of days in comfort under the stars at the Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge. Outback Safari – Kimberley coastline Explore the spectacular Kimberley coastline of Western Australia from the air on a private six day Coastal Air Safari flying from Kununurra to Broome with Slingair. This once in a lifetime experience takes in some of the most remote and stunning land on earth. Fly over the Mitchell Plateau, vast cattle stations and King George Falls before touching down at the bush camp at Faraway Bay. Spend time exploring this ancient land before taking off for the Kimberley Coastal Camp and the chance to catch your own fresh barramundi. Aboriginal Experience The Aboriginal culture is central to the storyline of Baz Luhrmann’s Australia. As the world’s oldest continual culture, there is a certain sense of mystery and magic which is presented on screen. In addition, Nicole Kidman’s character, Lady Sarah Ashley, finds herself caring for ten‐year old Nullah – an Aboriginal orphan, who along with The Drover (Hugh Jackman’s character) are pivotal in transforming her life. There are many Indigenous tourism products in the Kimberley region on Western Australia which allow people to experience this amazing culture first hand. Kimberley Aboriginal Artists Collective Scattered across the north west of Australia, Kimberley Aboriginal Artists share the richness and diversity of Aboriginal art, language and identity with audiences worldwide. The collective brings together four Kimberley art centres ‐ Mangkaja Arts, Mowanjum Art and Culture Centre, Waringarri Aboriginal Arts and Warmun Art Centre. Wundargoodie Aboriginal Safaris Wundargoodie Aboriginal Safaris is located in Wyndham, offering a range of unique Indigenous experiences where you will be taken through the picturesque Kimberley landscape to discover the Aboriginal history which dates back 50,000 years. Tours operate in the dry season (between April and September) allowing guests to experience a local’s wisdom of the tradition and stories of ancient rock art, corroborees and campfires. Warlu Way Self Drive Itinerary Warlu Way reveals the mysteries of the warlu and other Aboriginal legends by taking you on a 2500km self‐drive journey through Western Australia’s Gascoyne, Pilbara and Kimberley regions ‐ areas resplendent with sapphire seas, soaring gorges, ancient Aboriginal art, rugged ranges and inland oases. Interpretive signage along the drive opens your eyes to the secrets of this country and its historical, cultural and natural wonders.
Manbana ‐ Broome Manbana incorporates the Manbana Discovery Centre which offers Aboriginal aqua cultural tours that explore Indigenous culture and life surrounding the rivers and oceans of Broome and the ancient Kimberley region; and Manbana Aquaculture Centre which is developing a commercial hatchery producing marine ornamental fish for the aquarium trade, such as clownfish, seahorses, cardinalfish, dottybacks and grammas. Nagula Aboriginal tour ‐ Broome The Nagula tour offers a three hour guided Aboriginal tour of the Roebuck Bay area. Learn about traditional food gathering and hunting techniques used for survival from the tidal areas and from the bush. Your Aboriginal guide will explain traditional fishing methods and how to work a water hole. Try out your own skills throwing a boomerang or a spear. Kujurta Buru Cultural Tours ‐ Broome Kujurta Buruʹs cultural tours around Broome provide a unique insight into the traditions, history and contemporary life of Aboriginal people. It offers the opportunity to learn about traditional food gathering and hunting techniques, and discover how the culture and lifestyle of the Yawuru people has been adapted to fit in to modern day Broome. Short Street Gallery ‐ Broome Short St. Gallery is a small gallery located in the heart of Chinatown in Broome. It is an old building (over 100 years) and is the last remaining house with a wind tunnel. It is an important part of the Aboriginal, Malay & Japanese history in Broome. The building has been operating as a gallery since 1998, and houses a comprehensive collection of indigenous contemporary artworks, presenting artists from all over Australia including Roy Wiggan, Lily Karadada, Boxer Milner, Tjumpo, Tim Cook, Paji Honeychild, Daisy Andrews, Freddie Timms, Paddy Bedford, Patrick Mung Mung, Fiona Omeenyo, Freda Warlapinini, and many more. Kooljaman at Cape Leveque Fire‐red cliffs, bone‐white sand and turquoise water – the colours of Cape Leveque on the remote Dampier Penninsular, will etch a lifelong memory. Perched on the tip of the cape, 220km north of Broome, is Kooljaman, a deliciously remote and multi award‐winning wilderness camp that takes you up close to awesome nature in simple yet comfortable style. Owned by the Aboriginal communities of Djarindjin and One Arm Point, Kooljaman is a place where visitors can link to a rich indigenous heritage stretching back thousands of years. Spend a day with an Aboriginal family swimming, snorkelling, reef walking and exploring old mission ruins. By night, safari‐style tented cabins come complete with private ensuites and glorious views of the beach, or you can opt for authentic paper bark cabins or beach shelters, perfect for camping. For a dose of adventure hire a four wheel drive and tackle the unsealed road from Broome, or take a charter flight. Mitchell Plateau Explore indigenous rock art galleries on the Mitchell Plateau and see the famous Gyorn Gyorn art (also known as the Bradshaws). A fantastic base for exploration of this area is Faraway Bay.
Lombadina Aboriginal Corporation Set amidst the untamed beauty of nature, Lombadina, a working aboriginal community, is derived from the Aboriginal name Lollmardinard. Basil and Caroline Sibosado and their family run Lombadina and are working towards self sufficiency through community ventures which include a general store, artefact and craft shop, a bakery and tourism. Lombadina is not a resort, but a retreat for people to come and share in an indigenous lifestyle. Lombadina offer many tours including the Ancient Footprints tour, Bard Country four wheel drive tour, Shakari Fishing Charters, Garr Kayaking and bushwalking. Pristine blue water washes up on the whitest beaches, abundant with exotic shells and coral. Kelk Creek Bush Retreat Kelk Creek Bush Retreat and Interpretive Cultural Tours is located on the Dampier Peninsula 155km north of Broome offering guided interpretive bush walks. So come experience the traditions and lifestyle of the Bardi people of the Dampier Peninsula and enter a world of ancient culture, as seen through the eyes of your Indigenous guides. Share in a unique journey of discovery, walking on traditional lands, learning about bush tucker, medicines and seasonality whilst enjoying billy tea and freshly made damper. Darngku Heritage Cruises ‐ Fitzroy Crossing The tours provide the opportunity to see the magnificent features of Darngku, Geikie Gorge National Park, in the West Kimberley, through the eyes of its traditional Aboriginal owners. With your Bunuba guides you will cruise the placid waters of Geikie Gorge, climb Bunbura Lookout on the top of the Napier Range, hear the story of Mangunambi and look for bush foods on the Larrawan Walk. Fresh water crocodiles and bird life abound. Fish in the waters of the Fitzroy River in Darngku are the home of barramundi, fresh water sharks, bream and other species. Mowanjum Art Gallery ‐ Derby Mowanjum Art is produced at the Mowanjum Aboriginal Community on the outskirts of Derby in the west Kimberley region of Western Australia. The Wandjina, the supreme spirit being to members of the community, is a dominant feature of the works of these artists. The artwork is commonly recognised by the deep set black eyes and a halo like head‐dress of the spirit being. The building itelf is particularly impressive from the air as it is also shaped in the spirit of the Wandjina. Romance & Luxury Lady Sarah Ashley (Nicole Kidman’s character) and The Drover (Hugh Jackman), find themselves in an unlikely love story in Australia. The epic landscape of Western Australia’s Kimberley region is famous for its transforming qualities – allowing visitors to connect with the landscape and reconnect with themselves and their loved ones. Cruise the Kimberley Coast The Kimberley region of Western Australia is one of the last untouched wilderness areas on earth. Several cruise companies including North Star Cruises (True North), Seven Star Cruises and Orion can provide an adventure holiday combined with luxury, comfort, style and safety. Cruises depart Broome on a regular basis, offering different itineraries and cruise lengths. For an amazing view of the Kimberley from a different perspective, a luxury cruise is the way to go.
Cable Beach Club – Broome Far from major cities and poised between ocean and wilderness, Cable Beach Club Resort offers visitors a multi‐layered experience. One of the resort’s many treasures is the display of original works of art throughout the complex. The works are changed regularly, all part of a unique collection held in Perth. Additionally, enjoy the sunset over the ocean at Cable Beach Club Broome in its intimate surroundings. Camel trek on Cable Beach ‐ Broome With 22kms of sun‐kissed white sand and turquoise water, Broomeʹs Cable Beach is justifiably world famous and the ideal place to go swimming and watch the sunset into the Indian Ocean on a balmy, tropical night. Even though itʹs one of the worldʹs best beaches, itʹs still possible to find your own secluded slice of sand to enjoy. You can laze in the sunshine, hire a jet ski, take a boat cruise or enjoy the quintessential Broome experience ‐ a camel ride at sunset on Cable Beach. Staircase to the Moon ‐ Broome Romance doesn’t get much better than witnessing the natural phenomenon ‘Staircase to the Moon’ in Broome (March – October) when the rising of the full moon reflects off the exposed mudflats at extremely low tide creating a beautiful optical illusion of stairs reaching to the moon. A picnic on the beach is the perfect compliment Helicopter flight to Miri Miri Falls ‐ El Questro The ultimate romantic experience is a private helicopter flight and sunset picnic at Miri Miri Falls, hidden in a remote corner of El Questro Wilderness Park. Spring‐fed water cascades over a 50‐metre fall from the plateau into a deep pool, then into a dense valley of Livingstonia Palms and Paperbarks. You can take a dip in the refreshing pool overlooking the Falls, or simply enjoy the spectacular view and feel as if you and your partner are the only people on earth! El Questro Homestead The luxury of El Questro Homestead sits in stark contrast to Western Australiaʹs rugged Kimberley landscape surrounding it ‐ one million acres of the most spectacularly remote countryside in the world. The Homestead is an exclusive retreat cantilevered over the magnificent Chamberlain Gorge. Catering to discerning guests, friendly staff provide the highest standards of service and cuisine. Guests are encouraged to choose from a selection of dining locations, from a private cliff top to the Homesteadʹs spacious verandahs, but almost always under a canopy of stars. Faraway Bay On the north west corner of the vast Australian coastline, there is a place so remote you won’t find it on any map. Faraway Bay, The Bush Camp is an outstanding wilderness retreat. Spectacularly isolated, all six secluded bush‐style cabins enjoy 180° ocean view.