Located in Western Australia's Kimberley region, Djarindjin-Lombadina is a community situated on the Dampier Peninsula.
Djarindjin is located within the traditional lands of the Bardi and Jawi people, and it belongs to the Goollargoon country. The Australian Government recognised that the Bardi and Jawi people hold native title over the northern Dampier Peninsula.
The Lombadina Catholic Mission of the German Pallottine Fathers was established in 1911, taking over a mixed Filipino-indigenous community. In 1981, the mission had two St. John of God Sisters teaching, five lay missionaries, and an administrator appointed by the Bishop of Broome.
Meanwhile, Lombadina is a medium-sized Aboriginal community on the north-western coast of Western Australia on Cape Leveque, north of Broome in the Kimberley region. The name is derived from the Aboriginal word "Lollmardinard" and is inhabited by the Bardi people.
The Catholic mission was established with the help of Thomas Puertollano, a Filipino from Manila, in 1910–11. In 1916, to avoid being taken over by the government of Western Australia, the land was bought by an Irishman, the brother of the Redemptorist priest John Creagh.
Tourism activities in Djarindjin-Lombadina include whale watching, fishing charters, mud crabbing, spear hunting, and snorkelling in the clear waters. Additionally, transportation options include overland transport to and from Broome Airport, supported by Rio Tinto.
Djarindjin Aboriginal Corporation
The Djarindjin Community was once part of the Lombadina Catholic Mission, but the older generation living around the mission decided to establish their own community during the 1980s when the Federal Government initiated the homeland movement. As a result, the Djarindjin Aboriginal Corporation was founded in 1985, and the community of Djarindjin came into existence.
The Djarindjin Community values its traditional way of life, which is deeply rooted in the sea. The community has learned to care for and protect their land and sea from their ancestors, and they only hunt and gather during the appropriate seasons while respecting the flora and fauna. Their ancient stories and song-lines guide them through life and teach them the ways of their ancestors. The people of Djarindjin are Bardi and Jawi, originating from the mainland and islands, and their culture and way of life are unique to this land.
It's important to respect the community's ways and traditions. The beach and sacred dunes are their own and cannot be accessed unless accompanied by one of the locals. However, there are many tourist attractions on the Dampier Peninsula that you're welcome to explore.
Djarindjin Aboriginal Corporation owns half of the Kooljaman Wilderness Resort, which is located approximately 15 km north of the community. The locals encourage all visitors to experience their saltwater lifestyle by taking a tour with their local guides, such as Brian Lee of Hunters Creek Tagalong Tours, Bundy of Bundy's Cultural Tours, or Bolo of Bolo's Coastal Walk Tours. These tours will provide you with a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Lombadina Aboriginal Corporation
If you're looking for a unique way to experience the local way of life, Lombadina on beautiful Thomas Bay north of Broome on the Dampier Peninsula is a must-visit destination.
Lombadina Community offers visitors a range of accommodation options to fit a diverse range of requirements and budgets, from deluxe apartments to single quarters.
When you visit Lombadina, take some time to relax on the white sandy beaches, surrounded by pristine turquoise waters. Experience the beauty of nature and take in the colours of the Kimberley while enjoying thrilling fishing and breathtaking whale watching. You can catch a fresh feast of mud crab or spend time snorkelling in crystal clear waters teeming with sea life. The tours are timed to take full advantage of the tides, ensuring an exhilarating experience that won't leave you exhausted.
Distance from Perth: 2,219.2 km
Population: 253
Postcode: 6725
Founded: 1900s