The Bungle Bungles area has a rich history that spans millions of years and reflects diverse human interactions. These geological marvels were formed around 350-375 million years ago in the Ord Basin and hold ancient secrets.

Before European settlers arrived, the Warmun vicinity was deeply significant to the Kitja people, who had a strong spiritual connection to the land. However, when Patrick (Patsy) Durack arrived in 1882, it marked the beginning of European settlement, driven by promising reports of Kimberley's grazing potential. He travelled 3,000 miles over three years and stocked Argyle and Ivanhoe stations with thousands of cattle and horses, a significant milestone in Australian history.

Unfortunately, this era was also marked by tragedies, as massacres of the Kitja people marred the early years of white settlement. To prevent such atrocities, a ration depot was established at Turkey Creek in 1901 after the poisoning of the indigenous community between 1880-1900.

Efforts at assimilation, such as Moola Bulla in 1910, faced resistance, and the purchase of Munja pastoral station in 1926 aimed to familiarise indigenous populations with the 'white man's ways'. The 1970s saw the establishment of the Warmun community by local residents at Turkey Creek. Progress emerged, including the opening of the Warmun Art Centre in 1998, situated at the original Turkey Creek Post Office, and the declaration of Purnululu National Park as a World Heritage site in 2003. In 2007, a striking architect-designed gallery further enriched this evolving narrative of cultural and geological significance.

Despite the many challenges and tragedies throughout history, the Warmun community has persevered and continues to thrive. The Warmun Art Centre is a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Gija people, and the Bungle Bungles area remains a source of wonder and inspiration for people from all over the world.

Attractions

Warmun was a frequent stop on the old stock route between Wyndham and Halls Creek throughout the 1800s. Turkey Creek, a small settlement, used to provide a refreshing 'Kimberley cool' beer to the tired cattlemen. Since there were no means of refrigeration, the locals used to pack beer bottles in crates filled with straw, covered with a wet sack and left them in a breezy location to cool down.

Warmun Art Centre

The Warmun Art Centre is managed and owned by Gija artists, offering them an avenue for economic independence. It also serves as a means of preserving the Gija language and culture through the arts.

The Warmun artists are pioneers of contemporary art, following in the footsteps of Indigenous art icons such as Rover Thomas, Queenie McKenzie, and Jack Britten. Their artwork reflects the Gija country and culture, incorporating traditional Ngarranggarni (Dreaming) stories, contemporary experiences, and the distinctive Kimberley landscapes.

Bungle Bungles

The Bungle Bungles are a unique collection of rock formations that have been around for over 350 million years. They have the potential to be one of Australia's top tourist attractions if they are more accessible.

Local Kitja Aborigines call them Purnululu, and the site is located 54 km southwest of the Great Northern Highway. However, the road leading to the Bungle Bungles is difficult to traverse, and one source has described it as "suitable only for 4WDs with good clearance."

The 55 km distance from the highway takes two to three hours to cover, and caravans are not recommended for the journey. Despite these challenges, the Bungle Bungles offer visitors a breathtaking view of these majestic rock formations that are a testament to the passage of time.

Walks in the Bungle Bungles

Piccaninny Creek and Gorge

There are two choices available for exploring the gorge. The first option is a moderate 7 km return walk to the entrance of the gorge, which takes a full day to complete. The second option involves a 30 km return walk through the gorge, but it cannot be done in a day. It is important to note that there is no marked track for this walk.

According to the Western Australian Parks and Wildlife site, the 7 km return walk to the gorge entrance takes a full day. To explore the entire gorge system, which is more than 30 km, hikers need to camp for at least a night. The track is moderately easy up to the gorge entrance. However, it becomes moderately difficult in the gorge itself, with hikers having to navigate around fallen boulders, loose rocks, and along creek beds.

Cathedral Gorge Walk

From the Picanninny Creek Car Park, there is a 3 km return walk to the Cathedral Gorge. This walk is relatively short and easy and takes about 1-2 hours to complete. The Cathedral Gorge is a stunningly beautiful sight to behold.

The Beehive Domes Walk

This hour-long circuit around some of the park's renowned beehive domes is considered the easiest of all the walks in the park.

Echidna Chasm

The Echidna Chasm Walk is an approximately 2 km long walk that takes one or two hours to complete. This walk takes you through a narrow chasm that is 200 m deep. The chasm is well-known for its Livistonia palms and impressive boulders made from the local region's characteristic conglomerate of rocks and sandstone. The walk is located 19 km north of the visitor centre. From the Echidna Chasm Car Park, you can also take a walk to Osmond Lookout, which offers stunning views across the Osmond Range.

Turkey Creek Roadhouse

Travellers can find various facilities at the modern Turkey Creek Roadhouse, which is owned and operated by the Warmun Community. These facilities include a general store, fast food, restaurant, motel accommodation, and a caravan park, providing a convenient stop for travellers.

Fun Facts

Distance from Perth: 3,018 Northeast of Perth
Population: 457
Postcode: 6743
Founded: 1901