URGENT UPDATE: National parks across the Kimberley region are set to close for the upcoming wet season, impacting tourism significantly. Walarra Mindi (Mt Hart) has already shut down as of September 20, while both Mitchell River National Park and Purnululu Visitor Centre closed on September 30. The remaining parks, including Bandilngan (Windjana Gorge) and Dimalurru (Tunnel Creek), will follow suit on November 1, remaining inaccessible until 2026.
As the wet season approaches, the Parks and Wildlife Service urges visitors to plan ahead, as road access to these popular tourist destinations may rapidly change with the onset of wet weather. This closure marks the end of the Kimberley’s tourist season, which typically runs from May to October.
The timing of these closures comes amidst a positive outlook for Western Australia’s tourism sector. According to Bradley Woods, Chief Executive of the Australian Hotels Association WA, recent tourism figures indicate a significant rebound. “Western Australia is back in a big way,” Woods stated. “International visitors are coming in larger numbers, staying longer and spending significantly more across our State.”
In the 2024-25 financial year, Western Australia welcomed 41,000 international tourists to the North West, who collectively spent $82 million. Woods emphasized, “The message to the world is clear: Western Australia is open, confident, and offering exceptional value.” He encouraged Australians planning their next trip to consider WA for longer stays and deeper exploration.
With the closure of these parks, the local economy may face challenges as visitors will be unable to access some of the region’s most stunning natural attractions. The community is urged to adapt and find new ways to draw tourists during the wet season.
As the situation develops, travelers and locals alike are encouraged to stay informed about park access and alternative attractions that remain open throughout the wet season. This is a critical time for both the natural environment and the local tourism industry, as the region braces for the challenges and opportunities that the wet season brings.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as we continue to monitor the situation closely.
