Aerial View of the Bungle Bungle Range, Purnululu National Park
URGENT UPDATE: National parks across the Kimberley region are set to close for the wet season, impacting tourism until 2026. As of September 20, Walarra Mindi (Mt Hart) has already shut its gates, followed by Mitchell River National Park and Purnululu Visitor Centre on September 30. Major closures, including Bandilngan (Windjana Gorge) and Dimalurru (Tunnel Creek), will commence on November 1, prompting visitors to plan accordingly.
The Parks and Wildlife Service is urging all potential visitors to be aware of these closures as road access will rapidly change with the onset of wet weather. This marks the end of the regular tourist season, which runs from May to October.
The closure comes amidst a resurgence in Western Australia’s tourism sector, with the Australian Hotels Association WA‘s chief executive, Bradley Woods, confirming a significant uptick in international visitors. “Western Australia is back in a big way,” he stated. According to recent data, 41,000 international tourists visited the North West in the 2024-25 financial year, contributing $82 million to the local economy.
“Regional operators are seeing more international visitors and higher spend,” Woods added. The message is clear: “Western Australia is open, confident, and offering exceptional value.” He encouraged Australians to consider WA for their next trip, promoting longer stays to explore the region.
With the closure of these parks, the immediate impact on local communities and businesses is palpable. Tourists planning trips to the Kimberley must act now to adjust their plans, as the vibrant landscapes will be off-limits until conditions allow for reopening.
Officials emphasize the urgency of this situation, as the wet season poses risks not only to access but also to safety in the parks. Travelers are advised to stay updated on conditions and alternative destinations within the region.
As the news unfolds, those interested in visiting should monitor updates closely and consider making plans to experience the beauty of Western Australia before the wet season fully sets in.
