Exploring the Majestic Bungle Bungle Range with Family

Day 13: Kimberley's Lasting Impressions: Reflecting on the Bungle Bungles

Join us as we explore Argyle Homestead Museum and Kelly's Knob, reminiscing about our unforgettable family adventure in the Bungle Bungles.

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Farewell, Kimberley!


As our incredible journey through the Bungle Bungle Range draws to a close, I find myself overwhelmed with a sense of gratitude and awe. These past thirteen days have been nothing short of extraordinary, filled with breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and unforgettable moments with my family. Today, our final day, was dedicated to soaking in the last vestiges of this majestic region before we begin our journey back to Denmark.

Our day started, as many others had, with a hearty breakfast at the Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge. The lodge, with its eco-friendly cabins and communal fire pit, had become our little haven amidst the vast wilderness. Astrid and Lasse were particularly fond of the buffet-style meals, prepared with fresh, local ingredients. I savored my last taste of Kimberley honey, reminiscing about the countless sunrises we’d witnessed together, each one painting the ancient rocks in hues of gold and crimson. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of the dishes back home, adding a Danish twist, of course.

Our first stop for the day was the Argyle Homestead Museum. Located a short drive from Lake Argyle, the museum offered a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the early pioneers who settled this rugged land. The Durack family, whose former home now serves as the museum, undertook an incredible two-year journey across the continent with 2,000 head of cattle to establish the first cattle station in the region. Walking through the rooms of the homestead, rebuilt stone by stone after the original site was flooded by Lake Argyle, I couldn't help but feel a deep respect for their resilience and determination. Astrid, with her librarian's eye for detail, was captivated by the displays of original objects and photographs, each telling a story of hardship and triumph. Lasse, surprisingly, showed a keen interest in the old farming equipment, perhaps inspired by the ingenuity required to survive in such a remote environment. The museum also touched on the story of Operation Noah, the wildlife rescue operation that took place during the flooding of the original homestead. It was a stark reminder of the impact of progress on the natural world and the importance of conservation.

Explore the heritage and beauty of the Lake Argyle region at Argyle Homestead Museum, a must-see for history enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Explore the heritage and beauty of the Lake Argyle region at Argyle Homestead Museum, a must-see for history enthusiasts and nature lovers.

The Kimberley is more than just a destination; it's an experience that etches itself into your soul, long after you've left its red-dirt roads.


After immersing ourselves in the history of the region, we decided to stretch our legs with a visit to Kelly's Knob, also known as Thegoowiyeng. This rocky outcrop, located on the northern outskirts of Kununurra, provides panoramic views of the town, the Ord River, Lake Kununurra, and the surrounding landscape. The walk to the summit was a bit challenging, with some steep and rocky sections, but the reward was well worth the effort. From the top, we could see for miles in every direction, the vastness of the Kimberley stretching out before us. The sun was beginning to dip below the horizon, casting a warm golden glow over the land. It was the perfect moment to reflect on our journey, to appreciate the sheer beauty of this ancient landscape, and to feel grateful for the opportunity to share it with my family.

Discover the stunning vistas of Kelly's Knob in Kununurra, a scenic spot that showcases the breathtaking beauty of Western Australia's landscapes.
Discover the stunning vistas of Kelly's Knob in Kununurra, a scenic spot that showcases the breathtaking beauty of Western Australia's landscapes.

As we descended from Kelly's Knob, the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors – oranges, pinks, and purples blending seamlessly together. We made our way to the Bungle Bungle Caravan Park & Tour Company for our final dinner in the Kimberley. The caravan park, located just a kilometer from the entrance to Purnululu National Park, offered a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. We opted for the communal dining experience, a barbecue buffet featuring locally sourced beef, barramundi, and a selection of salads. As we sat around the crackling fire pit, sharing stories with fellow travelers, I felt a sense of camaraderie and connection that is so often found in these remote corners of the world. Lasse, who had initially been hesitant about the camping aspect of our trip, was now happily chatting with a group of young backpackers, exchanging travel tips and stories.

After dinner, we took a final stroll under the stars, the Milky Way stretching out above us in all its glory. The Southern Hemisphere sky is always a sight to behold, and tonight it felt particularly poignant. I pointed out the Southern Cross to Lasse, a constellation rarely seen in Denmark, and shared some of the Aboriginal Dreamtime stories associated with it. It was a perfect ending to our Bungle Bungle adventure, a moment of quiet contemplation and connection with nature.

Looking back on our time in the Bungle Bungle Range, I am struck by the diversity of experiences we've had. From the challenging hikes through Cathedral Gorge and Echidna Chasm to the serene beauty of the Piccaninny Creek, we've pushed ourselves physically and emotionally. We've learned about the ancient geology of the region, the rich indigenous history, and the resilience of the early European settlers. We've connected with the land, with each other, and with ourselves. And as we prepare to leave this remarkable place, I know that the memories we've made here will stay with us for a lifetime.

Before heading back to the Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge, we made a quick stop at The Bungle Bungles shop, so we could bring a piece of the Kimberley back home with us. I picked up a small painting of the beehive domes, a reminder of the unique landscape we had explored. Astrid found a book on Aboriginal Dreamtime stories, eager to delve deeper into the cultural heritage of the region. And Lasse, of course, chose a boomerang, hoping to master the art of throwing it back home in Silkeborg.

As we settle into our cabins for the night, I can't help but feel a pang of sadness that our adventure is coming to an end. But I also feel a deep sense of satisfaction and gratitude. We came to the Bungle Bungle Range seeking adventure, and we found so much more. We found a connection to the land, a deeper appreciation for the natural world, and a stronger bond as a family. And as we prepare to return to our everyday lives in Denmark, I know that we will carry the spirit of the Kimberley with us, always.

Tomorrow, we begin our long journey home, flying from Kununurra to Perth, then onwards to Denmark. It will be a bittersweet farewell, but I know that we will be back. The Kimberley has a way of capturing your heart, of drawing you back to its ancient landscapes and its vibrant culture. And as I drift off to sleep, under the vast Kimberley sky, I dream of the day when we can return to this magical place, to explore its hidden corners, to reconnect with its spirit, and to create even more unforgettable memories with my family.

I checked the events calendar for Kununurra, and it looks like there are some interesting things happening in the coming weeks, including the Kununurra Christmas Markets. Perhaps we'll plan our next visit around one of these events, to experience even more of the local culture.

Until then, farewell, Kimberley. You will be missed, but never forgotten.

I will make sure to pack the essentials that I forgot on this trip, like a portable phone charger and binoculars, for our next adventure.
Go to day 12 Kimberley's Hidden Gems: Caves, Homesteads, and Outback Charm
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Exploring the Majestic Bungle Bungle Range with Family

Discover the breathtaking Bungle Bungle Range with your family and explore its natural wonders and cultural heritage on an immersive Australian adventure.

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Meet this Featured Explorer

Andrea Colombo
  • Occupation icon Occupation: Restorer of Antique Furniture
  • Country icon Country: Denmark
  • Age icon Age: 47

Ciao! I'm Andrea Colombo, a restorer of antique furniture with a passion for history, art, and exploring different cultures. Born in Italy and now living in Denmark, I've spent my life surrounded by craftsmanship and stories of the past. Join me as I share my travel experiences, weaving together personal anecdotes, historical facts, and practical tips for those who appreciate immersive and authentic journeys. Together with my family, I seek out unique destinations, connect with local communities, and uncover the hidden gems that make each place special. Benvenuti!

Interests:
  • History
  • Art
  • Architecture
  • Different Cultures
  • Culinary Experiences
More about Andrea Colombo

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