The Kimberley Is Remote — Plan Accordingly
The Kimberley covers an area larger than Germany with a population of fewer than 40,000 people. That remoteness is part of the appeal, but it also means that preparation isn't optional — it's essential. Travellers who arrive underprepared risk dangerous situations that could have been easily avoided.
Communication in Remote Areas
Mobile coverage in the Kimberley is limited almost entirely to the towns of Broome, Derby, Fitzroy Crossing, Halls Creek, and Kununurra. Once you leave sealed roads, you should assume you have no mobile signal at all.
Recommended communication solutions:
- Personal Locator Beacon (PLB): A free-to-register, one-way emergency device that alerts Australian Rescue Coordination Centre. Every remote Kimberley traveller should carry one.
- Satellite messenger (e.g. Garmin inReach, SPOT): Two-way messaging capability via satellite subscription. Allows you to send location updates and receive messages even in the most remote areas.
- HF Radio: Used by some station operators and remote travellers; more complex but widely used in the pastoral industry.
Fuel Planning
Running out of fuel in the Kimberley is not just inconvenient — it can be life-threatening. Follow these rules:
- Always check the distance to the next fuel stop before leaving a town or roadhouse.
- Carry at least 20 litres of extra fuel in an approved jerry can on unsealed roads.
- Fuel at every available stop, even if you're not low — the next roadhouse could be out of stock.
- Note that fuel prices in remote Kimberley are significantly higher than in Perth — budget accordingly.
Key Fuel Stops on the Gibb River Road
| Location | Distance from Derby | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Derby | 0 km | Last major town; full fuel and supplies |
| Mount Barnett Roadhouse | ~306 km | Diesel and unleaded; limited hours |
| El Questro Station | ~570 km | Fuel available; check current hours |
| Kununurra | ~660 km | Full services available |
Water and Food
- Carry a minimum of 10 litres of drinking water per person as emergency reserve — more in summer.
- While water is available at most campgrounds, quality varies. A portable filter or purification tablets are worthwhile.
- Stock up on food in Broome or Kununurra before heading into remote areas. Roadhouse supplies are limited and expensive.
Campgrounds: Booking vs Free Camping
The Kimberley offers a mix of:
- National Park campgrounds (e.g., Purnululu, Windjana Gorge) — require advance booking through the DPaW online system, especially during peak season.
- Station campgrounds (e.g., El Questro, Home Valley, Mt Barnett) — typically paid, often with basic facilities. Book ahead in peak season.
- Free or low-cost bush camping — available in some areas but check local regulations. Some require shire or pastoral permits.
Medical and Safety Basics
- Carry a comprehensive first aid kit and know how to use it. Consider a wilderness first aid course before a remote Kimberley trip.
- The nearest hospitals are in Broome and Kununurra. Royal Flying Doctor Service covers remote emergencies, but response times can be long.
- Sun and heat are serious hazards — always hike in the early morning, cover up, and take shade breaks in the heat of the day.
- Comprehensive travel insurance that covers remote evacuation is strongly recommended.
Respecting Aboriginal Land and Culture
Much of the Kimberley is Aboriginal land. Many areas require permits to enter — particularly on the Dampier Peninsula and in communities. Apply through the relevant Land Council well in advance of your trip. When visiting rock art sites, do not touch the art, do not take photographs where signage prohibits it, and approach all cultural sites with deep respect.