Dolphin Island (Western Australia) facts for kids
Dolphin Island is an island found in the Dampier Archipelago in Western Australia. It's part of the Pilbara region, known for its amazing landscapes. If you visit, you can camp on most of the island's beaches. Just make sure to stay at least 100 meters (about 330 feet) away from the water's edge. The only exception is the southeastern side of the island.
Contents
Discover Dolphin Island
Dolphin Island is a special place. It's protected as a B Class Nature Reserve. This means it's kept safe for its plants, animals, and natural features. The island covers a large area of about 3,203 hectares (nearly 7,915 acres).
Size and Height of the Island
Dolphin Island is the second largest island in the Dampier Archipelago. Only Enderby Island is bigger. However, Dolphin Island is the tallest! It rises about 120 meters (around 394 feet) above the sea. Imagine standing on its highest point and looking out at the ocean!
How Dolphin Island Was Formed
The rocks that make up Dolphin Island are incredibly old. They were formed over 2,400 million years ago! These rocks are mostly volcanic and granitic. You can also find older types of granite and gneiss here. The island is separated from the Burrup Peninsula by a large valley. This valley was created by a huge crack in the Earth's crust.
A Look at Dolphin Island's History
Dolphin Island has a rich history, stretching back thousands of years.
Early Inhabitants
Indigenous Australians have lived in this area for a very long time. They used the islands of the Dampier Archipelago for over 18,000 years. The Yapurarra peoples are the traditional owners of this land. Their history and culture are deeply connected to these islands.
How the Island Got Its Name
The island was named by Francis Thomas Gregory in 1861. He was exploring the Pilbara region at the time. Dolphin Island is named after the ship that Gregory captained during his expedition.
The Pearling Industry
In 1870, the pearling industry started in the Dampier Archipelago. Pearl divers needed fresh water for their ships. They found it in the natural rock pools on Dolphin Island. There are six graves on the western side of the island. People believe these graves belong to the pearlers who worked there long ago.
