Islands of the Kimberley (Western Australia) facts for kids
There are more than 2,500 islands located off the coast of the Kimberley region in Western Australia. These islands stretch from the border with the Northern Territory in the east, all the way west to near the town of Broome. They are a truly amazing part of Australia, full of unique wildlife and beautiful landscapes.
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Exploring the Kimberley Islands
Scientists and researchers have explored many of these islands to learn more about their plants and animals. These explorations are called biological surveys. They help us understand what lives on the islands and how to protect these special places.
Early Island Visits (1970s)
In the early 1970s, specifically in 1971, 1972, and 1973, some of the first detailed biological surveys were carried out on the North-West Kimberley Islands. During these visits, scientists explored many different islands.
Here are some of the islands visited in August 1971:
- Middle Osborn
- Fenelon
- Borda
- South West Osborn
- Low rocks
- Sir Graham Moore
- Louis
- North Eclipse
- Augustus
- Darcy
- Champagny
- Uwins
- Commerson
- Coronation
- Bigge
Recent Island Surveys (2006-2010)
More recently, a big biological survey of 22 islands took place between December 2006 and December 2010. This important project was a team effort! It involved the Department of Environment and Conservation, the Australian Museum, the Western Australian Museum, and most importantly, the Kimberley Land Council and the Traditional Owners of the land.
Working with Traditional Owners
The partnership with the Traditional Owners was very important for this survey. The islands studied are part of the traditional lands of several Indigenous groups. These groups include the Balanggarra, Uunguu, Dambimangari, Mayala, and Bardi Jawi peoples.
Traditional Owners have strong rights to manage these islands. This is because of their native title and their connection to these lands as Aboriginal Reserves. This means they have a special role in looking after their ancestral lands and waters, including these islands. Their knowledge of the land, passed down through generations, is vital for protecting the unique environment of the Kimberley Islands.
