Purnululu National Park National Park within the Kimberley region of Western Australia was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003. Within the park is the unique, visually compelling Bungle Bungle Mountain Range. Composed of sandstone and conglomerate rocks deposited approximately 375 - 350 million years ago, the Bungles appear from above as a grouping of multicolored beehive domes. The alternating layers of orange and gray are traced to oxidized iron (orange) and cyanobacteria, or blue-green algae (gray).
Flying over the Bungle Bungles in Cessna Caravans, every seat a window seat, we had a perspective that few are able to experience. The flight also brought us over the Argyle mine, producer of the largest number of diamonds in the world. While the diamonds are harvested in large numbers, the quality is low. The gems here come in various hues, including pink, champagne and blue. Our flight continued over Lake Argyle, the largest artificial lake in Australia, created by the damming of the Ord River.
The Ord River has massive flows during the rainy season. Our river trip, covering 55 km (34 miles), took us through the scenic section between Kununurra and the Arglye Dam. Bird spottings were excellent – comb-crested jacanas, Australasian darters and Australian pelicans, to name a few. Crocodiles and a daytime roost of flying foxes (vegetarian bats with a wingspan of more than one meter) were among the other sightings. Heading home, a stop at the Durack Homestead brought into focus the challenging and rewarding life of the hearty nineteenth century pioneers of this region. The great bowerbird, meticulously working on his love shack, nearby the relocated homestead, was a highlight.
Departing from Wyndham we passed by the anchored ore carrier that was loading iron ore throughout our stay at the wharf. Every twenty minutes, twenty-four hours per day, seven days a week, fifty-two weeks per year, a truck hauling four ore laden trailers arrives at the port. As we headed to sea, we enjoyed lively conversation, evening recap and yet another fine dinner. To end the day, our crew entertained us with the National Geographic Orion crew show. A fine ending to a fine day of explorations.
