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Kimberley's Horizontal Falls Shift to Cultural Tours
27 Aug
Summary
- Horizontal Falls will transition to cultural experiences post-2028.
- First Nations stories will be shared, respecting people and place.
- Dambeemangaddee guides will share their native title site stories.
Garaan-ngaddim, known as the Horizontal Falls, in Western Australia's Kimberley region is undergoing a significant transformation. Currently a popular attraction for thrill-seekers riding speedboats through powerful tidal rapids, the experience is slated to evolve into a cultural showcase.
This shift is driven by respect for the Dambeemangaddee traditional owners. While tourist operators have been granted an extension until the end of the 2028 season, the future focuses on cultural immersion. The Western Australian government is collaborating with the Dambeemangaddee People and tourism operators to develop experiences centered on sharing First Nations stories.
Dambimangari Aboriginal Corporation (DAC) is training guides to share their deep connection to the native title site, Garaan-ngaddim, meaning "floating over." This evolution aims to honor the spiritual significance of the area, which the Dambeemangaddee People traditionally navigated only during calmer neap tides.
The Buccaneer Archipelago, where the falls are located, is characterized by immense tides and ancient sandstone islands. Visitors can also experience the unique landscape, observe wildlife, and appreciate the natural majesty of the region, fostering a deeper understanding beyond the thrill of the falls themselves.
