Kununurra

WELCOME TO KUNUNURRA (Goonoonoorrang)

Nestled on the banks of the mighty Ord River, Kununurra is a vibrant town with a fascinating story. Established in 1961 as a service hub for the groundbreaking Ord River Irrigation Scheme, Kununurra has grown from a small settlement of just 400 people to a thriving community of over 5,200 residents, and that number doubles in the dry season when visitors arrive to explore the Kimberley wonders.

Named Goonoonoorrang by the local Miriwung people, meaning “river,” a fitting tribute to a town defined by its life-giving waters. One of Kununurra’s most iconic landmarks is the Ord River Diversion Dam, built in 1963 at a cost of around $20 million. Stretching 335 metres wide and featuring 20 massive radial gates, the dam carefully controls the flow of water that sustains around 18,000 hectares of farmland. Water is released from the spectacular Lake Argyle, 55 km upstream, into Lake Kununurra, nourishing crops such as cotton, mangoes and melons.

The East Kimberley region is nothing short of extraordinary, home to some of the planet’s most ancient landscapes. From semi-desert plains and rugged ridges to tropical microclimates and coastal fringes, this region bursts with unique flora and fauna, offering a stunning backdrop to both adventure and discovery. Kununurra isn’t just about breathtaking landscapes and thriving agriculture, it’s also a gateway to rich Indigenous culture's of the East Kimberley.

Aboriginal history in the East Kimberley stretches back over 40,000 years. The area’s rock art is world-renowned, showcasing some of the finest examples of ancient paintings found globally. Today, visitors can experience a vibrant arts scene that blends these deep cultural traditions with the creative expressions of non-Aboriginal artists who now call the Kimberley home.

Kununurra is a town where ancient landscapes meet modern ingenuity, where rich cultural history blends with thriving agriculture, and where every visit offers a journey through time, nature, and human achievement.

For expert tips, advice, and help planning your Kimberley adventure, reach out to the local team at Kununurra Visitor Centre on (08) 9168 1177 or email [email protected]

For those curious about Australian Indigenous Culture and want to grow your understanding of the Kimberley region.You can order an online resource below that includes short videos, podcasts and more.

Welcome to the Kimberley Pack by Kimberley Jiyigas

 A Taste of the East Kimberley.

A Taste of the East Kimberley - proudly presented by Ord Valley Events