Derby

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Overview

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Derby was the first town to be settled in the Kimberley and is known as the home of the Boab tree. These trees give a distinctive character to its streets.

In the early days Derby serviced the fledgling pastoral industry of the interior and pearl shell industry of the Buccaneer Archipelago. Its prosperity depended on the economic fluctuations of the mining and pastoral industries of its hinterland. Today it is a regional administrative and supply centre with 5000 permanent residents. With its friendly, easy going outback character it has become a popular stopover for visitors heading to the outback regions of the West Kimberley along the Gibb River Road. A variety of accommodation, shops and restaurants make for a pleasant stay.

Located at the base of the King Sound, Derby has the unique distinction of having the highest tides in Australia, peaking at over 11 metres. Crabbing trips and sea safaris into the Buccaneer Archipelago depart from the unique Derby jetty.

Things to do

Vist the Wharfinger's House Museum
Drop into the Botanical Gardens - an oasis containing many exotic palms
Discover Old Derby Gaol - The oldest building still standing in Derby
Fish from the Jetty and see the mosaic
See Mowanjum Art - Aboriginal art and design gallery
See one of the most unusual sights in the Kimberley, the horizontal '2-way' waterfall in the Buccaneer Archipelago
Walk the Joonjoo Botanical Trail - a 3 km trail through a sample of the Wanganut Land
Visit the Prison Boab Tree - believed to be around 1,500 years old
Do the Pigeon Heritage Trail - a self guided trail
Take a dip in Frostys Pool
Observe birds from the platform at Waste Water Wetland
Play 18 Holes at the Derby Golf Course
Take a scenic flight leaving from Derby