Australia’s Dampier Peninsula will soon become more accessible to visitors but it has raised questions about the sustainability of the spectacular landscape.
Dampier Peninsula is expected an increase in tourism. Photo by Posnov
The peninsula is home to about 80 Aboriginal communities who, so far, have only been reachable by plane tour or the Cape Leveque road, a rough track that was frequently closed in the wet season and driveable only with a four-wheel vehicle. However, this road is due to be fully sealed up by 2021, making the journey easier and more enticing to tourists.
One assessment estimated visitor numbers could increase by more than 40%, good news for the many Aboriginal-owned businesses but one which could have a negative impact on the landscape. To help negate the negative impact, one idea suggested has been a toll road, the funds from which can help contribute to the management of the area.
The stunning scenery of the peninsula. Photo by Stefan Mokrzecki
Environs Kimberley, an environmental organisation working in the area, told ABC News that more work was needed to protect “this jewel of Aboriginal culture.” A representative told the paper: “What we’re concerned about is that there will be thousands of new visitors to the peninsula and that comes at a cost to the environment and also puts great stress on communities up there and they need support for that.”
The road is, of course, not just being sealed for the benefit of tourism. It’s also crucial for the residents to move around the area and is a lifeline between the local communities and Broome, used for medical service among other essentials.
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