Broome

Introducing Broome

An improbable combination of colours – red from the pindan (the rust-coloured dirt), the aquamarine of Roebuck Bay and the pearl white of Cable Beach’s sands – makes Broome’s landscape memorable. The dramatic contrasts of colour and weather, along with the town’s rich history and cultural complexity, give Broome an atmosphere and energy like no other place in WA. This vitality has enticed adventurers, entrepreneurs, artists and travellers to Broome, who have given the town a sense of the cosmopolitan – a vibrant culture, great cuisine, fine art and unique style that you won’t find elsewhere.

Initially established as a pearling centre by Japanese entrepreneurs in the 1880s, Broome quickly attracted Chinese and Malays who joined local Aboriginal divers in the dangerous side of the business. Pearl diving was in open water, and initially without breathing apparatus; many divers were taken by sharks or got the bends. Pearling peaked in the early 1900s, when the town’s 400 luggers supplied 80% of the world’s mother-of-pearl (mainly used for buttons). Today, pearl farms have replaced open-sea diving and a handful of successful family-run companies continue to provide the world with exquisite Broome pearls.

During the Dry, Broome buzzes; this is the best time to visit. During the Wet, prices drop, opening hours are shorter, and locals breathe a collective sigh of relief and get on with their lives. While some like visiting during this time, keep in mind many attractions shut and roads can close.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009