Exploring the pindan in Australia’s North West
I learned a new word while I was in Broome: pindan. It’s the word the Indigenous Bardi people of this area use to describe their country. And it’s become the word used for the “red” dirt roads that lead to some of the region’s most spectacular scenery.
On a day out with tour company InStyle Adventures, I learned many things about this magnificent part of Australia…but mostly I enjoyed the chance to just soak up the environment. Most of the places we went were untouched, and with only two other passengers aboard the comfortable 4WD it was easy to find space to be alone.
After a two-hour visit to the Willie Creek Pearl Farm, (see my previous post) we headed up unsealed bush tracks on that distinctive sandy red soil. InStyle Adventures’ owner Ed Bennett, who has lived in the Kimberley region since 2008, kept us entertained with stories of the indigenous people of the region, the explorers and pioneers. We learned about the Lurujarri Dreaming Trail, which runs for 82km along the coastline of what is now called the Dampier Peninsula, from Garlijan in the north, around Willie Creek, to Minyirr (Gantheaume Point near Broome) in the south.
Traditionally, the Aboriginal songline originates in the north, and this walking trail takes many days to complete. We drove, approached from the south and went only part of the way; I couldn’t help but think what a great experience it would be to walk it.
Nearing the coast, the pindan turns to white sand, and before long we were cresting dunes in the 4WD for a stop on the shores of the Indian Ocean.
While Ed prepared a barbecue lunch in the shelter of the dunes, we had time for a swim and a walk on the beach. I headed one way, the other passengers took the opposite direction. What a place! Alone on the beach, just the gulls for company, I revelled in the colour and warmth.
After lunch, we were off again, heading further north on the Dampier Peninsula – named for William Dampier, one of the earliest British explorers to reach this coast, in 1688. Our final stop for the day was at James Price Point, which I’ve written about before on this blog.
As we turned south again for Broome, the shadows on the pindan started to lengthen, showing the colours in a different light. We’d spent around eight hours exploring this beautiful coastline and I loved every minute. This is definitely a day trip worth doing.
A Glass Half Full travelled as a guest of InStyle Adventures and Australia’s North West Tourism.
A Glass Half Full 
6 Responses to “Exploring the pindan in Australia’s North West”
Every time I see photos of this red dirt I think that the photo had to be altered. The colour is so amazing.
Ha ha! No, that’s really the colour. No photoshop involved. Come and see it for yourself sometime, Carol.
Wonderful images and story. Especially love the wave. I’m going.
Yes, go! You won’t regret it. Glad you liked the wave – I took many shots of waves, lying on my stomach on the sand, trying to get it just right.
A writer of many talents.
Another great read thanks to you Lee! I am always amazed at how you are able to write and make your readers feel that they are just talking to a friend. My favorite part is about the shadows on the pindan. I can just imagine the scenery! Keep writing please!