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Kimberley Stations Agricultural Tour Broome - Derby – Fitzroy Crossing - Halls Creek - Kununurra - Katherine - Darwin

17 Days / 16 Nights

21 August 2020 - 06 September 2020

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Accommodation

Accommodation Destination Start End Duration

Mercure Broome Broome 21 Aug 24 Aug 3 Nights

King Sound Resort Hotel Derby 24 Aug 25 Aug 1 Night

Fitzroy River Lodge Fitzroy Crossing 25 Aug 27 Aug 2 Nights

Kimberley Hotel Halls Creek 27 Aug 28 Aug 1 Night

Kununurra Lakeside Resort Kununurra 28 Aug 31 Aug 3 Nights

Home Valley Station by Voyages The Kimberley 31 Aug 2 Sep 2 Nights

Knotts Crossing Resort Katherine 2 Sep 4 Sep 2 Nights

Travelodge Resort Darwin Darwin 4 Sep 6 Sep 2 Nights

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Day 1: Mercure Broome, Broome (Fri, 21 August)

Day Itinerary

Welcome to Broome! Upon arrival at Broome Airport, collect you baggage and meet your Swagman Tours driver and

guide. You will then transfer to the Mercure Broome Hotel. Enjoy the afternoon to settle in to you hotel. Mercure

Broome will be our home for the next three nights

Clinging to the peninsula overhanging the gorgeous Roebuck Bay, the historic outback town of Broome is the largest

town in the vast outback area of Kimberley. Known for its colourful gardens, gorgeous powder-white beaches lapped

by crystal-clear turquoise waters, and its abundance of frangipani and coconut trees, Broome offers an oasis of

paradise in this otherwise desolate landscape. The town is brimming with creative energy as a thriving community of

artists and entrepreneurs have set up a host of impressive galleries, craft stores, quaint cafes and breweries. The

town boasts an unusual fusion of colonial Australian and Asian architectural styles, some remarkably friendly and

laidback locals as well as a vibrant Saturday morning market in the immaculate tropical gardens of the Court House.

With its world-famous beaches, its wonderfully relaxing atmosphere and its exceptionally scenic natural

surroundings, Broome is the perfect place to 'slip into Broome time' - as the local saying goes - and unwind in an

idyllic holiday destination.

Overnight: Mercure Broome

Located on beautiful Roebuck Bay, Mercure Broome is positioned in tropical gardens and set between red desert

and azure sea. Located 1km from the town centre, the recently-refurbished Mercure Broome features 136 rooms,

plus a restaurant, two bars and a swimming pool and offers friendly, affordable accommodation in a truly

breathtaking setting. Perfect for relaxation or adventure, this Broome hotel is the ideal base from which to explore

the gateway to the Kimberley region.

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Day 2: Mercure Broome, Broome (Sat, 22 August)

Day Itinerary

This morning see the highlights of Broome including Chinatown, the Sun outdoor theatre, the Japanese Pearl Divers

Cemetery, Antastasia’s Pool, Gantheaume Point and the Dinosaur’s footprints. After lunch, activities will be

organized by both a local pastoral company and your tour leader, and will involve visiting a property on the edge of

town plus seeing the marshaling/loading of cattle from Broome Port (subject to confirmation) for the live export

trade into the Pacific Rim, Middle East and South East Asia. Dinner out this evening (own expense).

Included

Breakfast

Day 3: Mercure Broome, Broome (Sun, 23 August)

Day Itinerary

A free day for private sightseeing. Maybe take the opportunity to go fishing. The day is yours to do as you please

and to soak up the colour and atmosphere of this pearling town. This evening enjoy a poolside BBQ at the

accommodation.

Included

Breakfast & Dinner

Day 4: King Sound Resort Hotel, Derby (Mon, 24 August)

Day Itinerary

After breakfast we leave Broome behind us, travel east along the Great Northern Highway toward the small

settlement of Derby. Along the way see the 1000 year old Prison Boab Tree and the Myall Stock Trough plus the

circular wharf overlooking picturesque King Sound. Arrive at King Sound Resort Hotel and check in for overnight

stay.

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Situated on the edge of the King Sound, in Western Australia’s Kimberley Region, Derby is a outback town, which

serves as a popular stopover for travellers heading into the gorge country of the vast north. The town is also the

primary gateway to Gibb River Road, the Windjana Gorge National Park, the Tunnel Creek National Park, and the

remote little islands of the Buccaneer Archipelago. One of Derby’s main attractions is the huge Boab Prison Tree

which is thought to be about 1500 years old. Other popular attractions include the Wharfingers House Museum, the

Botanical Gardens, the Old Derby Gaol, and an art gallery showcasing some interesting Aboriginal art and design.

Overnight: King Sound Resort Hotel

Located close to amenities, a recreation center and the Derby shopping precinct, King Sound Resort Hotel is an ideal

base from which to explore and discover the attractions of Derby. Take a dip in the outdoor swimming pool, or

simply relax in the tropical surroundings. The King Sound Resort Hotel, Derby offers a bistro, a cocktail bar and a

Palm bar as well as a beer garden, to relax and enjoy a meal or drink. Choose between a selection of air conditioned,

serviced hotel rooms and enjoy private bathroom facilities and room service.

Included

Breakfast

Day 5: Fitzroy River Lodge, Fitzroy Crossing (Tue, 25 August)

Day Itinerary

This morning after breakfast, Travel along the eastern end of the Lennard Ranges to visit Tunnel Creek to walk

through the underground stream, marvelling at this unique stream in its arid environment. See freshwater crocodiles

in the pools then continue to Gorge. On with the walking shoes for a stroll into the gorge – a fossilised barrier reef

with spectacular walls soaring 90 metres above the river bed. Continue your journey, ending the day travelling to

our accommodation for the next 2 nights.

Set on the banks of the mighty Fitzroy River, in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, Fitzroy Crossing is a

quintessential Australian outback town. This small settlement services local stations and acts as a convenient

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stopover for travellers exploring the scenic Kimberley area or those en-route to the Bungle Bungles Purnululu

National Park, or Kununurra and Darwin. The town also serves as an ideal base for visiting the nearby Geikie Gorge

National Park, a scenic waterway with towering cliffs and abundant wildlife; Tunnel Creek, an impressive cave

system decorated with aboriginal rock paintings and speleothems; and Windjana Gorge, one of the Kimberley area's

most beautiful gorges.

Overnight: Fitzroy River Lodge

Fitzroy River Lodge is situated deep in the heart of the Kimberley, on the banks of the mighty Fitzroy River. The river

lodge is an ideal accommodation choice for the dedicated holidaymaker, weary traveller, expectant adventurer or

corporate guest. At the lodge, guests can relax on fifty acres of natural bush with shady trees and landscaped

gardens.

Included

Breakfast & Dinner

Day 6: Fitzroy River Lodge, Fitzroy Crossing (Wed, 26 August)

Day Itinerary

Today is a day of leisure. You may choose to venture into Fitzroy River Town and experience the real Australian

charm, pre book a guided tour to Geike Gorge or simply relax at the Lodge.

Included

Breakfast & Dinner

Day 7: Kimberley Hotel, Halls Creek (Thu, 27 August)

Day Itinerary

This morning travel toward the historic township of Halls Creek. Halls Creek is a busy service town for surrounding

pastoralists, Aboriginal communities and travellers. Upon arrival travel out to the original Old Halls Creek site where

gold was discovered in 1885 and see the crumbling mud brick ruins plus the China Wall – a natural quartzite

formation. Also visit the statue in the town park known as ‘Russian Jack’ and hear about his heroic act journey to the

Kimberley Hotel in Halls creek. Enjoy dinner and overnight stay.

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Situated in the heart of the outback on the edges of the Tanami and the Great Sandy Deserts, in the East Kimberley

region of Western Australia, the old gold rush town of Halls Creek is the final destination along the well-known

Canning Stock Route. This bustling hub serves as a major centre for numerous cattle stations in the area as well as

the local indigenous communities. Halls Creek is the gateway to a variety of world-famous natural attractions

including: the nearby well-preserved Wolfe Creek Crater, and the spectacular Bungle Bungle Mountain Ranges of

Purnululu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Overnight: Kimberley Hotel

The Kimberley Hotel is conveniently located adjacent to the local airport and approximately 500 meters away from

the town center. It offers stylish Kimberley accommodations and boasts large motel units. Set among maintained

gardens, with wide verandas and pathways that connect the accommodation building to the reception complex, the

Kimberley Hotel is an oasis in the rugged outback landscape. Hotel facilities include an attractive colonial style sports

lounge, saloon bar, cocktail bar, restaurant and in ground pool.

Included

Breakfast & Dinner

Day 8: Kununurra Lakeside Resort, Kununurra (Fri, 28 August)

Day Itinerary

Depart Halls Creek and travel towards Kununurra. Along the way cross over the Ord River. The Ord River is a

significant Australian waterway with beautiful scenery & wildlife. Arrive at your accommodation in Kununurra, and

settle in for a 3 night stay.

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Located close to the confluence of the Ord and the Dunham rivers, in the far north of Western Australia, Kununurra

is the largest town north of Broome. The town is set amongst rugged hills, mountain ranges, and abundant lakes. The

main attraction in the area is Lake Argyle, Australia's largest artificial lake, which is just 70 kilometres south of

Kununurra. Visitors can look forward to a wide variety of activities including: exploring the nearby Purnululu National

Park, a World Heritage Site; soaking up a sunset view from Kelly’s Knob viewpoint; or taking an exciting boat trip up

the Ord River to spot crocodiles, kingfishers, eagles, bats and more. Other popular activities include: horse riding,

fishing, swimming as well as 4x4 outback adventures and scenic flights.

Overnight: Kununurra Lakeside Resort

Kununurra Lakeside Resort is situated alongside the stunningly unique Lily Creek Lagoon, 2 km away from the town

center. It offers a tranquil relaxing environment to stay in while exploring the raw wildness of the Kimberley region.

Set among three acres of lush green lawns, at the lake’s edge, the property houses 24 premier king rooms, 18 self-

catering rooms and 8 standard motel rooms. All rooms are air conditioned with en suite bathrooms, remote control

TV, refrigerator, tea, coffee and ironing facilities.

Included

Breakfast & Dinner

Day 9: Kununurra Lakeside Resort, Kununurra (Sat, 29 August)

Day Itinerary

This morning our local guide joins us for a tour of the town itself, the Ord River irrigation scheme farms, Ivanhoe

Crossing, Diversion Dam, Indian sandalwood plantations, hybrid seed production plus chia, melon and pumpkin

crops. Afterwards the remainder of the day is at leisure for private sightseeing or relaxing, and dinner is at own

expense this evening.

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Included

Breakfast

Day 10: Kununurra Lakeside Resort, Kununurra (Sun, 30 August)

Day Itinerary

Day Itinerary – Day at Leisure or OPTIONAL BUNGLE BUNGLE FLY IN - from $850 per person

This scenic flight takes you on an unforgettable adventure over the Bungle Bungle Range, Lake Argyle, the Argyle

Diamond Mine and the Ord River Irrigation Area. You will also fly over the stunning Carr Boyd Ranges, Osmand

Ranges, the Ord River and Bow River. Once reaching Purnululu National Park, you will land at the remote and

unsealed Bellburn Airstrip, where you will be met by a tour guide and an air-conditioned 4WD bus. From the Airstrip,

your guide will drive you further into the Park, where you will then disembark and enjoy a guided walk throughout

the famous eroded towers and black and orange banded beehive domes of the Bungle Bungle Range. This Domes

Walk is of moderate intensity, and is about 3- kilometres in distance. From here, you will follow your guide on the

walk into Cathedral Gorge, where towering cliffs open up to form a space with incredible natural acoustics. Whilst in

the Gorge, enjoy a fresh picnic-style lunch whilst relaxing in one of the most beautiful spots in the Park. After a short

rest, you will walk along the dry creek bed of Piccaninny Creek, before returning to Bellburn Airstrip. You will then

board your return scenic flight to Kununurra, with views of the Argyle Diamond Mine along the way. Throughout the

day, your total flight time will amount to two hours.

Enjoy dinner out this evening (own expense).

Included

Breakfast

Day 11: Home Valley Station by Voyages, The Kimberley (Mon, 31 August)

Day Itinerary

Leaving Kununurra behind us, we travel across the border into the Northern Territory. Join the Victoria Highway

passing through some of the largest station properties in the Top End. Stop off at Timber Creek on the mighty

Victoria River. Kimberley landscape of rivers, gorges, red ochre colours and wide open spaces heading for our two

night stay at Home Valley Station. Enter the heart of the Kimberley as the going gets tough but the scenery is superb

travelling along the Gibb River Road through the Cockburn Ranges.

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Overnight: Home Valley Station by Voyages

Home Valley Station is located close to the mighty Pentecost River, at the foot of the majestic Cockburn Range. The

station’s spacious Grass Castles accommodation on idyllic Bindoola Creek are generously appointed, providing guests

with the ultimate in outback lodging. Guesthouse Rooms provide a comfortable retreat and are ideal for couples and

families. The safari style Eco Tents, located in a quiet bush setting, will impress those seeking to connect with nature.

Those wishing to roll out under the stars will enjoy the Gibb River Road's camping facilities at the Station

Campground and the Pentecost River Bush Camp. The Dusty Bar & Grill is an iconic part of the Home Valley Station,

serving quality Australian cuisine against a backdrop of authentic station memorabilia.

Included

Breakfast & Dinner

Day 12: Home Valley Station by Voyages, The Kimberley (Tue, 1 September)

Day Itinerary

A free morning to enjoy this Aboriginal run cattle station property with time to stroll along the station

tracks, perhaps go barra fishing on the Pentecost River of just soak up the surroundings of this wonderful

place. After lunch travel to Bindoola Gorge and walk into this rugged and unique area. Enjoy sundowners

overlooking the three fingers of the Cockburn Ranges this evening.

Included

Breakfast & Dinner

Day 13: Knotts Crossing Resort, Katherine (Wed, 2 September)

Day Itinerary

After an early breakfast head south along the Stuart Highway toward Litchfield National Park. Spend time in this

pristine area marveling at the spectacular double waterfall of Florence Falls and enjoy a swim at the popular Wangi

Falls. See the unique architectural feat of the magnetic termite mounds before stopping at the solemn but beautiful

Adelaide River War Cemetery and then continue down the Stuart Highway to Katherine.

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Katherine is a serene town located just outside the borders of the Nitmiluk National Park, which is owned by the

indigenous Jawoyn Aboriginal people and jointly managed with the local Parks and Wildlife Commission. Tourists use

Katharine as a base from which to explore the Edith Falls, scenic Jatbula Trail and the Cutta Cutta Caves Nature Park.

Alternatively, visit the Top Didj Cultural Experience to take in authentic Aboriginal art and culture, relax in the crystal

clear Katherine Hot Springs, or take a walk along the river bed on a path that leads to Katherine Low level Nature

Reserve.

Overnight: Knotts Crossing Resort

Knotts Crossing Resort, is situated in the picturesque Katherine Region of Australia’s Northern Territory.

Approximately 320 kms from Darwin and Kakadu National Park in the Top End of Australia, the resort is set amongst

acres of stunning tropical gardens and is just a two minute walk from the Katherine River. Knotts Crossing Resort

offers a range of comfortable, well priced options for accommodation including suites, cabins, caravans and

camping. Facilities at the resort include a restaurant, bar, outdoor garden bar, two swimming pools, three outdoor

barbeques, two huest laundries, wireless internet and wake up calls. Katherine’s town centre is just a 10 minute

stroll and has a shopping complex, tourist information centre, boutique shopping, a cinema, restaurants and cafes.

Included

Breakfast & Dinner

Day 14: Knotts Crossing Resort, Katherine (Thu, 3 September)

Day Itinerary

Local managers of Elders and Landmark will assist in organizing property visits today. Properties will most likely be

commercial cattle producers with stock bred for the live export trade. We will also visit the Katherine Research

Station to see their research and development on pasture/grass management along with an export feed cubing

plant, export stock yards and handling facility plus see the pivot irrigation area growing feed for the cube

plant. Later in the day visit the Katherine Ag College to see a practical outback educational experience.

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Included

Breakfast & Dinner

Day 15: Travelodge Resort Darwin, Darwin (Fri, 4 September)

Day Itinerary

This morning we depart for Darwin. We head along the Stuart Highway stopping at Edith Falls, a series of cascading

waterfalls and pools on the Edith River. We then continue on the solemn but beautiful Adelaide River War Cemetery

to see the military graves honoring those killed in the bombing of Darwin. Upon arrival at the check into your hotel

and enjoy dinner and overnight stay.

Darwin is a tropical seaport in the Northern Territory of Australia that serves as a convenient access point to

Katherine Gorge, Kakadu National Park and Litchfield National Park. The city is a melting pot of different cultures,

with more than 50 nationalities represented here. With a strong Asian influence, you can expect a kaleidoscope of

cuisines and a cultural blend of Thai, Sri Lankan, Japanese, Indian, Chinese and Malaysian. Darwin's city centre

buzzes with a lively tourist vibe, while unique museums celebrate the city's past and galleries showcase the region's

rich indigenous art. Sail to the intriguing Tiwi Islands, take a speedboat ride or go fishing in a tinny – the local version

of a small boat.

Overnight: Travelodge Resort Darwin

Surrounded by tropical gardens, with swimming pools and a waterfall at its centre, Travelodge Resort Darwin offers

a tropical oasis in the heart of Darwin city centre. Free WiFi is provided.

All rooms are air-conditioned and include cable TV, in-room safe, bathroom with shower, and a refrigerator. Some

accommodation features a kitchenette and separate lounge/dining area.

Guests at Travelodge Resort Darwin can relax by the swimming pools surrounded by palm trees. Facilities include a

fitness room and a 24-hour reception.

Included

Breakfast & Dinner

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Day 16: Travelodge Resort Darwin, Darwin (Sat, 5 September)

Day Itinerary

This morning a representative from the Northern Territory Cattleman’s Council will speak about the state of play of

the pastoral industry in the Top End (subject to confirmation). Afterwards travel out of Darwin to visit an export

mango farm that produces mangoes and starfruit to supply the major supermarkets throughout the country. After

lunch travel to Berry Springs and visit the Territory Wildlife Park in time to see the Birds of Prey presentation. This

expansive park has three main areas; the Wetlands with its aquarium, lagoons and billabongs housing tropical fish,

turtles, and both species of crocodile. A Monsoon Vine Forest which hosts a 1km boardwalk gently lifting toward the

canopy of natural bushland to view the array of birdlife and finally a Woodland area that includes a Nocturnal house,

where you have the opportunity to see animals rarely seen in the wild. This evening is free to dine out (own

expense).

Included

Breakfast

Day 17: End of Itinerary (Sun, 6 September)

Day Itinerary

Have the opportunity for last minute shopping to buy mementos before transferring to Darwin Airport for you flight

home, so ending a memorable trip to the Kimberley region.

Included

Breakfast

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Expressions of Interest

Subject to a minimum of 12 passengers travelling

Main Tour cost will includes:

Economy airfares Mel/Syd to Broome and Darwin to Mel/Syd (via Perth if no Direct options for Broome)

Air-conditioned restroom equipped coach travel throughout with experienced driver/guide & hostess.

Twin share accommodation with ensuite facilities throughout.

Meals as per itinerary.

All entry fees to sightseeing activities, farm & technical visits as per the itinerary.

Main Tour cost will NOT include:

Travel Insurance – this is COMPULSORY to have in place prior to travel

Items of a personal nature (eg laundry/phone/souvenirs) and any optional extras listed in the itinerary

Beverages and any meals not listed in the itinerary

IMPORTANT NOTES: The tour cost is subject to change due to currency fluctuations, visa fee increases, airfare, fuel surcharges and / or tax increases. As this is a group package, all passengers must travel on the same outbound flight to Broome. Post touring options are available and will incur an amendment fee of $75.00 per person plus extra touring and insurance costs.

FARM & TECHNICAL VISITS: A fully furnished list of confirmed visits both to farming properties and technical stops will be given with your ticket wallets approximately 2-3 weeks prior to your departure.

* Changes and alterations may take place from details listed in the itinerary *.

Lvl 1, 13a Pakington Street, Geelong West,

3218 (PO Box 7473) 1800 202 491 // 03 5222 2855

groups@swagmantours.com.au www.swagmantours.com.au