Karratha (Munjaree)

The name originated from a pastoral station from which the land was resumed. The station was named by the first owners of the property between 1866 and 1879 with an Aboriginal word meaning "good country" or "soft earth".

Karratha, the town with the largest shopping centre in northwest Australia, has more than meets the eye. Located around 350 kilometres east of the well-known Ningaloo Reef, it is close to the Burrup and Point Samson Peninsula. And that's where a lot of Aboriginal history waits to be explored.

Karratha. In the distance the ocean is tempting, but there is no beach to have a swim. It's all boggy there.

Hearson's Cove and Deep Gorge

This is a lovely beach on the western side of Nickol Bay where you'll find lots of tiny shells instead of sand. Be careful, as there's no shade and you'll have to protect your skin from the sun.

When you travel back to the bitumen road, drive 1.1 kilometres before taking a track on the left. This short drive takes you to a car park approximately 100 metres off the road. After another 100 metres of walking you enter a small canyon, Deep Gorge, which is rich in Aboriginal rock engravings. Some 500 are said to be located in the vicinity.

Murujuga (Burrup Peninsula)

It's unbelievable that industrial development can destroy one of the largest Aboriginal rock engraving sites in the world.
Read more about Murujuga (Burrup Peninsula)
Article: Industry threatens rock art on Dampier Peninsula

Flying Foam Massacre

Read how the theft of flour escalated to a mass-shooting of Aboriginal people. The massacre is largely unknown even to the locals.
The Flying Foam Massacre

Jaburara Heritage Trail

Karratha offers a rare natural open-air museum which takes you through Aboriginal history. Here I explain the major sites.
Follow the Jaburara Heritage Trail.

Point Samson Peninsula

To visit the peninsula is a good day trip with a blend of history and relaxation.
Yay! Let's explore Point Samson Peninsula.