Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
AAP
AAP
Rachael Ward

Changes to tourism at the iconic Horizontal Falls

Taking a boat through Horizontal Falls, north-east of Broome in WA, won't be allowed from 2028. (Dan Peled/AAP PHOTOS)

Tourists will soon be banned from taking boat rides through the iconic Horizontal Falls in the Kimberley region of in Western Australia.

The popular activity at the falls in Talbot Bay, about 250km northeast of Broome, will be phased out by March 2028.

The state government promised there will be "new experiences" on offer instead, while visitors and tourism operators will still be able to access surrounding waters.

Environment minister Reece Whitby said the government had a responsibility to respect the cultural views of traditional owners while also supporting the tourism sector.

An aerial view of Horizontal Falls north-east of Broome.
An aerial view of Horizontal Falls north-east of Broome. (Dan Peled/AAP PHOTOS)

"This is a positive change that is based on mutual respect, understanding and a shared vision to showcase Western Australia's cultural and natural values," he said.

"We want people to experience Indigenous culture as an essential, vibrant part of visiting jointly managed national and marine parks across Western Australia."

In 2022, more than 20 passengers were injured when a tourist boat ran into trouble at the tourist destination.

The falls are a natural phenomenon and the result of fast moving ocean water being is pushed through sandsone rock structures lying close together.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.