Celebrating Protecting the Kimberley for 30 years

It was a beautiful Broome night where we celebrated 30 years of work with the community, Traditional Owners, partner groups and other conservation organisations in protecting the Kimberley. Looking back we’ve had some amazing wins in protecting places and landscapes, working on two-way science to better understand and manage the threats facing the environment and supporting work in remote communities. 

It was a full house at the Pearl Luggers where EK Chair Carmel Leahy gave a moving tribute to one of our founders, the beloved Pat Lowe. Bunuba leader, Joe Ross gave a generous address which provided history on our early days protecting the Martuwarra Fitzroy River with the Aboriginal Alliance ‘Bandaralngarri’, which we joined. Peter Garrett, conservationist, ex-Minister and Midnight Oil frontman highlighted the incredibly special place the Kimberley is, the serious threats we face and congratulated everyone on working to protect the Kimberley. EK Executive Director Martin Pritchard, the MC, detailed EK history and inspired the crowd to continue the fight to protect the Kimberley.

There was a strong emphasis on the fact that no single group alone can protect special places in the Kimberley. Success comes from working with Traditional Owners and Custodians, developing long lasting partnerships and alliances and working with the community to ensure future generations can enjoy what we have, a globally important natural and cultural landscape.

The music was outstanding with local bands generously giving their time. The Gray Brothers, Stellar Moon and the Dark Knights, Wil Thomas and Band and Stephen Pigram and the Jigil Trio gave powerful, inspiring performances to match the crowd’s enthusiasm.

EK staff and volunteers ensured an incredibly well-run evening. Thanks to Troppo’s Mitch for the sound, Emily and the Luggers for looking after us at the venue and the beautiful photos from Jackamarra Photography. We also thank our generous supporters and donors without whom we couldn’t do this work.

It’s a huge challenge to protect the Kimberley. We’re up against giant corporations, billionaires, cattle barons and big mining companies. It’s a David and Goliath battle. We can only do this work with the generous support of members and donors. If you would like to support us, become a member here or donate here.