The pristine Dunham River, located in the heart of Western Australia’s spectacular East Kimberley, is under threat from a proposed mining project by Tivan that could irreparably harm its unique ecosystem and cultural heritage. The Dunham River, flowing from the remote Durack Range to the Ord River, is one of the region’s most significant and untouched water systems, with extraordinary environmental and cultural values.
Kim Bridge, a Kimberley Traditional Owner and local businessman, is calling on the WA government to reject any plans that would destroy the river’s natural beauty and ecological integrity. The mining proposal, which targets critical minerals such as fluorite and vanadium, threatens the very heart of this pristine landscape, with the deposit located directly next to the waterway.
Dunham River Channel with Paperbark Forest. Photo: Jake Parker Imagery.
A hidden gem at risk
The Dunham River flows through some of the Kimberley’s most remote and awe-inspiring landscapes, from the rugged gorges near Halls Creek to the tranquil floodplains near Kununurra. The river, largely unknown to all but locals and a few seasoned adventurers, supports a thriving ecosystem and is a key part of the life-giving water that feeds Cambridge Gulf.
In the wet season, the region’s iconic Letterbox Gorge forms a dramatic bottleneck, with waters surging up the cliffs before spilling out onto the floodplain. These extraordinary natural features make the area a haven for biodiversity and a vital resource for local communities, including the Traditional Owners, who rely on the river for food, medicine, and recreation.
Letterbox Gorge. Photo: Jake Parker Imagery.
The ethical and environmental case against mining
While the push for minerals critical to the renewable energy transition is growing, many believe these valuable resources do not need to come at the cost of the Kimberley’s most pristine landscapes. The Dunham River’s catchment area is one such example, where mining activities could irreparably damage the land and water systems, and harm the very ecosystem that is vital to the region’s sustainability.
Kim Bridge strongly opposes the mining proposal, stating, “I’ve spent over 20 years walking this land, and I’ve seen firsthand how special this place is. The Dunham River and its surrounding landscapes are an integral part of our culture, and they must be protected for future generations. The proposed open-cut mine would be a disaster for the river and the community—it’s just too big a risk, and once the damage is done, it’s irreversible.”
Mr Bridge is also sending a strong message to potential investors that this venture cannot go ahead, it’s way too important an area, a pristine cultural and natural gem not to be damaged by mining.
Once the public sees the proposed mine site, with its open-cut approach so close to a pristine river system, there will be an outcry. This is not the kind of business that will be supported by the community or the wider public.”
Kim Bridge, Dunham River. Photo: Jake Parker Imagery.
A call for government action
Conservationists are also speaking out against the mining proposal. Martin Pritchard, Acting CEO of Environs Kimberley, emphasised the need for sustainable development that protects the region’s globally significant landscapes. “This part of the Kimberley is one of the last truly wild places on Earth. To mine here would be completely out of step with any ethical standard of development. We need the renewable energy transition to happen, but not at the cost of destroying places like the Dunham River,” said Pritchard.
Both Bridge and Pritchard are calling on the WA government to protect the Dunham River and its catchment from destructive development. They urge Premier Roger Cook and Minister for Mines David Michael to take immediate action to rule out mining in this environmentally sensitive area.
“The Kimberley is one of the last unspoiled regions in Australia, and the government has a historic opportunity to protect it for future generations,” said Pritchard.
“We’re asking Minister for Water Simone McGurk to step up and lead the way in safeguarding these precious rivers before it’s too late.”
Martin Pritchard, Dunham River. Photo: Jake Parker Imagery.
Growing sustainable businesses not environmental destruction
The Country provides a wealth of opportunities for businesses to develop that focus on preserving and showcasing its natural beauty. “There’s enormous potential for eco-tourism, cultural experiences, and sustainable industries that respect the land,” he said. “But we must think beyond short-term profits and focus on the long-term health of this landscape. The Kimberley’s future lies in protecting places like the Dunham River, not destroying them.”
Showing 3 reactions
Sign in with
Facebook