Dampier Archiplego
The Dampier Archipelago comprises 42 islands, islets and rocks lying within a 45 kim radius from the town of Dampier. Twenty-five of these islands are incorporated into reserves for the conservation of flora and fauna and are managed by the Dept of Environment and Conservation.
The islands were formed 6000 -8000 years ago when rising sea levels flooded coastal valleys, leaving hills and ridges exposed as islands. Many of the islands resemble the rugged Burrup Peninsula, with coastal cliffs and steep-sided rock piles separated by alleys, sand plain and beaches.
The relative isolation of the islands has shielded them fro the effects of the introduced flora and fauna that have devastated the mainland. They support plant and animal populations which are close to their natural state and allow for the conservation of native species which are vulnerable to feral predators. Quarantine relies on the visual inspection of material transported from the mainland and the destruction or removal of problem plants, animals and materials before they reach the islands.
There are over 30 species of terrestrial reptiles, including the gazetted rare Pilbara Olive Python . Green loggerhead flatback and hawksbill turtles use the beaches for nesting, along with over 25 species of birds. These include the fairy and bridled terns, which are only present in the Archipelago during their breeding season.
A number of marine mammals are frequently sighted in the waters surrounding the islands including dugongs, bottlenosed dolphins and humpback whales as they make their way to temperate and subtropical waters to mate and give birth. Information about whale watching for both their protection and yours is available from the DEC Karratha Office, (08) 9182 2000.
Early Aboriginal occupation by the Yapurrara people is evident in the forms of rock etchings, middens, fish traps and hunting hides. Introduced disease, exploitation and violent confrontation with settlers reduced the group’s numbers. Some descendents remain, but care of the country has been taken over by surrounding language groups.
The Dampier Archipelago including the Burrup Peninsula has been placed on the National Heritage List, to continue to protect the Aboriginal and European cultural diversity.
The waters around the islands are soon to be vested as the Dampier Archipelago Marine Park and Regnard Island Marine Management Area.
Swimming and snorkelling and diving are popular past times, and fishing can be carried out in all but the sanctuary zones. Contact the Dept of Environment and Conservation for further information on (08) 9182 2000.