WA govt softens call on Horizontal Falls tours

Tourism operators offering experiences passing through Horizontal Falls in the Kimberley will be allowed to continue their rides until 2028, after the state government reversed its decision to phase out the tours earlier. 

Tours through the falls were set to finish at the end of this year, with the exception Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures – which would continue until its licence expired in March 2028. 

It was announced on Monday that all licensed tours could continue until 2028, alongside a state government commitment of $5 million in the 2026-27 budget to expand traditional owner-led tourism at WA landmark.  

Dambimangari Aboriginal Corporation will develop new cultural experiences with $4.5 million of the package dedicated to infrastructure delivery. 

In addition, $470,000 will be directed to the creation of a business case and feasibility study, led by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.

Tourism Council WA chief executive Evan Hall welcomed the move, saying it provided fifteen tourism operators with certainty, while generating $15 million and 58 full time equivalent jobs in the region. 

“Horizontal Falls, together with swimming with whale sharks, are bucket list experiences for WA and this provides the opportunity for Tourism WA to show off WA’s very best experiences around the world to attract people into Perth, the Coral Coast, the Kimberley and beyond,” he said.

“This is a world-class experience and it’s fantastic to see it remain open to the public as the Marine Park’s natural and cultural tourism experiences evolve.”

The state government commitments were made based on advice from the Garaan-ngaddim Horizontal Falls Working Group, made up of DAC and tourism operators.

Whether the tours will continue after 2028, will depend on a review by DAC and the state government. 

Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn said the funding formed a new model of tourism at the falls. 

“Through this budget investment, we are laying the foundations for a new model of tourism at Garaan-ngaddim – one that is led by traditional owners, supports the tourism industry, and ensures this iconic destination remains a drawcard for visitors for generations to come,” he said. 

DAC vice chair Leah Umbagai highlighted the importance of caring for Horizontal Falls, or Garaan-ngaddim.

“Our ancestors have given us this Country to look after,” she said. 

“As Wandjina Woongudd people, it’s our obligation to care for and respect Country. 

“We want to share Country with visitors, and share our story the right way.”

The West Kimberley Aboriginal group hopes to build on a pilot program with Journey Beyond, where they worked on creating Dambimangari-led tours.

Journey Beyond chief executive Chris Tallent said the program was a success. 

“The pilot program has delivered real economic benefits and created education and employment opportunities for Dambeemangaddee people, while giving our guests a more genuine cultural experience and a deeper understanding of Country,” he said.