There are many attractions to see along the way from Newman to Karijini National Park. The first sight the team marveled at was the Cathedral Rocks. The rocks take their name from the Cathedral Ranges. These impressive rock formations look like church organ pipes and were the result of the movement of tectonic plates pushing the rocks upwards. The snappy gums that grow out of the tops of the trees are an interesting spectacle- a great spot for photo enthusiasts. 

Next stop was Weeli Wooli Creek, a glorious spot 44 kilometers off the main road. The area has a number of pools and small waterfalls. The water is clear and flows for nearly five kilometers, making it a sanctuary for wildlife and fish. The creek is lined with majestic paperbarks and river gums that reach heights of up to 30m. Huge date palms can also be seen which add a tropical feel to the place. The palms were brought to Weeli Wooli Creek by Afghan cameleers. While camping is not permitted, this is a great spot for a picnic.

The Wanna Munna Aboriginal rock carvings are 76 kilometres north of Newman or a 2 hour drive. The animal, human and dreamtime carvings were created by pecking the surface of the rock with a hard stone and depicts beings that inhabited the land nearly 1000 generations before Europeans arrived. The site is protected by the Museum Trust and care must be taken to avoid damaging these unique cultural records. This is a great place to have lunch, where you may even spot kangaroos and other local animals that come to drink at the waterholes.

Next stop was BHP Billiton’s Yandi mine-site. The team got exclusive access to the mine-site to see an impressive wetland. Sustainability of the environment is key to BHP’s operations and extensive efforts have been put into place to ensure this. Environmental advisors are employed to monitor the health of the environment around the mine and keep it as close as possible to its pristine best. The creek located at Yandi is full of spangled perch. The perch are suited to life in the Pilbara; as the creeks dry, the fish lay eggs in the mud. When the rains come and the creek pool begins to fill up, the eggs hatch and the river is full of fish again.

These are just a few of the attractions that can be seen when traveling between Newman and Karijini National Park and there are plenty of other natural wonders and sights worth taking a look at. For more information on how to plan your trip, contact those with the expert local knowledge at Newman Visitor Centre.


Contact:
Newman Visitor Centre
Corner Fortescue Avenue and Newman Drive, Newman WA
Postal address: PO Box 303, Newman WA 6753
Phone: +61 8 9175 2888
Fax: +61 8 9175 2964
Email: newmanvc@bigpond.com
Website: www.newman-wa.org