Falling into the arms of the Kimberley was always inevitable. It’s sentiment grew from the story of how my parents met—becoming my namesake (there is an ‘e’ before the ‘y’). However, it’s allure originated from the complete and utter mystery of north west Australia.
Most will have seen the photos, watched the features on travel shows and heard all about the unbearability of the ‘suicide season’. Although, none of these things fully encapsulate the unrestrained nature of a place that truly sets it’s own rules and limitations for human kind, and that to me is the most captivating aspect of these landscapes.
What was yet to be explored instilled a curiosity that overruled any sense of doubt or loneliness that comes with moving to an isolated place on your own. Little did I know how much this chapter would speed up the evolution of my own personal character; as well as my appreciation for Australia’s rugged enchantment.
The Kimberley stands unrivalled as one of the most arid, vast and beautiful places in all of Australia—home to phenomenal tides and dramatic weather events that dictate the possibility of every adventure.
What this means for visitors is that no two experiences are the same. That in itself gives it both a distinct edge as a tourist destination, and adds a sense of excitement for those trying to escape the constraints of day-to-day routine (me, big time).
The transformative movement of water comes down to the Kimberley’s wide and shallow continental shelves which extend for hundreds of kilometers, creating the biggest tides in the southern-hemisphere. If there’s one thing this journey validates, it’s that the tide waits for no man—and the moon can be a bit of a prick.
Having previously worked behind a screen doing the 9-5 grind in a white collar environment that gave me a serious case of imposter syndrome, the position of Stewardess on a boat that sails through open waters sounded nothing short of living the dream.
After working on the water for half a year I can comfortably say that I’ve never taken so much pride in a role; backed by the reward of knowing my true personality and a solid work ethic have such massive potential to elevate the experience of other individuals.
The guests verbalise how much they value my contribution, tell me openly about their personal and diverse backgrounds as though I’m an age-old mate, and get genuinely excited when I have the opportunity to join them on their ventures. There’s no question about it being hard yakka, but it’s quite unique to work in an environment where it feels like you really get back every inch you put in—tenfold. The practical skills I’ve learnt have also been a major perk; instilling a thirst for catching the illustrious Barramundi (to be continued) and an eagerness to jump in and flex my bow-line tying skills (because that’s all I got).
Now, If you asked me what my favourite thing about the Kimberley was, I could easily roll out a 10-metre long script which would include some of the following:
- The way the cliff faces illuminate fluorescent hues of red and orange in the afternoon and morning sun.
- The rapid ebb and flow of water which creates whirlpools that have the potential to swallow you whole; making you feel incredibly powerless.
- The adrenaline rush you get as the creepiest prehistoric creatures curiously approach.
- The complete solitude and afternoon ambience that absolutely demands a cold beer at the end of the day.
- The numerous swimming spots and waterfalls that make it seem like it was nature’s intention for us to discover them.
- The ongoing education; reminding you how important it is to preserve and sustain these natural economies that well-exceed anything humans are capable of creating.
- The indigenous history behind the landmarks that raise eyebrows as to how anyone could withstand the hurdles in which these desolate lands put forward.
However, the one thing that takes the cake for me is how being in the midst of this environment puts everything else into perspective. It reminds you how insignificant your daily dramas and worries really are, and increases your consciousness around the sole purpose of our existence.
Living and working in the Kimberley has changed every aspect of my life in the best possible way. I’ve developed a love for being on the water which stands unchallenged by any other career path, and I know this will naturally evolve—as skills and interests always do—to help me become the best version of myself in years to come.
