Lake Argyle - Introduction

The mighty Ord River was dammed in 1971, forming a storage reservoir to supply water to one of Australia's largest and most ambitious irrigation schemes. The lake can encompass an area of more than 2000km2, a volume of water equivalent to 54 Sydney Harbours. What was once a million acre cattle station "Argyle Downs" has now been flooded, creating a unique ecosystem, home to an amazing array of wildlife amid majestic scenery.

No visit to the Kimberley region is complete without experiencing the wonder of Lake Argyle.

Lake Argyle Cruises is one of the leading tour operators of the Kimberley and we pride ourselves on being able to continually exceed customer expectations. With knowledge of the area that is second to none and a team of professional dedicated staff, it is assured that your visit to this magnificent place will rate as a highlight of your holiday in the Kimberley.

This view shows 3% of Lake Argyle

Scenery :

A typical Lake Argyle sunset

"If one were to paint this country in its true colours, I doubt it would be believed. It would be said at least that the artist exaggerated greatly, for never have I seen such richness and variety of hue as in these ranges." M.P. Durack 'Kings in Grass Castles' by kind permission from the authour Mary Durack

Reptiles :

Up to 90 islands throughout Lake Argyle provide predator free nesting grounds for the Johnstone River fresh water crocodile. They breed so successfully that the population has reached approximately 20,000 and occasionally licenses have been issued to harvest these valuable animals.

Birds :

The lake has become a wetland of international significance, an ideal habitat for almost one third of Australia's bird species. Flocks of dancing Brolgas, Australia's only stork, the Jabiru, the majestic White Bellied Sea Eagle and rare species such as the Yellow Chat and Purple Crowned Fairy Wren, are just some of the birds to be seen.

Black Necked Storks

Marsupials :

Short Eared Rock Wallabies now thrive in rocky crevices close to the water's edge. Wallaroos living on the islands have adapted to feed almost entirely on aquatic plants washed onto the shore.

Fish :

As the lake filled, about 26 native species of fish, which inhabited small pools in the Ord River, quickly multiplied. There is now a commercial fishing industry which mainly targets the massive Silver Cobbler, which can reach 40kg. Other fish include the delicious Sooty Grunter and the amazing Archer Fish which can be seen shooting down insects with a jet of water.

Short Eared Rock Wallabies

Accommodation & Meals