Warmun: Gija art and tours through Warmun Country

Warmun, also known as Turkey Creek, is the settlement closest to Purnululu National Park. For trip planning, the area brings together two distinct perspectives: the Warmun Art Centre presents contemporary Gija art and culture, while nearby Purnululu National Park offers a landscape perspective, with gorges, canyons and tall rock domes. There are also tours through Warmun Country and scenic flights departing from Warmun. This brings together a cultural point of reference in the settlement and a natural environment nearby.

Gija art and culture at the Warmun Art Centre

The Warmun Art Centre is owned and operated by the Gija. It was founded in 1998 by founding members of Warmun’s contemporary painting movement. Its gallery displays contemporary works by Gija artists and gives visitors the opportunity to engage with Gija art and culture. The Centre also showcases expressions of Gija Country and Ngarrangkarni (Dreaming) stories. Visitors interested in Gija art will find a specific point of reference for their stay in Warmun here.

The exhibition area of the Warmun Art Centre displays Gija cultural artefacts and recordings of Elders discussing their history, culture and art. The Warmun Community Collection comprises more than 300 objects, including paintings and wood carvings. In a significance assessment in 2006, it was rated as one of Australia’s most significant collections in historical and cultural terms. The dates refer to different events: the Art Centre’s founding in 1998 and the collection’s significance assessment in 2006.

Landscape and activities in Purnululu National Park

Purnululu National Park is in the area surrounding Warmun. Its gorges, canyons and tall rock domes shape the landscape aspect of the trip. Activities available in the park include hiking, photography, camping, wildlife watching and scenic flights. Hiking and camping are land-based activities, while scenic flights add an aerial perspective. Access and operations are subject to seasonal and operational conditions. Check the conditions for your planned activity in advance.

Tours and scenic flights from Warmun

A Tagalong tour by Goloou Tours departs from the Warmun Roadhouse and travels through Warmun Country. The guided tour, led by Traditional Owners, focuses on significant places around Warmun, local history, bush tucker traditions and spiritual connections in the landscape. Availability and itineraries may change; check these details before planning.

The Warmun Roadhouse is located on the Great Northern Highway in Warmun and is the departure point for 45-minute scenic flights over the Bungle Bungle. Scenic flights regularly depart from Warmun. The durations therefore range from 45-minute flights to one- or two-day tours. Flight schedules and operating details, as well as tour availability and details, may change; check the relevant information before planning.

Accommodation guide to Warmun

The Turkey Creek Roadhouse in Warmun offers a general store, fast food, a restaurant, motel accommodation and a caravan park. Individual facilities may change.

Discover more destinations: Greenough, South Yunderup, Swanbourne, Bibra Lake, Clackline, Cuballing, Siesta Park, Balingup

For the broader travel overview: Western Australia.