Lake Argyle - Things to See and Do


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Overview

72 kilometres by sealed road from Kununurra, Lake Argyle is a 1,000 square kilometre inland sea that in flood can hold nearly 35,000 million cubic metres and extends over an area of more than 2000 sq. km.. The lake was formed when the Ord River was dammed in June 1972 at a cost of $22 million. It has since developed its own eco systems and native flora and fauna abound.

The dam wall is 99 m high and 318 m long. Lake Argyle has a normal capacity of over 10. 7 million cubic metres (18 times the volume of Sydney Harbour) and a surface area of 980 sq. km. In flood, the dam can hold nearly 35,000 million cubic metres and extends over an area of more than 2000 sq. km. 250 species of birds , colonies of rock wallabies and a large number of species of fish inhabit the area.

Things to See and Do

Boat Cruises:

Magnificent scenery and wildlife can be seen by taken local boat cruise and is worthwhile. Lake Argyle Cruises 08 9168 7361. Combined Lake Argyle and Ord River Cruises are available from JJJ Tours call 08 9168 2682.

Morning Cruise: Departing from the Lake Argyle Village at 9.15am, this 2 hour cruise, taking you to the rugged North West corner of the Lake. The skipper will provide an informative commentary about the Dam Wall and Ord River Irrigation Scheme infrastructure, local history and local wildlife. Morning tea is served on board.

Sunset Cruise: Departing from the Lake Argyle Village at 2.45pm, your adventure begins with a close up view of the main dam wall, intake structure and quarry blast site. From there the cruise takes you through 'the Heads', as it is known locally, and leads to the expanse of Pintpot Bay and beyond. The skipper, whilst providing informative commentary, guides the specially designed vessel amongst numerous small inlets and bays in search of local wildlife. The cruise continues and circumnavigates Hagan Island - over 7km long and the largest of more than 70 islands on Lake Argyle. Hagan is easily recognised by the landmark Mount Misery towering over the now submerged site of the original Argyle Downs Homestead after which Lake Argyle is named. Heading west into the sunset the cruise stops for a tranquil swim in a calm bay amid the Carr Boyd Ranges, while enjoying the sunset, afternoon tea and refreshments served on board.

Best of Lake Argyle Cruise: On board a purpose designed vessel which carries 38 passengers, you will cruise at an exhilarating 30 knots (50km/hr) to cover more than 120km exploring the far reaches of Lake Argyle. This half day cruise takes in all that is included in the Morning Cruise plus much more; constantly changing scenery from the rugged northern end across the unbelievable expanse of open water to the vast expanses of the southern reaches. Cruise near the submerged site of the now famous Durack Family Homestead - “Argyle Downs”.

You will stop at a remote island and fossick for the mysterious Zebra Rock, unique to Lake Argyle and explore the wetlands of the Ord River mouth, home to a myriad of birdlife at times numbering in the tens of thousands. Binoculars are provided for a closer look at the display of different wildlife. Complimentary afternoon tea is available, enabling you to sample some of the famous Ord River produce. While cruising back across the lake, you can sit back and relax and catch the changing colours of the afternoon scenery reflecting off red cliffs and islands dotted throughout the lake. The cruise stops for a refreshing swim and to enjoy complimentary drinks and snacks - This cruise is often described as a highlight of travels throughout the world.

Other:

Sightseeing and photography: Magnificent scenery from the dam wall and nearby lookouts.

Fishing Charters: 1/2 day fishing charters can be arranged at the Village Store. Your guide will reveal the secrets on how to catch the massive Silver Cobbler!

Argyle Downs Museum: One of the oldest homesteads in the area, Argyle Downs, established by the Durack family, would have been submerged when the lake filled, so it was moved to its present position and has become a museum.

Accommodation:

Accommodation and caravan park is available at Lake Argyle Village. The Lake Argyle village is located 100 metres above the waters of Lake Argyle. The village has a general store with basic supplies such as bread, milk, ice, bait, gas and fuel as well as a visitor information centre, licensed restaurant, caravan / camping area and a range of cabin accommodation (Lakeview Cabins or Outback Safari Cabins). People staying at the village have access to a spectacular pool on the hilltop overlooking the lake. The onsite restaurant and bar is open April – October.

Camping: The campground covers an area of more than 5 hectares with 100 shady powered van sites and ample room for unpowered camping. Shaded by large hills to the west in the afternoon, the park is set in a peaceful location surrounded by breathtaking scenery.