The Kimberley region of Western Australia is one of the most culturally rich and geographically diverse areas in the country, home to strong, vibrant Aboriginal communities. Royal Life Saving’s Remote Pools program operates in Balgo, Bidyadanga, Fitzroy Crossing, Kalumburu and Warmun — each community offering its own deep traditions, languages, and connection to land. These swimming pools are more than recreational facilities; they are vital community assets that promote health, safety, and wellbeing, while strengthening community cohesion and pride in some of the most remote parts of the state.
Balgo
Balgo, also known as Balgo Hills or Balgo Mission, is a small remote Aboriginal community located in Western Australia where the Great Sandy Desert meets the Tanami Desert. Kukatja is the main language spoken, and the community is known for its strong cultural traditions, vibrant artwork, and spiritual connection to Country. Balgo has a proud heritage and is home to one of the most well-known Indigenous art centres in the region. Royal Life Saving’s Remote Pools project has been operating in the community since 2019
Bidyadanga
Bidyadanga is situated on La Grange Bay on the Kimberley coast, around 180 kilometres south of Broome, and is the largest remote Aboriginal community in Western Australia. With a population of around 850 residents, the community brings together five distinct language groups: Karajarri, Juwalinny, Mangala, Nyungamarta and Yulpartja. The word Bidyadanga comes from a word for "emu watering hole" – pijarta or bidyada. Bidyadanga has a growing economy, strong cultural identity, and is supported by modern infrastructure including a community swimming pool built in 2008.
Fitzroy Crossing
Fitzroy Crossing sits on the banks of the Fitzroy River in the Kimberley region, approximately 400 kilometres east of Broome. The town has a population of around 1,300, with an additional 2,000 people living across surrounding communities in the Fitzroy Valley. The region is home to five Aboriginal language groups – Bunuba, Gooniyandi, Nyikina, Wangkatjunka and Walmajarri – each with unique traditions and strong cultural heritage. The local pool has been part of the Remote Pools program since 2010.
Kalumburu
Kalumburu is the northernmost community in Western Australia, located approximately 270 kilometres north of the Gibb River Road in the Kimberley. Originally established as a Catholic mission, the community now has around 400 residents and is home to the Wunambal and Kwini people. Despite its remote location, Kalumburu is rich in culture and natural beauty. The local swimming pool has been part of the Remote Pools program since 2019.
Warmun
Warmun is a small, remote Aboriginal community situated on the Great Northern Highway, 197 kilometres south of Kununurra and 847 kilometres east of Broome. It is the principal gateway to the iconic Purnululu National Park and the Bungle Bungle Range. The community is home to the Gija people, who have a strong cultural and artistic identity. Warmun has a population of around 450 residents, and its community pool has been part of the Remote Pools program since 2008.
