We’ve seen some wild weather in our time, but the footage coming out of the Gascoyne right now is next level. Tropical Cyclone Narelle made landfall as a category four monster, and it has absolutely hammered the region north of Perth. One of our favourite stops on any West Australian run, Bullara Station Stay, has been right in the firing line. The images of the property are confronting, with floodwaters reaching the rooftops and the landscape transformed into an inland sea.
For those of us who love the trek up towards Exmouth, this is a massive blow. Bullara is a staple for the touring community, known for its red dirt, damper, and hospitality. Right now, the owners and staff are literally using stand-up paddleboards and tinnies to get around the station. It’s a stark reminder that even the best-prepared rig is no match for a category four system when the ocean decides to push inland.
The reality of touring in cyclone season
This hit serves as a heavy lesson for anyone currently wandering the North West or planning a trip. When a system like Narelle rolls through, the damage isn’t just about the wind speed. The tidal surge has pushed water all the way up to the highway, trapping livestock and cutting off access. We often talk about being self-sufficient, but when the local airport is obliterated and power is cut, you are truly on your own.
If you have a trip booked for the Ningaloo region in the coming weeks, you need to be doing some serious homework. The Shire of Exmouth is reeling, with wind gusts hitting 250km/h and basic services only just starting to trickle back online. This isn’t just a matter of a few puddles on the track. We’re looking at significant infrastructure damage that will take months to rectify, and the 4X4 tourers that Bullara values so much needs to give them space to breathe.
Recovery on the stations and what it means for us
The devastation at Bullara is a heartbreaking sight, especially with the loss of livestock and personal vehicles belonging to the crew. The road back is going to be long. For those sitting at home looking at the photos, the best thing we can do right now is stay informed and stay out of the way while they get the power back on and find their missing animals.
When these stations do eventually reopen their gates, they’re going to need our support more than ever. The outback spirit is tough, but a tidal surge through your living room is a lot for anyone to handle. It’s a sobering thought for anyone who thinks a rooftop tent makes them invincible.
Check your routes and respect the closures
As the water recedes, the temptation for some will be to head in and “see the damage” or test out their snorkel. We’re telling you now: don’t be that person. The ground around the Exmouth Gulf and the Gascoyne is going to be a soup of mud and debris for a while. Main roads will be prioritising emergency services and supply chains, not tourists looking for a photo op.
We’ll be keeping a close eye on the situation as Bullara and the surrounding stations start the massive task of cleaning up. The WA coast is one of the most beautiful places on earth, but Narelle has shown us exactly who is boss. For now, keep the people of the Gascoyne in your thoughts, and maybe start planning a trip for later in the year to drop some cash in their local shops when they are back on their feet.
