Location~ Discovery Park

• Dampier ( Red Dog)
• Millstream Chichester National Park
• Stair Case to the Moon (certain days in the month)

Karratha is a city situated in the PILBARA REGION . The town was established in 1968 to accommodate Iron Mining. In the 1980’s the petroleum and liquefied gas operations moved into the town to make it predominantly a mining town. We stayed here to explore the coast of (Dampier) which the Iconic Red dog comes from and the well known Millstream Chichester National Park.

Dampier is located near Karratha and has a port and quite a few derelict mining accomodation dotted through out the tiny suburb. It is also well known for Red Dog the kelpie/cattle dog that came famous for his series of owners and lengthy periods of travelling on his own throughout the Pilbara Region. The dog died in 1979 and a memorial plaque and movie was made in honour of him.

We took a day trip out to Millstream which is a 140km drive one way into the National Park. Our first stop was Python Pool which is a 30 minute drive in from the main road. The road is corrugated and VERY ROUGH indeed. It was definitely worth the drive for the views . The python pool is a swimming hole with a backdrop of rugged ochre cliffs. The water here is crystal clear . It would be great too swim in when the temperature is hot. The rest of the area of Millstream is well known for its vast rolling hills ,tranquil gorges and an array of prolific bird life.

We went to the homestead in Millstream to learn about the families life on this land and take in its beauty. There are two camping grounds in Millstream one located at the homestead and the other one just down the dirt road. If you are visiting for the day pack your lunch there is so much to see and a few swimming holes to enjoy. Allow a full day due to the distance from Karratha if staying in town. The journey around Millstream to enjoy takes at least 3-4 hours or as long as you want. There is a small fee to pay on the way in to help with the upkeep of the park.

On our way back to Karratha we passed many trains carrying iron ore back to Port Headland ,Lithium and salt. The trains are massive at least 1km long you are left in awe 🫢 by their existence.

Karratha is a central place to stay should you want to go inland to explore. They are a small city with all the shops and supplies you require. There is not a lot to do in the town of Karratha than shop…for supplies.