2008 Australian Adventurer of the Year gears up for World First!

Jan 10, 2012

 

A group of 8 women, led by Australian Adventurer of the Year Tanya Faux, are set to embark on the longest whitewater river expedition ever attempted by a group of women into one of Australia's most rugged and remote areas. A 30-day uncharted, unsupported, river exploration of the Kimberley region, that aims to promote the Save the Kimberley campaign. These women will have to endure extreme tropical temperatures whilst entering the territory of the saltwater crocodiles during the mating season. All 8 women are current or past employees of the Outdoor Education Group in Eildon, Victoria, and as outdoor educators, enthusiasts, and adventure seekers, they all support and advocate for the protection of wilderness regions.

 The inspiration responsible for such a trip stems both from Tanya Faux's previous kayak expeditions into the Kimberley's, and the political unrest over a proposed gas hub in the respective area. A controversial industrialization in the Kimberley region presently exists that has been narrowly resisted thus far by the local community, as well as individuals reaching across Australia. A large campaign known as Save the Kimberley aims to protect the cultural, historical, and environmental significance of the region by gaining World Heritage Status over 20 hectares of what has been deemed “one of the last true wilderness areas on Earth”. To date, the team has raised over $2000 for both Save the Kimberley and the Wananami Remote Community School at Mount Barnett Station. Donations can still be made online as the team attempts the 30 days expedition.

 Over the course of the expedition, the team will be encounter class 5 rapids while rafting both the Isdell and Charnley rivers and completing a 150km off-track hike in between. The self-titled Kimberley Whitewater Women, will fly to Broome this Saturday, January 14 from Melbourne. From there they will proceed into the Kimberley via helicopter and begin the first rafting leg of the journey down the Isdell River. Using the “spot device” the world will be able to follow the teams daily progress on www.kimberleywhitewaterwomen.com

 As the expedition is about to launch, the team is both excited and nervous for the adventures ahead. The support of their community, the Kimberley community, and of family and friends has been incredible. As the final logistics are falling into place, their dream is finally becoming a reality. The team hopes that this trip encourages more women to seek adventure and believe in their abilities. Many adventures lie ahead.


 
Additionally:

We would like to recognize the traditional land owners for welcoming us onto their land, and for enabling the expedition to proceed; Ernest Nulgit, Philip Duckhole, Chloe Nulgit, Paddy Neowarra, Digby Bidd, and Rowan Nulgit.  Thank you.