The Bindjareb Geopark

The Bindjareb Geopark was born from a shared vision to celebrate and protect the Peel region’s extraordinary geology, natural environment and cultural heritage.

In 2021, the Peel Aspiring Geopark Working Group was established, bringing together Geoparks WA, the Peel Development Commission, the Australian Geoparks Network, local governments, tourism operators and Bindjareb Traditional Custodians to explore the region’s potential as a geopark.

The Peel region was identified as an outstanding candidate due to its internationally significant geological features, including the Lake Clifton thrombolites, Ramsar-listed wetlands, diverse waterways and coastal landscapes, combined with the deep cultural connections of the Bindjareb Noongar people.

The Peel Development Commission funded local Geologist Sebastian Jones and award-winning Tour Guide Jamie Van Jones, co-owners of Salt and Bush Eco Tours, to research Peel’s amazing natural assets and history. A detailed site assessment completed in 2022 identified around 30 locations of geological, environmental and cultural significance, helping shape the foundation of the geopark. Each site was selected to align with the UNESCO Global Geopark criteria and researched to support their inclusion in the geopark. The report provides an overview of the abiotic (geology, landforms), biotic (flora and fauna) and cultural values associated with each of the proposed sites. Throughout the project, Bindjareb Elders and Traditional Custodians have played an important role in ensuring that stories of Country and Noongar knowledge are central to the geopark narrative.

Key milestones include the launch of the Peel Geodrive Trail in 2024 and the official launch of the Bindjareb Geopark, Trail Guide and Mobile App in 2026, making the region’s unique stories more accessible to residents and visitors alike.

Today, the Bindjareb Geopark continues to grow through collaboration, education, conservation and sustainable tourism initiatives. The long-term aspiration is to further strengthen the geopark and progress towards UNESCO Global Geopark recognition, sharing the Peel region’s globally significant landscapes and living culture with future generations.

• 2021 – Peel Aspiring Geopark Working Group established.
• 2022 – Site assessment undertaken, identifying approximately 30 potential geopark locations.
• 2024 – Peel Geodrive Trail launched.
• 2026 – Bindjareb Geopark, Trail Guide and Mobile App officially launched.
• Future – Progressing along the pathway towards potential UNESCO Global Geopark recognition.