Residents of Carnarvon, a coastal town in Western Australia, are witnessing a troubling decline in tourism, a trend that threatens the survival of local businesses. Situated 900 kilometers north of Perth, Carnarvon has historically served as a major stopover for travelers heading to the Pilbara and Kimberley regions. However, this year, business owners report a significant drop in trade, with some fearing they may have to close permanently.
Jo Bumbak, a local entrepreneur who has been selling preserves and ice creams made from local produce for 26 years, expressed her concerns about the future. “There’s businesses I’ve spoken to that said they don’t even know if they’re going to reopen their doors,” she said. “I’m one of those businesses.”
The decline in tourism is attributed to several factors, including reduced lengths of stay by caravanners and state-imposed liquor restrictions. “I’ve heard of people who get all their stuff in Geraldton and bypass Carnarvon altogether,” Bumbak noted, adding that the town is unfairly affected by decisions made elsewhere.
Carnarvon’s Struggle for Identity
Michelle Pinna, who has managed the Norwesta Caravan Park for over a decade, confirmed the downturn in visitor numbers. “Normally by Mother’s Day I’m full, and it was certainly a lot emptier this year,” she said. Pinna believes that while good weather in Perth may have delayed the tourist season, deeper issues persist.
“Carnarvon never seems to be a destination point,” Pinna explained. “It’s always a stopover on the way to Exmouth or Coral Bay, but it is such a beautiful place.”
Many business owners also point to ongoing crime issues as a factor damaging the town’s reputation. “I know it’s not just Carnarvon that has these issues,” Pinna remarked. “There’s other big towns that have big problems, probably worse than Carnarvon. I just think that Carnarvon does get a bad rap.”
Local Authorities and the “Toothless Tiger” Dilemma
Amanda Dexter, the Shire of Carnarvon’s chief executive, acknowledged the decline in tourism, citing the impact of COVID-19 and liquor restrictions. She emphasized efforts to revitalize the town, including workshops and promoting local businesses. “We’ve talked a lot about stimulating the town centre,” Dexter said. “How we could possibly get people to linger a little longer and maybe spend a little bit more money?”
However, Dexter admitted that the shire’s ability to address crime and liquor restrictions is limited. “We lobby and work with the government as much as we possibly can, but many of these things are not in our hands,” she stated. “We’re often a toothless tiger.”
Looking Ahead: Opportunities for Revival
Despite these challenges, there is hope on the horizon. The upcoming WA Tourism Conference, set to be held in Carnarvon next May, promises to bring industry leaders, government officials, and academics to the region. Dexter expressed optimism that the event could boost the town’s profile. “We’re hoping that we get to help the tourism community understand what Carnarvon has to offer and how wonderful it is,” she said.
The conference aims to provide exposure and generate feedback that could attract more visitors to the area. “From that exposure, get some real advertising and some real feedback out to WA and the nation, and then be able to encourage more people to come and share this incredible place that we have,” Dexter concluded.
As Carnarvon grapples with its current challenges, the community remains hopeful that strategic efforts and increased visibility will help restore its status as a key destination for travelers exploring Western Australia.
