Sheep loose in the main street of Derby

Image
Sheep on the run

Few may remember that it was sheep, not cattle, that were brought to the rich pastures along the Fitzroy River in the 1880s. Since that time Derby has been the regional centre and port for the west Kimberley. Tons of wool as well as live sheep were exported from the jetty. The sheep were mustered and drovers brought them to the jetty via the Myall Bore and the one mile dinner camp on the edge of the marsh. Occasionally things didn't go to plan, and the sheep went their own way, as in this image, in which they are fleeing through the town!

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Shire of Derby / West Kimberley Library - local studies collection

Muddy Waters

Named after the Earl of Derby, the town has a rich colonial history as the first regional and administrative centre, supporting the sheep and cattle stations of the west Kimberley. Keeper of this...

Address:

Clarendon Street
Derby WA 6728
Australia

Open Hours
Mon, Tues, Wed & Fri 9.30am - 12pm; Thurs 1 - 5pm; Sat 10am – 12pm

More from the Shire of Derby / West Kimberley Library - local studies collection

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While you're in the area

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Boab Prison Tree
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Boab Prison Tree
The massive ancient Boab Prison Tree is believed to be around 1,500 years...
Broome-Derby Highway, Derby, WA 6728
Mt Elizabeth Station Stay
Accommodation
Mt Elizabeth Station Stay
Mt Elizabeth Station is about as close to the heart of the Kimberley...
Derby-Gibb River Road, Derby, WA 6728
Derby Pioneer Cemetery
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Derby Pioneer Cemetery
The Derby Pioneer Cemetery was the final resting place for several...
Lovegrove Street, Derby, WA 6728
Myalls Bore
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Myalls Bore
Visit Myalls Bore, near Derby to witness the ingenuity of the early...
Derby Gibb River Road, Derby, WA 6728