Experience the Kalbarri Skywalk in Western Australia
Thanks to its stunning red sandstone cliffs and gorges, Western Australia’s Kalbarri National Park is one of the Coral Coast region’s biggest attractions. Visitors can now take in the gorgeous views from a whole new perspective – a skywalk perched 100m above ground, on a platform that stretches out into thin air.
Kalbarri Skywalk: A New Perspective
Opened in June, the Kalbarri Skywalk is located at the West Loop lookout, where two viewing platforms extend 25m and 18m out beyond the rim of the Murchison River Gorge. Its features include:
- Wheelchair-accessible viewing structures
- Shade shelters
- Well-maintained paths
This inclusive concept was designed by architect Craig Poletti of Eastman Poletti Sherwood.
Indigenous Heritage Celebrated
A 6.5-hour drive north of Perth, the national park is set on the traditional lands of the indigenous Nanda people. The project emphasizes this heritage with a welcome sign in the Nanda language and interpretive Aboriginal artwork along the Skywalk’s paths. Notably, a sandblasted rendition of the Beemarra serpent—an image central to the dreaming story of the Nanda people—has been incorporated.
“Three Nanda artists worked on pieces to include around the site,” says Rory Chapple, Midwest regional operations officer with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions. The installations feature:
- Tall metal message sticks that create a forest with traditional drawings
- A river design that casts unique shadows onto the floor and walls
- Seats carved with bush tucker and native animal designs
- Art pieces titled ‘the Beemarra’ and ‘Coming Together’ sandblasted along pathways
Improving Access and Safety
Although the Skywalk project officially began in 2016, preparations started earlier when the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions aimed to improve vehicle access to the national park. In 2013, the park’s road conditions were poor, leading to several accidents.
Funding of AUS$10 million was necessary for road improvements. The cantilevered lookout played a crucial role in securing a larger redevelopment package that included better roads and other upgrades at key locations.
Upon receiving the necessary funds, Poletti collaborated with Terpkos Engineering for comprehensive pedestrian-induced vibration analyses and wind-tunnel testing. The structures were constructed using weathering steel originating from South Australia, then fabricated in Perth and transported to the site in six semitrailers.
“Each Skywalk is bolted to a pair of sleeve plates, weighing 10.4 tonnes and 7.8 tonnes respectively,” notes Chapple. These sleeve plates act as substantial anchors attached to concrete footings that extend deep into the ancient sandstone. In total, more than 1000 tonnes of rock were excavated, repurposed as landscaping elements such as steps, seats, and artistic features, enhancing the park’s overall design.
Plan Your Visit to Kalbarri National Park
For further insights, please visit australiascoralcoast.com.
