Beagle Bay Community, Western Australia
| Beagle Bay Community Western Australia | |
|---|---|
| Population | 300 (2001 Census) |
| Postcode(s) | 6725 |
| Standort | |
| LGA(s) | Shire of Broome |
| State electorate(s) | Kimberley |
| Federal division(s) | Durack |
16°58′44″S 122°39′58″E / 16.979°S 122.666°E
Beagle Bay is a medium-sized Aboriginal Community on the western side of the Dampier Peninsula, north of Broome.
Background
The community is situated adjacent to the Indian Ocean. Beagle Bay is the gateway to communities further north such as Djarindjin Community, Bardi Community, Bobeiding Community and Ngardalargin Community. The main access road from Broome is unpaved and so becomes inaccessible during the 'wet season', although it remains connected to other towns on the peninsula to the north by a bitumenised road.
History
The community was established by Trappist Monks around 1890. Beagle Bay has a history of caring for stolen children. The church features a famous pearl shell altar.
Bildung
Beagle Bay Community has a school, Sacred Heart School, which caters for students from ages K-10. The school was established in 1892 by the Trappist Monks.
Facilities
Electricity supply
Electricity is generated and supplied locally by Horizon Power and comprises the Australian standard three phase 415/240 volts system 24 hours a day. There are frequent power surges and interruptions.
Water
There are two bores which pump into the ground tank. A transfer pump station then pumps the water into the high level tank.
Cemetery
The community has a functioning cemetery. As per Aboriginal custom it is insensitive to mention the name of deceased persons. The Shire of Broome Health Regulations stipulate that bodies must be buried at least six feet below ground level; however, this cannot be achieved at the Beagle Bay cemetery because the ground water level is too high.
Sewerage
There is a sewer system in place in the community which comprises three pump stations and treatment ponds on the eastern outskirts of the community.
Recreation
The community has basketball courts and a football oval. Beagle Bay fields a team in the West Kimberley Football Association called the 'Beagle Bay (Peninsular) Bombers'.
Bush walking, some fishing and camping are the dominant pursuits for tourists visiting. Visitors are required to apply for a permit prior to entering the Community
Shopping
There is one store in town owned and operated by the local Community Council. All items are very expensive compared to major centres. Mechanical repairs may be effected at the mechanical workshop.
Town Planning
Ardyaloon Layout Plan No.2 has been prepared in accordance with State Planning Policy 3.2 Aboriginal Settlements. Layout Plan No.2 was endorsed by the community on 15 September 2004 and the WAPC on 15 February 2005. The Layout Plan map-set and background report can be viewed at http://www.planning.wa.gov.au/1297.asp.