Important Updates and Guidelines for Climbers in Kalbarri National Park: Z-Bend Closure – June 2019

Z-Bend Closure for Construction

Please note that the Z-Bend will be closed for construction from the 4th of June. During this period, there will be no access to Z-Bend for camping or parking. The closure is expected to last approximately 3 months. However, registered climbers may be granted exceptions with the approval of the construction site team. To apply for this exemption, please email the senior ranger, Mike Paxman, at mike.paxman@dbca.wa.gov.au using the provided multi-day registration form.

General Housekeeping Guidelines

1. Toilet Waste: It is important to remember that no toilet waste is allowed within 500 meters of the Promenade/Rock Wallaby site. It is advised to utilize the toilet facilities at the Z Bend carpark before hiking down the gorge.
2. Camping Restrictions: Since the rediscovery of the rare Black Footed Rock Wallabies in 2015, camping is not permitted in the gorge within 1.5 kilometers of the Z Bend Lookout, including the area around the Promenade climbing site.
3. Alternative Camping Area: There is a camping area near the Z Bend carpark specifically designated for school groups, but climbers can also utilize this area. However, it is crucial to register by completing the multi-day registration form and emailing it to either Mike Paxman (mike.paxman@dbca.wa.gov.au) or Lisa Gould (lisa.gould@dbca.wa.gov.au).
4. Directions to the Alternate Camping Area: Climbers new to Kalbarri can contact the Kalbarri National Park Office for directions to the alternate camping area, as it is not signposted.
5. Alternative Camping Area Guidelines: When using the alternative camping area near the Z Bend carpark, please ensure to close the gate behind you when driving in and out. The campsite is located 200 meters past the gate. Use designated sites on a first-come, first-served basis and avoid pitching tents in vegetation regrowth and rehab areas. There are drop-toilets available at the campsite and at the carpark.
6. Fire Restrictions: Due to the elevated risk of bushfires in the sandplain areas, open fires are not allowed in the alternative camping area. Only gas cookers are permitted.
7. Chalk Usage and Clean-up: Please limit the use of excess chalk, especially on overhanging walls, and systematically brush it before leaving the site. The same guidelines apply to boulderers venturing on virgin rocks. Avoid using chalk in high-traffic areas such as the river trail, Aviary, or Tourist Wall.

Remember to adhere to park regulations and leave no trace.

Contact Information

For any queries or to contribute to maintaining access, please email me at elinorf@climberswa.asn.au.

You can find the multi-day registration form here. For those of us who suffer the Tumblagooda Fever and need their regular fix of sandstone, you can waive the car entry fee by opting for the DPAW Annual All Parks Pass (Standard: $92). If you are a member of the RAC, you can get 50% off the pass here.

If you require assistance or have emergency situations, please refer to the following phone numbers:

• Kalbarri National Park Office (Business Hours): 08 9937 1140 / 08 993 7114 (fax)
• Senior Ranger (After Hours, Emergency Situations Only): 08 9937 1192 / 0417 181 314 (mobile)
• Ranger (After Hours, Emergency Situations Only): 08 9937 1424 / 0427 199 518 (mobile)

Enjoy your climbing experience in Kalbarri National Park while following these guidelines and preserving the natural beauty of the area.

Best regards,
Elinor Fleming