William Dampier, in 1699, was the first European to visit Broome. Prior to this it is probable that Malay's visited these shores to collect turtles, dugongs and pearls. At its peak in the early 1900's the local pearling industry provided work for 403 luggers producing 80% of the worlds Mother of Pearl shell ( a valuable commodity). The advent of plastic in the 1950's destroyed the industry, however the 1970's saw the pearling industry rise to new height's when it was discovered that Broome cultured pearls matured in half the time, and were twice the size, of those produced in Japan.Broome now produces the majority of the world's supply of cultured pearls

Through it's past the cultural heritage is rich and diverse, combining elements of European influence with those of Aboriginal, Japanese, Chinese and Malay. These bring about what is today regarded as one of Australia most remarkable and balanced multi-cultural societies.

Whilst the pearling industry is still an integral part of Broome's identity, with it's remarkable history and many attractions Broome has become one of Western Australia's leading tourist destinations and offers a wide range of activities for all ages.