Dirk Hartog Island National Park

Dirk Hartog Island National Park, located off Western Australia's Gascoyne coast, is the state's largest and westernmost island, covering 620 km². Renowned for its rich history, it was the site of the first recorded European landing on Australian soil in 1616 by Dutch explorer Dirk Hartog. The island is a haven for diverse wildlife, including loggerhead turtles, humpback whales, and the endemic black and white fairy-wren. The "Return to 1616" ecological restoration project has successfully eradicated feral cats, goats, and sheep, facilitating the reintroduction of native species like the banded and rufous hare-wallabies. Visitors can explore the island's rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and unique flora and fauna, offering a pristine natural experience.