Dampier Archipelago Welcomes West Intercourse Island into Reserves Network

West Intercourse Island has been officially transferred to the Dampier Archipelago island reserves network, marking a key step in cultural preservation following the World Heritage Listing of the Murujuga Cultural Landscape. The agreement, signed by Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation Chair Peter Hicks and Premier Roger Cook on August 11, signifies crucial progress in ensuring the island’s future management and protection. West Intercourse Island, a 2,300-hectare expanse located southwest of Dampier, has long held cultural and historical significance for the Aboriginal people of the region. Peter Hicks said the transfer was deeply meaningful for the local Indigenous population. “This continues to support the Aboriginal people in this area and will help with application for World Heritage Listing. West Intercourse Island is a significant location to Aboriginal people,” Mr Hicks said. The importance of the island extends beyond its physical presence, according to MAC Assistant Ranger Services Manager Peter Cooper. “West Intercourse was a meeting place for different language groups to gather and share food. It’s a very important place because it’s our history of how our people survived that long,” Mr Cooper said. Previously included in the National Heritage-Listed areas on Murujuga, West Intercourse Island had not been protected as part of the Dampier Archipelago island reserves network until now. The island’s development prospects had been a point of contention in the early 2000s when the State Government considered using the site for an industrial port. However, the proposal was not pursued, and the island’s preservation has since been a priority for local and cultural leaders. The addition of West Intercourse Island to the Dampier Archipelago reserves network represents a commitment to preserving the rich cultural landscape of the region and supporting ongoing efforts towards its World Heritage Listing.