Montgomery Reef

As each enormous Kimberley tide retreats, Montgomery Reef appears to rise out of the sea, shedding water in spectacular cascades and countless waterfalls. Marine creatures race over the edge of the rapidly drying reef to the safety of the sea, creating spectacular scenes unequalled anywhere in the country. At over 300 square kilometres, this is Australia’s largest inshore reef, found 20km off the central Kimberley Coast in Lalanggarram/Camden Sound Marine Park.

The Rising Reef

Montgomery Reef is renowned for its extraordinary tidal dynamics. As the tide drops, the water rushes away, revealing a massive reef that seems to rise from the ocean. Waterfalls cascade off the reef in every direction, creating the illusion that the ocean is draining. The reef spans over 300 square kilometres and stretches about 80 kilometres in length, making it the largest inshore reef in the world.

Wildlife of Montgomery Reef

Montgomery Reef is a haven for a diverse array of marine life. The reef’s ecosystems support various species, including turtles, dugongs, crocodiles, and a multitude of fish. The dynamic tidal flows create a rich environment for these creatures, offering abundant feeding and breeding grounds. Observers can witness turtles bobbing to the surface, reef sharks weaving through the shallows, and seabirds diving in for an easy feed.

Cultural Significance

The Worrora people are the traditional custodians of this important Humpback whale nursery, known as Yowjab in the Dambinmangari language. The reef is home to Australian snubfin and Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins, dugong and threatened marine turtles, and estuarine crocodiles have been spotted sunbaking on the reef. Montgomery also displays a variety of vibrant, coloured coral.