It's Time to Get Real

What the Community Said About the Draft Masterplans

After months of dreaming big, the Kununurra community has taken the next step. We've gotten real about what should stay, what should change and what’s most important as the Town Centre and Foreshore masterplans take shape.

Survey 3: Time to Get Real asked the community to review draft masterplan designs and share what felt right, what raised concerns and what might need more work. More than 458 people took part in this survey, and even more participated in the third round of community forums, Elder sessions and business meetings. It was one of our most engaging rounds yet, with more business owners contributing than in previous surveys.

What We Heard Loud and Clear

The community’s feedback reflected care for Kununurra’s future and a desire for practical, lasting improvements. People emphasised the importance of getting the fundamentals right — clean and accessible amenities, shade, water fountains and well-planned parking. There was also strong recognition that future growth should be supported by appropriate staffing, housing and maintenance to keep new spaces thriving.

A clear theme of inclusion also emerged. Respondents want Kununurra to celebrate all its people and cultures, with places and stories that reflect both local life and visitors’ experiences.

The Town Centre

Feedback showed that most people feel the Town Centre draft plan reflects community ideas overall, with clear support for many key streets and precincts.

• Town Square: Supported by 65% of respondents, with enthusiasm for a central gathering space. People value the idea of a central meeting place that feels safe, shaded and welcoming for all ages.

• Konkerberry Drive: 78% support. Seen as a strong opportunity for a vibrant main street, with comments highlighting the importance of good planting, parking and shade.

• Coolibah Drive: 73% support. Many liked the overall direction, with suggestions to focus on features that support everyday use.

• White Gum Park: 72% support. The park remains an important green space, with ideas shared for community use and safety improvements.

• Messmate Way: 78% support, with comments around maintaining access, planting and public art.

• Victoria Highway: 84% support. Many saw this as a gateway to Kununurra and supported improvements to entrances, signage and cultural expression.

The Foreshore

The Foreshore continues to capture local pride and imagination. Most participants supported careful upgrades that balance nature, culture and recreation.

• Swim Beach: 84% support. People were enthusiastic about shaded seating, family amenities and safe swimming areas that maintain the natural setting.

• Celebrity Tree Park: 82% support. The community favoured improvements that enhance safety, comfort and accessibility while retaining the park’s character.

• Trails and Eco-Accommodation: Trails were seen as a great way to connect key destinations and encourage walking and cycling.

• Race Course/Rodeo Precinct: 73% support. There was interest in its long-term potential for events and recreation.

What Matters Most

When asked what stories and themes should shine through, the top responses centred on Miriwoong culture, nature, wildlife and the lakes — the defining elements of Kununurra’s identity.

People want to see these reflected in art, design, planting and storytelling, celebrating both the natural landscape and the town’s diverse cultural heritage. The Cultural Trail, Town Square and Celebrity Tree Park were identified as the key places where Kununurra’s identity could be most visible.

What’s Next

Survey 3: Time to Get Real has helped refine and prioritise the ideas that matter most for Kununurra Reimagined. The project team is now using this feedback to adjust the draft masterplans, ensuring they are practical, inclusive and uniquely Kununurra.

Thank you to everyone who contributed their time, ideas and perspectives. Every comment and conversation is helping shape a vibrant, welcoming town that reflects the heart of its people and the spirit of the East Kimberley.