Welcome to this sprawling botanical wonderland - Helms Arboretum. This vast reserve, a true delight for any botanist, is divided into two sections: a pine plantation and an arboretum. The ambitious project was initiated in the 1970s with a noble aim - to study and identify which tree and plant species would thrive in this very region.

One can explore the pine plantation area comfortably by cruising along the gravel road in their car. However, for a more immersive experience, parking your vehicle near the picnic area and embarking on foot or bicycle is highly recommended.

The arboretum boasts an incredible variety of flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Birdwatching opportunities abound, adding to the allure of this magical place. It's the perfect spot to savor a delightful picnic lunch or enjoy a serene afternoon tea.

Within Helms Arboretum, you'll encounter a breathtaking array of plant life. Among the many inhabitants, you'll find eucalyptus, melaleucas, casuarinas, acacias, and a host of exotic pines. Spring unveils an enchanting display of spider orchids, cowslips, leschenaultia, enamel, and donkey orchids, not to mention the vibrant banksia. Summer brings the red flowering gums into full bloom, while late winter boasts the silver princess. And for a year-round spectacle, the glorious royal hakea stands tall and proud.

This remarkable arboretum, proudly named after the esteemed forester Andy Helms, has a history that dates back to 1928. It was during this time that various tree species were carefully planted to assess their viability in the Esperance area.

A well-appointed picnic area awaits at the western end of the Arboretum, equipped with facilities such as restrooms, seating, tables, and shelters for visitors' comfort.

Situated north of Esperance on the road to Gibson, Helms Arboretum is just a part of a vast forestry reserve covering an expansive 4000 hectares. Its grandeur and ecological significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a deeper connection with nature's wonders.

While out that way , a stopover at the bird animal park is a great opportunity  for an all day breakfast and view the array of animals and birds, check their website link here : Bird Animal Park

🌊 🛶🐦🎣

In this information tourism post of what to see and do in Esperance, we are floating idea's of the places that offer the bird nature lover's a paradise to explore as well as the fishing enthusiast with kids to try their hand at catching some bream in the lakes. Where Tanin infused rivers and Saline  lakes beckon you for unforgettable experiences!

We'll hope to inform you of places to access some of the most captivating waterways in the region, offering fantastic opportunities for kayaking, birdwatching, and bream fishing. Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of Alexander River, Woody Lake System, Ramsar Wetlands Bird Reserve, Lake Quallilup, and a stopover in at the Munglinup Oldfield Estuary! 🏞️

Did you know that the Ramsar Wetlands are renowned  as of international importance and protected by its convention, Some of the migratory birds travel as far as from Russia to breed at Esperances diverse wetlands and so its important we respect and look after this area. Here is a link if you want to read more about this

🚣 Alexander River Kayaking 🚣‍♀️

The Alexander River offers a relaxing kayaking experience for both beginners and seasoned paddlers. As you gently glide through its tanin brown waters, you'll be surrounded by lush greenery . 🌿 Keep an eye out for the diverse birdlife that frequents the riverbanks; its not a long paddle , approx. 2 k's in length until it goes too shallow to traverse further,  Paddling along the meandering course of Alexander River will fill you with a sense of tranquility and wonder! Alexander bay has it's own blog information post here

🐦 Woody Lake System Birdwatching and Kayaking 🛶

The Woody Lake System is a birdwatcher's paradise, providing a safe haven for various avian species. 🐤🦜 Grab your binoculars and embark on a birdwatching adventure! 

The reserve lies 5 km east along Fisheries Rd and comprises saline lakes, marsh areas, and kwongan heathland. Notably, Lake Wheatfield, Woody Lake, and Lake Windabout are part of the Lake Warden System Ramsar-listed site, renowned for hosting migratory birds. You can access the reserve via Windabout Road or Lakes Rd (Lake Wheatfield end), both connected to Fisheries Road.

During summer and autumn, the reserve becomes a congregation spot for many waterbirds.

After observing the feathered residents, it's time to paddle through the calm waters of the lake system. 🚣 The serene atmosphere and stunning reflections of the surrounding flora will leave you in awe. Don't forget your camera – the Woody Lake System is a photographer's dream! 📸

🌿 Ramsar Wetlands Bird Reserve 🦆

Esperance's Ramsar Wetlands Bird Reserve is a must-visit for any bird enthusiast. 🕊️ Home to a vast array of migratory and native bird species, this reserve is a significant habitat for their conservation. Take a leisurely stroll along the designated trails, keeping an eye out for the fascinating birdlife. 🚶‍♂️👀

You can stop on your way to Lucky bay off Merivale Road as there is a huge wetlands right next to the road to sneak a peak at the birdlife that flocks their.

🎣 Lake Quallilup for Bream Fishing and Kayak Adventure 🐟🛶

Calling all fishing enthusiasts! Lake Quallilup is a haven for bream fishing and a paradise for kayak adventurers. 🎣🚣‍♂️ Surrounded by scenic beauty and serene ambiance, you'll feel at one with nature as you cast your fishing line and await the nibbles from the abundant bream. 🌄🎣 

The drive to the lake is west of Esperance , aprox 25k's  put Murray Road or Chartwell Lane into your navigator , During summer its best as the track down too the lake can get muddy and sloppy in winter, just  be aware the lake is next to an agriculture lime pit so during the Jan  to April months the road has a lot of heavy traffic carting limesand and so the road can be rather corrugated.  

When you're not busy catching fish, take your kayak out on the calm waters and explore the hidden corners of this picturesque lake. 🏞️ The experience is both exhilarating and rejuvenating, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike! 🌊🌳

The fish are not huge but fun for the kids to catch, they also taste surprisingly really nice for inland waters. 

🚣‍♀️ Munglinup Oldfield Estuary Kayaking and Bream Fishing 🎣🛶

Our final stop is the captivating Munglinup Oldfield Estuary, a haven for kayakers and bream fishing enthusiasts. 🚣‍♂️🐟 The tranquil waters and stunning surroundings create an idyllic setting for a day of paddling and fishing.

Glide through the estuary's gentle waters, appreciating the natural beauty and spotting various bird species along the way. 🦆🌿 When you feel the urge to reel in a catch, drop your line and try your luck with bream fishing. It's an exciting activity that will add a touch of thrill to your peaceful day on the water. 🎣🌅 ,   This is a little further away from Esperance, but if you want to make it a overnight trip then the Munglinup Caravan park stay is right next to the tracks that lead to the rivers systems. 

In conclusion, While exploring the reserve, it's essential to be mindful of the birdlife, especially the migratory waders that visit during the summer months. Respecting their habitat helps preserve the unique beauty and ecological importance of the area.

Esperance's rivers and lakes systems offer a diverse range of activities for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Whether you're kayaking, birdwatching, or bream fishing, these picturesque waterways will leave you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the natural world. So pack your gear, put on your adventurer's hat, and embark on an extraordinary journey through Esperance's water wonderland! 🌊🛶🐦🎣

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:    Esperance Bird Observers Group  .

As a coastal town nestled on the southern coast of Western Australia, boasting breathtaking landscapes, pristine beaches, and a vibrant ecosystem.  The town is a year-round destination, But there are certain months that stand out as the best time to experience Esperance in all its glory.

I will highlight why March and April  are the ideal months to visit Esperance, primarily due to the pleasant weather conditions that enhance outdoor activities and provide an optimal exploration experience.

1. Mild Temperatures: One of the main reasons why March and April are the best times to visit Esperance is the mild and comfortable temperatures that prevail during these months. As autumn settles in, the scorching heat of summer subsides, making outdoor activities more enjoyable. Average temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), providing a perfect balance between warmth and coolness. There is less humidity which means less flies! 

   The chart below shows the average temp range for the months , as illustrated March and April show months that still have mild weather patterns

   

2.  Daylight Hours: During March and April, Esperance still experiences long daylight hours, giving visitors ample time to explore and engage in outdoor adventures. With the sun rising early and setting late, there is more time to soak up the beauty of the region. Whether it's exploring the iconic Cape Le Grand National Park, discovering stunning beaches like Lucky Bay or Twilight Cove, or embarking on scenic coastal drives, the extended daylight hours allow for an enriched experience.

   The chart below is percentage of chance for rainfall events , Feb ,March and April show still a low percentage  and chance of rainfall,  In summer months we normally get  lightning storms as much as they are spectacular they also are challenging for bushfires.

3. Pleasant Sea Conditions: Esperance is renowned for its pristine beaches and turquoise waters. During March and April, the sea conditions become more favorable for water-based activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and boating. The ocean temperatures are still reasonably warm, and the chances of encountering strong south easterly summer seabreezes  or rough waves from winter cold front systems are reduced compared to other seasons. This period provides an excellent opportunity to immerse oneself in the refreshing coastal waters of Esperance, or catching a fish of the boat. 

   The chart below is average wind speeds but doesn't tell the full story as there a many less days of wind than there are compared to May and prior to Feb 

   

4. Vibrant Autumn Foliage: While Esperance is known for its stunning coastal scenery, the region also features beautiful natural landscapes beyond the shoreline. March and April mark the transition to autumn, painting the surrounding forests and national parks with vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow. Exploring the inland areas during this time reveals breathtaking vistas of the changing foliage, adding a touch of natural wonder to your visit.

5. Lower Crowds and Accommodation Rates: Compared to the peak summer months, March and April may offer a more tranquil experience in Esperance. As schools resume and holidaymakers begin to dwindle, visitor numbers decrease, allowing for a more peaceful and intimate encounter with the town's attractions. Additionally, the reduced demand during this shoulder season often leads to more affordable accommodation rates and greater availability, making it an opportune time to secure comfortable lodging without breaking the bank.

6. Best time for a beach camping experience:  March and April  also best for the tent or Van, with less winds , less flies and in April the lifting of fire bans for an authentic camping experience, as well as the 4wd tracks are less difficult to explore and traverse due to some rainfall that hardens the soft sands back to a beach sand texture.

    

Conclusion: March and April undeniably present the optimal time to visit Esperance, thanks to the pleasant weather conditions that prevail during this period. With mild temperatures, extended daylight hours, favorable sea conditions, vibrant autumn foliage, and fewer crowds, visitors can fully immerse themselves in the beauty and tranquility of this remarkable coastal town. Whether you are an adventure seeker, nature lover, or simply seeking a serene getaway, Esperance in April and May promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you yearning to return time and time again.

It shouldn't be left out though as a coastal town - we do have days all year round that can be sunny and warm in the morning and colder and wet in the afternoons -  it's Esperance's factor known by the locals as the  " four seasons in one day " weather.

Most of us know its not wise , appropriate or permitted to feed the locals - native animals don't do well with a human food source. But its not as easy to say or explain to kids - don't feed the animals! So below is a little story you can tell them to make it a little more palatable as to why they can't and shouldn't do so.  

Why did the kangaroo and emu go to the beach at Lucky Bay?

Well, they heard it was a great place to steal food from humans! You see, these two mischievous animals had a plan to indulge in some human delicacies while enjoying the sun and sand.

As they arrived at the beach, the kangaroo and emu couldn't contain their excitement. They hopped and strutted their way towards a picnic area where families were enjoying their meals.

The kangaroo hopped closer, eyeing a delicious-looking sandwich. With its nimble paws, it snatched the sandwich right out of the unsuspecting human's hand. The emu, not to be outdone, used its long neck to snatch a bag of chips from another person.

The two animals giggled with delight as they quickly devoured their stolen treats. However, their joy was short-lived when they realized that human food didn't agree with their stomachs.

The kangaroo started hopping around frantically, feeling bloated from the sandwich. "Crikey! What have I done?" it exclaimed.

The emu, struggling to swallow the chips, replied with a mouthful, "I think we've made a terrible mistake, mate!"

Suddenly, they both felt a rumble in their bellies. The kangaroo's pouch even started to inflate like a balloon!

Panicking, they hopped and ran towards the shoreline, hoping that the salty ocean breeze would ease their discomfort. But as they reached the water's edge, a wave came crashing in, drenching them from head to toe.

The kangaroo's pouch, now soaked, released a big burp, and the emu's mouthful of chips was washed away. They both looked at each other, realizing that nature had its way of teaching them a lesson.

With a newfound respect for their native diet, the kangaroo and emu slowly made their way back to the bushland, leaving the human food behind. They learned that their bodies were designed for a unique diet of grasses, fruits, and vegetation, not sandwiches and chips.

As they hopped away, the kangaroo turned to the emu and said, "Well, mate, I guess we won't be stealing any more human food. It's just not worth the bellyache!"

And so, the kangaroo and emu returned to their natural habitats, sharing their tale with other animals along the way. From that day forward, they all stuck to their native diets, knowing that they were perfectly designed for the foods that nature provided.

So, remember, next time you're at the beach, keep an eye out for mischievous kangaroos and emus. They may be tempted by your snacks, but they'll quickly learn that human food is best left to humans while they stick to their own delicious menu.

As an Esperance tourist business that prides itself on service for information to visitors and our love of its scenery showcased through our art and photos in our gallery and online, we can't rave enough how amazing our local beaches are - let alone the accolades and recognition of  Esperances lucky bay as being the worlds best beach, However, hidden within this seascape of amazing beach scenery lies a potential risk of dangers for visitors be that from international tourists , interstate or Western Australia tourists need to be aware of -  Black Wet Rocks and our unpredictable rouge swells and waves. 

Nature's oceans power can pose serious risks to those who are unaware or unprepared, be that fishing from them , photography off them or just exploring them, many lives have been changed from someone being swept off or injuries sustained from not understanding the dangerous situation they had put themselves in.

The Esperance  Recherche Archipelago  or known locally as the Bay of Isles ,  consists of granite rocks islands , and beach headlands which also feature these granite outcrops  are a unique feature of the area, these rocks came from volcanic activity  and have  a black/grey and pink granite that sparkle with mica , the rocks that have a growth of black algae become extremely slippery when wet which may have seemed safe when dry.  Combined with the powerful swell  that frequently occurs in this coastal area, the headlands become treacherous. 

One of the primary dangers of these wet rocks is the increased likelihood of slips, trips, and falls. The combination of the slippery surface and the force of the crashing waves can easily catch unsuspecting beachgoers off guard. Even the most agile individuals can find themselves losing their footing and suffering injuries such as sprains, fractures, or even head trauma.

Another risk associated with the Esperance  Rocks is the potential for being washed into the sea. The powerful swells sometimes referenced as a king wave can be random on even calm days which make them unpredictable and due to their nature of being rouge seems like a false sense of safety up to the point they hit. If someone finds themselves standing on even dry rocks when a large wave hits, they may be swept away by the immense force, leading to a  life-threatening situation.

Salmon beach is an example of this type of  danger, these rocks have a low angled elevation so the  rouge swells sweeps far up it and sweeping a persons footing and  "washes" them into the ocean (visualize this and include the sharp barnacles that they will wash through as they enter the ocean of a whirlpool of moving water).  there has been several incidents of someone that has swept off this beaches headland , some ended very badly and hospitalized while others where never to be retrieved and remain lost to love ones.

It is crucial for visitors to the area to be aware of the dangers posed by the Esperance Rocks  and take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety. Here are some key tips to consider:

1. Stay informed: Before heading to the beach, check local weather conditions and swell forecasts. If there are warnings or advisories in place, it is best to postpone your exploration and sightseeing until the conditions improve. Instead park up at the numerous lookouts around the tourist loop road and enjoy nature's power and spectacle of crashing waves during  summer lightning storms or the winter cold front storms. After rainfall the water seeps out of the sand /rocks and runs into the ocean  ,these wet runs also propagate the slippery black algae that grows on the granite and become slippery like ice once wet again..

2. Wear appropriate footwear: When exploring the area near the wet rocks, it is essential to wear sturdy and slip-resistant footwear. Avoid going barefoot, as this increases the risk of slips and injuries. Footwear such as Crocs and other styles are very slippery on wet rocks, even when dry but loose .On one photoshoot we assisted someone at hellfire bay whom suffered a fractured hip from slipping on the rocks  near a rockpool during low tide, they were wearing Crocs and  their injuries required an ambulance, Not only did they put themselves at risk but also us and others that came to their assistance - you can't move with a severely damaged leg or hip and this was at the water's edge so we had to lift and carry the person to safer grounds and wait for the volunteer ambulance officers to arrive.

3. Keep a safe distance: Maintain a safe distance from the wet rocks, regardless of tide , or even when the waves are particularly not strong as its a false sense of security to think small waves are safer. Standing too close to the edge can increase the chances of being swept away by a rogue wave. Never turn your back on the water when on the rocks and when close to the water marks which can be indicated by the coloration patterns on the rocks from previous wash cycles.

4. Be cautious and observant: Pay attention to your surroundings and be cautious of any changes in the sea conditions. If you notice the waves becoming larger or more forceful, it is wise to move to higher ground or a safer area.

5. Follow local advice and signage: Respect any warning signs or advice provided by local authorities. These signs are put in place to protect visitors and should not be ignored.

6. If  you are going to be fishing off the rocks:  look for tie downs embedded in the rocks ,  Some local tackle shops offer rock safety equipment for hire or loan  and remember not to turn your back to the ocean. It's also advisable to have a lookout person or at least a fishing buddy. Even wearing a life jacket should be encouraged.

I mentioned Salmon beach and Hellfire bay as examples, The other headlands where lives have been lost from being swept off the rocks are:

1. Twilight Cove 
2. Quagi beach
3. Alexander Bay
4. West Beach (loaf rock) 
5. Chapmans Point , with Chapmans point known to being the most dangerous of the lives lost, and many never to be found.

I realize it's a been a bit of a word salad my writing this  in its  description and emphasis of  safety , but even the warning signs  on those beaches seems to not emphasize enough the dangers or seem  to be overlooked , so hopefully this article might change someones behaviour and save a life by understanding and respecting the dangers of the Esperance Black Wet Rocks and Swell.

I hope beachgoers can enjoy the beauty of the area while also prioritizing their safety. It is crucial to remember that nature can be unpredictable, and even the most experienced individuals can find themselves at risk if they are not vigilant.

 Here is a link to shire flyer for coastal safety