WALKWAY IN THE SKY

The skywalks are designed by Eastman Poletti Sherwood Architects and will protrude from the gorge’s rim, reaching 25 metres out. A boardwalk will connect the two skywalks, which form the shape of a horseshoes, and will stretch from a kiosk for visitors to relax in air-conditioned comfort and enjoy food and drink.

“It’s one of the highest spots over the gorge; [it has] a very steep cliff face and we’re putting these skywalks right at the top,” project manager Rory Chappell of the Department of Parks and Wildlife stated. “You get spectacular views right down the gorge and you can see the looping of the river back on itself.”

The design is informed by the spectacular landscape of the gorge, utilising tones of red, russet, orange and ochre in the weathered steel and brass mesh materials that make up the skywalk. The skywalk is intended to be “very raw and very natural”.

First slated in 2015, the project will be a major tourist destination and revitalise the Kalbarri area. Aa the Murchison River holds significance for the Nanda people, the traditional owners of the Kalbarri land, an art installation will be implemented with the skywalk project, led by Nanda tribe.