Jar Island WA

Jar Island is located in the southern part of Vansittart Bay and is a striking sight with sandy beaches, rocky sandstone outcrops, and a spectacular array of caves. Surrounding the island are the turquoise waters of the Timor sea and many people try their hand at fishing in the area while taking in the rugged landscape which is dotted with plant life. A range of animals have made Jar Island their home including the golden-backed tree rat, echidnas and an array of birds who nest on the island.
Jar Island was named by Phillip Parker King who was famous for surveying the coastline of the Kimberley and the name was chosen due to shards of pottery which were found there. This pottery is thought to have been brought there by the Macassars who originate from Indonesia and had been travelling to the Kimberley coastline for centuries to trade with the Aboriginal people.

Ancient rock art

Although Jar Island is worth the visit just for its picturesque surrounds, it’s best known for the ancient Aboriginal rock art which can be found across the island. There are art sites at numerous locations on the island and there are spectacular depictions of both the Wandjina and Gwion Gwion, also known as Bradshaw, rock art styles. Some of the ancient rock art of the Kimberley is thought to be an incredible 50,000 to 60,000 years old and much of the art on Jar Island is remarkably well preserved due to their location under rock ledges and inside caves which protects them from the elements. While the Wandjina art on Jar Island is estimated to be around 1,000 years old, the characteristic elongated figures of the Gwion Gwion rock art is far older with estimates of 30,000 to 40,000 years old.