
Barrow Island Western Australia
A vital industrial hub and unique conservation reserve, home to the Gorgon Project LNG and endemic wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness stunning sunrises.

Barrow Island Western Australia
Best Time
Witness stunning sunrises.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vital industrial hub and unique conservation reserve, home to the Gorgon Project LNG and endemic wildlife.
"Witness the scale of engineering and unique island wildlife on Barrow Island."

Limited Public Access
Barrow Island is primarily for workers. Access is highly restricted; plan well in advance if visiting.
Respect Wildlife
Observe the unique ground-dwelling possums from a distance. Do not feed or disturb them.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gorgon Project LNG Facility
North West Shelf
Witness the scale of one of the world's largest natural gas projects. An impressive feat of engineering.

Northern Brushtail Possum
Island-wide
Spot the unique ground-dwelling possums, adapted to island life without tall trees.

Sunrise Over the Ocean
Coastal areas
Experience breathtaking sunrises painting the sky with vibrant colors over the tranquil waters.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Access & Purpose
Unique Wildlife & Environment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Limited Public Access
Barrow Island is primarily for workers. Access is highly restricted; plan well in advance if visiting.
Respect Wildlife
Observe the unique ground-dwelling possums from a distance. Do not feed or disturb them.
Industrial Significance
Appreciate the island's role in major energy projects like Gorgon.
Photography Opportunities
Capture unique landscapes, industrial sites, and wildlife. Sunrises are spectacular.
Tips
from all over the internet
Limited Public Access
Barrow Island is primarily for workers. Access is highly restricted; plan well in advance if visiting.
Respect Wildlife
Observe the unique ground-dwelling possums from a distance. Do not feed or disturb them.
Industrial Significance
Appreciate the island's role in major energy projects like Gorgon.
Photography Opportunities
Capture unique landscapes, industrial sites, and wildlife. Sunrises are spectacular.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Barrow Island is recognized for its significant industrial presence, particularly the Gorgon Project LNG facility, and its unique natural environment, including endemic wildlife. While some appreciate the scale of engineering and the island's natural beauty, others note the limited public access and the island's primary function as a worker hub.
"Industrial buildings with interesting sights down the docks"
I need the toilet
"A lovely place with plenty of history. We watched 1.6 billion pounds float past, it was the new Astute class attack submarine, HMS Anson"
richard yoxall
"Barrow Island used to be a lovely place to live. Unfortunately now, the crime rate is high and this lets the area down."
Debra Cole
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access to Barrow Island is strictly controlled, primarily for workers involved in the Gorgon Project and Chevron operations. Most visitors arrive via chartered flights or specific work-related transport. Public access for tourism is extremely limited and usually requires pre-arranged tours or permits.
Direct tourism to Barrow Island is not common due to its industrial focus. Any visits would likely be part of specialized environmental or industrial tours, or for those working on the island. It's essential to check with tour operators or Chevron for any potential visitor opportunities.
For those working on Barrow Island, travel is typically arranged by their employer. This usually involves chartered flights from Perth or other regional centers directly to the island's airstrip.
Due to its remote location and industrial purpose, regular ferry services for the general public to Barrow Island are not available. All transport is usually managed by the companies operating on the island.
Barrow Island is a highly controlled environment. Visitors must have a valid reason for entry, often related to work or specific approved tours. Strict biosecurity and safety protocols are enforced.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
As Barrow Island is not a typical tourist destination, there are no standard 'tickets' for entry. Access is granted based on employment or participation in specific, pre-approved tours. You'll need authorization from the operating companies or tour providers.
Barrow Island operates 24/7 due to its industrial activities. However, for any potential visitor, access would be during specific, pre-arranged times dictated by the purpose of the visit and operational schedules.
There isn't a general entry fee for tourists as public access is very limited. If you are part of a work crew, your travel and access costs are typically covered by your employer.
Booking a tour to Barrow Island is challenging due to its restricted nature. You would need to research specialized eco-tourism or industrial tour operators that may offer limited excursions, or inquire directly with Chevron about any public engagement programs.
Permits are essential for anyone visiting Barrow Island who is not a regular worker. These are typically arranged by the sponsoring company or tour operator and are subject to strict environmental and safety regulations.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Barrow Island is known for its unique wildlife, including the ground-dwelling Northern Brushtail Possum, and its significant role in the Gorgon Project LNG facility. You can also find interesting coastal scenery and industrial infrastructure.
The island is home to unique fauna, most notably the Northern Brushtail Possum, which has adapted to a ground-dwelling lifestyle. Birdlife and marine life are also present.
Barrow Island has stringent safety protocols due to its industrial operations. Visitors must adhere to all safety instructions provided by the operating companies or tour guides to ensure a safe experience.
Accommodation on Barrow Island is primarily for workers and consists of well-equipped camps and facilities managed by the operating companies. Tourist accommodation is generally not available.
Fishing is a popular activity for those working on Barrow Island, with many enjoying the coastal waters. However, access and regulations would depend on specific permits and company policies.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Barrow Island primarily caters to its workforce. Dining facilities are typically camp-style cafeterias providing meals for employees and contractors. Public restaurants are not available.
Workers on Barrow Island generally have access to catering services that provide a range of meals. These services are designed to support the long-term stay of personnel on the island.
If you are visiting for a specific, approved reason, it's best to check with your host or tour operator regarding food provisions and restrictions on bringing outside food due to biosecurity measures.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography enthusiasts can capture the vastness of the Gorgon Project LNG facility, unique island landscapes, and the native wildlife, particularly the ground-dwelling possums. Coastal areas offer great sunrise and sunset views.
Photography may be restricted in certain operational areas of the industrial facilities for security reasons. Always check with site management or your guide before taking photos of sensitive areas.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is recommended to capture both the expansive industrial sites and the smaller wildlife. A wide-angle lens can be useful for landscapes.
While meteor showers are natural phenomena, photographing them depends on clear skies and minimal light pollution. Barrow Island's remote location might offer good conditions, but industrial lighting could be a factor.
Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for sunsets offer dramatic lighting. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the scale of industrial structures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's crucial to manage expectations. The environment is rugged and industrial, not geared towards typical family entertainment. Any visit should prioritize safety and respect for the island's sensitive ecosystem and operational requirements. Ensure any planned activities are age-appropriate and pre-approved.
👷 Workers & FIFO
Make the most of your downtime by exploring the island's unique natural aspects, such as observing the Northern Brushtail Possums or enjoying the coastal scenery. Many workers find camaraderie and a sense of community among colleagues. Remember to adhere to all site safety regulations and environmental guidelines.
🌿 Eco-Tourists & Nature Lovers
Look for specialized tours that focus on the island's natural heritage. These tours will emphasize the importance of the Barrow Island environment and the efforts to protect it. Be prepared for a rugged, natural landscape and adhere strictly to all guide instructions to minimize your impact.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Gorgon Project: An Industrial Marvel
For those interested in industrial tourism or the energy industry, the Barrow Island LNG operations offer a unique perspective. While public access is restricted, the presence of such a colossal project highlights the island's critical economic importance. It's a testament to modern engineering and the complex logistics involved in extracting and transporting natural resources.
Understanding the Barrow Island mining and energy operations provides context for the island's current status. It's a place where cutting-edge technology meets a sensitive natural environment, creating a unique juxtaposition that is rarely seen elsewhere.
Unique Island Wildlife & Conservation
This adaptation is a fascinating example of evolution in isolation. Visitors, primarily those working on the island or on specific eco-tours, are urged to respect the delicate ecosystem. Strict biosecurity measures are in place to protect the native fauna from introduced species. Observing these unique creatures in their natural habitat offers a glimpse into the island's natural heritage.
Beyond the possums, Barrow Island supports various other native species, including reptiles and birds. The island's isolation has helped preserve a relatively pristine environment, making it a valuable site for scientific research and conservation efforts, even amidst its industrial significance.
Working on Barrow Island
The experience of working on Barrow Island is often described as unique, offering a blend of challenging work environments and the camaraderie of a remote community. While not a typical tourist destination, the island provides essential services and facilities for its temporary residents, including recreational activities and catering.
Discussions about Barrow Island Chevron operations often revolve around the logistics of managing such a large workforce in a remote location. The Barrow Island mining sector here is heavily focused on natural gas extraction and processing, making it a key site for Australia's energy industry.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit