Story: Willie Creek – Buttons to Biotech
Episode: 28
Presenter: Trevor Cochrane
Air Date: 30th August 2026

Trevor explores the importance of pearling in Broome’s culture, as he learns how the industry has influenced and impacted both Broome’s past and present, and how pearling is evolving with today’s modern technology.

• Willie Creek Pearls is a family business based out of Broome that not only farms pearls but also uses them to create stunning jewellery. They also offer tours around Willie Creek Pearl Farm, one of which is their Pearl Luggers tour.
• The Pearl Luggers tour firstly teaches about Broome’s history and the impact of pearling on the region before it then takes visitors to a historic museum of pearling memorabilia, Pearl Luggers.
• At Pearl Luggers visitors take a dive into the history of pearling, learning about historic vessels and pearl farmers, as they are taken back to a truly remarkable era of Broome’s history.
• The story doesn’t stop in the past however, as visitors also discover the future of pearling, from modern methods for farming, to new technologies and uses for all parts of the pearl.
• The Pearl Luggers tour even gives visitors a show, with a live pearl harvest and tasting of pearl meat, a true Broome delicacy.

For more information, head to:
https://www.williecreekpearls.com.au/