Broom came into being as a pearling center

Broom came into being as a pearling center. Millions of tons of pearl oysters where taken from the Indian Ocean and the town had a lively population of rich sea captains, processing plant owners, and Chinese service providers. There are still several active pearling operations. Now, however, the modern harvest is of farm raised pearls used in jewelry.

The original sailing ships were known as pearl luggers ... and a few still sail here as part of the area's charm. Our choice for an evening sail was "Intombi", a 100-year-old lugger owned and restored by a Perth couple.

Originally, the principal product of the pearl oyster wasn't pearls; it was Mother of Pearl buttons made from the lining of the shells.

The Port of Broome even has its own customs house known as "The Port of Pearls House."

Our rations for the evening were somewhat better than the sardines and pickles a lugger crew would earn. We had wine and tasty hors d'oeuvres from the newly outfitted kitchen in the belly of the boat.

Just before the sun dips below the horizon, the
wind stills. The crew bring in the sails. And we
enjoy another beautiful Australian sunset at rest
in Roebuck Bay before motoring
back to the pier at the Port of Broome.