Broome's iconic Cable Beach is evolving into a sought-after dining destination, offering intimate dinners and grand gala events for up to 400 guests. This beloved stretch of Kimberley sand now hosts tables set directly on the beach as the sun dips below the horizon.
The Vision Behind the Experience
The mastermind behind this transformation is Broome's A Plus Events, the team also responsible for the Roebuck Bay Hotel. General Manager Tamara Burchell explains, "We deliver an experience that only locals who live and breathe Broome can pull off. Dining at sunset with the Indian Ocean only centimetres from your table is something truly unique to Broome."
Navigating the Tides
However, the Kimberley region is known for its dramatic tidal swings, with differences of nearly 10 metres between high and low tide. This makes timing and precision crucial for each event. "We check tide charts, wind patterns and sunset times for every event," says Tamara. "Our goal is to have the water come within 5cm of the table at the perfect moment. We organise council permits and risk plans for vehicle access, prepare for weather changes, and offer contingency plans. We take care of every detail so our guests can simply sit back and enjoy the magic of Broome."
Rising Demand for Unique Experiences
These choreographed dinners are a response to research showing that travellers increasingly seek personalised, meaningful, and memorable experiences. "Travellers don't just want to visit Broome, they want to experience it," Tamara notes. "In the last 12 months, we've hosted a marriage proposal, groups of global business executives, interstate holidaymakers, and cruise passengers. But they all want the same thing: an unforgettable experience."
Chef's Creative Menus
Roebuck Bay Hotel Head Chef Brontey Michell crafts a new menu for each event, ensuring guests savour the finest local flavours. "No two menus are ever the same," he says. "We work with each booking to design something that reflects the experience they're looking for, from a refined beach barbecue to long-table fine dining. Every menu is built around showcasing the Kimberley, often with a standout WA meat or local seafood as the centrepiece, and of course, we can offer the wines to match."
Expanding Offerings
Since diversifying into full event management, A Plus Events now also offers private dinners at Gantheaume Point and Town Beach. They arrange and cater for weddings and beach ceremonies, complete with styling, catering, and event management. Additional services include:
- Corporate events and executive dinners for visiting national and international groups
- Cultural immersion experiences with traditional owners
- Luxury sunset cruises with live jazz, seafood degustation, and pearl diver storytelling
As demand grows, A Plus Events has expanded its team to over 50 local staff, reducing the need to fly in suppliers from Perth. "For years, people had to bring everything up from Perth for major events," Tamara says. "Now, we can deliver the same level of quality right here, with a local touch you can't replicate."
