The renowned Berkeley River Lodge in the remote Kimberley region is staging a remarkable recovery, with its post-cyclone rebuild progressing faster than anticipated. The luxury property, which suffered a direct hit from Tropical Cyclone Fina in late November, is now on track to welcome guests back by May 1, 2026.
The Storm's Fury and Immediate Response
Tropical Cyclone Fina, a powerful category-three system, bore down on the coastal lodge on November 24. The storm hovered over the property for nearly 12 hours, unleashing its full force on the duneside retreat. The timing was particularly cruel, as the lodge was in the final stages of an extensive three-year refurbishment.
The cyclone's impact was severe. Three of the 20 luxury villas were completely destroyed, with two others sustaining significant damage. The staff accommodation block was extensively damaged, though the central lodge building largely escaped major structural harm.
Co-owner Rachel Bromage recounted the experience, stating the team felt the "full force of that untamed power." However, the response was swift. Electricians, builders, and key contractors were on-site within a week, focusing initially on restoring essential services and clearing debris.
A Reimagined Experience for 2026
With the rebuild of the rebuild now forging ahead of schedule, the lodge's team is using the opportunity to refine the guest offering. A key change for the 2026 season will be a reduction in capacity, with a maximum of 30 guests at any one time.
While born from necessity, Rachel Bromage believes this shift will enhance the experience. "It will result in a deeper sense of privacy, seclusion and personalised service," she said. "It is a new level of intimacy that few places in the world can offer."
The all-inclusive package, which features a scenic flight transfer from Darwin, will also expand. New additions for the coming season include a spa treatment, Morning Movement Sessions, and a Barefoot Barbecue.
Looking Forward to a New Chapter
Repairs to roofing, decking, and exterior cladding are well advanced, with final interior finishes to follow. Multiple barges will deliver new furniture to the remote, air-access-only property in the coming months.
Bromage also expressed optimism about the natural landscape, noting that the surrounding dunes will regenerate during the remainder of the wet season, restoring the wild beauty guests cherish. The lodge's team remains grateful that several upgrades completed in previous off-seasons, including pool decking and interior floors, survived the cyclone unscathed.
The resilience shown by Berkeley River Lodge underscores the determination of Kimberley tourism operators. Its planned reopening on May 1 marks a significant milestone in the region's recovery from a devastating weather event.
