Indigenous Olympian Anthony Martin Launches Unique Kimberley Cultural Helicopter Tour
HeliSpirit has announced the launch of an extraordinary new cultural tourism experience in the Kimberley region, featuring Indigenous man and former Olympian Anthony Martin. The Balmarnu Cultural Waterfall Swim and Picnic offers guests an immersive three-hour adventure that combines breathtaking aerial views with deep cultural connection.
An Unprecedented Cultural Experience
The tour begins with a helicopter flight from Kununurra, taking passengers over spectacular waterfalls, dramatic gorges, and the ancient landscapes of the East Kimberley. After landing at a secluded waterhole, guests enjoy swimming and picnicking while learning about local Indigenous culture directly from Kitja Bunuba traditional owner Anthony Martin.
"Sharing my country from the air and on the ground is something I'm incredibly proud of," says Martin, who owns his own business, Balmarnu Tours. "Guests don't just see the Kimberley, they feel its stories, its spirit and its living culture."
Partnership Creates New Access
HeliSpirit general manager Paul Cripps expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration that has been in development for over a year. "We started working on this with Anthony last year, so to be able to launch this to the public is something I am extremely proud of," Cripps says. "Anthony is a highly respected Kitja Bunuba man and it is clear he is passionate about sharing his love of culture and country with others."
Martin emphasizes that this partnership unlocks previously inaccessible areas of the East Kimberley, allowing visitors to experience the region in ways never before possible. During the tour, he shares traditional stories and cultural knowledge while preparing meals using local ingredients, creating a truly authentic Indigenous experience.
Anthony Martin's Remarkable Background
Born in Wyndham and based in Kununurra for more than 25 years, Anthony Martin brings a unique combination of athletic achievement and cultural authority to the experience. As a former Olympian, he represented Australia in weightlifting at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games and multiple world championships, demonstrating the physical strength that complements his deep cultural knowledge.
Since his competitive athletic career, Martin has dedicated himself to cultural education and community leadership. He serves on several not-for-profit committees in Kununurra while sharing the Kimberley's beauty with visitors from around the world. His profound connection to country and community forms the foundation of this innovative tourism offering.
A Tourism First for the Region
The Balmarnu Cultural Waterfall Swim and Picnic represents the only tour of its kind in the East Kimberley, setting a new standard for cultural tourism in Australia. By combining helicopter access with Indigenous storytelling and traditional food preparation, the experience offers:
- Aerial views of remote Kimberley landscapes inaccessible by road
- Direct interaction with a respected traditional owner
- Swimming in pristine waterholes surrounded by ancient geology
- Learning about Indigenous culture through stories and shared meals
- Supporting sustainable tourism that benefits local communities
This innovative partnership between HeliSpirit and Anthony Martin's Balmarnu Tours demonstrates how tourism can create meaningful cultural exchanges while providing economic opportunities for Indigenous communities. The tour promises to deliver not just scenic beauty, but a genuine connection to the living culture of the Kimberley region.
