Late rains not any threat to tourist season

It has been a slow start to tourism season in the Pilbara but the regions visitor centres are confident it will pick up now the weather is more favourable.

Rain has damaged unsealed roads in popular tourist destinations such as the Karijini and Millstream-Chichester National Parks, which has affected traveller numbers into the region.

Department of Parks and Wildlife education and interpretation officer Judymae Napier said the plants and birdlife would spring to life in Karijini in coming weeks after the rain.

Roebourne Visitor Centre manager Ruth Ellis said with the park accessible again Millstream would also be particularly impressive after the late deluge.

"The vegetation and wildflowers around the Chichester range will be beautiful with the green grass against the red rock at the moment," she said.

"The dam is another lovely place to go; there are barbecues out there, a playground for the kids and spectacular birdlife.

"And of course the Old Gaol where the visitor centre is located is always worth a look."

Mrs Ellis said the centre was currently focusing on the "love where you live" campaign to get locals out to explore the region.

Karratha Visitor Centre manager Bazz Harris said this was the second year in a row tourism season had started slowly because of late season rains.

Mr Harris said there was more enthusiasm in the industry this year though, with more operators actively chasing tourism.

"Very shortly we'll be releasing our tourism ambassadors to encourage people who are passionate about the Pilbara to set up meet and greets at the shopping centre," he said.

"The Pilbara coast holiday planners are about to be relaunched for 2015-16 and they are jam-packed.

"The Whim Creek Hotel are telling us they're getting some really good results for heads in the door, bums on seats and meals served, so that's good."

Mr Harris said industry tours and race days in Roebourne were must-dos for locals and visitors this year.