Nullarbor

Nullarbor, officially the Nullarbor Plain, is a vast arid to semi-arid region in southern Australia that straddles parts of Western Australia and South Australia along the southern coastline. The plain extends from near Ceduna in the southeast to Eucla near the Great Australian Bight and is defined by a wide, flat limestone plateau. The name derives from Latin nullus arbor, meaning “no trees,” reflecting the treeless landscape.

Geography and geology: The surface is dominated by bedrock formed from ancient reef deposits, and the region features extensive karst formations and cave systems, including notable sites such as Koonalda Cave. The coastline along the Great Australian Bight is marked by high cliffs and rugged sea imagery, contrasting with the inland flatness. Vegetation is sparse, with drought-tolerant shrubs and grasses prevailing in more exposed areas.

Climate and ecology: The Nullarbor has an arid to semi-arid climate, with low and variable rainfall and large temperature extremes. Flora is adapted to dry conditions, and fauna includes red kangaroos, dingoes, and various reptiles; coastal areas support seabirds, seals, and migrating whales in season. The harsh environment limits permanent settlements, but the region supports a network of roadhouses and tourism infrastructure along major routes.

Human presence and transport: The Eyre Highway crosses the plain, linking towns along the southern coasts and providing a famous long-distance road trip route. The area is also known for tourism attractions such as the Nullarbor Links, a golf course that runs along the Eyre Highway with holes in different towns, widely promoted as one of the longest golf courses in the world.

History: Indigenous peoples inhabited the region for thousands of years before European exploration. The first documented European crossing was by Edward John Eyre in 1841–1842, and the name Nullarbor was soon adopted to reflect the treeless landscape.